Sarah Josepha Hale - Mary Had a Little Lamb

Today's post is a diversion from the my fall theme.  This is in celebration of Sarah Josepha Hale's birthday on October 24, 1788.  Having been a primary teacher for many years, I enjoy children's poetry / nursery rhymes.  It's always interesting to learn where some of the most familiar originated.

Mary's Lamb
Sarah Josepha Hale

Mary had a little lamb,
Its fleece was white as snow;
And everywhere that Mary went,
The lamb was sure to go.

He followed her to school one day--
That was against the rule;
It made the children laugh and play,
To see a lamb at school.

So the teacher turned him out,
But still he lingered near,
And waited patiently about,
Till Mary did appear.

Then he ran to her, and laid
His head upon her arm,
As if he said, "I'm not afraid--
You'll keep me from all harm."

"What makes the lamb love Mary so?"
The eager children cry.
"Oh, Mary loves the lamb, you know,"
The teacher did reply. 

Sarah Josepha Hale

Sarah Josepha Hale was born on October 24, 1788 and died in 1879.  She lived in New England.  It's interesting to note that Sarah Josepha Hale was schooled at home and was largely self-educated.  She married David Hale in 1913 and had five children.  Her husband died 9 years later, and she wore black in mourning for the remainder of her life.  She was a prominent editor and writer of the time.  She was also involved in may political and societal concerns having been instrumental in the establishment of the American holiday - Thanksgiving.

 

Sarah Gives Thanks

Early American Cookery

  

Sarah Josepha Hale - A New England Pioneer