That Old Elm Tree by Elmer Page

Poem to Phenix Square elm tree

The passing of that old elm tree
A sight we all regret to see
For decades it has nobly stood
Dispensing shade and shelter good

Dont cut it down, it was decreed
When the State thought it had a need
To use the spot on which it stood
To use the place for public good

The tree has stood as faithful friend
And rendered service to the end
What scenes have passed since first it stood
We could not record them, if we would.

Many generations have passed
And, serving where their lot was cast
In the neighborhood of this tree
Which stood for full a century.

Its tale of life adown the years
Has compassed many human fears
Has lived while children grew to men
And travelled far and home again.

The children joyful passed to school
Under the elm, which held its rule
Through many a happy summer day
As arden children stopped to play.

The old tree stood as bridal car
Passed ‘neath its shade and travelled far
A honeymoon to celebrate
As they sealed their earthly fate

The crowds that passed on worship bent,
Was to their zeal new pupose lent
When stopping ‘neath the tree to greet
The friend they had sol longed to meet.

Our town has grown both big and strong
As this old elm has come along
It has a purpose as the tree
To see how good a town can be.

The tree has gone, it could not last
All through another wintry blast,
The only rival it has had
Is old man river deep and sad.

It kept on rolling to the sea
And watched the growth of that elm tree
The tree must go, the river stay
Unchanged, unchanging, on its way.