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1900 - Wallace Saunders Writes “Casey Jones”

On April 30, 1900, African American railroad worker and engine wiper Wallace Saunders composed the original verses of “Casey Jones,” a ballad honoring his friend John Luther “Casey” Jones, a heroic engineer who died in a train wreck that same day. Saunders’ lyrics, set to a familiar tune, began as a heartfelt tribute sung among railroad workers. Over time, the song evolved into one of America’s most enduring folk tales—retold in countless versions, though often without crediting Saunders as the original author. His creation not only immortalized a tragic hero but also showcased how Black oral traditions helped shape U.S. cultural history.