Clarence Thomas Urmy: California’s Native Poet and Musician
Clarence Thomas Urmy (1858 – 1923) was a distinguished American poet and musician, celebrated as California’s first native-born poet. Born on July 10, 1858, in San Francisco, he was the grandson of Elea Thomas, a founder of the Methodist church in California, and his father, William Smith Urmy, served as a Methodist minister for five decades.
Education and Musical Pursuits
Urmy attended San Francisco public schools before enrolling at Napa College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in music. He worked with prominent music establishments, including Sherman and Clay in San Francisco, and continued his vocal studies, performing in both San Francisco and San Jose. He served as the organist at Santa Clara Methodist Church and later at Trinity Episcopal Church in San Jose. Additionally, Urmy taught piano at the College of the Pacific and spent four years teaching at San Jose Teachers’ College.
Literary Contributions
Urmy authored three volumes of collected verse: A Rosary of Rhyme, Vintage of Verse, and California Troubadour. At the time of his death, two additional volumes, Wild Willow and Under the Toyon Tree, were nearly ready for publication. His poetry frequently appeared in national magazines, reflecting his deep connection to California’s landscapes and culture. Writing under the pseudonym Feliz Jose, Urmy’s work often explored themes of nature, pioneer life, and the passage of time, capturing the essence of the American West.
Legacy
Urmy passed away on June 3, 1923, in San Jose. In 1930, Stanford University established the Clarence Urmy Memorial Prize, awarded annually to the student submitting the best original poem, ensuring his lasting impact on future generations of poets.
Clarence Thomas Urmy’s legacy endures through his evocative poetry and contributions to California’s cultural heritage, reflecting the beauty and spirit of the American West.