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Handwritten Poem by Lewis H. Latimer – Fragmented Manuscript

Publication
This is a handwritten poem on aged, fragile paper, signed by Lewis H. Latimer at the top. The text appears faded, and portions of the manuscript are missing or damaged, making parts of the poem difficult to read. The poem references food staples like sugar, potatoes, turnips, and cabbage, and reflects on the hard work involved in preparing meals. The tone suggests themes of resilience, resourcefulness, and labor. The paper is mounted inside a protective archival sleeve, indicating efforts to preserve this historically significant document despite its fragility and deterioration.
Handwritten Poem by Lewis H. Latimer – Fragmented Manuscript picture number 1

Lewis H. Latimer was not only a pioneering inventor and engineer, but also a poet and writer. His literary works provide insight into his personal reflections, social observations, and philosophical views. This poem may have been written to capture daily life, the struggles of working-class people, or themes of gratitude and perseverance. Given its homely references, it may have been a personal or family-oriented piece, possibly reflecting on the importance of nourishment and hard work.

The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup]Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

"L. H. Latimer" (signature at the top) There’s sugar in store Potatoes galore There’s turnips and cabbage to boot Now if we get meat That’s tender and sweet We can turn out a dinner to suit A king or a lord Nothing is hard He can’t smile at the dinners we [illegible] And I’m sure that no man Or woman here can Who has to work hard for a living. (Some words and lines are missing or obscured due to the damaged paper.)