A collection of poems published in Guelph in the nineteenth century. From John Galt to Lt. Col. John McCrae.
Guelph Versifiers of the 19th Century is a comprehensive introduction to the poets and poetry of the City of Guelph, Ontario before the year 1900. It includes some writers as famous as John Galt and Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, some so obscure that even their names have not survived, and some who are no longer commonly known but who played an important part in the literary and cultural life of the city during their time. Together they comprise an interesting and significant insight into the history and culture of Guelph during its early years, a book that will both entertain the general reader and engage the serious scholar.
Professional Reviews
Review: Guelph Versifiers of the 19th Century By Mike Fan
Every city has a story, but what does Guelph have tucked away in its unassuming corners? David J. Knight's fascinating anthology Guelph Versifiers of the 19th Century scratches the surface of the delicious secrets of our city. How better to learn about the origins of our city than from some of the first people who lived and breathed in Guelph?
The anthology examines poets from all walks of life spanning the change-filled 19th century. The variety is amusing and astounding. The collection spans poetry from Guelph founder John Galt to anonymous amateur poets to neglected gems of the ever-popular John McCrae. All of the poetry is rare and has perhaps not been read since they were first published in early Guelph newspapers and journals. Odes to sewing machines, bitter tirades lamenting the politics of early Guelph, and emotive monologues demonstrate that there is certainly more to Guelph than meets the eye. It is a surreal and eye-opening experience to read charmingly archaic poetry by long-forgotten Guelphites who once walked the same steps as we do every day. It’s a strange and pleasant surprise to see the Speed River and Wyndham Street in the eyes of a different century and mindset!
There are poems for every taste and each reader will find their own pearls in the mix. Some of my personal favourites include Henrietta "Hetty" Hazelwood and her vivid and emotionally charged imagery, Charles C. Foster's nostalgic "The City of Guelph", and Thomas Laidlaw's succinct Dickinsonian tidbits. Of special note is the delusional yet amusing James Gay, Canada's self-titled Poet Laureate, whose poetry is definitely worth reading for its "quality". David J. Knight’s charming introductions to each poet and succinct footnotes shed tasteful led on the fascinating lives of these Guelph poets. It truly makes me wonder why more city histories are not explored through anthologies of their poetry. A sequel to Guelph Versifiers is certainly in order!
Poets of 19th century Guelph By Darcy Hiltz
A new book entitled Guelph versifiers of the 19th century by David J. Knight rediscovers many Guelph poets of the 19th century. If I were to pick a favorite poet from those mentioned in David’s work I would probably choose A.E.L Treleaven. In 1877 he wrote a poem entitled Guelph Fifteenth Anniversary. I will reproduce the first stanza, but the complete poem can be found in the above work.
Just fifty years ago to-day, Noble Galt and Dunlop stood- With brandy flask and powder horn- Within a pathless wood; An Indian cabin nestled there, Offering shelter from the storm: Gladly they sought its humble shade, To rest each weary’d form.
I think what caught my attention is the line within a pathless wood. I can only imagine what Guelph must have looked like when Galt and others arrived in the area. Pathless suggests a kind of difficult transverse. I can imagine forests, thick bush, swamps, and or cliffs which might impede one’s movement. It reminds me of exploring my father’s woodlot, which in places, consist of a mixture of swamp and bush.
There many more poets mentioned in David’s work. James Gay is one, but also included is John Taylor, Thomas Murphy, and John Smith. Interestingly John Smith was a mayor of Guelph who also established the Guelph and Galt Advertiser. If you like poetry and a bit of history check out this book.
