I write to remember, but also to share my experiences in the hopes of encouraging others to find their own new experiences. In June 2013, I rediscovered Vilas Pool, eight miles and fifteen minutes away, and at that time wrote, “…Perfect place for an afternoon picnic and book or two, cannot wait.  Well, it is time for you to visit too…”

I visited again shortly thereafter for an open house, and heard the carillon. River Theater performed “On Golden Pond” there, and in attending I experienced the perfect venue for that play. But, I have not visited as often as I should have — it is a special place. Recent flooding rains have done damage, but repairs have been made. My most recent image (before the 10th) was when I passed by in August 2023.

below you can see downstream from the dam, and the road wash out in the gorge at that time.

I have not had the urge to get out and explore as often as I have in the past, but BLUE BELLE was begging, and I did have some images I wanted to take for the next issue of the CLARION. Hatching a plan, we headed up Prospect Hill, took some images, then continued on a circle to Surry, Gilsum, East Alstead, and down Route 123 to 123A to swing up to Vilas Pool Park to reward myself with an ice cream at the snack bar. We parked and I crossed the bridge over the dam.

This wonderful spot below appears as you exit the bridge.

and the pavilion – I forgot to take an image of the massive open area often rented for weddings and parties.

and, two “rocking chair studies” for my collection — now I have to get back more often. Maybe mark my calendar?

inside looking out —

There is wonderful history to this place which was given to Alstead by philanthropist Charles Nathaniel Vilas. In my recent history article, “Did You Know That…” in THE WALPOLE CLARION, I shared some history of the park, encouraging my readers to visit. Below, with some great (I think) old images is that article. Click on either page to read the article.

See the Swan Boat on the second page of my article? This boat at Vilas was similar to those at the Boston Common, but thanks to one of the quick floods, all that was salvaged was this head below. Newer style replacements are now available, and Noel #2 and Nick are ready for paddling on the pool.

I enjoyed the rocking chairs for about 40 minutes, chatted some with some people from Bellows Falls, and the superintendent. I asked him why it seemed so empty, to which he replied, “just wait I am expecting a group of Girl Scouts for an overnight camping experience.” I had fun watching them arrive, lugging their equipment. As I was leaving I saw them setting up tents, and heading to the water. The below two images are when I was heading off — looking to the pond, and then down the gorge from the foot bridge.

disappointed she could not join me on the porch, BLUE BELLE was ready to journey home.

Remember the plan was to reward myself on this outing with an ice cream at the snack bar? Sadly I found it closed, but later on the VILAS POOL PARK FACEBOOK PAGE found, “The Vilas Pool Snack Shack is under repairs this season. We have raised the Snack Shack to install drainage because of the hill behind the Shack and will be replacing the rotten floor. We are paying for this project with a grant from the Moose Plate fund.(Contractor, Bellows Construction/Alstead NH)” And, also these images:

Well — I need to make it a point to pack a lunch, books, laptop, and head off to the Pavilion, and “plant myself” for some time, and often. And, on the way out make a donation to help support the park which is free and open to all – no residency requirement, and open to the public Wednesday-Sunday 11am to 7pm

RAY RECOMMENDS:
1-Join and follow VILAS POOL PARK FACEBOOK PAGE
2-Pack your picnic basket, books, etc. and enjoy all the surroundings.
3-Make a donation as you leave (as a municipal entity, your donation should be tax-deductible – I will provide confirmation once I learn for sure)
4-Plan your return visit
5-Remind me to get back often

ENJOY – as alway, luv, RAY