Tennessee Ernie Ford
It’s Labor Day in the US and Labour Day in Canada, and with that in mind, here’s a song that always reminds me of my maternal grandfather. He was a coal miner. Though short, he was as tough as a bantam rooster. His last fist fight was when he was in his seventies.
Ed Hoornaert (Mr. Valentine) 
The world he once knew probably no longer exists? He sounds like a great character. I have a following of ex-miners, they read my children’s book about the adventures of a Victorian boy working in the pit. It must bring back some sort of memory, although it was far more primitive in those times.
Indeed, his world is gone. People in those hills no longer use a hand pump to get water. They now have indoor plumbing. The mines are gone. The tiny little town is basically gone, too.
I remember this song from my grandma and grandpas. My maternal grandpa was a tiny little man too but strong as a mule. He raised Bantum roosters and yeah he reminded me of them too. I would not wanted on his bad side.
Great post.
Glad I could bring back some memories!
Great song! My grandfather was once a guard in a rail yard. I can see him throwing punches at that age, but he didn’t live that long.
Thanks, Mary.