Rensselaer Republican, Volume 27, Number 44, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 27 June 1895 — THE NATION’S BIRTHDAY. [ARTICLE]

THE NATION’S BIRTHDAY.

Columba, gem of the west, Peerless thou art, alone doth stand, A continent by freedom blest, __ Bright banners float o'er all thy land. From mountain peak to peaceful vale, From ocean depths to bubbling rill, We ever hear the same sweet tale Of peace on earth, to man good will. Of all the nations of the earth, "—What ane~ran~~suehareoard show Of purity and sterling worth Among her men of years ago? On history’s page forevermore Their names shall blend harmoniously As those who opened wide the door, Freedom for all posterity. Unfurl our once more. Ring out in clarion tones again, Amid the glare of cannon’s roar, The nation’s yearly grand amen. This day of days, alone it stands A priceless gem of lustrous hue, Secured to us by patriot hands, A loyal band to right e'er true. The Stars and Stripes, long may they wave, Grand emblem of a land that’s free, Might and oppression found one grave; Thereon was reared sweet liberty. And while the golden sunset rays In radiance flash across the earth We’d offer up to God all praise For noble deeds that gave our Fourth. —E. Clifford Wadsworth.