Tunnel 13

Mark Knopfler's song "Tunnel 13" delves into a dark chapter of American history, recounting the infamous 1923 train robbery by the D'Autremont brothers in the Siskiyou Mountains. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the serene yet treacherous landscape, where the Southern Pacific Railroad winds through the golds of the maples and the greens of the pines, leading up to Tunnel 13. This setting becomes the backdrop for a tale of greed, violence, and tragedy, as three bandits with evil intentions lie in wait for a train they believe to be carrying gold.

The D'Autremont brothers, driven by a criminal code and the lure of wealth, embark on a path that leads to a brutal and senseless act. The song details their misguided belief that the mail car was loaded with gold, a rumor that ultimately leads to a tragic outcome. The brothers' determination to leave no witnesses results in the cold-blooded murder of four innocent men: mail clerk Elvyn Daugherty, engineer Sydney Bates, brakeman Coyle Johnson, and fireman Marvin Seng. The lyrics poignantly capture the sorrow and loss left in the wake of this heinous crime, emphasizing the enduring impact on the victims' families.

Knopfler's narrative extends beyond the historical event, drawing parallels to contemporary times. He reflects on the timeless nature of robbery and looting, noting that such acts of desperation and greed continue to plague society, even a hundred years later in places like Downtown LA. The song concludes with a poignant twist, revealing that the beautiful redwood used to craft Knopfler's guitar came from the very place where this tragic event occurred, adding a layer of personal connection and reflection to the haunting tale of Tunnel 13.