Saint Patrick’s Day

A nostalgic poem reflecting on the journey from Ireland to a new land. 

St. Patrick's Day

Poet: C. C. Hassler

It's manny-an manny a year gone by.
From over the wather a hailing.
A sprig of a bye, wid a clear blue sky
I came to this country; a sailing.
My heart bate within wid a rollicking tune,
On my breast was the shamrock adorning.
When I first touched the ground, sure the bands all around
Played St. Patrick's glad day in the morning.

Good luck to the ship that brought me across.
An' here in God's country was landed,
For never a time, without dollar or dime
Have I found myself here empty-handed.
I've a snug little home that shelters us all.
Where no landlord's face is a warning.
An' I hail with delight when day follows night.
St. Patrick's glad day in the morning.

My heart often wanders back to the old sod.
An' the dear ones behind me a leaving ,
But while others above, I should This Land I love
Sure, it's not to go back I'm a grieving.
I love the free air, in this blessed land where.
I can look back on royalty scorning,
An' as the bands play I can welcome the day,
St. Patrick's glad day in the morning.

C. C. Hassler (1846–1910): A historical poet associated with late 19th-century American sentimental poetry, particularly known for work related to the American Civil War, including a war-poem anthology titled Bullets and Blossoms. His work also includes nostalgic poems about Illinois social life and customs.

ORIGINS

St. Patrick's Day originated as a religious feast day in Ireland to honor its patron saint, who died on March 17, 461, after bringing Christianity to the country in the 5th century. Originally a quiet religious holiday, it evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture, incorporating secular traditions like parades, green attire, and festivities. 

Key Historical Details

• Who Was Saint Patrick? He was not Irish, but a 5th-century Romano-British missionary who was kidnapped and enslaved in Ireland as a teenager before escaping and later returning to convert the Irish to Christianity.
• When was the Day Celebrated?The holiday falls on March 17, the day tradition says he died.
• Origin of Traditions:
  • Feasting: Traditionally held during Lent, St. Patrick’s Day was a day to lift restrictions, allowing for eating, dancing, and drinking.
  • The Shamrock: According to legend, St. Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.
  • Wearing Green: The color became associated with Irish nationalism and cultural pride.
  • Parades: The first recorded parade was held in New York City in 1762 by Irish soldiers in the British army, making it a major Irish-American tradition.

• Evolution: While heavily celebrated in Ireland for over 1,000 years, the large-scale, festive atmosphere associated with the holiday today, including wearing green, was largely developed by Irish immigrants in the United States.