Up the Gatineau! Article
This article was first published in Up the Gatineau! Volume 10.
Footnote to History
Fifty-six year ago, in Chelsea, Due., K. Blake McCloskey - a local versifier composed the following:
The Old Iron Kettle
Dear old iron kettle, you have lost in the race.
An aluminum dandy now reigns in your place;
And nobody deems it unfair or unjust,
That you be consigned to the woodshed to rust.
Ah, well I remember your many good deeds;
You promptly and carefully furnished our needs;
In giving good service were never surpassed,
I still hear your singing from out the dim past.
Tho' long years have passed and world-weary I roam.
My thoughts often turn to my happy old home;
And the vision that comes in remembrance to me.
Is the old iron kettle getting ready for tea.
And I see my dear mother so cheerful and true.
With her bright smile of welcome and dear eyes of blue;
The big cosy kitchen inviting 'to stay,
And the old iron kettle a-singing away.
Ah! beautiful days! let me live them again!
And sing the old songs with the sweetest refrain:
Let me hear the dear voices - now silent so long,
And the Old Iron Kettle to blend with the song.