The Wreck of the Old ’97
Are you a fan of folk music? If so, you’re in for a treat! Today, I want to introduce you to a classic folk song that has stood the test of time – “The Wreck of the Old ’97” by The Seekers.
Released in 1964, “The Wreck of the Old ’97” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that tells the tragic story of a train wreck that occurred in 1903. The song was written by Fred Lewey and recorded by The Seekers, a folk music group known for their incredible harmonies and storytelling abilities.
The composition history of this song is quite interesting. It was inspired by a real-life event – the derailment of a Southern Railway mail train in Virginia. The train, known as the Old ’97, was traveling at an excessive speed when it derailed, resulting in the death of the engineer and several other crew members.
What sets this song apart is its ability to transport listeners back in time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the events leading up to the crash, capturing the fear and desperation of the train’s crew. The haunting melody and the powerful vocals of The Seekers make this song truly unforgettable.
But “The Wreck of the Old ’97” is more than just a folk song. It has had a significant influence on the music industry, inspiring countless artists to explore the storytelling aspect of folk music. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate audiences to this day.
If you’re intrigued by this song and want to learn more about The Seekers, I highly recommend checking out their album, “The Seekers.” It features not only “The Wreck of the Old ’97,” but also other folk classics that are sure to leave you wanting more.
So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let the haunting melodies of “The Wreck of the Old ’97” transport you to a different era. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Listen to The Wreck of the Old ’97 The Seekers
Video The Wreck of the Old ’97 – The Seekers
The Wreck of the Old ’97 – The Seekers lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
They gave him his orders at Monroe, VirginiaSayin’, “Steve, you’re way behind timeIt’s 8: 38, and it’s the old ’97, gotta put her into Danville on time”Well, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeSteve Brady he said to his black, greasy fireman“Shovel on a little more coalI’m waitin’ to pass them wide-open mountainsGonna see the old ’97 roll”Well, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeHe’s comin’ down that line makin’ 90 miles an hourThe whistle broke into a screamThey found him in the wreck with his hand upon the throttleHe’d been scalded to death by steamWell, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeWell, come on now, all you ladiesFrom this time on, now learnDon’t you ever say harsh words to your true-lovin’ husbandHe’ll leave you and never returnWell, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeWell, he’s comin’ down that line makin’ 90 miles an hourAnd the whistle broke into a screamThey found him in the wreck with his hand upon the throttleHe’d been scalded to death by steamWell, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeWell, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he madeWell, it’s a mighty rough road from Lynchburg down to DanvilleOn a line with a three-mile gradeIt was down that line where he lost his air-brakesYou can see what a jump he made