MarlowHistoricalSociety.org

[Loisanne Foster]

This poem by Rebecca Madison was read at Edgewood Park in Marlow,
N.H. on August 31, 1899.


Old Homeweek Greeting

Born of unsullied love, which neither time nor distance chills,
Just now sweet thought of home ties many a true heart thrills.
And warm, sweet welcomes echo among New Hampshire hills.

For our Governor was inspired his loyalty to speak
In practical suggestion, original, unique,
And long will be remembered New Hampshire's Old Home Week.

To have a grand reunion was her people's full intent,
So dainty invitations were by the thousands sent
Throughout the land to those once resident

To come back to the Granite State for just a little space,
And take, as near as might be, each well-remembered place
And shed our dear old state a tender, living grace.

It will brighten the future as sure as dawn precedes the sun, -
Visiting old homes where life's work was begun
And gaining inspiration for work yet to be done.

Friendly, fervent greetings for which hearts often long,
Poems, orations, stories, feasting, song
To this most rare occasion, these, and more, belong.

Our lives shall thus be broadened and lasting good be wrought,
Love of home be fostered, and loyalty be taught -
Blessings on our Governor from whose heart sprang the thought.