The Birmingham age-herald. [volume] (Birmingham, Ala.) 1902-1950, 1914-12-13

big Indian chief uskaloosa: perhaps a
vivid picture of frontier life or the
heroic tales of the men and women
who had made Alabama, stayed from
the lore of childhood into the dreams
of girlhood. And these Were woven
with the memories of a states con-
fliets and victories, into the fabric of
woman's soul So came sympa-
thetic effort, that in this busy work.
aday of life of our state, one day each
year should be set apart-to honor Ala
bama.
"And the same burning patriotism
which prompted it's beginning, annual
ly lights the flames of the little red,
white and blue candles, shining from
the frosted birthday cake. Imagine a
ninety-odd candle power cake! Truly
this a herculean task for the mind
of woman, whose cakes and birthdays
proverbially cease with a 16 candle
power dainty The first formal or pub
lie celebration of Alabama Day was
held December IA, 1899, by Mrs. Sors-
by, who was then director of history in
the departmental Woman's club.
Mrs. Sorsby was also a vice presi-
dent of the Alabama Historical society
she being the first woman in the
state to be so signally honored. The
state federation of clubs may be re-
garded as the foster mother of Ala
bama Day, and the club women OF the
state may have distinct pride in its
promotion. Especially are the club
women interested in the school cele-
brations, which are already instilling
into the children loyalty and love for
their state Many clubs have incor-
porated Alabama Day in their year
books and many plan to cooperate
with Mrs Sorsby In her cherished
movement for a great statewide CEN
tennial celebration In 1919.
1.-THE home is the basis of the state,
upon which rests it's present ability,
its future hope, and wherein Is reared
its craftsmanship of tomorrow. Verify,
the care which the state uses Tor tne
DEVELOPMENT of the child life WITHIN
its homes Is the same care Wnich IL
uses for the development and con-
servation of its own life. And not hav-
inr forgotten the least of these--be-
cause helpless child faces turn to us
filled with the faith of the morrow
may each succeeding anniversary OF
the birthday of our mother state prove
for her loyal children the best Alabama
Day"
THE MOCKING BIRD.
Nv Alexander Beaufort Meek.
From the vale what music ringing
Fills the bosom of the night;
On the sense, entranced, fhnging
Spells of witchery and delight,
Ger magnolia. lime, and cedar,
From the locust-top, II swelis,. =. b,
Like the chant of serenader
Or the rhymes of silver bells.
Listeni dearest, listen to 1t!
Sweeter sounds were never heard
IT'S the song of that wild poet
Mime and minstrel-Mockfng BIRD.
See him, swinging in his glory,
On yon topmost bending nmpl
Carolling his amorous story.
Like some wild crusadevs hymn'
Now it faints in tones delicious
As the first low coo of love;
Now 1t bursts in swell capricious,
All the moonlit vale above.
Listen, dearest, listen to 1t!
Sweeter sounds were never heard!
'Tis the song of that wild poet
Mime and minstrel-M ocking Bird.
Why is t thus, this sylvan Petrach
Pours all night his serenade?
IT'S for some proud woodland Laura
His sad sonnets are made!
But he changes now his measures
Gladness bubbling from his mouth
Jest and gibe, and mimic pleasure,
Winged Anacreon of the SOUTH
Listen. dearest, listen to it!