Tinbridge Hill in Lynchburg, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Bransford Vawter (1815-1838)
Lynchburg's First Poet
Within the massive stone wall enclosure in the far southeastern corner is the grave of Bransford Vawner. His home is still standing at 409 Polk Street, a half-block from here. "He was elegant in appearance, graceful in manner and brilliant in mind." More interested in his love of literature than in following his father's trade as tailor, he became well educated for his day. Before his death from tuberculosis, aged 23, he was admired for his brilliant oratory.
He is remembered today for a little lyric poem, inspired, it has been said, by his unhappy love affair with Flora Ann Emmaline Norvell. The poem at once became popular, was set to music, and translated into many foreign languages. It begins:
I'd offer thee this hand of mine
If I could love thee less
But hearts so warm, so fond as thine
Should never know distress.
My fortune is too hard for thee
T'would chill thy dearest joy
I'd rather weep to see thee free
Than win thee to destroy.
Erected 1996.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Cemeteries & Burial Sites. A significant historical year for this entry is 1838.
Location. 37° 24.835′ N, 79° 9.307′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Revolutionary War Veterans Buried in the Cemetery (here, next to this marker); Four Little Boys (here, next to this marker); Symbolism, Gravemarkers and Grave Decorations (here, next to this marker); The Beale Treasure (here, next to this marker); 1858 Map of Old City Cemetery (here, next to this marker); Henry Holdcroft Norvell (here, next to this marker); War of 1812 Veterans (here, next to this marker); William Henry "Billy" Rhodes (here, next to this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lynchburg.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 17, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 128 times since then and 18 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 17, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
