Page:Scenes in my Native Land.pdf/148

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
144
SPRINGFIELD.

That cluster round her border, and the streams
That through her bosom flow, and most of all
Thee, glorious River, o'er whose breast we sail,
This summer's day, and tune our idle song.




Springfield is among the most beautiful towns in Massachusetts, full of activity and prosperity. It has many elegant private residences, and the depth of its summer-shades, and the grace of its lofty elms, the glory of New England, add much to its attractions. Court Square, and the promenade in Chestnut Street, are resorts usually admired by visitants.

It has a cemetery recently commenced, which evinces that good taste and reverent attention to the homes of the dead, which mark the progress of refinement in a Christian community. The young foliage waves gracefully, and the falling fountains with their crystal waters make a pleasant murmur around the beds of unbroken repose.

In the ancient burying ground among many interesting inscriptions, is one, which seemed to us singularly expressive of attachment to a spiritual guide.

"In memory of the late Rev. Robert Brack, late pastor of the church of Christ, in this place, who died on the 23d of April, 1781, in the 71st year of his age, and the 49th of his ministry. This monument is erected by his affectionate and grateful parishioners, in addition to that in their own breasts, to perpetuate the remembrance of his singular