Shelters

The island is dotted with blockhouses,
Scattered on every pioneer farm…
For protection in the new world,
Sheltering Whidbey settlers from harm.

Each blockhouse had multiple gun holes,
That were fortunately seldom used,
Some settlers married the Indian girls,
Most land encroachments were excused.

The fortresses now are reminders,
Of those lured to this beautiful space…
The simple precautions needed then,
Compared to our huge navy base.