Sunday, 1 April 2012

Today's Word List - The Paintings of Carl Rakeman

Picture - 1 Turnpike Gates

There might be someone outside your window
But you'll just, never know
There could be something right past the turnpike gates
But you'll just, never know

Turnpike (noun-US): a motorway which you usually have to pay to use.

Picture - 2 Doctor and Circuit Rider



According to the fourth U.S. Census, the population in1820 numbered more than 9.6 million. Most of this number lived an agricultural existence, often far from civilization. When medical help was needed, it was usually hours or days before a neighbor could summon the overworked country doctor. Regardless of the weather, the physician would harness his horse and chaise and struggle over poor trails.

This painting shows a physician accompanied by a circuit rider, often known as "the prophet of the long road." Francis Asbury was one such man. While the physician tended to the sick, the circuit rider gave spiritual solace to families in distress. The progress of both the doctor and circuit rider was slowed by bad roads and stream crossings.



Summon (verb) : to order someone to come to or be present at a particular place, or to officially arrange a meeting of people.
Harness (noun) :a piece of equipment, with straps and belts, used to control or hold in place a person, animal or object.
Chaise: a light open horse-drawn carriage.
Circuit rider: Circuit rider is a popular term referring to clergy in the earliest years of the United States who were assigned to travel around specific geographic territories to minister to settlers and organize congregations.
Solance (noun): help and comfort when you are feeling sad or worried.

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