Summary: Built in 1810, Old Scituate Light is the 11th lighthouse lit in Massachusetts. The lighthouse is on the registry of historic landmarks in Massachusetts and is reportedly open for tours during certain periods of time during the year (see link above for more info). A rock jetty and rocky beachhead is a popular spot for sunrise watchers and tourists. The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s.
New England has no shortage of lighthouses and breath taking views of seascapes. In fact, due to the plethora of beautiful destinations along the water, some destinations seem to get overlooked. Old Lighthouse in Scituate, MA, is one of these overlooked destinations.
Built in 1810 for $4,000, Old Scituate Light played an important, but little known, role in the War Of 1812. After observing two British barges approaching the Scituate harbor, Abigail and Rebecca Bates, the daughters of the original keeper of the lighthouse (Simeon Bates) hid among a cluster of cedar trees which were once prominent in the area and played their fife and drum in an attempt to ward off the would be attackers. The two girls created such a loud din the barges were said to have retreated fearing an army was preparing for their attack. Their efforts are said to have saved Scituate from being sacked as there was, in reality, no standing army ready for a British attack. The girls went on to become known as the “American Army of Two.”
The 25 foot lighthouse (70 feet above sea level) has a natural/emplaced foundation. The light is a replicated lantern and the keeper does stay in the attached home. A bell, perhaps more for decor than function, stands outside the housekeeper’s residence. The lighthouse keeper is a teacher at nearby Marshfield High School.
There is also a memorial dedicated to the grounding of the Etrusco and the rescue efforts from that accident. On March 16, 1956, the ship came aground at Cedar Point during the St. Patrick’s Day Blizzard (it is New England after all). After the grounding of the freighter, five Scituate residents (all members of Scituate’s Civil Defense Communications Team) sprang into action and, despite blizzard conditions, kept in communication with the Coast Guard, providing key details and information to the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard would eventually rescue all 30 men from the grounded ship.
The surrounding grounds of the lighthouse provide for great photo opportunities.
The highlight of the lighthouse and the surrounding area is the beautiful views it offers which are especially spectacular during sunrise and sunset
As I was about to pack up and head to my next destination, I noticed this group of painted rocks with hopeful messages. Many of them seemed to have a special personal meaning. But, I think we call can derive some inspiration from their messages.
A limited number of wheelchairs are available in the Welcome Center and the lobbies of the D’Amour Art Museum, Wood Museum of Springfield History and GWV Smith Art Museum.
Due to ongoing construction, please ask our Welcome Center staff in advance for assistance in accessing the GWV Smith Art Museum.
Summary: A collection of memorabilia which showcase the women’s labor movement.
The Taking Care Of Business exhibit at the Springfield Museums in Springfield, MA, pays tribute to some of our unsung heroes. The exhibit shows how women have played an integral role in the work we do and how their roles have changed over time.
One of the first exhibits at the museum has a collection of Girl Scout ribbons, patches and literature.
The Girl Scouts patches, ribbons and other memorabilia are from a Connecticut Girl Scout the 1930s. One interesting thing about the Girl Scouts and their badges is how much they have changed over time. Badges were once earned for sewing and domestic skills. Now, Girl Scouts can earn badges in such areas as computer skills, robotics, entrepreneurship and outdoor activities. The magazine is from 1967.
Since the museum is located in Springfield, MA, many of the items have a tie to the area. These medical instruments and memorabilia from the school pictured below are from the Springfield Hospital School of Nursing.
The items included in the display are a 1920s microscope, Springfield School of Nursing class rings from 1931, 1946, 1949 and 1959. There are also bottled medicinal pills and alcohol, a cased thermometer, a nurse’s watch, cap and cap clips, a cased hypodermic needle, miniature balance scale for weighing medicines, ear irrigator, nursing school graduation pins dated 1895 and 1946, clamps, birthing scissors to cut umbilical cords, a Springfield Hospital School of Nursing handbook and a first aid guide.
The exhibit didn’t exclusively focus on the advancement of women in the workplace. The exhibit below displays the efforts of women during war time. From helping to recruit people for the war effort, rationing supplies and working at the USO, women contributed greatly to support the war effort and the troops who served and came back. In the display below there are rationing books, fundraising and recruitment literature and rationing stamps.
Styles have also changed over the years. The display below contains a variety of the headwear that women wore during the earlier part and middle part of the 1900s.
Speaking of style, the styles of the women who served their country have also changed over time. This uniform, a Pioneer Valley WAVES (Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service) uniform (circa 1944), was worn and gifted to the museum by Jean Fillion (Bates), Mailman Second Class U.S. Navy Reserve. The purse was a nice touch. At times, as I put this post together I had to keep reminding myself, “this was the 40s.”
This uniform is the Springfield School of Nursing Cadet Corps uniform (circa 1945-48).
Even before they were eligible to serve during wars, women have played a pivotal role in the military. One of the groups of women who were mentioned in the placard at the museum were “The Sisters Of The Holy Cross” who were aboard the Confederate steam ship the “USS Red Rover.” Women also served as Navy Yeomen during World War I.
As you exit the exhibit, there is a blackboard for visitors to write the name of a woman who they are inspired by. What name would you write on the board?
The “Taking Care Of Business” exhibit is scheduled to be on display until August 25 of this year.
Summary: An annual event that allow s visitors to tour the inside of historic homes throughout the historic Salem, MA, area
How many times have walked by the many historic homes of Salem, MA, and wondered what they look like on the inside?
The Christmas In Salem event in Salem, MA (held annually the first weekend of Dec) lets you see for yourself.
The 39th annual self-guided tour, which began at the House Of The Seven Gables, included tours of 15 homes. Some of the homes featured on the tour are historic buildings run by the park service, some are actual home residences. Tickets can be purchased on the day you visit, or (and I highly recommend it) you can purchase your tickets in advance online. There is also a trolley that can take you to some of the homes.
One of the perks of the tour was the photography policy was relaxed and photography was allowed at most of the homes and buildings, even in buildings where photography is not usually allowed (namely, the House of the Seven Gables). In fact, it is one of the reasons I finally made it to the House of the Seven Gables. They usually don’t allow photography in that building.
As there are so many buildings included in the tour (15 in total, but only 11 that allowed photography), I will give a brief description and background of each building with links for additional information when available. I took a variety of photos from each building, depending on the size and beauty of the building.
As mentioned above, there are 15 homes or buildings (with a “bonus” second tour of your favorite home or building). You may also split up your visits so that you can go on 2 separate days rather than trying to visit all of the homes or buildings in one day. I will list all of the homes and buildings in the order they are listed on the tour map you are given when you check in at the House of the Seven Gables.
House Of The Seven Gables (houses 1 and 2 on the tour)
The House Of Seven Gables has always been one of my favorite historic homes in all of new England. I have always loved the narrow, almost secret passageways and its history.
The House of the Seven Gables has The verse written on the wall in the first photo is from Hawthorne’s work The Marble Faun. Some of the tour guides, such as the woman shown in the final photograph, read holiday stories or or other related works. The woman shown in the portrait is Susanna Ingersoll, Hawthorne’s cousin.
There was also a Christmas tree in one of the rooms at the home. Fun fact (except for those alive at the time): Christmas was banned by the Puritans in the MA colony from 1647 until 1681. Rather than being a time for celebration and festivity that included some of the pagan origins associated with the holiday, the Puritans thought the holiday should be a time for fasting and humiliation. Another fun fact: the first Christmas tree, similar to the tree shown below, in America is said to have been in the home of Cambridge resident and Harvard College professor Charles Follen in 1835.
There was a wine tasting area, as well as a place to view the food and toys of this era. The food shown below on the far right of the table is a common delicacy of that time, cod.
The outside of the House of the Seven Gables is as pretty as the interior.
Another fun fact: Although he visited his relatives at the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion (aka House of the Seven Gables), Nathaniel Hawthorne never lived in the house. He was born on Union Street. But, it may not seem that way when you visit. The Union Street house where Hawthorne was born was purchased by The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association and moved to the museum campus in 1958.
This building, located a short walk from the Salem Witch Museum at 14 Mall St, is one of the homes where Hawthorne lived in Salem. This building is not included on the tour.
The third home on the tour, the Captain William Lane House, and the fourth home, the Josiah Getchell House, did not allow photography.
The fifth home of the tour was the Thomas Mogoun House, 58 Derby St. As you will notice from the photos from the homes and buildings in the photos is that while they do have the original, or close to the original frame and structure, they were indeed more contemporary inside, unfortunately. I was hoping to see rustic beds with hay instead of mattresses. No such luck.
One of the more serene and peaceful places on the tour was the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church at 64 Forrester St. A choir of men and women were singing traditional Christmas songs (not contemporary or radio songs of course). I really could have stayed and just listened to them because of their beautiful voices. I didn’t take any photos inside of the church and this is actually a photo I took of the church from 2015 when I first began my blog.
The seventh home on the tour was the Ives-Webb-Whipple House at 1 Forrester St. This house, which was built originally in 1760, was being shown and is still on the market.
The house was staged very tastefully.
The Captain John Hodges House at 81 Essex St was the 8th home on the tour.
The 9th home on the tour was the Richard Manning House located at 10 1/2 Herbert St.
The 10th building on the tour was the Immaculate Conception Church at 15 Hawthorne Blvd. Although there was some pretty and interesting architecture and decor in the church, I didn’t take any photos there.
The 11th building on the tour, the Captain Simon Forrester House at, 188 Derby St, and the 12th home, the Benjamin W. Crowninshield House at 180 Derby St, did not allow photography.
Another building I had walked past countless times without visiting until this year (I stopped in during the summer and hope to post that shoot…someday) is the 13th building on the tour, the Salem Custom House at 176 Derby St. Interestingly, Nathaniel Hawthorne worked here for some time. He worked on a little book you may have heard of during his tenure there.
The 14th home on the tour, The Derby House at 168 Derby St was not available for tours during my visit.
The 15th and last home on the tour was the Captain Edward Allen Mansion House at 125 Derby St.
Not all of the historic homes are available for tours and the particular homes that are available for tours may change from year to year. Since many of the homes are fairly small to average size and only so many people can enter a home at one time, the wait can be long to get into some houses. But the homes are all located near each other and the map lists them in a way that is makes them easy to find. I was able to hit each home in about 4 to 5 hours. If you’re not in the Christmas Spirit, the mix of historical background and Christmas decor is sure to get you into it!
Mon – Thurs:
10 am – 9 pm
10 am – 7 pm (Winter) Fri – Sat:
10 am – 9 pm Sun:
11 am – 7 pm
Noon – 6 pm (Winter)
Cost: Free
Parking:
There are several parking garages in the area and some street parking. There are also several routes to take on the MBTA to get there. Parking, transportation and driving directions can be found here.
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: shopping, family friendly activities, dining, statues, historical
Fall has descended upon New England. Big time. It seemed like it was just last week that I was sweating in 80 degree weather. Probably because it was. Yes fall seems to come with a thud. But, it also means sweater weather and foliage. So, it’s a fair trade off as far as I’m concerned.
In an attempt to play catch up before the very busy fall season, I am trying to post as many photo shoots from the summer as I transition into fall.
This particular photo shoot was from Faneuil Hall, the most visited marketplace in Boston. It is a mix of art, history, entertainment, commerce and more.
Faneuil Hall has a long and storied history. Since 1743, Faneuil Hall has served as a market and meeting place. One of the more famous stops on Boston’s Freedom Trail, it has been called the “Cradle Of Liberty.”
Faneuil Hall has two major buildings at the sight. The first one, Faneuil Hall Marketplace mostly sells wares from a variety of top name shops.
Located behind Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market serves up a variety of foods. From Thai to tacos, Quincy Market has pretty much any type of food you can imagine. I prefer Quincy Market naturally.
Fanueil Hall Marketplace has a variety of statues on their premises. One of the first statues you may see depending on which way you travel to the marketplace is the statue of former mayor Kevin Hagan White.
One of the lesser known, or at least less talked about mayors of Boston, Kevin White served as mayor during a pivotal time in Boston’s history. The 51st mayor of Boston, Kevin White may be one of the least talked about mayors (particularly in a positive sense), yet he has a very interesting story and he governed Boston during a very tumultuous time. Elected at the age of 38, Mayor White would hold office from 1968 until 1984 (so much for term limits). During his time as mayor, White would govern during the racially divisive era of school busing. Tensions about his handling of busing and race relations in the city during this time so much that his critics derisively called him, “Kevin Black.” Race relations have always been a blemish on our past and Mayor White had his difficulties in this realm. But, he also governed during a time of immense growth and development for the city. The fact that White isn’t well known positively or negatively shows he was a steady hand during a difficult time.
A bronze statue was dedicated to Mayor White on November 1, 2006. The statue, sculpted by Pablo Eduardo, shows Kevin White walking down the street.
The over-sized statue of White is meant to suggest he was a “larger than life” mayor. He does have some pretty big shoes to fill.
There are quotes from Mayor White’s inaugurations inscribed on the grounds.
There are other statues at Faneuil Hall. In front of Faneuil Hall, at the entrance to the marketplace is a statue of politician and activist Samuel Adams.
The bronze statue was sculpted by Miss Ann Whitney in 1876 (although it was erected initially in 1880).
There are several inscriptions on each of the four panels that read as follows: ‘Samuel Adams 1722-1803 – A Patriot – He organized the Revolution, and signed the Declaration of Independence. Governor – A True Leader of the People. Erected A. D. 1880, from a fund bequeathed to the city of Boston by Jonathan Phillips. A statesman, incorruptible and fearless.’
The pedestal for the bronze statue is ten feet high. The statue sits upon a polished Quincy granite base and cap and a lower nine-feet square base of unpolished Quincy Granite.
In stark contrast to Mayor White, Mayor Michael Curley was not overlooked nor was he without his share of notoriety. Curley was re-elected while under indictment for mail fraud which he would eventually be convicted of in 1947 (he would later receive a full pardon for this and an earlier conviction in 1904 by President Truman). He even technically remained mayor while in prison (his position was served by City Clerk John B Hynes while he was locked up).
Despite all of his escapades, Curley was a beloved mayor and was often thought of as a warrior for the working class.
Technically, these statues are across the street from Faneuil Hall Marketplace and not technically on the grounds of the marketplace.
This statue is sure to be less controversial. At least in New England.
Clutching a cigar (from his tradition of lighting a cigar when he thought his team had the game won before the final buzzer) and a book in another hand, Red Auerbach sits proudly on the walkway in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. A plaque espouses his accomplishments.
Two other Boston sports figures are memorialized at Faneuil Hall. Bronze sneakers of “Legend” Larry Bird, Hall of Fame Forward and 3 time NBA MVP for the Boston Celtics, and Bill Rodgers, a 4 time Boston Marathon winner (including 3 in a row from 1978-1980) and former American record holder for running the Boston Marathon (2:09:27 or a 4:56 average mile – not too shabby).
There are also a variety of family friendly activities at Faneuil Hall. Over the years, Fanueil Hall has transformed itself from just a shopping center and tourist hub to a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can have fun.
Each weekend during the summer they have special family friendly events such as puppet shows.
There are chess tables set up for people to test their skills. There is even a Chess Blitz Tournament for more skilled players to compete against other worthy opponents. I’m definitely not on that level.
Of course, the biggest attractions at Faneuil Hall are the stores and historical tours. Scores of stores line the cobblestone walkways. When it gets busier in the day, especially during the summer and holidays, the narrow walkways can get crowded.
With the pretty flowers and tall buildings, the best part of Faneuil Hall may be the views.
Part of Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Quincy Market is home to dozens of restaurants and food takeout establishments. There are no shops in that building. They only serve up food and beverages. There are also areas to eat your food and people watch. Signs from old businesses from that area.
There is also a piano. But, this is no ordinary piano. It is a piano from the Play Me I’m Yours piano playing program from 2016. As an aside, I sometimes cringe when I look at my older posts. I didn’t use photoshop and I posted way too may photos of the very same thing (even more than I post in my current blog posts). But, I’ve also noticed I wrote more than I do now and I am trying to add more commentary, especially as a way to include facts and context to the photos.
During my visit there was an exhibit of old colonial style clothing and rifles. There are a lot of these types of exhibits, particularly during the summer and patriotic holidays.
Fanueil Hall is chock full of history. One could post a series of blog posts aboutthe history of the buildings and the area and still not do it justice. One nugget I am aware of is about a grasshopper. Specifically, this grasshopper.
There are many stories about this grasshopper weathervane. One tour guide mentioned it played a role in identifying patriots rather than loyalists.
Another story holds that that Shem Drowne, a wealthy merchant who had been discouraged by his many failures in colonial New England, was inspired by a grasshopper. Contemplating his losses and failures, Drowne laid down in a field where he saw a boy chasing a grasshopper. He and the boy became friends and when he later met the boy’s parents they adopted him thus enabling him to live a more prosperous life. The grasshopper was meant to commemorate a turning point in his life. The truth may be much less interesting and exciting.
According to this article, the grasshopper simply was a sign of commerce. Since Faneuil Hall Marketplace was on the shore (the area has changed a but over the years) and it was visible to ships coming ashore it gave a clear signal they were open for business. I think this is most likely the true story behind the grasshopper.
Dogs are also welcome at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
This cutie had her eyelashes done for her trip to the marketplace. You might be able to see her lashes better in the second photo.
Below is a video of a quick walk-through of Quincy Market. The foods smell as good as they look!
There are also lots of entertainers and shows at Faneuil Hall during the warmer seasons. The Flying Hawaiian Show is one of these shows. She is amazingly talented and such a great entertainer!
Handicapped Accessible:The museum is wheelchair accessible and guests may request a wheelchair at the front desk (a photo ID must be left). Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Highlights: historical items, photos and videos from John F Kennedy’s life. There is also a special Kennedy 100 Milestones And Mementos exhibit which is scheduled to be on display until May, 2018.
“What could have been?” is probably the most common phrase people come away with after their visit to the John F Kennedy Presidential Library And Museum
You can’t help but feel inspired while walking through the museum. Even if you’re not an admirer of the man or his family, just looking at the historical items of the era and seeing how much he accomplished at such a young age is bound to make you feel motivated. By the time he died at the age of 46, he had been a senator, war hero and President. I’m approaching that age and I’m not quite there in my career accomplishments. Yet.
The first room you enter after paying your admission is a room with many of the items from JFK’s younger school days. I actually used to use JFK’s less than stellar grades in his early education as an excuse when I didn’t always do well on my report card…it didn’t work out well for me, though.
There is also a photo of JFK with hsi favorite boat, the Victura, and his U.S. Navy dog tag. During the summer, the Victura can be found on the lawn of the Kennedy Library. However, during the winter months, and when I was visiting, it is kept at the Crosby Yacht yard in Osterville, Massachusetts where she was built.
Next to the first room of the museum is an auditorium where you can watch a quick film (about 20 minutes) about the life of President Kennedy.
After the film ends, visitors follow a stairwell into the heart of the museum where many of the historical items from Kennedy’s Presidency can be found.
The museum displays historical memorabilia and videos and photos in chronological order. In the beginning of the museum you can view videos of the senator and presidential candidate Kennedy.
I especially liked the examples of shops and other memorabilia from that era.
Looking at the electoral map from the night of the election shows a sharp contrast to what it would look like these days.
The states in red show states the Republican candidate (Richard Nixon) won. The blue states are states Kennedy won. The chief reason behind this, besides the changing political landscape, is that Nixon was the senator from California which would explain in part why he did so well on the west coast. Kennedy’s running mate, Lyndon Baines Johnson (who was from Texas), helped Kennedy carry many of the southern states. In fact, the whole Kennedy/Johnson relationship is full of dichotomy and complexities. It has been believed, and essentially proven, the two men did not like each other very much before the election (and not the first time a president and vice president didn’t like each other). But, Kennedy and his people thought they needed Baines on the ticket to help deliver the south.
The book shown below, an 1850 edition of the Douay English translation, is the Kennedy family bible that was brought over from Ireland by his forebears. It is the bible JFK was sworn in on during his inauguration.
After viewing the historical items from his campaign and early days of his presidency, there is a larger area with memorabilia from his presidency can be found. There are also letters, memorabilia and other items from the Kennedy’s and not just John Kennedy. There are also historical items from Robert Kennedy and Sargent Shriver, John’s brother-in-law. The historical displays include an exact replica of the Oval Office while Kennedy was president.
In the photo below are two whale teeth etched with portraits of King Christian VI of Norway and Frederick William, the Great Elector of Brandenburg. These whale teeth were used as book ends in the Oval Office.
Next to the whale teeth, to the right, is a whale tooth scrimshaw inscribed with a full rigged ship. This was a gift from his close friend and class mate at Choate School, Lem Billings. Kennedy kept this on his desk. So much for saving the whales.
The section with Jacqueline’s personal items is wonderful also.
One of the more interesting things I found at the museum were gifts other world leaders had given Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy, the first lady.
This stucco head of Buddha (circa 2nd century A.D.) was given to the president and his wife by the king of Afghanistan, Mohammed Zaher Shah.
This gilded metal kris and sheath, decorated with ivory and precious stones, was given to the president by President Achmed Sukarno of Indonesia on April 24, 1961.
This congratulatory message was sent to President Kennedy on his inauguration in 1961 from the surviving crew and captain of the Amagiri. What makes that so interesting? The Amagiri was the Japanese destroyer that on August 2, 1943, rammed PT 109, the boat Kennedy and his men were on during World War II.
This Carrickmacross lace napkin was presented to President Kennedy by Prime Minister Sean Lemass of the Irish Fianna Fail party.
While President Kennedy’s assassination is acknowledged, there is not much on exhibit about the assassination. Rather, they focus on how the world responded to the tragedy. Fittingly, a darkened hallway leads to an area with photos of memorials dedicated to the slain president from all over the world.
There is also an area dedicated to the Kennedy family after President Kennedy’s death. There are books written about John Kennedy, mementos that were made in his honor (such as the half dollar piece that was issued after his death) and the rest of the Kennedy family. There are also historical artifacts such as a piece of the Berlin Wall which signify way the world has changed and how John Kennedy and other members of his family, specifically Ted, had possibly helped shape these changes.
There are also short films that play in small cinemas throughout the day at various locations in the museum.
The biggest attraction at the museum, however, is a special exhibit called JFK 100 Milestones and Mementos.
This exhibit is on display to celebrate what would have been the 100th birthday (his birthday was May 29, 1917). Everything from the hat and gloves he wore on his inauguration day, his first baby photo to hiss iconic Rayban sunglasses that he popularized are on display in chronological order of his life. The exhibit is planned to be on display until May, 2018.
There are far too many items to post photos of. Below are a few of the items that stood out to me.
Pictured below is the Profile In Courage Award that has been awarded annually since 1990. Past recipients include John McCain and Russell Feingold (co-winners in 1999), Gerald Ford and John Lewis (co-winners in 2001), Gabrielle “Gabby” Giffords (2013) and former President Barack Obama (2017)
Behind the museum there is a path used by joggers and people just going for a walk. There are some pretty views of the Boston skyline and the water. There is also a pier you can walk out onto and look out at the bay. It is a quiet place to ponder all that you have seen at the museum.
Sadly, we will be observing the death of this notable president later this month. But, rather than focusing on his tragic death, it is much better to focus on his life and not his death. This museum is a powerful reminder of his life and legacy.
Closed Easter and Thanksgiving. Winter months by chance or by appointment.
Cost:
Adults $5.00
Seniors/AAA $4.00
Children (8-15) $2.00
Under 8 Free
Group tours available by appointment.
Parking: There is room for about 15 to 20 cars in the parking lot
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Highlights: clocks, watches and other time measuring devices from various eras and places, outdoor garden with a sundial
Storing more than 5,500 clocks, watches and other timepieces, the American Clock And Watch Museum has one of the largest collections of watches and clocks in the country. They generally switch out their clocks seasonally which makes it a great place to visit continually throughout the year. I had been clocking the place for a while but it was my first time visiting.
While their total collection of clocks and watches numbers over 5,500, thy only display about 1,500 at a time. They switch some of the clocks and watches every few months. I’m sure they do it in a very timely manner.
The collection of clocks range from the beautiful to the bizarre. I wonder how many times people have stared at these clocks and watches.
The biggest current attraction at the museum now is the classic kitty kat clock.
I could spend all day there, especially in the room with all of the grandfather clocks (many of which are from the Bristol, CT area)
Each clock and timepiece has a story behind. They all have a card explaining when and where they were made and some interesting background information about the time piece. I found the information and history of the timepieces to be just as interesting as the clocks themselves.
For instance, this clock was called “the grip” because the clock’s movement was so small it could be fitted into a large pocket watch case. As is the case with many of the timepieces there, it was made in Connecticut (Forestville to be exact).
The clock below is a tribute to baseball. If you look closely at the clock you can see the baseball players and coach in the design around the face of the clock. This clock was sold in 1875 by the American Clock Company in New York, NY. The movement was made Noah Pomeroy, of course, from Bristol, CT.
“The Philosopher” is a brass mantel clock with an 8-day movement made by the Ansonia Clock Company in Brooklyn, NY in 1855. This is another interesting bit of information I learned at the museum. Some clocks, especially the older clocks in their collection, had to be rewound. Generally, clocks had either one day or eight day movement. Clocks with a one day movement, obviously, had to be rewound every day. However, saying a clock had a 8 day movement is a bit of a misnomer as it would have to be rewound every week (not every 8 days).
I know. Who knew a clock and watch museum could be so interesting!?
The museum also has old pocket watches, wrist watches and stop watches on display.
As you can see by the photos, Ingersoll played a major part in the watch making business, particularly pocket watches. Keeping with their Connecticut ties, Ingersoll watches were originally supplied by the Waterbury (CT) Clock Company.
There are also several displays of watch and clock related items and historical exhibits.
This particular exhibit shows all of the different parts in watches and clocks.
These educational displays showed how watches were made and the evolution of timekeeping.
The biggest clock in the museum hangs from the first floor to the bottom (or basement) floor. It is a Tower Clock built by Seth Thomas in 1915. It still keeps time and it is wound every 8 days.
One of the best parts of the museum is not even in the museum. Attached to the clock and watch museum, the sun dial garden typically has a sun dial (it was not installed in the garden during my visit), flowers and a bench to take a break from all of the clocks and enjoy the day. if you need to take a timeout. It really is a great place to pass the time.
Rena is a creator, curator and teacher among her many talents. She made a visit to the American Clock And Watch Musseum in April of 2015. As I mentioned before, they do often switch out their clock and watch collection. So, you will see some different clocks and watched that I did not photograph (although I did see quite a few that we both photographed).
Who knew Hampton had so much history? That is what many visitors think when they leave the Tuck Museum in Hampton, NH.
But, it really shouldn’t surprise anyone that so much history. After all, it is one of the oldest settled areas of New Hampshire having been settled in 1638.
It’s also surprising that a small museum can have so much historical items and stories. Upon entering the museum, you will most likely notice some of the historical articles from many years ago. One of the main features is are the items from the defunct railway that ran to Hampton.
There are also two mannequins dressed in old military clothing from an earlier era. This is a preview of an exhibit I will discuss later in this post.
The Tuck Museum is considered a “museum complex” because it has several structures and memorials on its land. Guided tours are given to all of these buildings by the very knowledgeable staff.
The first place our guide took us to was the fire fighter building which had older firefighting equipment and vehicles. It’s hard to believe , but true, that some of these vehicles were moved by humans, not horses, in the early days of the fire department in Hampton. It is fitting since the fire department still remains the same – physically go and save lives, despite all of the technological advancements they have made. It still boils down to the one constant – the brave men and women who work in that profession everyday.
You may notice the name Winnacunnet on the fire engine pictured above. That used to be the name of Hampton (more specifically it was called Plantation of Winnacunnet) because of the pine trees in the area (Winnacunnet translates to “beautiful place of pines”). A high school and street in the Hampton area still bear this name.
The next building we went to on the property of the Tuck Museum complex was the barn which contained many of the machines, tools and equipment the people used to farm the land and conduct the everyday chores of the settlers of Hampton. Everything from fishing equipment, agricultural devices to a shoe cobbler’s counter were housed in this barn. Each of these devices has a story and history behind it.
It would take too long and take up too much space to explain each one. But, if you do go on the tour at the museum the tour guide will keep you entertained with various anecdotes and fun facts about these machines and tools. One fun fact you can impress your friends and hot dates with at dinner parties is that when cobblers made shoes there was only one shape to them so you could wear any shoe on any foot. I was joking – please don’t tell anyone that on a date.
There is also a special military exhibit dedicated to the people connected to Hampton, NH. Included in this exhibit are letters from people serving that have been donated on a temporary basis from family and friends of those who served abroad during wartime. One of the storiees that stood out to me from my visit to this memorial was the story of Hampton residentof Lt. Rita Palmer and the Angels of Bataan.
The final room of the museum (I told you it was surprisingly big) was a room with household items and some of the luxuries of the early settlers of the area.
The framed work of art pictured above was made of human hair (does that make it a bona-fide “hair loom”?).
There are also some replicas of beach houses that used to dot the landscape of the Hampton area on the grounds. Since it was raining outside, I was unable to get to them without getting my camera equipment wet, unfortunately.
Hampton has a rather obscure dark side in the form of a witch, Eunice “Goody” Cole. Eunice Cole was the only woman convicted of witchcraft in Hampton, NH (although many others have been casually accused of being one I am sure).
After being released from indentured servitude, her husband and she settled in Mount Wollaston (now Quincy, MA) and they eventually made their way to Hampton, NH. Since they did not have children (they were both beyond child bearing age) and some other characteristics of her that were considered unusual at the time, she must have been a witch. Of course. She was actually accused of witchcraft several times. the first time she was convicted of witchcraft was in 1660. She served 2 years in prison and was sentenced again for a number of years in 1668. She was also found not guilty of witchcraft when she was tried in 1673. And I thought we were litigious these days.
Eventually, Goody Cole was absolved of her accused crime of witchcraft on March 8, 1938. The citizens passed a resolution restoring Eunice “Goody” Cole to her rightful place as a citizen of Hampton. The city went as far as to burn copies of all her court documents, The burned documenst were said to be mixed with soil from her last home and reputed resting place and buried. However, it was actually given to the Tuck Museum.
This brings me to the last few photos of the museum and its grounds. Inside the museum there are some replicas of Goody Cole.
On the grounds of the museum is a memorial without her name or any other marking. In fact, if you did not know the story about Eunice Cole you may just pass by it none the wiser. The marker was erected by Harold Fernald, a teacher and part time police officer from Hampton. The stone is said to be from the location of Eunice Cole’s property.
As an aside, the North Shore paranormal Group and some other paranormal groups have done ghost hunting on the premises with what they considered convincing results that some paranormal activity occurred. The fact the museum is located right across the street from a graveyard, mixed with the Goody Cole history, has added to the theories of paranormal activity. Admittedly, I saw some unusual things during my stay in hampton. But, it was mostly at the beach.
Another memorial on the grounds of Tuck Museum is dedicated to Thorvald, the brother of Viking explorer Leif Erickson and son of Erik the Red. However, this memorial has more of a controversial past as some believe it was just a rock put there by Judge Charles A. lamprey to increase the value of land that he was developing for beach cottages in 1902. Whatever the true story behind the rock, it has become a popular tourist attraction.
The grounds of the museum are well kept and worth strolling by even if you don’t venture into the museum.
marylizstyles is a fellow New England blogger who specializes in the fashion blogging genre. Read a post about her recent dude that’s so nautical fashion adventure in Hampton, NH.
Parking: You can park on the side of the road at or near the tree. It’s a residential area so please be safe when viewing
Cost: Free
Hours: everyday, 24 hours a day
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Highlights: “widest tree this side of the Mississippi”, biggest sycamore tree in Massachusetts, 300 plus year old tree
On a nondescript road in Sunderland, MA, stands a tree. A big tree. But, no, this is no ordinary “big tree.” This is the widest tree in the Eastern part of the United States.
The Buttonball tree, located on N Main St, is over 113′ high, with a girth of 24’7″ and has a spread of 140′. Pretty big, huh? The locals think so. Because of its size and its legendary status, locals have dubbed the Buttonball Tree, “The widest tree this side of the Mississippi.” It is also considered, wrongly, to be the “biggest” this side of the Mississippi.
In fact, another tree in Massachusetts may hold this claim. Or, at the least it may be the tallest this side of the Mississippi. The Eastern White Pine in the Mohawk State Forest in Charlemont, Massachusetts, is listed at 174 feet in height. And there are many others that are taller than the Buttonball.
For instance, the “Boogerman Pine” (186 feet tall) located in the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina, is considered by many as the tallest tree in the U.S. east of the Mississippi.
In addition to these trees, there could be some huge, crazy big tree in some forest or park somewhere that has yet to be recorded. As you can see, it is a hotly contested claim!
So, the claim of “largest tree east of the Mississippi” is a title that has been debated. But, the Buttonball still holds the title for widest tree this side of the Mississippi. OK, enough fun tree facts. For now.
Who knew it would be such a contentious subject! Who knew there was so many details about these trees? But, there’s more to the tree than it’s girth and height. Besides, it’s not the size…never mind.
While the title for largest tree east of the Mississippi may be up for debate, one thing is for: the Buttonball Tree is one big tree! It is the largest sycamore tree in Massachusetts and one of the largest trees of any kind in Massachusetts. Once part of the Sunderland forest, the tree now stands in a residential area. I bet the neighbors just love all the attention. (another) Fun fact: because of their longevity, during the 17th and 18th century sycamores were sometimes planted at the door of new house for newlyweds as “bride and groom” trees. The trees lasted much longer the marriages I am sure.
Not only is the Buttonball Tree big, it is historically significant. And old. I mean really, really old. The tree is estimated at being between 350 and 400 years old. And you thought you were getting long in the tooth.
Without further delay, ladies and gentlemen…the Buttonball Tree….
In 1987, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of signing of the Constitution, a plaque was engraved in a stone and placed in front of the tree. The plaque is engraved with the following:
1787 THE NATIONAL 1987 ARBORIST ASSOCIATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETYOF ARBORICULTURE JOINTLY RECOGNIZE THIS SIGNIFICANT TREE IN THIS BICENTENNIAL YEAR AS HAVING LIVED HERE AT THE TIME OF THE SIGNING OF OUR CONSTITUTION
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Location: Bridge St (no really, it’s called Bridge St) and Old Gilbertville Rd, Ware – Hardwick, MA
Cost: Free
Hours:Open everyday, 24 hours a day
Parking: Despite the signs to the contrary, you can park on the side of the road on Bridge St. Parking isn’t available on the other side which leads to Old Gilbertville Rd.
Handicapped Accessible: Yes
Highlights: Covered Bridge in Central Mass
Many years ago, wooden bridges, particularly covered bridges used to dot the landscapes of Massachusetts.
Now, Massachusetts only has about a dozen covered bridges that you can drive on. Although it may not seem sturdy, the Ware-Hardwick Bridge, also known as the Granville Bridge because the bridge is in the unincorporated village of Gilbertville which is considered part of Hardwick, is one of the few remaining traffic worthy covered bridges in Massachusetts.
The Ware-Hardwick Bridge, or Hardwick-Ware Bridge depending on which way you’re traveling, is 139.1 feet long and is 130.9 feet at its largest span. It is 19.7 feet wide and 14.4 feet tall. I suspect trucks would have to seek alternate routes because of the low clearance. But, according to the state Department of Transportation, there currently is no weight limit for vehicles passing through. Trucks wouldn’t typically use this bridge, in any event, since it is located on a side road.
The Ware-Hardwick Bridg crosses the Ware River which was relatively calm and iced over in some parts during my visit.
The bridge, which is a covered through lattice wooden single-web, double-chord truss design, was originally built in 1887 according to public records, despite the sign bearing the year 1886 just above the entrance on the Ware side. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 8, 1986, roughly 100 years after it was originally built.
The original bridge only had a capacity of 6 “short tons” (5.4 tons). It was closed down in 2002 to restore the structural integrity of the bridge due in part to an insect infestation. The bridge re-opened in October, 2010 after a $1.9 million restoration project.
Fun fact: the bridge was one of the few bridges to survive a major flooding on the Ware River in 1936.
Parking: Very limited during Halloween but you can find lots of parking at the New Liberty and Congress St parking garages and there is metered parkign available as well after Halloween season.
Handicapped Accessible: Salem’s streets are handicapped accessible and most buildings are as well.
October is full of scares and excitement in Salem, MA. And this year was no different. I saw so many cool, funny and, yes at times scary, people, pets and other things this year in Salem. Since I saw so many interesting things in Salem, I am breaking up my posts into several posts so I don’t go overboard with my images in each post since they can take a very long time to download, especially on mobile devices. And, believe it or not, there are so many interesting things in Salem all year round (not just during Halloween) but particularly during the fall. From the street performers, the, in some cases, elaborate decorations and the historical aspects of the city, tthere are so many things to post about. I will post the highlights from my Halloween day visit very soon.
Today’s post focuses mostly on the costumed people and the pets of Salem. I still have many more photos of costumed people that I will post soon. But, for the sake of time and space I am including these photos in chronological order from the earliest to the most recent. There were quite a few politicians at Salem (Donald and Hillary were even seen together). Poor Bernie was by himself and could only shrug his shoulders and say “Sure” when I asked for a photograph.
Some of the costumes are self explanatory, others not so much. I’ll help where I can.
The three women with sticks and shades on are the three blind mice. In the second to last row of photographs next to Jason and his monster friend are the 80s candy “Nerds.” In the bottom row to the left are the cat and “crazy cat lady.”
Throughout my visits to Salem this past month I saw so many cute dogs. Whether in costume or au naturel, they all looked very cute!
Lulu is an 8 year old Australian Sheepdog. I love the different colored ears and the way she looks likes she is smiling in the second photo.
What a wonderful pose Bella struck for me! The 1 year old Havanese (yes I had to look it up too) looks cute in her Stegosaurus costume.
Honey got into the festivities with her black and orange collar.
Eva is a 2 and a half year old mixed breed rescue dog. Another happy dog in the city.
Fenway is a 5 year old Papipoo (Papillon Poodle mix). He also has his own Facebook page at Fenway’s Aventures as well as an Instagran account @FenwaysAdventures a Twitter account @FenwayPuppy as well as a Snapchat account: @TheFenwayPuppy. He’s got more socal media accounts than I do!
Unfortunately, I when I washed my pants the list of dogs and their ages and breeds were still in my pants pocket and my memory isn’t what it used to be. So, I apologize for not remembering all of these beautiful dogs’ names.
It is also important to remember what Salem is largely known for by the public, besides the fun and scary stuff. Each year, descendants and others honor the victims of the witch hysteria that unexpectedly put Salem on the map for fun and friendly tourism. At the Salem Witch Trials Memorial on Liberty St, roses are placed on each victim’s granite stone memorials during the week of Halloween. Passerbys and those with a connection to the victim, through blood or otherwise, often leave notes, cards, flowers and other items as well. Coins are a common item left behind by tourists and others sympathetic to the victims of this dark time.
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