The Gandy Dancers

The early railroads signaled real American progress– a sign of hope for all the nation. Rail work was tough, rife with danger and done by a close group of men who supported each other...men of great honor.

By 1910 the railroads employed 1,699,420 Americans. They were conductors, brakemen, firemen, engineers, porters, telegraphers, switchmen and section gangs.

Some of the hardest workers were the section gangs. One group called the Gandy Dancers often used rhythmic chants and songs while they labored. It helped them stay in unison for the heavy work of straightening tracks. Many of their work songs became American favorites and folk song classics.

This is a story about a group of hard working men, mostly forgotten like the Pullman Porters. The Gandy Dancer’s contributions to the American railroads and the familiar songs they made should be remembered and celebrated.