Newfoundland Mummers

Newfoundland Mummers is a tradition-rooted folk album celebrating the centuries-old custom of Newfoundland mummering, recorded in Ottawa at Snocan Studios and released circa 1976 on the Snocan label (SCN 508). Drawing on a mix of jigs, songs, hymns, and traditional tunes—including “Mummers Jig,” “I’se the B’y’e,” “Muddy Musk,” and “Turkey in the Straw”—the album evokes the seasonal rituals of disguised visitors who went door-to-door between Boxing Day and Old Christmas Day, offering music, dancing, and communal revelry. Produced by Ron Sparling and Reg Watkins, the record was endorsed on the back cover by Joseph R. Smallwood, who recalls mummering as a vital source of community entertainment in pre-television Newfoundland. The liner notes trace the origins of mummering to England over eight hundred years ago, noting its spread to Ireland, France, the United States, and Canada, where the tradition became especially prominent in Newfoundland and eastern Quebec. Intended to capture the warmth and spirit of a Newfoundland mummer party, the album serves both as cultural documentation and as a festive reminder of a deeply rooted folk practice passed down through generations.
-Robert Williston

Production
Produced by Ron Sparling and Reg Watkins
Recorded at Snocan Studios, Ottawa
Distributed in Canada by Musimart Ltd., Montreal

Artwork
Art work by Bruce Rawlins, Ottawa

Liner notes:
A very talented Mummer asked me if mummering and jannaying meant anything to me.

I recall the days before Television when Radio wasn’t too good, but provided the only source of entertainment other than School concerts or the odd dance.

From December 26th (Boxing Day) to January 6 (Old Christmas Day) the mummers came in their disguises made of old flour sacks and other get ups that made for a guessing game. Dancers, musicians young and old, came to the door offering live entertainment at its best.

Here in this Album are Mummers hoping to jog your memories while getting you into a good mood for the New Year. It should bring a smile to your face while spreading happiness around Newfoundland-style.

Joseph R. Smallwood
Roaches Lines, Conception Bay
Newfoundland

THE MUMMERS STORY

The origin of the mummers has been traced back to England and apparently began over eight hundred years ago. Since then it has branched out to France, Ireland, U.S.A. and Canada. In Canada it is most prominent in eastern Quebec and Newfoundland.

Mummers are generally seen each year from December 26th to January 6th and if one should knock at your door do not be frightened by their attire but bring them in and give them a treat or a party. Tradition is for mummers during this period to go through the town knocking on doors and having shots of sing and dancing. In some areas parades are held and are noted for their outstanding costumes.

This album tries to capture the feeling of mummer party somewhere in Newfoundland. We hope that mummer Chuck, mummer Don and mummer Reg and all other mummers including our good friend Bill Lewis will brighten your day and serve as the greatest gift that you can give a relative or friend.