IN THE LAND OF DAKOTA

In the East ye struggle for glory And power, and wealth, and fame, And time ye expend, and much labor, To trace down your ancestors’ name; But here in the land of Dakota Where the winds sweep over the plains, Is winnowed away much useless “chaff,” And only true worth remains. In the East ye crush out the life-blood Of innocent children, grown old By premature toiling and labor To fill up your coffers with gold; But here in the Land of Dakota Our children are happy and free, And over the plains of its limitless mains Re-echo their laughter and glee. In the East ye build up great mansions And sky-scrapers gaunt and high, That shut out the glory and grandeur Of the infinite tender sky; But here in the Land of Dakota Our eyes look up on high And our souls learn wonderful lessons From the white clouds sailing by.