LIBRARY OF CONGRESS DDDD3Eb7Efl3 •ft-" . ^..^^ I--* 1-^ . o 4 ♦ AY "^ ' V .. ,»■'*, i^. ,mmmmmmmmvmk i The first poem written by Miss Ethel Pauline Peters while in Hospital and not yet nine years of age. When I get an old lady, I tell you what I'll do, I'll patch my apron, make my dress And hoe the garden too. The first poem written by Miss Ada Peters. Little birds up so high, Who has taught you how to fly. How to sing and how to play, All the hot summer day? God has taught us how to sing, Early in the lovely spring, He hath taught us how to play, In his own glorious way. (7) ^m]mm\mmm]mrmmrmmmmmmrm M PEEFACE. The sole intention of the Authors in writing these poems is to show the Negro's loyalty to the Stars and Stripes, In the war with Germany; and to show the need of unity of all men in the fight for democracy. The Authors. (8) ifmmm^^mmmmmmmrmmrmmm Uar ^0i?ma Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters. OUR WAR WITH GERMANY. I. America and her Allies are now engaged In a war that freedom might live, That all nations may not be enslaved Giving as all True Americans would give Fighting lest Germany's Kaiser should spread The spirit of feudalism over the earth, That the Sons of Liberty may not be led Captives from the land of their birth. II. While foreign field were strewn with dead With folded arms we merely looked on 'Till the wronged people believed and said "They are gamblers, in search of coin." We became apoligist for our neutriality While an uncivilized war waged on Devoid of all principle and morality Urged on by brutes in human form. (9) wmmm\mm\mm\mm\}mm\mmm]mm III. When the country of Belgium was in- vaded And It's inhabitants tortured and slain When other defenseless towns were raided And mines in neutral waters were lain When the smoldering ruins of France we saw The home of the world's greatest arts Then Humanity forced us into this war For America too, must do her part. IV. The Imperial German Government smil- ed When the Sussex, and Lusitania went down Unwarningly murdering American lives While on peaceful missions bound Should not this wicked and hideous crime That sent our friends to watery graves Help more close our hearts to bind And strengthen us on our rugged way? V. Some of History's cherished monuments Have wantonly and maliciously been destroyed While plots that outrage man's common sense By German Seditionist have been em- ployed. Like cowards they secretly tried to bribe (10) »7ii\f/i\f/i\f/i\if/i\f/i\if/i\?/i\f/i\?^ir/i\?/i\if/i\f/i\iF/S\iF/i\'!f/i^ Our friend and neighbor country Mexico, Those same conspirators and spies Are sneakishly lurking within our doors. VI. Have not their deadly bombs been dropped In Hospitals of our wounded boys? Killing helpless ones upon their cots Playing with American lives as with toys With tear dim eyes we have heard. Women and children victims crying for help While these destructive missiles are hurled Upon them in the jaws of death. VII. If the policy National Necessity is sus- tained Treaty Obligation '11 be buried in the past For the royal castle will again reign Oe'r the common people's village at last Thus the covenants that have been kept As a tie of friendship that binds Is forgotten in Germany's World Con- quest A vile insult to all man-kind. VIII. Boys you're fighting to preserve Ameri- can Rights (11) Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm'mmm wjmmmmmmmmiimmmmmmMMs m To proteat the homes of the brave. And we're with you in this fight Till Autocracy lies within her grave The Red .White and Blue, will be borne As a true emblem of justice to all For it gives the weary traveler a home Then how could such a government fall? IX. We are struggling in a Common Cause With only one purpose in our hearts And that purpose is freedom for all Made sacred by the blood of patriots Young men how proud you must feel To know you're defending a Noble Cause That your life you owe to Liberty To your countrymen and to your God. We see your bosom swells with pride With love for the mother that gave Her flesh, her blood, her only pride. That the Star Spangled Bannner, might wave We know again the respect you had When your Dear Old Father firmly said, "Be another George Washington, my lad And sleep in an honored Martyr's grave." XI. When some of you beyond the clouds With iron nerves are fighting at dizzy heights, (12) tssi \f/S\iF/i\ir/i\?/i\ir/i\iF/$\iF/i\iF/i\ir/i\'if/S\]i/i\i[/i\ir/S\ii/i\f/i\if/i^ 1 M And on earth the cannon's roaring loud ^ Proclaims your comrades are in the i ^^^^ While the brave boys on the briny deep Are sailing on blood-stained waves But in the air on land or sea You're fighting that Old Glory, might wave. XII. When you're in "No Man's Land." Far from home annd friends you adore Seek shelter in the hollow of God's hand, 'Till the tempest of war is oe'r, "0 God, may our brave boys return, Bearing Freedom's Flag from over there While men repenting to Thee shall turn And Peace and Democracy reigns everywhere! A FATHER OF INSPIRATION. (Dedicated to President Byrd Prillerman) There are many in every nation That scorn those in the mire, But few are fathers of inspiration Like the President of W. V. I. IL The black Leader of the free Bade me strive to be the best But Honorable Byrd Prillerman helped me To travel the road to success. (13) wmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm i i i 1 i i i i i I i i I i ! 1 I i I I III. Unlike those who seek to charm The world with their selfish aims He's guarding Ethiopia on the farm For the good that might be gained. IV. West Virginia has given most Of her sons to liberty But she shall never boast Of a Nobler Teacher than he. For when peaceful Uncle Sam Was troubled by Belgium's cry Ready to fight in foreign lands Were those trained at W. V. I. VI. So could a race of civilization Own a greater man than he A Father of Inspiration And a leader of people free. VII. May God grant when our President Has crossed the swelling tide That his deeds be living monuments To those whom he inspired. VIII. And may Ethiopia profit by The standard he hath placed And sons of W. V. C. I. (14) \]mmm\mm^mmm]mmfmmmfmmm Be a credit to our race. — By Ethel Pauline Peters. God bless you, I share your thought, your President is indeed an able and ^ noble man. Long may he live. ■:o: ORIGINAL POEM. UNDER THE STARS AND STRIPES. (By E. P. Peters.) April the sixth, Ninteen and seventeen, Under the stars and stripes. We were forcibly drawn In a war for our rights. We would be neutral no longer. And hear humanity's plea, Nor behold our vessels unwarningly sunk By submarines at sea. Freedom shall ever be In the country where Glory waves, And the golden land of Lafayette Shall not be enslaved. Boys make aKiser's poison gas Unnable to kill American's power. Feudalism shall not spread Oe'r this free country of ours. We'll help you show Germany's rulers Feudalism can not defend. Cultured civilized people, nor the Rights of free born men. Rulers that disregard treaties And cause bloody wars in laud Shall never reign on libertys soil To execute their plans. (15 > i i i I ! i i I I ^1 Germany's strong aviation corps Like winged birds sail the air Dropping 'missies, taking innocent lives In her brutish warfare. She for many years prepared Her selfishness to unfurl ^sh With out warning or reason, to ^ Conquer and rule the world. 0, God help us to fight For Democracy on foreign strands That we might be delivered from Our enemies wicked hands. By spreading sedition through states Kaiser struck patriotism a blow Pretending to be our friend. Intriguing with Japan and Mexico. Our enemie's destructive pretense On its deathly mission scuds While America was being raided With spies of German blood. Her schemes can not make Enemies of people that gave Their prayers, lives, and all That Old Glory might wave. Victory by Germans would mean Enslavement to the human race. While once fair fields Of France and ours lay waste. America's cities would not stand As homes of the free. New York would lose her friend The statue of liberty. The dear flag would be destroyed By a savage race, And the richness of our country Would be the Kaiser's estate. (16) i I But to win this war, we ^ Can not all take arms Some must hejjjfUncle Sam's boys By buying L'fberty Bonds. Send lots of letters For joy in them they'll find. Save food for our boys In France on firing lines. Encourage them in camp p And they'll be proud to go To fight for freedom, as Their fathers fought years ago. Democracy long hath reigned In the land of the brave. The cherished banner of Betsy Ross Long o'er us hath waved. T'was providence that directed Us in the path of right. Enabled us to live peacefully In war helped us to fight. Gave us Washington, Father of Our country to help defend The rights and freedom Of his rising fellow men. All in self defense boys Your part you must play Just as your friends are Doing, on French soil today. We are waiting and praying, For you patriots and braves To bring the glad news back From Autocracy we're saved. While in service, if your Tasks seem hard to do, Cheerfully do your best boys For the red, white and blue. (17) mmmimmmmmmmimmmmsimmm (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters) BOYS ON TO FRANCE. Sons of America, do you not hear The roaring of Germany's guns? Get up and be busy; war is near We must face Icaiser Wilhelm. Just as our fore-fathers years ago Against the Red Coats, made their stand So to France, you must go And protect the honor of our Native Land. II. If God's on our side, we need not fear For His Cause, has always won Fight on though the price seems dear Push forward, 'till the race is run. Mothers you too, must do your part In the impending strife Clasp not the son to your heart But give him to the Cause of Right. III. Show him you're willing to give All in life you possess Giving that Freedom might live. And mothers they'll do the rest. For their souls will then swell With that Holy Divine Strength That only Americans have felt As from it's Fountain they drink. IV. Black Boys, Uncle Sam is calling you too, (18) ^ given m i Calling you men of African Birth Will you to America be true? And in the struggle prove your worth? Boys, you may think it unfair to fight That it's hard to have a patriotic zeal For a country that denies us our rights « That pushes us back though we're ^ free. But do good for evil we've learned In the Book of Ever-lasting life That in Heaven, a home, we might earn Where Blessed Peace reigns and not strife. Old Glory, you triumphantly wave O'er the Land of the Free Yet from the mobs we're not saved To whom, for refuge must we flee? VI. Is it right hotheaded men should take The law of the land in their hands? Can innocence be proved at a burning stake? No, then why not give us a chance? But boys of African Blood be true Ready and willing the Cause to defend Then may the Red, White and Blue Forget color and recognize men. VII. Dear Flag, we've proved ourselves Masters of Art Great inventions to the world we've (19) mMMmmimm mmmmm mjmmmMmm VIII. Columbia, when on the battlefield Our soldiers, dying whisper, "I thirst" Let this woman attend to their needs She's a dark skin, Red Cross Nurse Give us the chance and we'll show The skill and bravery of the fairer-sex How we'-ll face the enemy's blow Though we know the stand means death. IX. O, God, could a stronger race do more For American Freedom to gain Than my people who bore The curse of slavery's chains When across the waters you're borne Boys, to the Land of Some-where You're defending Our Homes And "God Bless you," is our prayer. Some day the war '11 be o'er In triumph Old Glory'll be borne Back to American shores Back to Home, Sweet Home '"Till then boys, we bid you adieu (20) Yet in the government we take no part ^ Then yhy are vv^e to war driven? If in jim crow cars we must stay Too illiterate to ride with the whites Are we fit to sleep in a soldiers grave Or, illiterate stand by your side and fight? \mmmM I i i I i I i i i I 4 i i i i it Each one of you play well the game And may God be with you 'Till we all meet again. :o: OLD GLORY'S RECOGNITION. (By E. P. Peters.) Prom the cotton fields or Georgia, Where our grand parents were slaves, Comes a freedom we can welcome, When the flag of justice waves; While o'er the land is floating The Red, White, and Blue, The black boys are rising To the old flag they'll be true, They are willing to die for Liberty, They hate the cursed revenge. For Old Glory's crushing prejudice. And recognizing her slaves' freed men. We have sought for knowledge Prom the great that we have found, And are earnestly striving to regain. Our lose heritage of renown. It was not slavery's cruelties That made black patriots in the land, But the fifty years of progress And the rights we did demand. The black brains that were trampled Now helping hands will lend, For Old Glory's crushing prejudice, And recognizing her slave freed men. Clouds of difficulties rose When four million the Old Flag faced, But with civilization's birth (21) i\mmmmmm\mmmmm\m\mmmtm ^ In a country that we'll befriend, For Old Glory's crushing prejudice, ^ And recognizing slave freed men. a We're proud to see the colors wave, siiS I I I I 1 I I I I i I i 1 i i i i m The black people of earth, Have once more become a race. Hewers of wood and drawers of water. For many years we've been; But now with education's light, We are a people again. Boys remember that we are rising, We are a patriotic people; That signifies justice to all, In a free land of the brave; That acknowledges there is black brain; For God to all deals fair. And Uncle Sam is growing greater, For liberty we too can share. We are steadily growing to success, And helping all men to ascend, While Old Glory's crushing prejudice And recognizing slave freed men. Old Glory, 'twas fifty years or more We prayed hard to deliver Thy black people from burning stakes, To rights that God gives her. Just as we on thy fertile fields. Fought bravely to be free. We will fight and die for thee. O, flag for thy liberty. We'll keep your colors floating. And your rights we will defend For you are crushing prejudice jp. And recognizing slave freed men. p I i (22) ^ I ^ THE SLACKER. i ^ (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters) § God forbid ere man was born To crush honor beneath his feet s That the light of day should dawn ^ Upon one, who from duty flees While on Freedom's Bleeding Altar, His Noble Comrades have bled ^ But he stands idle a slacker p ^ Disgraced before living and dead. ^ 1 II. ^ Friends is there one among you ^ Who has shunned the Righteous Cause ^ Spurned the Red, White and Blue? ^ ^ That stands for justice to all ^ I How can you silently sit When Liberty hangs in the scale? Where is the spirit of seventy-six? ^ That you would be en-slaved. i I III. 1 ^ Do you deem your life greater p Than the just rights of man ^ Then you're a fool and traitor ^ Exiled in your Native Land, ^ Rough and steep is the way ^ ^ Leading to the victory we seek .^ ^ But death and a coward's grave ^ ^ Is what the slacker will meet. ^ I i ^ For dead must be the soul p ^ That slumbers while Humanity Calls ^ » And beholding his brother's foe S ^ Cries, "Give me peace and not War" Q m (23) g IV. '3a ^ Unless thou fight to free All races and colors of men. ^ i -. i ^i O, Slacker what fate awaits thee How shateefull will be thy end To our protection you fled As a bird seeks its nest With mercy we pillowed your head VIII. ow the flag (24) How can you bear to see Christianity laid in the dust? By one, who hates Democracy And the God, whom we trust One who has boastingly debased The virtue of true womanhood That poligamy takes the place Where Sacred Rights once stood. VI. And though you were not born In the Land of the Free And your kindred at home ^ Is far away oe'r the sea *^ Eternal Allegiance you swore To the Stars and Stripes When you stepped on our shore To enjoy equal rights. VII. E I I I I m That the wanderer might rest ^ Drinking from the cup of kindness ^ Administered by loving hands ^ Your eyes lost their blindness ^ As you saw the Spirit of Man. ^ And now the flag needs you ^ m miimmjmimmmmmmmmmmmmm i Will you stand like a man Or, do you feel, as slackers do I must help the Father Land Let conscience be your guide And it will lead you a'right To Columbia's bleeding side 'Neath Liberty's burning light. IX. It's true we all can't go To the land of Somewhere But we can strike a blow By helping those, Over There Thus the German Kaiser'll know He cannot enslave free men And that every American Soul Will fight him to the end. X. So when the Victory is won And the world is at peace When the shedding of blood is done And mankind again is free Uncle Sam, if giving up life For the deliverance of men Does not give all, equal rights Who will be, the slacker then? DO YOUR BEST BOYS. (Original Poem by E. P. Peters.) Do the best yoij^ can, boys, In Uncle Sam's call to arms. Fear not the Boches' bluff noise; Be ready, brave, true and calm. (25) m P I i mmmmm^mmmmmmmmmmmrm 1^ ssj Keep the dear old banner flying ^ With your bayonets its rights demand, •^ Show the world you're upward striving, II. O, loyal citizens go not unheeded, To the call humanity makes. Your money and help is needed, ^ To keep the United States. The appeals to you sons of Liberty, pj-. And to those from foreign strands, ^ To protect those who protected thee, ^ By doing the best you can. And doing the best you can. III. Your eyes opened at freedom's touch, So come now, do not wait. Show Wilhelm you're with us. For the welfare of our state. Let not your hearts be confined; Let feuds die with the past. Strengthen us in this perilous time. Ye of all races, colors and class. IV. Though scant your purse may be, Keeping you from giving your best. Explaining, you can make others see. The need of buying W. S. S. For the Red Cross' noble work, We humbly ask your aid again, Pray do not from duty shirk. But do the best you can. V. We know its far away boys To a strange land you go, (26) mimmmmmmmmmimmiwmmmm But fight to keep home's joy From destruction of the foe. Yes they will make It warm. For you in No Man's Land. But remember that you are American born And do the best you can. VI. If you get blue and lonesome Forget it all and smile, Be proud that you're saving home, If its only for awhile. To your countrymen be true, Hold high the rights of man; Fret not at what you're told to do Just do the best you can. VII. When you hear your comrades grumble, Pat him kindly on the back, Tell him right must not tumble. Because some fellow grows slack. If you try this simple plan, Courage's spark you can renew. And Sammies will realize their stand. For the Red, White and Blue. VIII. When shells fall fast around you, And perhaps you would like to hide, Think what great things we do, By working without growing tired. Boys don't mind the war cloud, Fight for your people and land. We of you patriots are proud. So do the best you can. (27) i i I I I i I i i ^^mmmmEmmmmMm^mx.i I i i i I i i i i i I i I i i i i i: B THE NEGROE'S RI^HT TO FIGHT. O, ye men of African Creed, America is our home We were born among the Free Though bondage claimed our own, I know we have forgiven All the wrongs done a race And as American Citizens Are ready to take our place, II, Boys we were right to fight For how oft have we prayed For justice and Equal rights Yea, for this trying day Ethiopia sends forth her Herald In answer to our prayer Crying Freedom for the World And Democracy everywhere. III. Noble Comrades 'tis our black hands That will bear Old Glory across The fields of No Man's Land To Humanity's Bleeding cross. There we will wrestle with death Till the great Victory is gained And when we are laid to rest God grant we die not in vain. IV. Out of this war will rise Not the black man of old But one who fought and died The true American Negro, So boys every one should fight (28) wmmrmrmmmrmmmmmmmmmm To preserve a Just Cause ^ It's only fair and right ^ ^ To give our lives, our all. ^ I I I VI. Boys as a Brother to Man We've proved loyal in the past ^ Thus winning the right to stand ^ And defend the Stars and Stripes. ^ So friends, we'll keep the trust M That swells our bosom with pride And She'll never trail the dust While we are by Her Side. VII. Uncle Sam we are with you ^ For you are with the Right ^ And with hearts that are true ^ We'll help you win this fight ^ We stand ready at your command For you seek not personal prize fjsj Wiith the enemy hand to hand ^ We'll save that principal or die. VIII. Brave Warriors, when we leave ^ i V. ^ ^ Si- ^ For when Belgium was robbed ^ ^ Of life and years of toil 1^ ^ Faster beat our heartthrobs ^ ^ Warning us that duty calls. ^ And then we saw France struggle ^ In the conflict just begun P As she called her Black Brother's ^ To help conquer the cruel Huns. (29) ij mmMimmmmmmmmmmmjmmM i 1 I i i i i I I I s i i i i =# For the trench and fireing line Our hearts will ache with grief To leave loved ones behind But there is a Greater Love That leads us on and on, Leads us through flames and floods To the "Great Awakening Morn." IX. Look boys as Old Glory waves We behold the spirits of man Lincoln and Douglas from the grave, Guide us as to foreign strands They salute the Stars and Stripes These Honored Myrters, side by side Showing us we've a right to fight As they nobly fought and died. THE EIGHT DIEECTION. (Original Poem by E. P. Peters.) In nineteen I was grieved to hear. The murmur of many strange tongues, That told in a struggle near, Liberty would sacrifice her sons. Strong, weak, and innocent will perish Until the right cause is won. For man's life is not cherished By the beastly, heartless huns. And as I sat busy thinking. How to help protect the stripes, I saw my black brother drinking From the cup of disfranchised rights. I saw sons of honest toil. Robbed of life and protection. (30) ! mimmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Yet they are answering Democracy's call And striving in the right direction. The black mothers of Tennessee, Are giving their blood to Frannce, And only asking of people free. That they be given a chance. From the blood hounds thirsty flight, They are asking to be saved. For men should enjoy equal rights Where the Star Spangled Banner waves. Just as God rained down manna, And the children of Isreal fed; He'll give sons of Louisiana, The rights for which they've pled. For we're not fighting for possession. Nor wishing that others should fall But traveling in the right direction. To a home that welcomes all. So remember that we've not protested, To do a loyal citizens part, Though the memory of Houston, Texas, Is still burning in our hearts. Our duty is to Glory, boys, No matter what falls our lot. That Democracy may not be destroyed, And that the paths be not forgot. I saw Ethiophia Slowly rise. In the midst of scornful men, Guided by power from on high. And deserted by earthly friends. But her voice is not still, Nor hid is her black face, (31) is For her patriots of San Juan hill, In history have no place. And though our tongues were bridled Because we were sons of Ham, "We could not stand by idle, When needed by Uncle Sam. With heart sympathy we listened, To innocent mouths crying for bread. Still unseen we have risen That the hungry might be fed. Old Glory you have many friends, But we have proved the truest. Although you've failed to defend Your sons of East St. Louis, From poverty and oppression, The weary wanderer of night, Starts in the right direction To help win the perilous fight. Mother when clouds sweep before you. And your sons you sacrifice, Be proud brave Ethiophia, Is still dying for the right. Dropping college books and professions, Leaving an Educational chance, We follow in the right direction, To help our brothers in France. To preserve Christianity, We did not ponder or wait. And fought to save humanity. While our comrades burned at stake. But boys hold high the Stripes, Give them your strong protection, m For you shall inherit eternal life ^ That strive in the right direction. (32) CI i i I m I I 9 i i i i i i i i i I i 1 i s If So let us forget our trials. Though like pilgrims we roam, But thank God we're not exiles, And America is our home. Let the spirit of sixty-five In every bosom swell, For Democracy ever strives That in paradise all will be well. No longer we're patient or humble, For the barbaric crimes we see, Shall not cause justice to crumble. Nor enslave old Liberty. So black sons of rejection, Be loyal, be brave, be true. Go forth in the right direction, Defend the Red, White and Blue. THE BETTER PART. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters) On Boston soil in 1775, When America fought to be free Crispus Attucks a Negro 'didst die 'Didst shed his blood for Liberty; Though slavery's yoke was upon him Though his people had no voice A heart beat for his fellow-men And Freedom or death his choice. n. His body in shot torn rags Fell beneath the Stars and Stripes Lifting his eyes saw the Flag For which he gave his life (33) mrmmmmmmrmmmmmmrmmm mimmmmmmmmmmmmmmmkyi 3 To that Celestial City, went forth The soul of the Black Patriot, As he gave up the ghosts We chose the Better Part. III. When Spain fought her Cuban Brothers Crushing the rights of a weaker race Our hearts in sympathy were troubled As we saw Humanity disgraced Our boys said to Uncle Sam, "Is not this war our war? Then give us power to stand And help defend the Cause." IV. In the charge up San Juan When the rough riders faced defeat When lost victory before them dawned And behind them a scorned retreat. It was then the True Soul Of the black troops were tried And the story we all know Of how they fought and died. Through facing the Spaniards fire. Through Our Blood, that was spilled Old Glory was placed on high On the summit of the hill. Such deeds have buried the tomahawk Healed the wounds of bleeding hearts. Together the White and Black walk To choose. The Better Part. VI. Thus the two races, in union Toiled along the road of life (34) I I I 1 i i I B 4 I I I I I i i I I I I 1 1 i i I I s i In a brotherly communion Free from hatred and strife When from far o'er the sea Came Humanity's Call for help Came groans of people bereaved In a struggle of Freedom and Death. VII. We saw German Soldiers Kill Siberia's peace loving Sons Saw blood of innocent ones spilled In the mouth of murderous guns, Heard the cries of women and children Beholding their humble homes afire Then into dark slavery driven Like cattle, to perish and die. VIII. Bleeding Belgium, cried to live As she struggling gave all That earthly mortals could give To preserve the Righteous Cause. France stretched forth her hand The hand that proved our friend Pleading from, "No Man's Land" For the Freedom of Men. IX. Old Glory, your Black Boys Long to see. Democracy reign. For Freedom's fully enjoyed By those, who have worn chains. Uncle Sam, we're by your side Fast within beats our hearts And when we say goodbye We will choose. The Better Part. (35) I wmmmmrmmm\m]mmmm\mmmu m immmmmmmmmmmmmmm m i i I i I I i i i i I I i I I I i I I I 1 1 i X. A black mother pressed her son To the bosom that nursed him For the parting hour had come To help defend his countrymen. Looking into his eyes she said, "On the altar of thy heart Burns a spirit that has led You to choose, The Better Part. XI. I who have watched o'er thee From the very moments of birth Feel the patriotism you feel Knowing my boy'll prove his worth. If this be the last time To press you to my heart, Die fighting on the firing line And choose, The Better Part. XII. His countenance now bore A greater love, a greater pride For the Uniform he wore And the woman by his side. "Mother he said. Thy Sacrifice Is not made in vain For the Stars and Stripes Shall wave in peace again. XIII. I fear not, the cruel Huns Nor their horrible deeds and threats. For is it in my people born To cringe, from a Noble Death? Then mother, wipe away thy tears And kiss me 'ere I start For I cannot linger here And choose. The Better Part." (36) \\mmmm]mfmmmmmmmmrmmrm ^^mm i 1 I I I i i I 1 I I I I I i WITH THE COLORS. (Original Poem by E. P. Peters.) Faded is the light of day, When I have finished my task, And in a land far away, Your memory holds me fast. For it seems but yesterday, I held you on my knee, Never thinking that you would play In the game for Democracy. But my son I am glad My feeble fingers can knit For patriots of the service flag. Who are proudly doing their bit. II. I'm sacrificing when I stay. At home where you have been, And toiled daily that you may. Help the right cause win. Vacant is thy room above me, And empty is thy chair, But onward, for 'tis victory, Awaiting those playing fair. And though silver is my hair, I'm still your faithful mother; World freedom is my prayer For I am with the colors. III. We the mothers of the free Are proud that we toiled not alone In the fight to keep Autocracy From the heart of Liberty's home. All nations are in a stir, For mankind's being slaughtered (37) Ml/ ismmmrmmmrmmmmrmmrmm mmmmmmiimmmmmmmmmmm By the hands of German Kultur, Who has no excuse to offer. Brutality in our face is slamed, Morality they've tried to smother, But fear not dear Uncle Sam, For I am with the colors. IV. We will preserve Democracy, No matter what it may cost, We're servants of the Almighty, And followers of the cross. In the dreaded war zone Where man seeks not for rest. Loyalty and bravery is shown. By aid of the fairest sex. Red is the cross they wear. They're helping our wounded brothers We cherish them as gems rare Who are serving with the colors. In the Y. M. C. A. Brave Sammy takes a part, For 'tis encouragement by the way, And peace to our troubled heart. The sun of eighteen and nineteen Is smiling on them over there. And though no longer they're seen We're helping them everywhere. Foreigners, strangers, black and white, Are working with each other. Striving, dying to win the fight. Forgetting race class and color. VI. Greater is the spirit of today, (38) Than that of seventy six For fuedalism can not stay Where Democracy doth exist. The Lusitanian victims we saw, But still loyal we stand, 'Till o'er is the bloody war. And safe is our native land. To Berlin we will gladly go. And if it need be further. Just to let the whole world know That we are with the colors. TRIUMPH OF THE TUSCANIA. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) America drops a Laurel On the Tuscania's dead While war's cold wind howl O'er our uncovered heads. II. Though silent now the tongue Of that brave gallant host The race is yet to run, The prize is not lost. III. We still hear them sing Awaiting the water's call As if death was a thing Welcome to us all. IV. Asleep in a watery grave Thy Noble Spirits still live (39) i^mmmm^^mrmrrMmmmm^mfmrmmrmm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmkmmm I I I I I I As to Freedom Thou gave In like#manner we give. Mother your son slumbers While his unfinished work Is carried on by numbers Whose duties will never shirk. VI. Falling your son gave all That human heart could give To save the Righteous Cause And his country from ill. VII. Then mothers do not cry For thou suffereth not alone Comfort others that must die For their flag and home. VIII. When America is safe From the Barbaric Huns And Kaiser finds his place Is not in the sun. IX. When Autocracy is crushed By the hands of right And Feudalism's doctrine hushed From those seeking the light. X. Then the Tuscania's Boys Shall triumph in the grave For their comrades loyal Fought and saved the day. (40) mm^mmmmmrmmmrmmmmimmm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmjmii SAMMY'S CHRISTMAS GIFT. (Original Poem by E. P. Peters.) Wlien the merry Christmas day, Dawned in No Man's Land, And Christmas boxes from home. Given Sammies on foreign strand; All heads bowed low, While Old Glory was raised. Giving thanks to man. And to the Christ Child praise. "When prayer had been offered, Happy, two trenches did depart. All save one remained With bowed head and aching heart. II. As the old flag rippled, He cried, May she live. Always for the right, but Oh, God, what can I give? To my kind people in The land of the free, Who has sacrificed to Send this box to me, Oh, what can I give For the cause of right. But his cries was hushed In the command to fight. III. With pride he fought, while Bursting shells filled the air, Smiling faced the enemy. Tried not his life to spare. Stood while comrades fell beside Him, fighting with wounding hand, (41) wmmrmmmrmmrmmmmrmmrmmm i I I I I I I i I i I I I i I i i i To keep the cursed Autocracy From retgning in the land. But as the battle grew hotter, The Sammies filled with fear. For in death their Captain lay With the enemy near. IV. At last from out the smoke. The wounded hands did raise. "Boys on to victory, be Brave and fight," he cried. Then fighting like true Americans, The battle was on again. The enemy retreated leaving field. Of sleeping and suffering men. Dying their leader cried, pointing To the Stars and Stripes, "Boys I've given all. To help you win the fight." "Don't retreat in battle, fight On till all is well. Till the right has won. And peace on earth dwells. When you fight hardest, pray God will help you give Your life to old Liberty That free people might live. So boys meet me when Your country you have saved. Goodbye all and Old Glory May she ever wave." VI. When the sun hid its face, (42) m^mmmrmmm^mrmmrmmmrmmfm wmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Behind the snowy hills, When the battle field was cleared, And thundering cannons stilled. The stars from their firmanent Gave forth their brillant light, Guarding as they did the Shepards, sleeping Sammies through night. The old flag still waved. Though torn in the fight. Cheering patriots dead and Dying for Democracy and it's rights. VII. When Christmas night was o'er, From a long sweet repose, Boys of Red, White, and Blue, Sad but bravely rose. Each man performed his duty, Each offered a morning prayer. Bugles summoned to mess hall. In the land of somewhere. Their hearts beat with patriotism While grieved countenance showed respect To the comrade who saved them From captivity and death. VIII. When the spot was chosen. And the opening waiting there. Sammies marched with tearful eyes. While music filled the air. The old flag was borne And waved slowly over head. While the patriot was lowered Into a country martyr's grave. (43) Mmmmmmmm\]m]m^mmrmm\rmmrm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm And the epitaph was written, Love for, Stars and Stripes Could not be greater than The man that gives his life. SAMIHIE'S CHRISTMAS DREAM. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) An American rises on Christmas Day In the dawn of coming manhood Falling upon bended knee to pray As his teachings bade him do Humbly asking his God to guide Him in the paths of right When absent from his mother's side To make his way in life. Begging for strength lest he fall Discouraged by the way Ready to help Humanity's Cause Of those, who've gone astray. II. Pleading for the girl and boy That drifting ,with the tide Seeking only pleasure and joy Losing self respect and pride Change their hearts 'ere they meet The doom that will surely come Though tears of regret they weep Is useless when life is done. When their hair is fading gray May from repenting lips be told Dear Jesus passed by the way And saved my dying soul. (44) \iimmmmmmimmmmmmmmmm. 1 i i I i i I I I I I I I I I I I I I If III. For the sinful father he prays That craves and begs for rum Sending his wife to her grave From the shack in the slums. Leaving two little blue-eyed girls To make their way in life Ignorant of the sinful world Of it's temptations and strife, O, God may thy Guiding Angel Lead these little Maidens fair Out of earthly harm and danger To Thy Holy House of Prayer. IV. Again 0, God, I beseech Thee To bless my Native Land Divided may we never be For only united we stand. If cruel war should ever come In the Land of the Free May I proudly shoulder a gun And die for Liberty. May we forever fight. That Democracy might win Ever live the Cause of Right Is my Christmas Prayer, Amen. V. Then slowly he raises at length Refreshed in his morning's prayer His face radiant with Divine strength That God's messengers planted there. From this brave lad we gleam A lesson for young and old That'll make life a pleasant dream (45) wmm^mmmimmmmmmmmmmmi mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmM i i i i I i i i I i i i Unmarred by sin and woe. For how happy we'd all be Instead of thinking of self If we'd give others in need Helping those, in distress, VI. Sisters and brothers clinging to him They join the family fireside Mother and Father greeting them Their only jewels, there only pride. Suddenly on the air there falls The chiming of Christmas Bells Shaking the ancient church walks As joyfully the good news tell Their voices in harmony blend In the old fashioned pew Singing to the Sons of Men A song of Love and Truth. VIII. He hears the white haired priest Tell the story of our Christ Of the babe that would teach Men the way of Eternal Life How in a manger he lay Close to his mother's breast Upon a lowly bed of hay To pay man's sinful death An example for us to be Meek and lowly of heart Seeking not the front seat But satisfied with our lot. VIIL While the shepherds by night Watched their flock of sheep (46) w mrmmmMrmmmmmwmmmmmm wmmmmmmmmmmimmmmmM i They saw a wonderful light A great star in the east. A loud noise was heard An angel stood before them Saying "Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men." When the child was found They gave thanks to God Who's Son to earth came down And filled tile world with Love. IX. As Christ toiled day by day The blind saw, the dumb talked, And to a cripple he said, "Take up thy bed and walk." Thus man's soul was redeemed For Christ the mortgage payed His blood the sinful world cleaned And taught us how to pray On the cross with thorn clad head To his promise still was true "Father, forgive them," He said, "They know not what they do." X. Floating in the morning's breeze The old flag, silent and serene Awakens Sammie from his sleep From his happy Christmas Dream. Then Sammie saluteing the Stars and Stripes With swelling breat exclaimed I've pledged you honor and life That world Democracy will reign As this brave soldier sits (47) wmmmfmmmrmmimimmimmmm'imm 1 1 1 i ^ Smiling in his trench Over There » Lo, a sonff falls from his lips ^ His Country's National Air. ^ :o: I I PEARLS UNRECOGNIZED. ^ (Original Poem by E. P. Peters.) M Oh wandering pilgrims of Virginia, M Who made you noted men. ^ Whom was ever your defender. And proved old Glory's friend. Was it not back in sixteen For slaves of your selfish will. ^ When your unfree tongues were still, ^ You ignorantly bought pearls unseen, i i II. ^ In vales and on historic hills, ^ Where your gallant heroes sleep, « Once Ethiophians your soil tilled, ^ From dawn till sunset peace. ^ Raised grain and your cattle fed, ^ In your business planned and advised, Without place to lay their heads ^ Your own pearls unrecognized. i III. From tobacco made you wealthy, ^ Your cruelty was humbly borne ^ Slave cooks made you healthy, ^ ^ Black boys protected your homes, ^ ^ With maimed bodies and chained hands, M Died to make your sons free, ^ Rare gems in a slave land. Robbed of rights and liberty. (48) mmmmmimmmmi\mmmmmmmii\ IV. Mother Nature doth sadly gaze On the sunlit southern plains, Pityinng hands forced to raise Crops for their masters gain. Tilling fields of cane and cotton That you heartless masters rest, And your home builders you've forgotten Laid foundations for your success. I I i I 3 I I I I I I I I I I i I I Scarred backs of unpaid toil. Motherly rocked your brave sons. While their black faces spoiled All good things they'd done. For two hundred and forty years Served you faithfully as a friend, Unpitied dwelled in want and fear, Four million helpless uncounted gems. VI. Naked on the auction block, You separated mother and child, At their pleadings only mocked. On their pitiful condition smiled. Forgiving ^humanity toiled patiently on. Sacrificing for your boys and girls, While poverty on the cabins dawned. Of the uncared for hated pearls. VII. From whipping posts of plantation, Rose innocent cries of man. Music of a southern Nation, Execution of their commands. Still loyal with heart aches, (49) \\m]m]m\m]m\mmmm\mmmmmmfm I i I I I i I i I I 1 They came eager to your aid Pearls that perished at burning stakes, You a leading people made. VIII. While wealth made you able, To do other honerable 'deeds, The crumbs from your table, Were left for those in need. Honored by Ethiophia's children. Served by their willing hands, You forgot you once were pilgrims. And crushed the rights of man. IX. Your words were deemed great, As proud emperors of Rome, Sowing earless seeds of waste. Unthankful of having a home. In ignorance gloom kept a race. Taught them to steal and fraud; Morality shamefully did debase. Told them nothing of a God. I I I Loved ones their only pride. Rags their physical protector. Independence spark slowly died In hearts humiliation melted. Brave gems from their people sold. Tried hard to forget their pain, Noble emotion blossomed in their souls. Reminding them black sons have brains. I XI. The long uneducated minds, Gradually in wisdom grew broad, (50) I I i S I I i I I I I I I Soul salvation they did find, In a true forgiving God. When through the night they prayed, That their sons might be free. Asked forgiveness for those who made, Slaves of pearls and humanity. XII. Low bowed heads snowy white, Stood in every vabin door, Thankful that the bloody night, God suffered to pass o'er. Tear stained cheeks smiled with pleasure Of being in a revolutionized world. For Freedom their long lost treasure Returned to unrecognized pearls. A DAUGHTER OF HAM. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) A little maiden left home and friends To brave the storms of life's sea Filled with ambition for Great Things With hopes of a Race just free Born with a longing desire to help Humanity regardless of color or creed Made her the Sunshine, where ere she dwelt To the friendless, and those in need. II. Purity of thought, blinded her eyes To the world and it's selfish aims Of men and women daily beguiled In search of favor and fame (51) ^1 mimmmmmmmmmmmmmmmM 1 a Crushing people because of birth Because of blood flowing in their veins Thinking not of the soul and it's worth Nor recognizing the power of brains. III. Little did the Noble Child realize Of disappointments not afar off Of opportunities to be denied And battles that must be fought I see her as she smilingly bade Childhood's happy scenes adieu And turning sought the untrodden way That led to friends and foes anew. IV. Behold our heroine makes her way Through the 'midst of the city's poor As she walks we hear her pray For the victims of poverty and woe Suddenly across the path there falls A form motionless at her feet While to her ear comes a faint call "Give me food that I may eat." Thus two earthly mortals take leave And start on life's journey refreshed VI. "When I lie hungry by the road Thou gavest me bread to eat Lightening the burden, of a weary soul With a spirit so humble and meek Though cursed thy dark skin be Continue to feed God's Lambs And good will, shall follow thee Thou Faithful Daughter of Ham." (52) i One because of the blessing received The other saved from hunger and death They shall meet in that Holy Land When the sea gives up it's dead Our Beloved Daughter of Ham And the hungry that was fed. VII. She has labored for many days Helping alike both Saints and thieves And with eager hands, to them gave All she had, even to her need The body fatigued and careworn Cries out for bread and jam For Humanity's burden daily borne Grew heavy to the Daughter of Ham. VIII. When despairing of her quest She heard voices happy and gay And saw people richly dressed Entering a door by the way Hoping here to find her goal Footsteps are turned to the crowd Where a servant fills the door With a king's air so proud. w-, I IX. i "Pray what can I do for you?" Said the servant, to the maid "I'm starving give me food" Our little pilgrim said. Then the servant, with a ghastly stare Hastily replied, "I'm sorry mam ^j, You are forbidden to eat in there p For you are a Daughter of Ham." ^ (53) I mimmmj.mmmmmmmmmmmmm X. Then pas»ing into the night She offered to heaven a prayer That some one would bear the light To sinning men and women fair Lo, as the stars gave forth Bright light o'er all the land To God's Throne marched the soul Of the dying Daughter of Ham. XL Sons of men why hurl Hate and scorn at one another When Christ died for the world And not for race or color He dying shed his blood That we all might live In unity and love Ever ready to forgive i ^ i i XII. On the face man look And if it pleases the eye We blindly shield a wolf Oft times a thief and spy But God seeth the heart And judges us thereby Thus all can own a part In a home on high XIII. When our eyes grow blind With the veil of years May we leave behind A record honored and dear So both rich and lowly Remember the Bleeding Lamb And forget not the story Of the Daughter of Ham. (54) I 5;?i^i(/t\if^ii/S\i!/S\it/i\ii/i\if/i\](/i\ir/i\ii/i\if/a\if/i\ii/i\ir/i\if^^ mmmmmmmmmm3mmmmmmii\ s i i I I I I 1 I 1 i I I I I I SPIRITUAL AWAKENING. Upon the long hard frozen ground, Snow flakes lay thick and white; And twilight scarcely its way found. When it was lost in night. In a palace of wealth and beauty, Happy was wife, husband and child, Forgetting faith and Christian duty. Following vanity, fame, and style. Suddenly from out the silence came, A loud rap upon the door, And before them with unknown name. Stood a frail form covered with snow. Then husband ordered bread and wine, To redden the pale guests face. While a servant was commanded find The weary stranger a resting place. The food of the very best, Pilgrim was invited to eat, And slowly as one in distress. He rose upon his aged feet. "You are very kind he said, To lend me a helping hand. You shall for all be paid. For you are a brother to man." Clothed in a costly evening gown. The proud wife before them stood; With upright head and scornful frown. Looked upon the begger of food. "Have I not seen you before?" (55) I \\m^mmmmmmmmmm\\mmmmm Of the stranger she inquired. "Yes," he answered, "among the poor, You've "Seen and passed me by." Taking innocent children from unknown friend Wife left blinded to mankind's plea, But husband followed Pilgrim to defend, The cause of suffering humanity. With Pilgrim who long had borne The burden of a sinful world. Husband entered a drunkard's home. And rescued his friendless girl. Clothed in his coat of fur. The unpitied was sheltered from cold Into his rich home took her. To teach her of the soul. "I've brought Alice a playmate" Said husband to his wife. But she proudly refused to take The poor into her child's life. So innocent children ignorant of class. Became devoted to each other. While o'er them was passed, The cruel sentence, of Alice's mother. "She must not stay here John," She said, "You must go alone, And take away the low born, You unthinkingly brought into our home." "It is God's will," he replied, "I'll fight till the victory's won, (56) Never again will I drift with the tide, For I'm needed in the slums." At wifes request, clergymen talked, To husband how he was losing, The dignity of their Christian walk. With the poor they thought amusing. Husband in silence had remained Until his friends ceased to come. Then from the pulpit he exclaimed, "Duty calls me in the slums. Taking with her their only child, Wife joined her society friends; Charmed by luxury and style. And blinded to her sin. On bended knees at night fall. When mankind goes to rest. Christian on the Savior called To strengthen him in distress. His life was deprived of sunshine. Or all he had was gone. But Pilgrim came the second time And guided him from wrong. So again in the narrow path, Teaching sons and daughters of men. Christian helped the downtrodden class. To come out of their sins. Saloon keepers, bartenders, gamblers, Vile men that swear and curse. Willingly stopped their sinful ramble And became a part of Christian's church. (57) Mmmmm^mmimmmmmmmmmm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm m When told of his childs death, Christian^ grieved not nor mourned, For he'd sacrificed pleasure and wealth. To join her round God's throne. Though bent with toil and grief. His work the world was demanding, He lived to tell of a peace, That passes all understanding. Smiling upon his friends with pride. He bade them meet him there. And entered his chamber and died. With the Holy book of prayer. As the prodigal son returned home. So unto her husband did wife. Finding God had claimed his own. And given him eternal life. In grief kneeling down by husband. She looked heavenward to pray When before her stood Pilgrim The street beggar she'd turned away. Pilgrim's countenance became bright and pure. His worn rainment spotless and white "Now," she cried, "I know you. You are the truth and light." She saw as a shepard sees, That cares not for his fold, The child she hoped to be, Left hungry, penniless, and cold. "O, John, what shall I do," She cried, "I've scorned humanity." (58) }imm\m\m\mmm\mm}mmmmmm?mK\ Child whispered, "God will save you, For He saved Pa and me." At last forgiveness had come, Upward strived child and wife. To meet their sleeping loved ones When the soul seeks its flight. FATHER OF HIS PEOPLE. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) In the year 1858 On a Virginian Plantation Was born a babe who someday Would walk and talk with nations In his veins flowed the blood Of Ethiopia's Noble Hearted Sons Born 'midst slavery's mire and mud A great leader of men had come. XL In a rough hewn board hut Booker saw the light of day Blessed with a kind mother's trust In her arms he fondly lay His childish eyes did not gaze Upon fine paintings on the wall But watched little pickanninies play While water in the kettle boiled. TIL The child of Nature boasted not Of proud ancestory or titled kin For bondage had fallen his lot And four million of his fellow men (59) i\mmmmmmmmmmmmm/mm/s^. I I I I i I i i i i i I i 1 i i I 1^ Deep in the heart of that boy A spark of independence burned Early losing the thrill for toys Longing for a chance to learn. IV. Just before the dawn of day When the world's lost in dream The lad heard his mother pray And there the truth was gleamed From then was waged a battle From then his life work begun To enlighten the Human chattels When 'ere the hour should come. At last God heard the pleas Of the four million humble souls And suffered them to be free To serve their God of old. With the North and South's decision The slave child's hope was realized Going forth to prepare his mission He bade his lowly habitat Goodbye. VI. Toiling through sunshine and rain Working patiently in the salt mills, Took unto himself a name The proudest that history could give. An unseen eye, saw a day Drawing near; when the world's readers Beholding his works would say "He too, is Father of His People." VII. As in the days of old (60) \fmmmmm\m\mmmmmm\mmmm Brave Romans with armors of steel Met in the arena their foe Either to kill, or be killed. So with his schooling completed Booker Washington, now went forth To conquer or to be defeated True to his boyhood oath. VIII. His helmet the Word of God, Freely given to those that ask His sword a heart of love And Divine truth, his only mask. Thus clad in this court of mail That protects the souls of men On life's stormy sea set sail To battle against fog and wind. IX. Ever in the quest of Knowledge Took up the study of law Entered the famous Hampton Institute Preparing to stand in Congress Hall. But providence had a Nobler Cause, For this young man to pursue Throwing down the books of law Sought his works in fields anew. X. It was then Tuskeege called him At last had come the Morn, To teach and defend his fellowmen For which work he was born. His soul urged him to go He was filled with new zeal Determined his Brothers should know What it means, To Be Free. (61) m wrnrngmwrnmrnrmiJ^ mrm/iWi^mmi 3 I I I i i I I i i i 4 I I I I I I I I ^ Ever Onward, to reach higher ground Helping 'all People to greater aim The world in admiration now found Dr. Washington, rightly chose, name. Instructing the Negroes to buy land To study the advantage of soil Proving his theory with his hands Showing the profit of honest toil. XII. In the pleas for his race A great Orator, was made known Sought not for a political place Ever striving to help his own Respected in courts of fame Daily honored by rich and poor, Popularity never made him vain But was loved as, "Booker," of old. XIII. Then God called his servant home Called the Great Educator to rest Leaving his friends to fight alone To live forever with the Blest, A lasting monument is left In hearts of young and feeble And though parted by death He still is. Father of His People. his PAUL LAURANCE DUNBAR. In eighteen seventy one. Two freed slaves met in life; (62) Mmmm]mmmmfmMfmrmm'm/mMf/m I i I 1 1 I i I I I 1 I I I I I I I I m Joshua Dunbar, Matilda Murphy's love won, And were united as husband and wife. Matilda from a little child, Was a lover of poetry and art; And always in a manner mild, She dealt with cduel hearts. So it was the following year, A son to her was born; The black face, the infant dear, Who gave the world book and song. At seven years of age. New ideas entered his life; His mind in best thoughts engaged, And his dreams he began to write. By birth, a genius and poet. By writing, won world wide fame, The black author lived to know it; Paul Laurence Dunbar by name. Literature, spelling, and grammer, Were his favorite studies in school. He was modest and timid in manners. And obedient to the rules. He edited the High School Times, Which contents interesting found. By diligence he did climb. To success and future renown. But at last the time had come, To launch out and labor find. Graduating in eighteen ninety one. Leaving schoolmates and friends behind (63) Mmm)mmm\mm\mmm^mmmmmmi\ mmmmmimmmmmmmmmmm/M m His color was against all he'd done, Every one to him seemed greater. An elevator boy's task he begun; Looking for recognition later. Few flowers in his path were stresvn, But there were many thorns. His determination was not to ruin, The talent that was in him born. A quaint philosophy was breathed, In his dialect poems and prose; Some were thoughts he achieved, And others gleamed from stories told. One evening Dunbar entered home. With a smile on his face. The first difficulty he had won, For his people and his race. His "Oak and Ivy poems" printed. Made wide his reputation; And though of African decent. He was generous to all nations. The poet was defender of his race; His life work did devote her, And his soul contents we trace. In his Ode to Ethiophia. To Chicago to the world's fair. He must go aid his brother; Alone the burden was hard to bear; He hated to leave his mother. But by special Providence, He found work and friends, (64) i i I I ^M m^mmmmmmmkmmmmmmmmm Who always came to his defense, With willing aids to lend. Honorable Fred Douglass said, He's a promising Colored man; To him tribute should be paid, For the place that he demands. In congress in Washington, He became efficient in literary work. Though hardest blows he'd overcome, Never would be duty shirk. His fourth book, "The Lyrics and Hearth- side." Was dedicated to Alice, his wife. His wise counsellor and guide, And the sunshine of his life. Of the shadows of Rocky Mountain, In broken health the poet cried, "Once I drank from thy fountains, And sat on thy rugged side. Once I was young and strong, A healthy robust lad, I admired the bird songs, I smiled when I was sad. All men held the poet dear. For he lived a life worth while; Although his end was drawing near. He was happy, calm, and mild. He gazed on the flowers sent him. To give his pains relief, But in a few days left them And was numbered with the deceased. (65) tm mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm i Doctor H. T. Tobey, of Toledo, Mourned the loss of his friend. He regretted the Great must go, As the other sons of men. Ethiophia long shall weep. And shall always honor give, For though the poet now doth sleep, His work shall ever live. THE SLAVE'S DYING PRAYER. (Original Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) In the year 1619 a Dutch vessel Sailed the waters of the Black sea With the angry waves it wrestled Traveling to a land called the Free. Thirty Negroes trembling with fear Hovered in a dark and dingy hull Many strange tongues they could hear While fast faded the land they loved Though they were heathens yet they prayed With the conquering spirit of their race To the God of stone, who ruled the day While hope beamed on every face. ■ • - d i i ■: S ^ -i't II. At last the vessel landed at Jamestown With it's cargo of Human Souls Naked they stepped on slave cursed ground And like beast of the field were sold. For two hundred and fifty years Our people knelt in the dust Robbed of all a race holds dear (66) mmrmmmmmmmmmmmmmm/mKi mmmimmmiimmmmmmmmmmm m i i i I 5 I I i i i i i i I i I To satisfy the white man's lust The tender ties of mother, father and child Were crushed beneath feet of heartless might They were hunted like creatures wild Their moans were bird songs of the night. III. The thought of Independence burned On the Sacred Altar of their Heart Though humiliated and spurned They were ready to play their part. Engulfed in poverty, they could see The cloud of a long and bloody strife Stronger grew the desire to be free To stand like men and pay the price In the starless night of ignorance A just God showed them the way He gave them patience and endurance For a God of mercy heard them pray. IV. The slaves wept and prayed for joy When on April the twelfth 1863 Was fired the guns of the Civil War In the struggle to set us free. The Blue and Gray alike upheld The cause they thought was right They bravely fought and fell Sacrificing honor and life. In the game of Freedom and Death The fearless Negro dashing and brave Urged on by memories in his breast Died to redeem the Human race. (67) i mmmmmmmmjmmmmmmmmi V. Abraham JUincoln, who believed In the equal rights of man Said, "To save the union I will free All slaves through out the land." Lincoln on January the first 1863 Issued the Emacipation, Proclamation Declaring, the Negroes are set free From cruel slavery and degradation. Thus penniless, but free we left Our old plantation homes Facing starvation and death Knowing not whither we roamed. VI. But providence was our guide Along the rough and thorny path Little by little we strived To overcome the dreadful past. Before the bar of justice the Negro stands As the grand champion of his race Begging and pleading for the Rights of Man Forgetting his kinky hair and black face In the Medical profession he longs To lengthen and enoble life Healing the wounds of the wronged A bearer of the Sacred Light. VII. The Black Poets, doth write Of their beloved Dixie Land Singing of the picturesque sights Of the hot and scorching sands; Though poverty attended the Negroe's birth (68) ^wmrnymmmmmmmwrnmr^^^ mmmmMMmmMMMMMMiMMMMMmmm Industry has been his home In tilling the soil he's proved his worth Regardless of the trials he's borne Through sorrow and toil may be Our humble and lowly career Let us thank God we're free For rest lies beyond the veil of tears. VIII. An old slave mammy who's hair Is covered with snow, that never melt Smiling prayed this dying prayer In the land of her humble birth. "0, God, I shall soon be with Thee In a land where all is love My prayers are answered, I die in peace To join the Heavenly Hosts above, My body shall soon return to dust Beneath the cold and damp sod, How sweet in death to have trust In a true and living God. IX. Just as death in his chariot will come To still my heart and bear me away So will the prize we seek be won When some of you sleep, beneath the clay At last the hour has come And she bids us a parting farewell She has kept the faith, her work is done And all is well, all is well." I i i i 1 THE NEGRO'S PROGRESS. ^ From the roaring cannons of sixty five, From the hour the Negroes were alive; (69) g w^mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmi miwmmmmmmmmmmmmimmM 1 3 They thankfully thanked the God of peace Who thQm from bondage did release. Departing from ones that once knew success, Helpless, launched out to do their best And in the struggle to be recognized. They were oft defeated on every side. But with sincerety that cannot be stilled, They, educational schools begun to build; Making progress, but failed to know it, Until Literature welcomed its black slave poet. As famous actors, they played their part; They demanded fame in the world of art; From Colored papers can be traced, The progress of a short freed race. Coming from poor farmers our songsters found The door of progress opened to re- nown; Our graduates of college sought no rest, Until the world had received their best. Blacksmiths and carpenters were in de- mand. Lawyers and doctors each took their stand. Slave orators, the people did address Telling them of the black brother's progress. From the pulpit they learned of God; (70) ^t By reading books their minds grew broad ; They were honest and loved one another, And never forgot their weaker brother. For they by the aid of Providence, Their missionaries to African shores sent. To teach them of their own accord, To worship the true and living God. Thus many have crossed the reckless sea And seek knowledge of people free To learn, that others they might reach, To return home and their kindred teach. With helping hands go to their defense. That their hearts then might be con- tent. In school they've learned to be clever; They are taught to stick together They have musicians and chorus bands. They organize lodges throughout the land; Work in factories of every kind; Being industrious, they'll always laboir find. Own nice homes and large fertile farms With modern conveniences to multiply their charms. Run hotels and stores in every state. Work on boats, passenger trains and freights. In prominent banks they are clerks; (71) mmmmmmmmm^mmfmmmm^mmk 1 i t i i i i i 1 I i I I 1 For firms they're doing real estate work; Our specialists and dentists are having success, Ranking like the whites, with the best. Our editors of papers and magazines. In writing have proved to be serene; Colored stenographers hold positions that pay; Chauffers are hired by months and days. Elevator boys are paid by the week; Black cops are bravely guarding their beats; Contractors and plasterers do efficient work ; Bankers and business men are thous- ands worth. Lecturers tell how the black race rose; How great leaders among them were choose; How the bleeding backs from slavery's chains, Rose up to be a people again. Clouds of darkness and then shown light That awaken minds to opportunities of life. If this be true why not stand, And demand all rights due to man. For though progress we've made 'tis true There is still greater work to do. There should be love for one another; Love that envieth not its brother. (72) mmmf/mmrmmmrmmmmfmmm\fmm\ mimiwimmmimmmmmmmmmmM But delights in mankind's success, That strives in life to be best. When we stand as great men stood, And as a people unite in brotherhood. We'll not by other race be passed; Or with the ignorant ones be classed. We'll not in the rear be shoved; We'll not be dispised but loved. We'll not be Jim Crowed or scorned; Or hate the day that we were horned. We then can realize education's worth. We'll know how to appreciate free- dom's birth. We can face the difficulties of life; Can be true to the stars and stripes. Then gladly our enemies we'll befriend. We will help the sons of men. And through the land the message send; "We're rising through love and not revenge. We're rising with praise and jubilee song We're rising to righten the wrong." "We're rising for we could hot rest. Until the black boys had made progress Rising to praise the ruler of all. Who caused bondage's strong chains to fall. Rising as pilgrims of the night; Rising to defend the right; Rising till Ethiophia stretches forth her hands. And claims her people of the land. (73) mmmmmmmmrmmmmfmmjmmm MBmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm THE COST OF REPENTANCE. (Original •Poem by Ada Tessibel Peters.) As the Sun sank behind the mountain And the flowers bowed their heads Earth was watered from Heaven's Foun- tain, While I mourned with my dead. Through the window the stars gazed Upon my mother's form, Listening they heard me pray For all I had was gone. Upon her calm face I read My future destiny Her soul had fled Into Eternity. II. "Mother," I cry, But she hears me not For motionless she lies Upon my childhood cot. Deep wrinkles I carved Upon her once fair face I've sinned against God Behold the price I pay, Her eyes now closed in sleep With tears I often filled It is now my time to weep For the heart I broke is still. III. A vision rose before me Revealing my deeds of the past From that scene, I tried to flee But memory held me fast. I saw my comrades dance (74) mmmmm^mmmmmmm^mmmmm m!i\wmjimmmmmmmmmmmmmi\m i ^ Down a broad and smooth road At first I thought them emigrants But on their baclcs, they bore no load, Just ahead these words I beheld In letters large and bold "The road that leads to hell To shame and endless woe." IV. I see my people In the gambling dens Squabbling and cheating As they lose and win. Some child is crying for bread Some poor form trembles with cold It's father to this den is led While poverty knocks at his door. His wife haggard and worn On the verge of death For years this burden has borne Longs for rest, sweet rest. V. To my pleadings they payed no heed While cruel death lay in wait But with merry and dancing feet Stumbled on to meet their fate Hark I hear Cries of distress Wails and shrieks of woe Prayers of agony ascend for help They are prisoners of the foe Lo, a gulf opens And head long in they fall The dying words that are spoken "Hide me from an, Angry God." VI. My comrades on the ball-room floor (75) 3S\l^^i^/i\lF/3\i»/a^i^/i\if/i^if/i\ii/3\■o/i\ *^=i^f,* J A^-V 6> "«Jk ^^•^^^ V