"Dark as a Dungeon" is a song written by singer-songwriter Merle Travis. It is a lament about the danger and drudgery of being a coal miner in a shaft mine. It has become a rallying song among miners seeking improved working conditions.
It is on Johnny Cash's 'Folsom Prison" recording.
I came across the Ernie Ford version, as done on his TV show.
All the artists that have performed this song, vary the lyrics a bit, even Ernie Ford's is different from the record version.
This is adapted from his TV show version, I like it best.
"Dark As A Dungeon" Q'd version.