The Meaning Behind The Song: The Silverton by C.W. McCall
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Duration | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Silverton | C.W. McCall | C.W. McCall & Chip Davis | Black Bear Road | 1975 | Country | N/A | N/A |
The song “The Silverton” by C.W. McCall takes us on a journey through the majestic Animas Canyon, as we ride along the iconic Silverton train. Released in 1975 as part of the album “Black Bear Road,” this country song captures the spirit of adventure and the love for the scenic landscapes of Colorado.
McCall’s vivid lyrics paint a picture of the steam-powered train that traverses the narrow-gauge track, starting from Durango and making its way to Silverton. The train, known as the Silverton, weighs about a thousand tons, consuming water and coal to keep its wheels churning through the challenging terrain. The song’s repetition of the line “Here comes the Silverton, up from Durango” emphasizes the train’s powerful presence and unstoppable journey.
As the Silverton train glides through the Animas Canyon, McCall describes the awe-inspiring Rockwood cut, where the whistle’s echoing sound creates a shiver down your spine. The mention of the river, which sits four hundred feet below, adds a touch of danger and excitement to the ride.
The song also highlights the Needleton tank, where the train stops to take on water, and the Snowshed slide, a challenging section of the track that requires great effort to overcome. These details not only contribute to the narrative of the song but also showcase the perseverance and strength of the Silverton train as it conquers the rugged landscape.
Personally, “The Silverton” holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my own journey through the Animas Canyon. I vividly remember standing by the station early in the morning, eagerly waiting to board the Silverton train. The excitement in the air was palpable as a diverse group of people lined up, each with their own tickets to venture into the past, aptly named “The Train To Yesterday.”
As the train started moving, the rhythmic chugging of the engine and the billowing smoke from the coal-powered steam made me feel connected to a bygone era. The lyrics of “The Silverton,” echoing in my mind, perfectly captured the essence of the experience. It truly felt like a step back in time, immersed in the beauty of nature and the thrill of riding on a historic train.
The song encapsulates the charm and allure of train travel, particularly on a route as stunning as the Silverton train. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our historical and natural heritage, allowing future generations to appreciate the wonders of the past. The Silverton train is not merely a mode of transport, but a symbol of human ingenuity and the triumph of engineering over challenging landscapes.
With its catchy melodies, evocative lyrics, and nostalgic atmosphere, “The Silverton” by C.W. McCall continues to captivate listeners, taking them on a lyrical journey through the breathtaking Animas Canyon. Whether you’ve personally experienced the Silverton train or not, the song invites us all to appreciate the beauty of our surroundings and relish the adventures that await us in this vast world of ours.
