A Coal Region Town Poem by Joseph T. Renaldi

Once on this land, many years ago,
Immigrants resolved to build their home.
They labored hard and long in the mines,
And to develop a town near the rising culm.

The town was built in an open space
Where one could see the setting sun's glow.
Across the region, this productive town
Was called Saint Clair, as we know.

The town became a coal and railroad center,
And its reputation scattered far and wide.
Here folks lived and worked who loved
Their hometown and quiet countryside.

Visitors were greeted with outstretched hands,
And wide smiles upon their faces,
Where hospitality and kindness seemed to blend
More than other places.

Where the sound of vehicles seemed to be lighter
As they passed by on the nearby street,
And eyes sparkled like heavenly stars
When they had a chance to meet.

The sky seemed to be a little clearer,
And the grass always seemed to be green,
Where civic pride appeared to be greater
Than anywhere I've been.

The summer storms seemed less severe
As the rains came tumbling down
Upon the roofs, trees, and sidewalks
Of Saint Clair - a proud Coal Region town.