He is the man known for racing the world famous steam powered hammer and winning, only to suddenly collapse of a heart attack after.
On Sunday, hundreds came together in Talcott for John Henry Days, a celebration to honor the man behind the legend.
"We're in a tiny town called Talcott, but we have a great big legend and we like to capitalize on it," said Bill Dillon, one of the organizers.
While much of the legend behind John Henry is still clouded in mystery, said Dillion, his story is still alive and well in Talcott.
"The steam drill. That company had been incorporated in 1845. They had 25 years to perfect the steam drill. Yet a man by the name of John Henry beat the steam drill, drove 2, 7 foot holes in the mountain. The steam drill had 1 9 foot hold. Thus, John Henry the legend," said Dillon.
Howard Jackson came all the way from North Carolina to participate in John Henry days. A history buff, Jackson has spent the past week retracing Henry's steps and learning about his legend.
"I've read so much on it. I've got family here that actually knows about the people who would come to Powell Hollow to buy the pies to work on the railroad," added Jackson.
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