Exceptional

The truth about lilacs across America's heartland

Clustered Lilacs

by Mrs. KT

Upon the fertile lands of homesteads old, Clustered lilacs will soon begin their bloom. Such abundant heavy-scented fragrance Will gladly erase winter’s dreary gloom.   Come, journey for a moment, if you will, To farms that dot America’s heartland. If you look closely, you will see them, too: Rows upon rows of lilacs growing grand. Homesteaders planted these vibrant bushes For reasons that for them were very clear: Lilacs were planted to quell privy stench And mark graves of tiny babes most dear.   Sewage from outhouses was a problem Demanding that shovels farmers should wield To move said outside latrines down a line, Then plant a lilac over hole in field. When women miscarried – as many did - Their children were often gently buried Not in graveyards but next to garden gates; Planted over graves were lilacs varied.   These traditions may disturb, even shock, But such old practices were, indeed, real. My neighbor's homestead boasts two clear sections Of sweet lilacs – still vibrant with appeal.   In Lautner's loam, Great-Grandpa Tate planted Purple lilacs where the outhouse once stood. This farmer's son would shake with deep laughter When recounting those days of his childhood.   Yes, each time an outhouse filled to its brim, Great-Grandpa would move it six feet due west. Over vacated holes, he'd plant lilacs; Their blooms became lush, as all would attest.   But there, alongside the old garden gate, In striking hues of deepest pink and blue, Grow three massive clumps of fragrant lilacs. It is these that command visitors’ views.   For underneath these lilacs are buried, Two still birthed baby girls and one small boy; Close to the hearth and the home of loved ones, Bound to the earth and a fam’ly’s lost joy.   Today, bumblebees devour sweet nectar Here at this place where dreams now lie fallow. Bouquets of delicate blooms burst with life From lilac bushes – tribute most hallow.   The next time you see grand lilacs blooming, Perhaps you’ll think about their storied past. Their beauty is glorious as they sway, But their hist'ry does more than perfume cast.                              <<<~~~>>> Upon the fertile lands of  homesteads old, Clustered lilacs will soon begin their bloom. Such abundant heavy-scented fragrance Will gladly erase winter’s dreary gloom...

Recognized

#155 2020