The Old Swimmin’ Hole and ’Leven More Poems

poetry by Riley

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July 1, 2026

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"The Old Swimmin'-Hole" and "'Leven More Poems is a collection of dialect verse by James Whitcomb Riley, first published in 1883. Riley, often called "the poet of the common people," used his experiences with rural Indiana life to craft nostalgic poems.1

This collection includes the well-known poem "Little Orphant Annie," which was written in the Hoosier dialect and tells the story of an orphaned girl who shares scary tales. Riley's work captured the essence of everyday life and rural experiences, earning him widespread recognition.21

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James Whitcomb Riley
…Journal and later published as “The Old Swimmin’-Hole” and ’Leven More Poems (1883). Riley was briefly local editor of the Anderson (Ind.) Democrat, but his later life was spent in Indianapolis.
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…Journal and later published as “The Old Swimmin’-Hole” and ’Leven More Poems (1883). Riley was briefly local editor of the Anderson (Ind.) Democrat, but his later life was spent in Indianapolis.
Read More