“Sailors, old chaps“ (Russian Sea Shanty) — English subs and translation

Russian Empire, circa 1830 Donate & Support: Folk song of Russian sailors, very reminiscent of the “sea shanty“ traditional for the British fleet. It tells about the cruise of the Baltic Fleet from Kronstadt to Helsingfors (modern Helsinki), about the parting and the long-awaited meeting of the sailor with his girlfriend. The language of the song is quite archaic and conveys the features of folk speech and naval slang of that era. The song can be dated back to 1830s, since, firstly, Finland already belongs to Russia, and secondly, the navy already has steam ships, which is reflected in the lyrics. Performed by the “Valaam“ choir. Portrayed by a group of Russian sailors from the photo which was taken in America back to 1863. These seamen belonged to the squadron sent by the Russian Empire in order to support the Union during the Civil War (1861—1865). LYRICS: Вы, матросики-батюшки, Молоды ребятушки!