HOLIDAY TOURS — DECEMBER 2025

Posted on December 16, 2025 by Ray Boas

I have shared over the years a number of the holiday tours I have taken in Vermont and New Hampshire, and still have some past tours to share. Again this year I have taken some tours – the choices were many, but I made some trips not before taken and wish to “write about to remember, and to share.”

Not sure I knew of this before, but reading about the CURRIER & IVES COOKIE TOUR, that was my plan for Saturday, December 13. Fifteen stops, south of Keene, I plotted my route starting in Swanzey then to Troy, Jaffrey and concluding in Harrisville – a counter clockwise circle of driving fun. The stops included a shopping festival, several shops and historical societies, eateries and inns. For the complete list of stops CLICK ON THIS LINK.

A route on some new roads, some roads not been on in awhile, some in reverse directions from the past. But with trees bare, snow on the ground there were new sights to see. Getting in GIGI (Granite Girl my 2018 Dodge Van – gray of course) to head out, here is what she told me. I do not drive as much as I used to.

I started at Frogg Brewing in Swanzey where I browsed the craft vendors and purchased my ticket for the event entitling me to collect cookies. It was then some back roads (one not on before) to cut over to Route 12 but stopping at The She Shed just before the intersection with 12. This bridge I had not been across before (pretty sure) but have to share.

Thinking The She Shed was going to be items for an outside retreat or work space I was surprised to see the number of interesting holiday gifts and decorative items.

this wall hanging has to be shared

In Troy I went into the Cozy Cottage shop on the Common, and then the historical society on Depot Street.

And, at the end of Depot Street, the old train station and the Budd Car that used to be sitting on the siding up in North Walpole — now being restored and exhibited here.

From Troy I took the road past the old Troy Mill complex heading to Route 124. The next stop The Inn at East Hill Farm on Monadnock Street before the junction with 124. I had passed it several times in the past when coming from Jaffrey cutting west to Troy, but never from this direction, and never been on the property. Was I surprised to learn that since the 1940s the farm has been hosting families providing retreats and experiences on a working farm, and providing a large space for meetings, conferences and the like. Upon entering the large facility I found a square dance group having a weekend event. With many buildings and accommodation options, farms stays here include three meals daily.

Turning right once at Route 124 I headed to Jaffrey Center and Jaffrey. May I recommend you tour Route 124 from Marlborough (turning off Route 101) to Jaffrey and onto Massachusetts. Much to explore and see.

A main reason I took this tour was to see places I had not experienced before, and many of the stops were new to me in Jaffrey, first stopping at the Monadnock Inn which new owners are working hard to reinvigorate, hoping to bring back a restaurant as well. Down in the main village area I first went into the Jaffrey Civic Center with the Jaffrey Historical Society in the basement. I loved seeing the country store room at the historical society.

I was afraid I may see the fellow using the gun on the wall – but fortunately not the case. Here is more on the gun. Do “click to enlarge” for full effect of the gun.

upstairs in the building was this Christmas village – overwhelming.

I was really impressed with the newly reconstructed PARK THEATER and had a wonderful tour learning its history and events hosted. Probably best (and I recommend) you visit their website and read their history and what is going on.

Then I headed north to Route 101, west through Dublin, and turned north on Chesham Road in Harrisville. Again, if it were not for the tour I never would have learned about GRANITE OAK FARM – subtitle COW CUDDLING.

what a unique experience – and an adventure to return to

OLIVE – 9 months old – was ready for some loving.

Did I have fun? YES – new experiences, got to see places I had not before seen, traveled some fun roads seeing things I had not seen before, or at least with leaves off the trees. BUT I also arrived home with a great selection of cookies (well, the first one never made it back to the car).

Let me take a few more moments and share Saturday the 6th of December.

The week before, Saturday the 6th of December I found a couple small town festivals to check out. I had the option of also again over the weekend touring both the Inndulgence Tour and the Manchester area tour (both in Vermont), but having done those a number of times (still owe you several posts – maybe before end of the year so I can relive those tours, and share).

I started the day at the Holiday Fair at the Westminster, Vermont, Congregational Church and then to get to the Holiday Festival in Townshend headed over to Westminster West, turning left on the road to Putney, then off to Putney Mountain Road which I shared with you in July 2024. A great road, but alas, I forgot I had learned of this unique route in an article about Vermont Roads with “no winter maintenance.” Turning back, and then recognizing the road to Dumerston Center so I could cut over the West River on the covered bridge to Route 30 I soon made it to Townshend only to discover I had misread the day of the fair — it would be the next day, Sunday the 7th. Hey, no problem. Hope you are remembering to “click” my galleries for larger image views.

so north to my favorite Grafton, and the Inn at Grafton, where as you should know is where Cathy and I stayed that fateful day we made a quick decision changing our lives, and state of residence moving to Walpole. Below the inn, and then looking back down the “Main Street.”

one feature of the Grafton Village Holiday Festival was the gingerbread house exhibit and competition. Well, below are three of the six entries I saw that were there. Still fun.

walking back up to my car, on the left below a home I once bought books when it was last for sale, and then the historical society. I visited for a second time – nice local exhibits especially on the local soapstone industry.

The next stop, and last stop for the day was “Christmas in Weston.” Below the common

and across from Vrest Orton’s Vermont Country Store is another “original” country store, and this Christmas shop. Santa and Mrs. Claus were outside, and I do not ever remember being inside before. Will go in again for sure.

then looping back home through Chester, and a “secret spot” I like to stop and browse I found this set of glass ornaments. Wanting some of these classic ornaments I was not sure if they were new or old vintage from my childhood. Each measuring about 2 1/2 to 3 inches, When I got home (with them) I did a Google image search of one and learned — “This is a Thomas Pacconi Classics blown glass Christmas ornament featuring a snowman holding a gift bag and wearing a green scarf and red hat. The ornament is handcrafted using mouth-blown glass and hand-painted techniques. It is part of the Thomas Pacconi Classics collection, which includes various vintage-style Christmas ornaments. Similar ornaments from this collection were produced around the early 2000s, such as 2003 and 2004.” From images I saw this is the original tray for one collection, albeit with two missing. But still, worth the $10 for fun and memories.

Thank you for getting the far down the page – I appreciate it. For some reason I have not delved into as many adventures this year, and then not even written and shared all that I have done. Again, mainly “I write to remember.” Hopefully I can share some more this year 2025.

BUT – please have a safe and happy holiday season — enjoy each moment, cherish your friends and memories, and stay well. More from me soon I hope – and do have a joyous and prosperous New Year. – love, RAY

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FORT TICONDEROGA REDUX – 14-16 OCTOBER 2025

Posted on November 30, 2025 by Ray Boas

I started writing this adventure on November 16, it is now two weeks later the 30th, and I do hope I get to share this evening, as December 5th marks a 250th anniversary of an event I recommend you follow. But….

Long overdue to visit again here, as you may know I have other trips to share still going back years.

Not too far away, the Ticonderoga area has lots to explore and easy to get to simply crossing Vermont, and then head north from Whitehall, New York. I decided to head south on Route 4 from Whitehall for awhile, but turning around I did not realize I was at Sally’s and since late, went in for chili in a break bowl — good.

Heading back north, I have often stopped at Champlain Canal Lock 11 (north of Route 22 near the prison. Always wanting to share this row of trees along the canal — now I am — a must see.

Heading back up north, and following Route 22 to my ultimate location – Putnam Station and my B&B I headed off the “main road” to see Dresden Station (below) — simply the old station itself with the main line and a siding.

Ahead of schedule a tad I continued north to Ticonderoga and turned right to the Fort, and the ferry landing from Vermont. One of my first outings in BLACK BEAUTY was to Fort Ticonderoga and Ironville in Fall 2010 – before “Shunpiking with Ray” days to document that tour. Below is the ferry landing (now closed for the season) looking across Lake Champlain to Vermont. And, below that BLACK BEAUTY and me on the ferry that fall day in 2010.

back then to the Inn on Lake Champlain for two nights — the old farmhouse, and my room below.

My plan for my full day between two overnights was Fort Ticonderoga. When I was last there (twice) you could tour the grounds, and not pay admission until leaving the gift shop to head to the fort – you could go to the cafe or shop without paying admission. That has changed. Below is looking south on Lake Champlain from the fort’s outer walls — Ticonderoga means “between two waters.” Winding north from Lake George through the town of Ticonderoga and coming east into Lake Champlain, is the La Chute River – just over the wall in the image below.

To set the stage “so to speak” here are four panels you can click to enlarge for a quick history of the area and American Revolution here. Not mentioned here (but an important display in the museum) is probably one of the most significant events leading to the Colonists’ success — Knox’s Noble Train of Artillery which left here December 5, 1775 – 250 years ago. Visit the Fort’s website where now you will find important links to this event on the home page – and with activities on-line this week.

below the parade grounds inside the fort, and below two views looking out windows – you should remember I like to share views framed by windows and doors. Bottom right is looking south west towards Mount Defiance (more later) behind the La Chute River.

typical soldiers’ barracks, and this docent was relating his work as the cobbler.

below is a gallery of the panels you read leading to the entrance of the fort. As we approach looking back 250 years, I thought it helpful to share this brief concise history of the area from 1609 to 1820. Click to open the gallery to read the panels.

I had lunch in the cafe and then headed down to the Pavilion on the lake. Open the panels below for the history of this structure. The tour boat Carillion now docks in from of the Pavilion. Fifteen years ago I toured the lake on this boat, but at that time it docked at the ferry dock in Shoreham, Vermont.

Leaving the fort – with my token to gain entrance to Mount Defiance – I headed there, with details in the first panel below. My next two images are looking back at Fort Ticonderoga from Mount Defiance.

below looking over the fort to Vermont and the Green Mountains.

Ironville was on that 2010 trip – how I learned about the celebration that day I do not remember, but I went. Ironville, NY, is considered the “birthplace of the electric age,” as the first location in the world to put electricity to commercial use and inspired Thomas Davenport to invent the electric motor. None of the iron works remain, and the historic district consists of 12 buildings — isolate, remote, nothing nearby IT DESERVES A VISIT, and I may go for another visit. You may wish to learn more, and here is one link to start with.

The first view below is about where BLACK BEAUTY and I parked 15 years ago – sadly I cannot find any images I took that day – the image of the ferry I had saved to a website ages ago. What you see here is basically the town – the bottom right image the historic house museum. I have a 14 page historical booklet of the area that I bought in the museum, my note at the top “Bought 10/10/10.” I need to make a PDF to share with you on the history of the industry and use of electricity here – so check back.

I then headed back south to see more of “downtown” Fort Ticonderoga to prepare for when Gary and I visit next year to the Star Trek Museum. A lovely park along the La Chute River with this covered bridge in the park.

Be warned when you visit that there are limited eating options, particularly “mid-week” and this time of year. But I was pleased with Seymour’s Restaurant at Ticonderoga Golf Course, and do recommend it. Left the view from my table.

Back to the B&B for the evening. In the morning, of course I took a long route to get home heading north to cross Lake Champlain on the new bridge at Crown Point, my first time across this new span. shown in my gallery below.

I have visited the fort at least twice before, but again went in. Open these panels that are in the museum for more history of this strategic “choke point” on the lake.

Only wonderful stonework remains

you know I enjoy shots through windows or openings and texture

rock outcropping on the surface inside the fort — so similar to the rocks I showed you near Saratoga in my recent post that included LESTER PARK with rocks of 490 million years ago showing fossilized sea bottom.

Back in Vermont the museum at Chimney Point was now closed for the season (have not been there in over ten years so need to go again), so then I picked up Route 123 heading basically east across flat lands to Middlebury and my favorite US Route 7. Open, rural, unique, and as you can see not too much color this season.

So, I am pleased to finally get to share another outing with you – one that I recommend for some leisurely history learning, especially now as the important events in this area are reaching 250 years ago. I have been on part of the Knox Trail, the 59 cannon traversed to Boston, but plan to report more to you this coming year. May I recommend you find historic trails like this to use as a basis of exploration. I have many in mind to finally traverse in 2026 and share.

Stay safe and well, luv, RAY

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LAKE LUZERNE and SARATOGA EXPLORATIONS – 6-8 NOVEMBER 2025

Posted on November 11, 2025 by Ray Boas

It was time to get away – I have been out, but owe myself writing about those adventures to remember and then share. One of my first trips after losing Cathy was to the Lamplighter Inn in Lake Luzerne, New York. All I remember of that trip was watching a movie on my first laptop in the comfortable living room. Almost two years ago the inn was sold, renamed the Rockwell Falls Inn, and I started getting occasional emails – yes with the sale the new owners got my email address. October 30 when figuring where to escape an email arrived from the inn, and I booked two nights, Thursday 6 November to Saturday, 8 November.

Just about 30 minutes north of Saratoga Springs and to the southwest of Lake George about 20 minutes, I have many route options to and from Saratoga Springs. I headed over to Manchester, out on Route 30 through Dorset to Pawlet. Years ago I did have lunch there at the old railroad station, but this time I turned down that road a tad and found the Town Hall, built 1881, and across the street the library converted from a three room school house. Worth the stop to see the amazing interior. Below is also the library, and the now abandoned restaurant in the old train station (in searching I found the old station was moved to Pawlet from Wallingford, VT).

This board below was inside the library — great advice for us all to follow (click for easier reading).

Continuing up Route 30 I crossed into Granville, NY. Had a great stay there awhile back at the Station House B&B, but have never been in town at the right times to see the slate museums — this area is packed with slate quarries. Then I meandered through Hartford (NY), Hudson Falls, Fort Edward, and Glen Falls, before backroading up over a mountain to Lake Luzerne and the Rockwell Falls Inn. In the gallery below the Inn, my room, the common room that I remembered from my 2009 visit, and my breakfast Saturday morning. French Toast was amazing and so much on Friday morning that I was smarter and I ate only a portion of my Saturday pancakes below, the rest coming home for two more meals.

My plan for Friday was to head up to Stony Creek (on the Hudson that once passing through Lake Luzerne turns south to the ocean) and then cut over to Great Sacandaga Lake and down part of its 29 miles to eventually work myself to Ballston Spa south of Saratoga Springs. Heading to the bottom of the hill I turned right on River Road believing it would end with a bridge to Stony Creek. First below the Hudson River, and then, alas, the end of the road, so I turned back.

It was then back into the “village” cross the river to Hadley, and up to Stoney Creek (population 767 at the 2010 census). As you can see an old town, basically abandoned, but the 1955 Ford sedan (green spot below) was well preserved.

Note the hotel serves “Real Food” and then the church.

It was then over some very back roads to continue my plan, I wanted to explore Great Sacandaga Lake – completed in 1930 and formerly called a reservoir (never providing drinking water, only hydro generation), but name changed to help tourism along the 29 mile long lake.

My hope was to arrive in Conklingville to see the dam, but alas I ended up further south in Day, NY.

Below on the left is the drive on the west side of the lake heading south, and on the right the low level of the lake with all the lack of rain.

In preparations I saw on my “paper” map a covered bridge noted – did not make sense, but had to find it – and was easy along main road – BUT not for cars or carriages, but built in 1879 the Copeland Covered Bridge was built so the farmer could get his cattle to pasture. Load limit today is 10 adults

too much fun – so here is what it is like — remote, not on the “beaten path” but do try to visit.

in the upper right you can see GiGi waiting for me.

Just down the road from this little bridge is a “real bridge” in Edinburg that crosses the lake. A few miles south of this point the lake opens up very large. Once on the east side I cut down to Mosherville and more back roads to Route 67 to head into Ballston Spa. Ballston Spa is less overwhelming than Saratoga Springs, and actually older and the original resort for the area. In my recent review of my collected brochures I read of the BROOKSIDE MUSEUM – the Saratoga County History Center, and am so glad I stopped to visit.

Small, but impressive, and full of history that appeals to me – you may know that I have always been fascinated by the development of the American summer resorts – their history, architecture and times. Here is America’s First Resort Hotel — click the panels below for large sizes to read.

I decided to share these two panels with you — note the mention of the Round Lake Association – 1863.

I have been a member of the Walpole Society for Bringing to Justice Horse Thieves and Pilferers of Hen Roosts and Clotheslines since “landing in Walpole” in 2002, and am currently an officer as the “auditor.” I almost fell over when I saw this poster printed on linen from circa 1913. This society was established in 1818, two years after our society in Walpole, and held annual dinners until 2010 — WALPOLE’S THIEVES ARE STILL GOING. Our biennial poster is basically the same, and with the same illustration — too much fun.

Do read the history of this spot — I asked the docent, Kotter, if this spring house across the street was the original spring. No, the original one is now under a road, but this structure was the second well dug in this location, and still flows.

The display below was just outside the museum — now another trail for me to explore after reading Cooper’s works. I have so many “trails” noted to explore including (most recently) Knox’s Noble Trail of Artillery; Stark’s Trail, Benedict Arnold’s trail through Maine to Quebec City has been “on the list” since I finished Black Beauty, and there are more. Hopefully I will be writing these posts long enough to share them all with you, but “take the plunge” yourself as well.

Time to head back to my Inn, but more back roads of course. WAZE routed me to Petrified Forest Gardens Road. HUM, interesting, and then this sign – LESTER PARK. Would you have stopped? GiGi knows me, and we pulled over and explored this site walking the rocks of 490 million years ago.

not far from downtown Saratoga Springs — but if you need a quick “fossil fix” don’t forget the dinosaur prints along the Connecticut River in Holyoke, Massachusetts. In case you forget, my visit is in this post from 2013.

On the list is also THE SARATOGA CORINTH & HUDSON RAILWAY – in Corinth. Not open until Christmas trains begin to run, but I had to find the location – and yes, the gate was half open inviting me in. Some quick images as they were decorating. Not sure I need to make a special trip back to ride these rails.

It was then back to the Inn, out for dinner, and up again with a plan for Saturday on the way home.

Remember I told you above of the Round Lake Association – 1863? A camp meeting ground – and those revival meetings were part of the genesis of the summer experience. Think Chautauqua, Martha’s Vineyard, etc. In a previous life I owned three cottages in a camp meeting ground. Learning of the Round Lake Association I had to visit since I was close. Ironically adjoining a “round lake” in the mid 1880’s Round Lake transitioned from a purely religious orientation into a Chautauqua-style educational resort, complete with hotels, museums, and lecture halls.

now a village the Victorian architectural ambience remains – including the auditorium built in the 1880s. “The Auditorium’s crown jewel is the Davis Ferris Tracker pipe organ. Built in New York City in 1847 and moved to Round Lake in 1888, the 1900-pipe organ is the oldest and largest of its kind in the United States, and in 2016 was designated a National Historic Landmark.” Sadly the doors were locked.

walking around, how can you not enjoy the architecture? Click for larger image views.

BUT WAIT — GRAND CONCOURSE and E. 181 ST? How many of you know where this sign is from? I know — 25 blocks from my grandmother’s home built in the Bronx in the 1880s at 191 E. 206th Street, just a block and a half off the Grand Concourse.

You know me and “timing.” I stopped the fellow walking nearby, and yes his home, and his wife’s sign swiped off the pole at the Grand Concourse where she grew up. We had fun chatting, and discovered even more “small worlds” including his having lived in Bolton’s Landing and knew of Alma Farm which my family was connected with. Just too much fun, and you never know what you will see, or who you will talk with.

the plan for Saturday on the way home was also to tour the Saratoga Battlefield. I knew (thank you US Government) that the visitor center would be closed, but I walked up to it to take the view below (do click to enlarge – one of my better images). Then I figured I would drive the nine mile tour of the grounds, having downloaded the audio tour, but alas the road was blocked off. I did make the tour maybe 15 years ago – well come springtime.

As I mentioned, Saratoga Springs is easy for me to get to (more trips soon I hope) and several routes I can take. Almost a straight shot home is through Greenwich and Cambridge, New York to West Arlington Vermont, and then home. Of course I stopped and drove through the covered bridge in West Arlington to Norman Rockwell’s home, but for the first time I drove west on the dirt road to the end and back across the Battenkill River to the main road, and then headed back east.

Dr. Dewey told me ages ago I had to see Sandgate, Vermont, which is three miles up the hill almost across from the covered bridge. Well, I finally went to see and share. The population of Sandgate was 387 in 2020 — “some estimates for 2025 suggest a slight decrease to around 381 people”. Since you may never get there, below in four images (remember to click to enlarge) is the town — Town Hall, Fire Station, Church, and school. Glad I went, one more Vermont town I have visited.

Well, Gary and I are visiting AMOS again soon. Maybe I can catch up on some more posts while hanging out there — stay safe and well, luv, RAY

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The GILFEATHER TURNIP – VERMONT’S STATE VEGETABLE – 25 October 2025

Posted on October 26, 2025 by Ray Boas

I receive many emails of local events, both in New Hampshire and Vermont. On October 10 I received a note from happyvermont.com about an upcoming festival in Wardsboro, Vermont (population 869 in 2020). I pass through there on VT 100 often, stopping on the Main Street. I really enjoyed their 4th of July parade in 2018 — southern Vermont’s oldest continuously running parade for Independence Day. Click this highlighted sentence linked for my story of that day. But the October 10 email provided some history (copied below) and a link to the festival website – which I encourage you to visit and study – there will be a test.

The turnip, cultivated by farmer John Gilfeather, became the official Vermont State Vegetable in 2016. It’s celebrated every fall at the Gilfeather Turnip Festival in October. Wardsboro resident Anita Rafael, a writer—and Gilfeather turnip enthusiast—describes the vegetable as part rutabaga and part turnip.

“It’s sweet, and it’s creamy, and it’s not like that turnip that gives you that little choke in the back of your throat,” she says. “What made the turnip famous in John Gilfeather’s day was that he hybridized it. We don’t know if it was a happy accident of nature or if he was truly some little hybridizing genius and figured out how to come up with a turnip that wasn’t a turnip.”As the story goes, John Gilfeather wasn’t quite the sharing kind with his turnip technique.

“One of the things we know about John Gilfeather is that he really was possessive of not just the seeds, but the plant itself,” Rafael says. “If you have a turnip, you can actually grow another turnip because of the hairy roots and all that,” she adds. “To protect his turnip, John Gilfeather used to cut the tops off and shave off all the root hairs.”

Fortunately, the turnip didn’t disappear after his death in the 1940s. A few local farmers continued to grow the turnips, and in the 1970s, Bill and Mary Lou Schmidt, of Dummerston, trademarked the Gilfeather name and had the turnip government-certified as an “heirloom botanical.” All these years later, Rafael says the turnip continues to serve Wardsboro well. “We are the official town of the official Vermont state vegetable. There’s a tremendous amount of community pride, and it puts Wardsboro on the map,” Rafael says. “It makes us famous for something.” – In case you did not click the link above, click on this banner below for the website.

here is the sign of the events. I did tour the contest area on the second floor here, and looked at the vendor tents.

the Gilfeather Turnip is noted for its green top (as seen in image above) and its long feathery roots. Below are some of the turnips awaiting judging in the various contest categories.

timing is everything, and I was there at the right time for the 11:30 lecture in one of the community churches. Twenty plus minutes and so much fun learning about the farming techniques, and then the work a fifth grade class (and again as sixth graders) did to make their turnip the state vegetable. They first presented to the Vermont House, then the Senate, and finally once a vote complete joined the Governor at the signing ceremony. What as “civics lesson.”

The speaker was fascinating. Did you know that a “hard freeze” is defined as 28 degrees or below for four hours of more? And do you know what a Gilfeather Turnip does at that temperature? Well, it begins to produce sugar which diluted in the water in the turnip enables it to not freeze at temperatures below 32 degrees – freezing. Thus adding some sweetness.

I may have to again make the trip. Monies taken in at the festival benefit the library. Parking fees in the field ($5) go to the local scouts, and booth fees to school groups. And, yes, below is my Turnip Soup – $5 for the library fund, and good.

I am so behind in documenting my travels and adventures. I have “in the works” posts going back almost two years. Most recently I started working on my recent trips to Mystic Seaport and Fort Ticonderoga. I will get to finishing soon I hope – bear with me.

Stay safe and well, luv, RAY

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ATOP MOUNT GREYLOCK and GREENFIELD FAIR – 3-4 SEPTEMBER 2025

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Ray Boas

It was time again to stay atop Mount Greylock – at 3,491 feet the highest point in Massachusetts. But in typical recent “Ray Fashion” I am not getting to work on this tale until ten days later while at the Silver Fountain Inn in Dover, NH – my third time here. Again this year I am here to be “in position” for a day’s outing on Star Island tomorrow (still have to share last year’s “open house” trip there with you). The first time I was at this B&B I needed an overnight, and “bought my way” back and forth across the state. Scouting for books, etc. has not been good recently, but today I did very well with some new “treasures.”

Lots of ways to get somewhere, and you know I always find different routes, hopefully roads I have not been on, or at least for awhile, or in the opposite direction — and dirt always wins out. Mt. Greylock, south of North Adams, is off my favorite US Route 7 almost on the border with NY state – thus many options to cross over. This time I headed out Vermont Route 9 west, turning left in Marlboro towards Marlboro College. Do try to take this remote route which becomes dirt after the college. Winding south when this road ends turn right on what becomes Green River Road – (YES – if you turn left you will end up at the Green River Covered Bridge and the great Inn (which I shared with you in my last post) — you can continue along the river into Massachusetts and almost to Greenfield – take this remote route sometime).

Well, back to heading to Mount Graylock. Turn left on Brook Road which will eventually bring you to Halifax (Vermont not Canada) – take Branch Road out of Halifax, and eventually you will end up on Route 112. I turned right on 112 because I wanted to visit Amos Brown – see image below in remote Whitingham is one of my favorite Landmark Trust USA stays. To get to the Amos Brown house you take 8A from south of “downtown Jacksonville (off 112) (VT not Florida that is) turn right on Burrington Hill Road and loop down a remote road to see Amos. I then headed back to Burrington Hill Road, continuing west (bearing right it becomes Carpenter Road) eventually turning sort of right on Poverty Road, and at the Brigham Young Memorial Park I turned left ending up on Route 100 – the “backbone of Vermont.” At Heartwellville, about ten miles west of Whitingham, (Heartwellville may not be so marked) turn left (south on Route 8) towards Clarksburg and North Adams – may not be marked either, I don’t remember. Once you get to the Mohawk Trail (Route 2) turn right (west) and there are various routes you can get to ATOP MOUNT GREYLOCK. I headed over to Williamstown, and then south on Route 7 until my turn back up the mountain – about a nine mile climb – too much fun – stop at the visitor center if open.

and the goal below – Mount Greylock Veterans War Memorial Tower. Below the view from the CCC lodge where I have now stayed four times.

a map of the grounds.

and an information panel – click to enlarge for easier reading.

yes, every visit I have climbed the tower

below is looking east from the top…

looking west down to the lodge.

looking back down from the top level

and sunset at dinner — dinner always been fun here.

the “end game” of this overnight was to experience the 176th FRANKLIN COUNTY FAIR in Greenfield, Massachusetts, Instead of driving straight down to Greenfield and then home, it obviously makes sense to head west first for a mountain top overnight, and then pick up the Mohawk Trail (Route 2) and head back east to Greenfield. I always have to stop at the roadside area which displays the “shunpiking history” sign you see above in my masthead. Below is the cemetery there along the river. No history or names that I can share — need to research more. But following then are the panels which you may wish to click to enlarge and learn about the “trail” and the towns along the way.

And, in Greenfield I arrived at 3 pm, just as the fair was opening for the first day. Originally an agricultural fair, I found this fair (unlike the little ones in towns around me) more commercial with a big midway, commercial booths hawking all sorts of “stuff” or the merchandise needing to be shown to sell. There were even four tents or booths offering free bibles and related literature.

some views as I walked around (click to enlarge) — I am sure crowds converged in the evening into darkness for the lights and rides and young excitement.

some more — fried pickles and a bull you could ride after signing a waiver.

the agricultural events had not yet stared – but in the baby barn — my two “new best friends.”

Having seen enough I decided not to wait for the 5 pm parade and headed back up I-91 and home. I can at least say I have experienced the Greenfield fair grounds.

Well, going to post this, and my subscribers will see the post right away. In sending emails to others using blind copies Comcast has decided occasionally that I am sending SPAM PHISHING emails and blocks my access for awhile – so I may try again but maybe have a day between my blind copy emails. Stay safe and well, luv, RAY

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FAIR SEASON — THE FIFTH SEASON — GUILFORD, VERMONT — 31 AUGUST 2025

Posted on August 31, 2025 by Ray Boas

In August 2023 I took you to two country fairs: HARWICK, MASSACHUSETTS (self-proclaimed oldest fair in the US) and the CORNISH FAIR. This is “Fair Season” they all come at once it seems, and you cannot get to them all — but you can visit many over the years. Today I headed back to Guilford, Vermont, for the fair – and that report is below. You can still get there tomorrow, Labor Day, but also look at my list below of other fairs you may experience this coming month — you will not be disappointed.

This outing had a second purpose – to again swing through the four “Villages of Guilford Vermont” (make sure to open and read my PDF linked below) – AND to visit an Inn “on my list” and where I now have dinner reservations with a friend — wonderful place, and you are excused if you wish to jump to the end to read my report of the GREEN RIVER BRIDGE INN.

First a partial list of fairs coming up, links to them, and links to my past visits — and below The 80th Guilford Fair 2025.

Andover, New Hampshire – August each year — here is report on my trip 2024
https://shunpikingwithray.com/2024/07/01/potter-place-and-ice-house-museum-29-june-2024/

The 162nd Woodstock Fair – August 28-Sept 1, 2025
in South Woodstock, Connecticut – https://www.woodstockfair.com/

Guilford, Vermont – August 31-September 1, 2025
 My visit in 2021 – https://shunpikingwithray.com/2021/09/05/guilford-vermont-and-guilford-fair-5-september-2021/

Hopkinton, NH Fair –Aug 28 to Sept 1, 2025
https://www.hsfair.org/

Greenfield, Massachusetts – September 4-7, 2025
going for the first time this year – https://fcas.com/

Tunbridge World’s Fair – September 11-14, 2025
https://www.tunbridgeworldsfair.com/ 
my visits in 2021- https://shunpikingwithray.com/2021/09/17/149th-tunbridge-worlds-fair-september-16-17-18-and-19-2021/
And 2015 – https://shunpikingwithray.com/2015/09/18/144th-tunbridge-worlds-fair-17-september-2015-tunbridge-vermont/

Langdon, NH – September 20, 2025 — https://www.langdonnh.org/home/events/2541
My visit in 2023 – https://shunpikingwithray.com/2023/09/16/langdon-new-hampshire-festival-16-september-2023/

Peru, Vermont – September 27, 2025 — http://www.perufair.org/
my visit in 2018 — https://shunpikingwithray.com/2018/09/23/fair-farm-festival-and-a-find-vermont-22-september-2018/

The BIG E – Springfield, Massachusetts – September 12 to 28, 2025
https://www.thebige.com/
My visit in 2023 – https://shunpikingwithray.com/2023/09/26/the-big-e-eastern-states-exposition-22-september-2023/

There is something extremely comfortable about attending an event, such as today’s 80th Guilford Vermont Fair, that is basically the same as what you experienced in the past, particularly if you enjoyed it. Today was no exception – layout the same, events the same, interesting exhibits basically the same, and a small manageable size. As I get older (in a few weeks I will be closer to my next age than the last – do not ask how many decades – well, I will answer since I “look good” but remember the toll three back operations can take. The next image gives you an overview of the main grounds.

I started at the OX PULL (left) – I do not understand all the rules, but this team pulled about 8,000 pounds – I left before winner announced. And to the right, again circus acts put on by students from a circus school in Brattleboro. Remember you may “click” my galleries for larger views.

I love this exhibit hall for the judging of crafts and veggies. I should have entered the zucchini I grew this year. Hey, if you need any zucchini, I still have some available – $1 each (I pay you).

This fellow I have enjoyed so many times before, particularly at Calvin Coolidge’s homestead at Plymouth Notch where he tours you in his wagon – quite the raconteur. Every year here he gives a sheep searing demonstration – but I found it hard to see the sheep.

Did I say sameness is a plus? Again an “outhouse expert” had an exhibit, and was entertaining listeners of all ages. Note in this small outhouse the small corn husks — you should know the purpose those husks serve. It appears this outhouse was in Kansas (hope you see why).

and the food at a “real” country fair is always a treat and special. The local fire fighters have a food concession as a benefit. Now, how can you beat the meal below for $15 – particularly when going to a good cause?

I am “not proud” and wish to be careful on uneven ground, even with my walking stick. Yes, with my back and arthritis issues I have had a few falls, so I availed myself of the golf cart service from and to the parking field. Heading out I sit in the cart, and fellow turns to me, “don’t tell me, you are Ray Boas.” I just love “small world.” Well, I met Chuck C. a few years back when exploring fascinating Guilford. I went up his drive (thinking it a road) to where I thought the old summer resort with spring house was. Yes, Chuck now owns the amazing property. We have emailed, and he hosts various events on his property — I need to get back there. I told Chuck I was heading to the Green River section of the town, and he said, “yes there is new management I understand at the Inn.”

Well — GUILFORD, VERMONT – one of Vermont’s earliest settlements – has four historic geographic regions. In my extensive history archives I recently rediscovered my brochure of THE VILLAGES OF GILFORD, VERMONT. Click my link on the preceding title for the PDF I made of that brochure, and head down to this idyllic area, and “fall in love.” Remember not only do I love Covered Bridges, but relish “dirt roads.”

Now for the treat — worth waiting for if you did not jump down here first – THE GREEN RIVER BRIDGE INN. For a number of years I have enjoyed coming to this relatively isolated (but close) spot just to see it, picnic, or dream. I had heard the Inn had reopened and with a restaurant – I had to see for myself. I parked BLUE BELLE.

and we (well, I) headed up to the front door…

Mike greeted me at the door, and invited me in. He toured me through the downstairs with the dining room and bar area.

and looking out to the yard and river

Mike took me upstairs to see some rooms. Below is the “bridal suite” and view off the small deck.

I then sat and visited with Dave (chef extraordinaire) and Mike. Since starting to experience Inns and B&Bs with my late and dear Cathy starting 30 years ago, I will say that this is one of my top experiences visiting with the owner or operators of an old historic Inn or B&B.

I have dinner reservations now in two weeks, and I can see winter getaways here to read and write.

And, now I can report on my exemplary dinner and visit Thursday evening, September 11. First below is walking out onto the porch looking down at the sprawling yard and Green River. When I was here before a local couple was having brunch, so I did not venture all the way out.

walking down the steps, and below left looking back to the Covered Bridge behind the Inn’s barn. Mail boxes for area residents are no longer on the bridge, but posted there are notices for area events and town meetings – one as recent as announcing a Town meeting just days away. To the right, walking back up to the Inn. (remember you may click my galleries – and single images – for larger views).

Please note the tree on the left along the river, and if I recall the correct name, growing on the right side of the trunk is a Chicken of the Woods mushroom. From the Inn’s website, they state – “… features farm-fresh, locally-sourced…” Foods. kinda local and kinda fresh, you will again see the morning’s harvest from here on my plate.

moving into dinner – an inviting place setting just waiting…

for the four course Prix Fixe meal, top to bottom, left to right: the mushrooms tasting almost like steak; salad; amazing salmon (trust not local from the Green River just outside) with amazing flavors; and finally freshly made (in kitchen behind where I sat) amazing cheese cake. My apologies to Dave, the chef, as my lighting and conflict with gold charger threw off the amazing colors in his presentation.

A couple staying at the Inn, following a bike journey up from Greenfield, MA, joined us for dinner, and interesting conversation. Dave joined in later on as did Mike after he visited with a local couple that stopped into the bar. So two reasons to visit: the EXPERIENCE and SURROUNDINGS, and the AMAZING MEAL I will return, thank you.

RAY RECOMMENDS
1 — Check out some local Vermont or New Hampshire country fairs – “too much fun”
2 — Check out the THE GREEN RIVER BRIDGE INN — without even having eating or stayed here, I highly recommend based upon the “vibes” I received from Dave and Mike — I will report on my dinner there.

Stay safe and well, luv, RAY

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FINALLY AN OVERNIGHT TO TRAVEL BACK ALMOST TWO CENTURIES – 22-23 AUGUST 2025

Posted on August 29, 2025 by Ray Boas

I think I have finally “broken the mold” by doing an overnight Friday 22 August – and I have even now planned three more adventures to experience and share. The genesis for this adventure was a 4 1/2 Hour Vacation I took 20 August 2017 which started because I read about Muster Field Farm in North Sutton, NH. If you look at that post you will see that heading to the farm I passed an Inn at the corner of the Kezar Lake (but on Keyser Street) – the Follansbee Inn – saying to myself now “on the list.”

This August 2025 trip was to stay at the Inn and to attend “Muster Field Farm Day.” Well, overwhelmed with experiences and images to share, I finally decided it would be best to make this trip into two posts to share. First my trip up to the Inn and stay there, and then “Farm Day” – to come soon. Looking at the map to figure out what to do on the way north I spotted several Covered Bridge symbols – idea for visits, and also the Telephone Museum would be open. A plan laid, and below is a map with my route to North Sutton and then home.

Beginning this “covered bridge” tour I decided to start in “the only Henniker on earth” to get close to the bridge there, basically secluded on the campus of New England College. You can walk from behind some dorms, but I found a dirt road off Main Street (Route 114). There had been various bridges here since the 1860s, but were washed out. Here now is the first authentic covered bridge to be built in New Hampshire in more than 100 years. It was built by and is owned by New England College, and dedicated in 1972. NOTE – foot traffic only.

continuing on towards Concord on Routes 9 and 202 you would never know that Rowell Covered Bridge is just a tad off to the left on Route 127 — make sure you detour for a few moments when heading to Concord.

Continuing on Route 127 you arrive in Contoocook, one of the three distinct communities of Hopkinton which include the village, mainly a residential area in the center of the town; Contoocook, the town’s business hub, located in the north; and West Hopkinton, This time passing through the CONTOOCOOK RAILROAD MUSEUM in the old B&M station was open.

Docent, Paul, gave me an in depth tour. Below left is the men’s waiting room, and to the right for the ladies. Nice exhibits, and well refurbished from previous commercial uses.

And the amazing railroad covered bridge. During two floods this bridge was washed off its piers, and amazingly re-righted. From here head out of town on 103.

before arriving in Warner on Route 103 is the Dalton Covered Bridge – watch for the sign for W. Joppa Road to make a left turn.

not just a “covered bridge” trip — today’s great stop was the New England Telephone Museum in Warner.

all I can say is visit their website – and then plan your visit. I was so pleased to see so many families, and with young children come in to enjoy the exhibits, including the learning hands-on exhibits. Yes, school not started yet, but they also host school groups year round. Did I say plan a visit? Not far away.

Bell’s first phone – a replica of the experiment, and shows why Bell yelled, “Watson come here.” I will not spoil for you. This is in the room with the introductory video – nine minutes – always the very best place to begin a visit to any museum — YES, I started here. Forgot to mention, my NARM membership level with OSV allowed me free entry (I did leave a donation however).

as small phone companies began their switchboards were often in homes, including the bedroom (remember you may click my “galleries” for larger images).

and, on these shelves are candlestick phones

old wall phones and novelty phones.

Continuing out of Warner on Route 103, watch for the sign for Waterloo and its Covered Bridge on Newmarket Road. A fascinating little community which I reported on when I discovered it in 2017 — worth a visit.

Continue on 103 toward Bradford, and just after the intersection with Route 114, make the left turn to the Bement Covered Bridge.

having seen on the map Bradford Center, I continued along until I found the “center” – basically only the meeting house now (remember in my last post I shared off the beaten path Wendell Common, Massachusetts?) — well, since you may not make the trek, below is “downtown” Bradford Center, New Hampshire.

I then arrived at my destination for the night – the Follansbee Inn  I spent some time on the porch, looking at the lake and reading.

It was then up to the New London Inn and their restaurant, The Elms. “Sorry, since only you I can only seat you at the bar – we have reservations.” Not wanting to sit at the bar (without a chair back) or at a high top table, I politely said, “no, you sure I cannot sit at a table?” Well, after her trip to discuss me with someone in kitchen, I was seated at a corner table — nice pleasing view, and guess what? While I was there no one else came in — see, I was not a problem.

having studied all the New London restaurant menus on-line, I decided I wanted the Corned Pork Tenderloin with Brussels sprouts, butternut squash dumplings, rutabaga puree. The cold harvest tomato soup also sounded great, and I started with that.

the next morning with the sun up I took some images around the common areas at the Inn. Below left sitting area which I enjoyed, right the “game room” and then the dining room, and breakfast buffet – Amazing.

Checking out I walked down to their beach to read awhile – below the Lake from the Inn’s private beach.

and these views walking back to GIGI (my gray van – Granite Girl).

It was then off to the Muster Field Farm Day festival which I will eventually share with you. Leaving the festival I drove around Kezar Lake, which I am told is a nice three mile walk.

the below images are from the dirt road along the lake, and the last image at the beach which is at the end of Wadleigh State Park — the Inn would be behind the large house you see to right center of the right side image below.

Since I started with Covered Bridges, I have to end with images below of McDermott Covered Bridge in Langdon, just up from Vilas Pool off Route 123A. I could have made a turn for one more, before heading up the hill to Drewsville, to share the Prentiss Covered Bridge, but thought you may be “bridged out.”

so, in time I will share the Muster Field Farm Day festival, but in closing ——

RAY HIGHLY RECOMMENDS
1 – Take just an over night away – it is totally rejuvenating
2 – Look at a map, possibly something there (a covered bridge symbol) may provide some focus for your outing
3 – Visit the New England Telephone Museum in Warner – and soon
4 – Plan your escape to stay at the Follansbee Inn  in North Sutton, NH — I will be going back.

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“DEAD ZONE” — or — “FILLING IN THE MAP” – 12 August 2025

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Ray Boas

“Did You Know That…” you are reading my 458th published post? And, I have some wonderful drafts of previous adventures that I should finish. Recently I have not been out for overnight travels – not sure totally why, but evenings and nights in AYU have somewhat taken over. Also I do spend time reviewing old trips, and thinking and researching short day hops. Of late I have done some rejuvenating with day outings, finishing with dinner and home early evening. The past week in looking at my Massachusetts map I realized there was a “Dead Zone” on Massachusetts Route 2A (Route 2 runs from Boston to the NY border) that I don’t have a need to traverse (and could not recall in much detail), so as Gary and I often do, it was time for “Filling in the Map.”

My Route 2A, and 2, “Dead Zone” is from Gardner west to Turners Falls. Coming back from my son’s homes on Route 2, I exit at Gardner and head north to Keene. If going south to Turners Falls and Deerfield I will head down Route 10 from Northfield. Below I marked up a Massachusetts map for you to follow (click to enlarge). Unlike with VT and NH maps, Massachusetts maps are hard to obtain, and I request on-line for the state to send me two at a time.

I worked my way down through Baldwinville and Otter River to East Templeton where I picked up 2A and headed east stopping first at the Common in Templeton, founded in 1762, first laid out in 1733. Initially agrarian, paper making and other water powered industries began in the early 1800s (in the now Baldwinville area of Templeton) powered by the local river.

As I began to realize later, several spots I explored today I had crossed on other roads while exploring. To the right of the Common below, on the north side of 2A is an amazing old hotel/inn now serving as apartments – I remembered it.

Continuing west, I saw the sign for Phillipston off to the south. Population about 1750, “Rural and remote, Phillipston is marked by forests, winding roads and historic stonewalls; it serves as the northern entrance to the Quabbin Reservoir. Its one village – the historic town center – is comprised of a town common…” Behind me from where I took this image is the Town Hall.

Heading back to 2A, just off the Commons is this home — I could live here. Many more great residences in the area. So, do side trip down to the village.

Athol was next. When I head down from Keene on Route 32 to Petersham, Barre and eventually OSV, I pass through Athol, but this time stopping at the Common below.

with this great sign, and I saw others while driving west to “downtown” which is west of where Route 32 continues north.

An early industrial town, the massive Sterrett Company (tool manufactures) is next, then the old style small city with traditional early 20th century commercial architecture. To the south on the hill above the Main Street is the old train station.

I then passed through Orange, finally placing it as well. When I travel back up the west side of the Quabbin Reservoir on Route 122, I would stop at antique shops here – now boarded up. Then a tad to the west I would head north on Route 78 to Warwick, Mass., and eventually into Winchendon, NH.

BUT, do not miss the small sign a ways out of Orange indicating Wendell off to the left. Crossing the railroad tracks there was an old store or depot being fixed. Is this the town? Not sure I continued up a winding twisty and wooded road, finally being rewarded at the Wendell Common with historical society below – old meeting house, library and Town Hall, and yes, a few homes. With a population of 924 in 2020, this area is considered part of the Springfield metropolitan area (hey that is what it says on-line). The feature of the area is the Wendell State Forest which covers 7,566 acres of rolling forested hills, streams, ponds, and trails. 

Below the meeting house up close, and across the Common (Town Hall behind me at this point) – do click to enlarge images.

continuing west I felt like I was on a rural upstate Vermont or New Hampshire road, but soon realized I had probably on this stretch, unless only coming from the west to the FREIGHT HOUSE ANTIQUES in Erving – also with s small lunch counter. Second time in a week while out and about have I seen signs like the below which says – “The World is Short Staffed. Please be Kind to Those of Us Who Showed Up”. Hey, it was about 3 pm – when on the road I sometimes have weird meal times, but sat down and had a Greek Salad Wrap.

My original plan for the day was to turn into Turners Falls and head down to “play” in the Deerfield area, and then conclude the day with dinner in Bernardston. But with a late lunch, and a favorite stop closed Tuesday (did not realize that) I was ahead of schedule at 4 pm. So, I headed back home, buying groceries in Keene on the way (that was the plan).

Prompting this exploration was a book in my library — North of Quabbin Revisited : A Guide to Nine Massachusetts Towns North of Quabbin Reservoir by Allen Young. I have other books on the Quabbin Reservoir, and have shared some adventures there at the remaining towns and museum areas.

RAY RECOMMENDS:
Learn about the Quabbin area, and then explore these small unique towns, but just an hour away, but make a day out of it.

BONUS – Finally — I CANNOT WIN – now 13 August — getting read for lunch today, I get TV started on porch to watch the noon news — bring glass of water in — and all is well. Bring my lunch plate out, and I HAVE A VISITOR… whether a newcomer, or a left over from days ago (but that one should be dead by now) there he/she was

I have had them on porch screens (inside) before but maybe the new ultrasonic device I bought (thanks to recent increased visitations) drove she/he out this way — well, get container with top, place container over my mammal friend, slide cover underneath — couple squeaks while I head outside, toss container and she/he flew away.

Who is next? Life has been easier — stay well, and watch out for black flying mammals – RAY

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ACWORTH (NH) ROCKS ! — 2 AUGUST 2025

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Ray Boas

Occasionally looking at Facebook, I am looking for notices of events I may wish to attend, or places to explore. About a week ago I saw:

In June 2018 I attended the very famous “Rock Show” event in Gilsum, New Hampshire. When I mentioned to my sons I was going they were surprised, and asked me what bands were playing. Well the Gilsum show is renowned and big. Cathy and I never made it together (she enjoyed minerals and gems) but I made it in 2018 – and you may wish to visit the post of that experience, scroll down to the midpoint for the story and fascinating images. The Gilsum show has been on my list for June adventures, but I never never made it again. I forgot to get it on the list for 2024, and this year sadly it conflicted with Walpole’s Old Home Days. So, why not get a “rock fix” and head off to very small Acworth.

Climbing the very long hill (about two miles) up from South Acworth, which is on Route 123A, you arrive on the open ground with the old Meetinghouse – Church.

To the left is the newer town hall with offices and a meeting room.

Arriving about two hours after the show began — it was not big, nor crowded — buy hey, an excuse for Auntie EM and I to have a date on a gorgeous day. For comparison, do look at the crowds I shared the Gilsum “Rock Swap” with in 2018.

Here are some exhibits – and remember you can click my “gallery images” for larger sizes.

Outside the Town Hall is this well done memorial area to Acworth’s veterans. The stone on the left, with the Revolutionary War names, was a stepping stone to a local Tavern in the late 1700s.

And, without fear thanks to Dr. Dewey’s fine mechanical overall of all things mechanical on Auntie EM, going down a two mile long hill was not scary, and stopping at the intersection with Route 123A, I turned left to the South Acworth Store – now 160 years old, and a real treasure. To save it, the historical society and community took over its operation in 2001 — there are not many shopping venues in the area. I have always wanted to stop and support their efforts. I complimented the staff, and made my lunch purchase….

since my plan was to head back down 123A to Vilas Pool for my third visit this season to eat lunch, and read. Yes, can even read on my iPhone the Libby book I was reading at home on my iPad.

prior to leaving I headed around the back of the pavilion building to the game and picnic area, and sat and watched some kids swimming.

The top image below is looking over Auntie EM’s windshield to the pool, and then below that is BLUE BELLE in about the same spot on our visit on July 27. SEE THE DIFFERENCE? A week ago, following a repair to the dam (with the pool drained), the manager told me when we were visiting that another problem had been found and with permitting and other problems there was a possibility of no water this season. Well today the young staff there told me that fortunately a small problem was found instead, and quickly fixed — just in time for the 100th anniversary party on August 16.

NOW — when Auntie EM and I were leaving this morning we heard a whimper from AYU — and something that sounded like “…I want one too.” I thought and thought, and it hit me when at the “show.” Remember the box of fossils above? Did you go to my post of the 2018 Gilsum show and scroll down to see the “treasure” I brought home? Yes, a fossil is on my center island in “44’s” kitchen, and now AYU has a fossil as well on the table in the center of her room.

In case you do not recognize this, it is a ORTHOCERAS — and to save you time looking it up — “Orthoceras, also known as Orthoceratites, is a genus of extinct nautiloid cephalopod. Its name is derived from the words “straight horn”, referring to its long, conical shell. These creatures roamed the seas during the Ordovician Period (485 million – 443 million years ago). They are the ancient ancestors of ammonites and squid that can be found in sizes ranging from a centimeter to over 14 feet long.” And, in learning that, I see many references and ones for sale — at least I did not pay shipping, and no sales tax in NH — but more important AYU now is happy and also feels important.

If you have nothing to do on the 3rd, run up to Acworth — but at least put the June 2026 Gilsum Rock Swap on your calendar.

AND — for a relaxing time pack a lunch or dinner, and a book or two, and enjoy VILAS POOL in Alstead. Interested in heading out on a Swan Boat with me?

Enjoy, yours, RAY

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WINDHAM COUNTY – 171km LOOP – 24 JULY 2025

Posted on July 25, 2025 by Ray Boas

My last overnight adventure was in April. For some reason I have not felt like doing overnights, but that will change. I have planned trips, places new to see, or to revisit, but it has gotten harder to find accommodations, so those notes are all in folders. Do I ever miss the days when B&Bs and Inns had easy to find websites, you could call, and talk to someone. In May and June I spent my time helping on the play for Old Home Days, but I did take a day off during that time, making a fun loop to Massachusetts finishing with a lovely dinner at the Whately Inn which is always good, and I enjoy. Not really out of the way off I-91, so do swing by – they have over 50 years serving the public.

Hopefully you read about my day trips this July on the 4th, 5th and 6th, and then again on the 11th. For about four days I have been playing with ideas (hey, the planning is an escape itself), and I decided that today would be lunch in Grafton, head to a great shop sidetracking in Wardsboro on the way, and then back from Dover on a “new to me” remote back dirt route to Newfane and home. Not needing anything, but always on the eye out for a treasure — I bought another “Tiny House” today, complete with porch and fireplace. More at the end of this tale – hook to get you to the end.

Lunch is always great in Grafton at the Grafton Market.

Before I go further, let me give you a highlighted route of what I did — you can refer back, and plan to go yourself I hope. And, you can click to enlarge.

Finishing lunch, I headed out Route 121 – The Grafton Inn is almost next door. And, you should remember that if not for a serendipitous stay here Cathy and I made in May 2002, I would not be writing this from New Hampshire today.

Just past the Inn, Route 121 turns off to the right past the church heading out of town. I often come in this way when heading home, turning off Vermont 11, but today realized I seldom (if ever) have headed out this way. Around the bend a sign read “Winding Dirt Road Next Ten Miles.” BLUE BELLE was happy.

The plan was to turn left at this major four-way intersection below through Windham itself, south to Route 30 at West Townsend (remember map above).

Watch the steep hill heading down near the intersection with Route 30. I was watching so well I probably missed the sign for the Windham Hill Inn – I have stopped, wanted to see it again – well next time.

So, back to the map above, turn right (west) on Route 30 at the old West Townsend General Store, and shortly turn left on Vermont 100 – the backbone of the state, Ironically earlier before I left I found this website on Route 100.

Soon you arrive in Wardsboro — known for their 4th of July parades – I attended back in 2018. In Jamaica (Vermont that is) Cathy and I often visited the Mary’s House at Ephesus, and I did head there sharing with you a similar trip in 2016. Isolated in Jamaica, you get there from Wardsboro’s Main Street off Route 100 – you cannot miss this turn with the store.

Just to help a tad, here is a WAZE screenshot of when I was at Mary’s house. The image above is the CITGO mentioned on the map. Follow Main Street (and its name changes) until you reach this sign below, and turn right.

On the right, the circle with arrow is Mary’s house. You can click the WAZE map for the road names.

Right turn, and soon on the left is the House of Ephesus — further down the road and up the hill (with great views) is a retreat house for functions and Stations of the Cross.

back to the map — the plan was from Wardsboro to continue south on Route 100 to West Dover. I seldom am on this section of 100 – no need to be passing through. I passed Mount Snow, and forgot how commercial with lodging, restaurants and the like. But my destination is just below the winter attractions — been here twice before – probably the most fascinating and extensive Thrift Shop anywhere – TWICE BLESSED. This is a Facebook link – their website is linked from there BUT do not follow that link as I believe it is infected with a virus link.

For size comparison of the building, you can see BLUE BELLE in the lower right of the picture. Just their room of Christmas decorations far surpasses any Christmas specific shop I have ever been in. And the merchandise is constantly changing with quality items — VISIT SOON.

leaving this great shopping and browsing therapy and experience, continue south on Route 100, and just after the Dover Historical Society (on the right) turn left up a hill on Dorr Fitch Road (if you were playing in Wilmington and coming north, turn right on East Dover Road). Yes, you are heading to East Dover for the back road to Newfane (remember map above). I have driven through East Dover several times, and on July 4, 2022, I captured the image below of “downtown” the store and post office. If you look at the map above again, you will see the route I wanted to take north out of East Dover. Well, store closed, post office lobby (7 by 10 feet) only open, and no one around to ask about the road for sure. Walking back out – “Ray’s Timing” the mail carrier pulled in alongside BLUE BELLE, and showing him my map confirmed the road I wanted was the one to the left of the store turning up the hill.

well, in re-reading that post – FILLING IN THE MAP – 4 JULY 2022 (do re-look at this post – lots of ideas for fun) – I realized that I had been on this road, but in the opposite direction having looped out of Newfane on a back road. REMEMBER – a route is different when driving in opposite directions, and varies day to day and season to season.

Do try this back road – did I say dirt, twisty, and tree covered? Too much fun. So, time for the reveal. In my post of 4 July 2022 you can see several vintage campers I found, but not to be, Then I did have campers, not for me, and then came AYU – my “Tiny House” retreat in the back. But, not liking only having one of something, I needed another “Tiny House” and found the one below, yes at TWICE BLESSED, and now mine. You may recall my fascination with these tin structures that I have seen on the Christmas Holiday Tours. Well, I have one now, but need more. PS — set me back all of $6 at TWICE BLESSED, well, everything on first floor (except furniture) was half price — even $12 a bargain.

Stay safe and well — a hot day on July 25th as I am finishing this up. Did not accomplish too much today, but that is alright — catch you soon, love, RAY

BONUS — BONUS

I do not ever want you to think you are not getting your money’s worth with SHUNPIKING WITH RAY — and, remember, “you get what you pay for.” — Well, it has been well over a decade if not twelve years since I planted vegetables outside my porch in a small garden area. Not much — just want to feel creative and watch something grow. Plants cost me $30, so I will keep track to see what my tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and zucchini cost. But yesterday, for the first time – I AM SEEING RED ! – and here is my first Cherry Tomato.

and, one of about three green bell peppers.

did I say cucumbers?

and zucchini?

hey, may have some of them mixed up — all green and late in the day. But searching on line, I hope I am not running late on my first harvest, as here is what I learned and copied to remember, and now share.

Zucchini is typically ready to harvest when it’s about 6 to 8 inches long. You can start harvesting earlier, around 5-6 inches, for a more tender, flavorful zucchini. Zucchini grows quickly, so check your plants frequently, as they can go from ideal size to overripe in a DAY
 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Size: Aim for 6-8 inches long for the best flavor and texture.  
Maturity: Zucchini can be harvested at any stage, but letting them get too large results in a tougher, more seedy zucchini.  
Checking: Look for firm, intact zucchini, often with dark green skin, though some varieties are yellow or white.  
Harvesting: Use a knife or clippers to cut the stem a couple of inches from the fruit.  
Frequency: Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production
Cucumbers should be picked when they reach their desired size, have hardened, glossy skin, and a lighter green color than when they were first developing. Most slicing cucumbers are ready when they are 6 to 8 inches long.
 
The perfect time to harvest your cucumbers is when the top is dark green and the bottom is a lighter green doesn’t matter the size of the cucumbers. you do not want to make your cucumber turn yellow or white or else it will be sour
 
A nice, ripe cucumber will be firm and deep green—or yellow or light green (like the poona kheera cucumber below) or white or brown if you’re growing one of the many fun varieties. Peak firmness is typically about 8 to 10 days after the female flower opens up to be pollinated.

AND NOW YOU KNOW — have fun, luv, RAY

AND A BIGGER BONUS
HARVEST TIME — 27 JULY 2025

Walking down the drive this morning I saw a “big honker” peeping out under a zucchini plant leaf. Harvesting this afternoon, there were three in the same spot. And I see more ready to harvest. Here they are (cost per item starting to decline).

And what do I do with them? Well back on July 19, 2013, following a harvest I posted on Facebook:

WHO NEEDS A GROCERY STORE? One massive zucchini found hidden under growth this morning in my tiny but productive plot. Tomato picked this morning and sweet onion from Allen Bros. Farm Stand in Vermont (thank you Tim and Stacey). Coat with olive oil, sprinkle garlic salt and cover with Mozzarella (store bought, sorry) — and bake. And, in typical Ray fashion, I have a second delicious meal all ready to be zapped. On order and due Monday – NO RECIPE COOKBOOK – I have become that good!!! — I am a “catch.”

and, this is what I prepared, to be repeated this week – well won’t be my own tomatoes yet – in time.

Here is the recipe I found in July 2013 — Slice the zucchini in half. Slice off the bottom to keep it stable. Brush with olive oil and top with garlic or garlic powder. Top with sliced tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste. Use mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese or mixed blend. Bake 375 for 20 to 30 minutes until soft.

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