Historical Society reflects on local poetry

On the history side of things there has been one request for information which is unusual, especially when so many people are at home.

The poetry section with Beryl’s poems reminds me of all the poets in the Barraba district over the years – there was even a special group of people writing poetry and short stories.  I wonder who has a copy of the publication of poems and short stories by The Barraba Jiffy Bag Poets, published for the Bi-Centenary Celebrations.  There are some food stories in that volume.

Looking further back in poetic history, my great grandfather, John Spencer, has left several poems as well as entries in a few books.  The Conquest of New England was written on a sheet of paper with several small drawings for illustration.  I include the first of his seven verses.

Two wily tennis veterans                                                                                                  Went forth to play the game                                                                                            In this chill month of August                                                                                              They played for sport, not fame.

John was of course referring to his sons who played a lot of tennis around the North-West and even ventured to Sydney to play occasionally.  I cannot of course finish these notes without referring to Dort Bloomfield, John Spencer’s grand-daughter who wrote lots of poetry and included some in the Barraba Gazette.  No doubt some of our older residents would remember her effort when the new Cattle Shed was built at the Showground – I always enjoy reading it again.

P.S. I have found my copy of the “Cattle Shed” if anyone would like a copy.