Today in labor history: Singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie dies at age 55

On this day in 1967, folk singer and songwriter Woody Guthrie died at the age of 55 from complications stemming from Huntington’s disease. Serving as a prominent figure in the folk movement, many of his songs were based on or inspired by his experiences with migrant workers during the Great Depression.

During that Dust Bowl era, Guthrie traveled with the workers and learned their traditional songs, earning himself the nickname “Dust Bowl Troubadour.”

As suggested by a mural painted in his hometown of Okemah, Oklahoma (pictured), Guthrie’s friendship with the working class and inspirational music has left its mark; the musician’s legacy continues today.

Photo: A Woody Guthrie mural in his hometown, painted by DeAnna Wilson in 1994.   Uyvsdi/Wikipedia