The Mining Songs of British Columbia: Exploring the P.J. Thomas Collection

Abstract

Phil Thomas, who sadly passed away two years ago, was the foremost folksong collector in British Columbia. His collection is unfortunately not very well known outside his native province but it includes a wealth of items that reflect the history of British Columbia from its colonial origins to the post-war era. It is particularly rich in forestry-related songs and songs about the fishing and transportation industries. On this occasion the focus is on songs from the Thomas Collection that reflect the story of mining in British Columbia. Most date from the Gold Rush era but others are about coal mining, hard rock mining, or industrial strife. The presentation will include renditions of as many of these fascinating vernacular songs as can be fitted into one hour.