“Commemorative #America250 poem by Boston poet, Durane West “America, it is to thee.” Themes of #bunkerhill, #judehall bridging to today’s landscapes. Commissioned by the #exeterlitfest in New Hampshire, premiered at the 7th annual Exeter LitFest in Exeter, NH. April, 2026. Mr. West is descended from important historical figures in Exeter’s past.”

Fruition!

This poem has been in the works for a year. And it really delivered. A standing ovation!!

This advocacy project of mine has been in the works for 7 years, ever since I learned about Jude Hall. At that same time I was trying to get a literary festival started in Exeter, NH. Yesterday synergy was created as Mr. West took the stage to premier his poem.

It was truly a thrill to hear the thoughts of a man descended from a historical community that I have been researching and trying to lift up for so long.

The homecoming was profound on so many levels. Gratitude to Durane for showing up for his ancestors, for Exeter, and for me. Thank you, my friend.

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Published by nhgoddess

RM Allen is the author of The New Hampshire Goddess Chronicles series, small but effective books on the intersection of spirituality & environmentalism. She continues the small but effective theme in her newest writing project: the Maryvonne Mini-Mystery series, which tell a more inclusive history of New Hampshire: Incident at Exeter Tavern. Incident at Ioka, Incident at Exeter Depot and Yuletide at Exeter. All profits donated. Available at Amazon/Kindle or Water Street Bookstore. Thanks for your support!