"The Wabash Cannonball" is an American folk song with a history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally a song about a mythical train, its immense popularity eventually led a real railroad to rename a line after it Timeline of Key Releases The song's history is marked by several significant releases: 1882 (Sheet Music): The earliest known version was published as sheet music titled "The Great Rock Island Route" by J.A. Roff. 1904 (Lyric Update): William Kindt published revised lyrics under the title "Wabash Cannon Ball". 1929/1932 (The Carter Family): The Carter Family recorded the song in 1929, with the release following in 1932. 1936/1938 (Roy Acuff): Roy Acuff's recording in 1936, released in 1938, became the most popular version, selling over 10 million copies. The Story Behind the Song "The Wabash Cannonball" describes a fictional express train and is rooted in folk legends. Legends included tales of the train serving as a "death coach" for hobos or being incredibly fast, even flying into space. Inspired by the song's fame, the Wabash Railroad renamed its Detroit-St. Louis line the Wabash Cannon Ball in 1949. This service ran until 1971. The song is recognized in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of "500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll" and is a notable "second fight song" for Kansas State University. #peaceloveandrespect☮❤🙂✌ - @pamjordan182