“Shut Up in the Mines at Coal Creek” is a coal-mining ballad rooted in real tragedy. It recalls the kind of disaster that struck the Coal Creek district of Tennessee, most terribly the 1902 Fraterville mine explosion, which killed more than two hundred men. The song was recorded in the late 1920s and early 1930s by performers such as Green Bailey and Dick Bell.
The song is sung from inside the mine. Trapped underground, their lamps flickering and their food running out, the miners give up hope of rescue, say their farewells to wives and children, and put their trust in meeting again in heaven.
The ballad has been kept alive by old-time and bluegrass musicians.
Assisted by AI.
Spot something off? Help us fix it.
