People think of me as one of the original "topical" songwriters. Some people thought Bob Dylan was the next Woody Guthrie. Well, there were those who thought of Woody Guthrie as "the next Joe Hill"
I spent my life fighting for the underdog. I used my songwriiting as a way to teach folks about the Industrial Workers of the World - that is, they were a tool for organizing. We can't take power back from the rich folks unless we organize. I'm told my songs are still used in that way - I'm also told the IWW is still going strong in spite of the efforts of the U.S. government to eliminate them. They ain't doin' so bad for a union declared dead in the 1920s.
Speaking of bein' declared dead, I understand that happened to me as well. Probably not long after I was executed by a firing squad in Utah. That would've been November 19, 1915. They say they executed me for murder, but I don't remember killing nobody. I guess they just thought it was the best way to shut me up.
I did write my last will in my cell. If you keep your ears peeled you might even hear somebody sing it someday: My will is easy to decide,
For there is nothing to divide.
My kind don't need to fuss and moan --
Moss does not cling to a rolling stone.
My body? Ah, If I could choose,
I would to ashes it reduce,
And let the merry breezes blow
My dust to where some flowers grow.
Perhaps some fading flower then
Would come to life and bloom again.
This is my last and final will.
Good luck to all of you.
Joe Hill
At my request, Big Bill Haywood saw to it that I was creamated. Also, I made it clear that I didn't want to them spread anywhere near Salt Lake. I believe what I told Big Bill was "I don't want to be caught dead in the State of Utah." The IWW had some of my ashes sent to every state in the union so they could each spread a little of them. I must say I appreciate that.
My legacy continues. If you want to know more about what my old union is up to check out IWW.ORG
Thanks for stopping by,
Joe Hill
