Still the moons are waxing, waning, O'er the city of Lancaster; Still the ever-moving cycle Bears her swiftly on its pinions. 'Twas the year of eighteen hundred One and forty when the Christians Of the sect called Presbyterian, Built themselves a house of worship, Built themselves a sanctuary, On the street that leads to southward, From the entrance to the city. Thus was made the first partition, From the venerable mother, From the church within the suburbs, Called Republican and holy, Where the sects were wont to gather, In the willing, weekly worship. And the pastors and the preachers, Served the flock in health and sickness, Served the flock in death and marriage, Served them well in home and pulpit. And the doctors and the lawyers, All the households and the tradesmen, Still pursued their avocations, Still enjoyed their social pleasures, Still advanced in arts and learning, In the peaceful Christian city. But a great financial crisis O'er the people was impending; A depression in all traffic Drew the citizens together, Brought about excited meetings, To discuss important measures, For relief amid the pressure; To originate devices For averting present danger. All along this stirring epoch There was incident and action; There were interests of public And of private weight and import; Varied causes and occasions Kept the people in commotion. The Militia drills and musters Still diverted men and boys; And the quaint, unique processions, Called "Log Cabin," ruled the hour. Eighteen hundred four and forty, Brought the fierce election canvass For the presidential office; Democrat and Whig opponents, In the race for fame and power. Henry Clay and Frelinghuysen Proudly bore the great Whig banner, James K. Polk and George M. Dallas, Were the Democratic champions. And the voters of Lancaster, All the voters of the county, Met together in the masses, Met to celebrate the contest; Barbecues and basket dinners, Gathered orators and hearers, Gathered women, men, and children, All together in the masses. In the wood of Isaac Myers Politicians were assembled; In this ample, shaded woodland Was a glorious celebration, Hempstalk flag-poles bore the colors, High o'er wagon, coach, and horseman; All the people congregated To do homage to th' occasion. Doctors Craig and Cross were speakers, Also Caperton of Richmond. Grand this gala day of feasting, Loud the triumph and rejoicing. But the Whigs were sore defeated, Vain their festal acclamations.