Ode to Sparrows Point Steel Man — Jack Ferguson

Harold “Jack” Ferguson was his name. Creating a new life was his game. Born in the South Appomattox VA. Realized early that he couldn’t stay. He was only seven when his Mama died. One of eleven children, his father tried. As a teen he worked in the lumber yard. Buying some lumber to make a new start. Sawing and nailing, hands with blisters. Building a house for his two only sisters. Young and frustrated time to roam. Headed to Baltimore to find a new home. Married a young lady, she lived down the street. Her name was Dorothy Torrence and she was so sweet. Had seven children and these are their names. Harry, Teddy, Harroll, and Donnell. Fenton, Kenneth and Harryette - a girl. Provided food, clothing, and a place to stay. Educated all - sent them on their way. To create a new life in a brand new day. He wakes in the morning to the sounds of the mill. The sights and sounds from making steel. There’s the tapping of the furnace - rocks and shocks the town. Causing much confusion with its trembling sound. Sound of an industry loud and plain. Generating a livelihood for each man to claim.

Swing shifts and doubles like all the time. Wishing for free time I can call mine. Open hearth, blast furnace, hot strip mill. Daily companions that follow him still. The sound of the whistle blast through the air. Home again - back again I’ll be there. The pay is good - their family they provide. With food and shelter and a secure place to hide.

Uneducated men – can’t read and can’t write. Destined to a future that’s ever so blight. But hope and salvation are ever so near. They prepare for the future for their children, so dear. Tomatoes, potatoes, cucumbers and greens. Watermelons, peppers and sweet lima beans. These are the vegs that he likes to grow. Planted and watered in a straight narrow row. Car engine, saw blade a resting base. Made gas saw to saw wood in a haste. Wood in the shed for the winter ahead. To heat the house and warm a cold bed.

Prejudice, inequities America delivers. Education, respect, hard work in his quivers. Kids will be educated - moved to succeed. And a new generation to explore indeed. Blood, sweat and tears throughout the years. Hiding my sorrows in liquid cheers. Time has passed and the town is razed Many people say they were the good old days. More time passed and the mill is no more. Its ghostly quiet as never before.

They grow old and soon pass away. But their life and their journey prepared a new day. Their dreams for the future continues to grow. In the knowledge that their children are now aglow. With a future that’s bright and now they are sure. Enjoy the fruits of their labor forever more.

Let us never forget their great sacrifice. For the love of their family and what is so nice. They all lived a life of unity. They live in our hearts for eternity. As I conclude I just like to say. That you are being honored this very day. Liz, my grand named her first born JACK! I know you would be pleased with something like that.

Love you Dad - Thanks PS: It’s hard to believe that you’re come this far. But as you always said, that’s how life are!