The Elissa…Part 1

Hello friends,

In 2008 I read an article in a local magazine about an amazing 1877 ship, called the Elissa.  I had heard of the Elissa for quite some time, but when I read the article and saw the gorgeous photo of her accompanying it, something clicked within me, and for the first time, I saw these magnificent ships from the viewpoint of the crew who sailed them, and how easy it was to fall in love with them.

I was inspired to write a poem about her, but there was so much inspiration flowing through me that I had to write two poems to express it all.  I am posting one of the poems here, and will post the other in a few days or so.  Her story is amazing, and after a full restoration, she is now the proud resident of Galveston, Texas.

The Elissa still sails to this day, and brings joy to many.

The Jewel of Galveston

 

Hail to the Elissa!
To her our hats we tip.
Of all the vessels in her class,
A glory of a ship.

She served her crew and countries,
Wherever she did roam,
With loyal mien and hopeful gain
Upon the brackish foam.

Hail to the Elissa!
She sailed the salty seas.
Under British flag she came
To Galveston with ease.

Only twice she blessed its port.
With cotton in her hold
And longing heart it watched her part;
Noble, true, and bold.

Hail to the Elissa!
Tried-and-true was she
To all who knew her countenance,
And loved her tenderly.

Her precious cargo carried she
Never with a fault,
Until a modern age appeared
And caused her life to halt.

Hail to the Elissa!
With tall and stately main,
Where after years of service
Alone in Greece she’d lain;

Until one day they found her;
Men who knew her worth.
They brought her back to Galveston
Where she could have new birth.

Hail to the Elissa!
With masts that reach the sky,
Now proudly waves the Texas flag
Unfurled and flying high.

Among her mates upon the waves
Which crossed horizon’s veil,
Fate has granted her a wish
To once again set sail.

Hail to the Elissa!
The jewel of Galveston.
Our hearts are sailing with thee
Into the setting sun.

 

 copyright©2008 Marianne Coyne

I hope you enjoyed the poem, and your visit to Leisure Lane.  I hope the Elissa is an inspiration to restoration in your life.

Until next time, may happy days abound!

Marianne

The above photo is from the Galveston Historical Foundation website.