"The Leaving of Liverpool," also known as "Fare Thee Well, My Own True Love," holds a significant place in folk music as both a lyrical lament and a sea shanty, particularly sung at the capstan. Despite its limited collection, the song's resonance extends across Britain, Ireland, and America. Initially gathered by William Main Doerflinger from sailors Richard Maitland and Captain Patrick Tayluer, the song narrates a poignant tale of departure from loved ones, with a promise of eventual return. Maitland's version, rooted in his maritime experiences aboard the historical clipper ship, the David Crockett, offers a glimpse into the mid-19th century seafaring life, while Tayluer's rendition suggests a link to the Gold Rush era. The ship was commanded by Captain John A. Burgess who was known as a tough master and was lost overboard in 1874. Liverpool, a bustling port city, serves as departure point in the song's narrative, reflecting the diverse journeys embarked upon by sailors and migrants alike. Despite the song's initial scarcity in recordings, it experienced a resurgence during the folk revival, championed by artists like The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and The Spinners, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of multiple cultures. Its enduring popularity underscores the universal themes of departure, longing, and the promise of eventual reunion embedded within its verses.