The strong outline of the chin – fixed in staunch solitude
As you stand on the banks of the Missouri.
The wind drives lines into your face, and you smile – The water reflects happiness back to you
And your eyes dance with excitement.

It is your river to build on; cross over and fish in – Until the natives come and you defend her banks
As your eyes fill with fear of the unknown river woman – And your face grows stronger and more clear!

See the wind blow your hair and fill your eyes with pride
About what is yet to come on her bluffs.
The farmers, the brick layer of the city’s streets
Old houses on shady lanes – The Missouri painter, the railroad worker,
The bread baker, the Kemper soldier, the writer,
The store clerk, the seamstress and Boonville blossoms.

We all know your face river woman!
I saw it in my grandmother’s determined look
My mother’s carrying ways
Each morning it is reflected back to me in a mirror
And behind me stands my son with his Cole ways.