Hamilton Dickson Martin, 1789-1855, was a teacher from Craigmore in Randalstown. In 1810, his 21st year, he left for the New World. But before leaving, he penned the following poem. There had clearly been a parting of the ways with his girlfriend and he was upset.
Farewell to Craigmore and the glen and the glade;
Where oft in my childhood so carelessly played.
Farewell to friends that bosom holds dear;
How can at parting refrain the salt tear.
And you lovely Randalstown, the pride of the plain;
I thought that your heart was both faithful and just;
But alas I have found you untrue to your trust.
And since you proved false love, forever adieu;
No more shall my heart be held captive by you.
No more shall your smile give a joy to my breast;
Which the lover may feel though it can’t be expressed.
To my friends which I leave on Erin’s green isle;
I wish peace and plenty upon them may smile.
And wherever I wander by sea or by shore;
I’ll still drop a tear when I think of Craigmore.
Hamilton Dickson Malcolm died 27 Jul 1872, not 1855.
The poem was written by Hamilton Dickson Malcom/Malcolm not Martin.
Many thanks Valerie. I rechecked my old newspaper and I had correctly transcribed it as it was in the paper. The newspaper must have got the details wrong.
I will add in your update. Many thanks.