June 20, 1905
The First Annual Picnic of the Old Settlers' Association of Foster County was a Grand Success
Many miles, many miles,
Many miles Westward.
Away from their childhood's home
Came the Old Settlers.
Forward for weal or woe-
Live or die- who could know?
Came the Old Settlers.
Westward they pressed and brave-
Chancing a home, or grave!
Breasting life's ocean wave-
Bravely and manfully!
Friends may have questioned why,
Theirs not to stop and sigh-
Onward! their beacon cry,
Cheerfully, painfully,
Labor to right of them!
Labor to left of them!
Obstacles in front of them-
Wilderness round them!
Each one and all must work,
Useless the task to shirk,
Who then could wonder that
Happiness soon should lurk
Near, as it found them!
Plows with the soil to cope,
Sowing and reaping hope,
No wonder wealth should drop-
Who would have hindred it?
Into their meadows!
Industry sure must bring
Crowns for each labor king-
Homes for the Conquering-
Hope for even these,
Under death's shadows.
Then let us welcome them-
Those that are left of them-
Encourage them, cherish them,
Honored Old Settlers.
-Selected.
The Old Settlers' first annual picnic held on the 20th at Holcomb's grove, which is an ideal place for holding it, is now a matter of history. The day was auspicious for such an event and a large share of the populace of the county was present, the gathering numbering nearly 2,000. The McHenry band, a high-class musical organization, was present and furnished music during the day. The program, with a few exceptions, was carried out. A gentleman from McHenry County brought greeting from the Old Settlers' association of that county. After the program came a dinner such as only Old Settlers can provide.
Source: A History of Foster County 1983 Page 64