Quite a long way to the north of town
By Willem and Napoleon Dock
Near an old brick building with a shop.
A nostalgic look at The Red Star line
Where two million people over time
Left Antwerp for the U.S.A.
Hoping there was a better way
To live – but it would seem
Elusive - that American dream!
Health regulations were severe
And families separated were.
From pogroms and famine many fled
In overcrowded trains they sped
To the Port of Antwerp, poorly clad
Carrying such treasures as they had.
The displays and photos tell their tale
Emigration on a massive scale
1873 - 1934
A way of life that is no more...
And yet, observe the news today
More immigrants now come our way
Despair and hunger on their faces
One memory another chases …
(c) Poet in the woods 2015
It opened on 28th September, 2015
No comments:
Post a Comment