The Hardest Mile

I'm heading for a life in the land of the free Sending every penny home to the family Off to find fortunes that can't be bought Now Paddy's struck down from a single shot Paddy's struck down from a single shot! They lured the men away They promised wealth and riches A thousand miles from home Laying steel and digging ditches The work would be a challenge Nary a soul could stand the trial These wayfaring boys built the railways toughest mile Fifty-seven men on the hardest mile! Chorus: Fifty-seven men on the hardest mile Murdered for their troubles, left to die Immigrant sons from Donegal, Tyrone & Derry Their numbers were few but they did the job of many Eight weeks went by and the path was clear Fifty-seven men had all disappeared Not a mention of their name No stone was ever turned It would be so many years Before the truth was ever learned Repeat Chorus: Fifty-seven men on the hardest mile Murdered for their troubles, left to die Immigrant sons from Donegal, Tyrone & Derry Their numbers were few but they did the job of many Now ghosts dance a jig on a unmarked grave A slug full of lead was the price they were paid Vigilante justice, prejudice, and pride No one in this valley Will be seen again alive Repeat Chorus: Fifty-seven men on the hardest mile Murdered for their troubles, left to die Immigrant sons from Donegal, Tyrone & Derry Their numbers were few but they did the job of many