Long has it waved on high,
And many an eye has danced to see
That banner in the sky;
Beneath it rung the battle shout,
And burst the cannon's roar:--
The meteor of the ocean air
Shall sweep the clouds no more!
Her deck, once red with heroes' blood
Where knelt the vanquished foe,
When winds were hurrying o'er the flood
And waves were white below,
No more shall feel the victor's tread,
Or know the conquered knee;--
The harpies of the shore shall pluck
The eagle of the sea!
O better that her shattered hulk
Should sink beneath the wave;
Her thunders shook the mighty deep,
And there should be her grave;
Nail to the mast her holy flag,
Set every thread-bare sail,
And give her to the god of storms,--
The lightning and the gale!
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. (1809-1894)
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr was a prominent Harvard physician (and father of the distinguished jurist of the same name). Holmes wrote "Old Ironsides" at age 21 in a successful effort to prevent destruction of the celebrated warship, Constitution, which may still be viewed today.
The U.S.S. Constitution after a Four-Year Restoration
Literature and History lesson for today
Love, Mimi
14 comments:
Mimi,
She is a beauty and I'm so glad that she was restored and is able to be viewed today. I would love to see her.
Your blog is awesome. I always find a sense of tranquility here.
Blessings for a great week.
Mary
I have seen her many times and got to see her turned a few times.
I just love old sailing ships. I have many ship builders and sea captians in my family history and love to read some of the stories they left to share.
I had to memorize this poem in highschool, and enjoyed learning about the USS Consititution.
Thank you for this "lesson!"
I have to say thank you for this great post.The U.S.S Consitition should be preserved.Some thing that most war ships of our days are not except for a few lucky ships that become floating Museums.
Very interesting Mimi. Sending you love, Nita
I remember the days when we used to memorize such poetry in school.
Thank you so much for your prayers. Things seem to be getting more difficult and confusing before they improve. Satan is having a great time here. But we are standing strong on HIs promises!
I remember that poem from years ago. How fun to read your post.
I always enjoy spending time here.
Smiles.
Mimi,
Thanks so much for posting the kind comments about my poem. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Blessings being sent your way.
Mary
Mom, the children and I had a unit study on this warship that we did several years ago. It even included a video tour of the ship! I love your history lessons. :o)
thank you ...
be blessed!
Mimi--thanks for your comments on my blog and your prayers. Come to my blog and see what God has done.
You have the best lessons! Thanks for sharing that and the beautiful music and pictures.
I have seen her , and yes she is still as beautiful. I loved the poem, ty for sharing this with us.
That is something that I would love to see....Maybe one of these days.....but it was wonderful to read about her..... I did so love your history lesson.......
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