“Mary had a little lamb,
Its fleece was white as snow,
And everywhere that Mary went
The lamb was sure to go.
It followed her to school one day,
Which was against the rules,
It made the children laugh and play
To see a lamb at school.”
-John Roulstone
This beloved children’s rhyme is actually a true story, which had its origin in the little town of Sterling, Massachusetts. You can read a fascinating history of the rhyme here.
Mary Sawyer, born in 1806, did have a lamb she loved. And the lamb did indeed “follow her to school one day” (with a bit of help from Mary and her brother).
The architecture around the town common, some which dates back to the 1800s , would have been a familiar sight for Mary and the lamb.
Signs remind us of other historical links of importance, as well, such as a visit from General Lafayette…
Or that the world’s first sewing pattern featuring multi-sizing was invented in Sterling by Ebenezer Butterick over 150 years ago.
A distinguished history, and to think all I knew of it was its great animal shelter! 🙂
Just imagine getting a lamb through a school door these days! 😉
Fabulous history. More going on there than the uninitiated might guess.
I love history, and it’s fun to have this bit of local history so close. Thanks for visiting!
Wow! Lovely and wonderful history and the photos are so beautiful!
Thank’s for share Julie have an amazing new week.
Thanks Elvira! Your comments always cheers me!
Always a pleasure Julie.
Thank’s.
Sterling looks very picturesque, especially on a bright, sunny spring day. It’s fascinating to learn about its extensive history. I love the little lamb sculpture, a lovely tribute to the famous animal.
Sterling is the next town over (ten minutes) so we go there quite a bit! Do you sew? I did as a kid in 4-H, but those Butterick patterns were way over my head!
I don’t sew. I also don’t crochet or knit. Unfortunately, I never got the hang of it, don’t think I’m at all talented that way. Good for you for knowing how to, though!