I learned "Room for the Poor" from a Critten Hollow String Band tape. I no longer have the tape, but I think this is a Utah Phillips song.

I'm sure some one here can confirm or deny that. I couldn't find the lyrics already posted, here or elsewhere on-line so I don't think this is redundant. (I'm sure some one will also let me about that!)

Room for the Poor

One cold autumn morning
The leaves had turned brown.
A hobo came tramping
thru a small western town.
He walked thru the church yard
To the preacher's back door
Where he knew there'd be refuge
And room for the poor.

He knocked and then waited
For the preacher to come
With just a kind word for
a broken-down bum.
The preacher arrived and
Looked out in dismay.
With a few angry words he'd
drive the hobo away.

Oh if you won't offer
Me something to eat
May I sit here a moment
And rest my poor feet.
I've travelled so far now
I'm weary and sore.
Oh say, up in heaven
Is there room for the poor.

Is there room for the poor
Across the divide
Where bums don't go hungry
And freezing outside
Or will they be driven
From the Savour's back door.
Oh say, up in heaven
Is there room for the poor.


J.