Cornelius Cronin
Sonnet

Cornelius Cronin - Born 1882 in Balleyvourney, Ireland died in Boston 1941

Son of a son of an Irish blacksmith,

Where horses, iron and fire created myth.

Cronin packed clothes, faith and hammer— just one tool,

Boston and a bigger forge served as fuel.

Ship landed - Wheeler Shoeing Forge, Creek Square.

Steps behind Union Oyster House is where.

His hammer struck hot iron with strong blow,

Ensured huge draft horses and trade to flow.

Three of four children lost to Spanish Flu,

Work, Irish wit and faith carried him through.

After thirty years, the hooves sounded less,

Change was clear to the eye and in the press.

As autos passed his shop, a new world moved fast,

The anvil’s clang grew still—yet his faith held steadfast.

Richard C Welch, Jr.

April 4, 2026