Letters from the trapped miners inspired a songwriter.............

The Dying Miner, one of three songs by Woody Guthrie published in the May, 1947 issue of People's Songs, memlorializing the 1947 mine disaster at Centralia, Illinois.

One man had scrawled: "It looks like the end for me. I love you honey more than life itself. You are the sweetest wife in the world. Goodbye, Honey and Dickey."

Another note was addressed to two boys: "Be good boys. Please your father. O Lord help me."

Some had been jotted down at intervals: "I am fine at 5:30____is in bad shape, going on and moaning. Tell ___I forgive her. Everyone going."

Another read: "My dear wife: Goodbye. Name the baby Joe so you will hae a Joe. Love, all. Dad."