Auntie EM came home from hospital, having had a complete mechanical repair, replace and rejuvenate, the end of March. On April 1st (no foolin’) we had a short spin, and on May 1st, in between periods of cold and rain, she and I looped through the hills in town for 14 miles. Not having travelled much of late (particularly in a 95 year old car – even though about two months old mechanically) I have been hesitant to get out and about. Trying not to think I am aging. Had to “break the mold.”
In February, playing around on-line, I discovered that a new region of the Model A Ford Club of America(MAFCA) had been established just recently — The Monadnock A’s. Decades ago I had been a member of MAFCA. I contacted Eric who established the new region, and was most welcomed. I joined, attended a meeting recently, and today was the first outing by the club. Auntie EM and I headed to Swanzey, south of Keene, to join with other members for a tour in the area, an area which within about an eight mile drive has an amazing number of Covered Bridges.
The group met today, Friday, 16 May at 10:00 am at Frogg Brewing on Sawyers Crossing Road in Swanzey, close to the first Covered Bridge – the bridges the focus of today’s first tour of the club. Below is Eric’s coupe, and two Cabriolets. In college in 1965 I bought an original 1928 Tudor Sedan, drove it back to Connecticut during spring break – just made it burning out the rings. My dad had just finished a ’31 Cabriolet which I drove back to Chicago, and then back to Connecticut – basically US 6 all the way.
Below Auntie EM to the right, and an original 1928 Four Door Phaeton. I saw this car four or five years ago at the Dublin “hit n’ miss” show and fell in love with it. I traded numbers with her owner. I have a friend with an empty garage – “mum’s the word.” – If you wish, all my images may be “clicked” for larger sizes.
and, off we went — the back roads of Swanzey and Winchester deserve further exploration.
next was Carleton Bridge, also in Swanzey on Carleton Road east on Route 32.
heading back to NH Route 10, and turn off to the west is Coombs Bridge in Winchester dating from 1837 and also crossing the Ashuelot River. We looped around on the other side and crossed back through.
The Slate Bridge (below) in Swanzey, also over the Ashuelot River, dates from 2001 replacing the 1862 bridge that was destroyed by an arson fire 1993.
have you been wondering how I got these shots while driving? Well, having a convertible with top down helps, and also a fantastic handle for my iPhone that I found years ago. Alas, not all works perfectly and I did not get a good balanced shot of the Thompson Bridge in Swanzey, so here is an older postcard of it. These villages, including Westport do deserve more reading about and then exploration for sure.
Eric handed out this flyer from a Covered Bridge consulting firm – you may wish to click to enlarge, read, and help plan your explorations. The tour ended at the home of member Jim and his wife for a luncheon, and concluded with a short business meeting.
after publishing this post I found a great Covered Bridge resource. I had heard of this book, but found the author also has a website dedicated to New Hampshire Covered Bridges. Click the image below to get to her site.
Kim has broken down NH into covered bridge road trip regions including the area we covered, so lick this link – MONADNOCK REGION DAY TRIP – do explore the entire website.
My “auntie” says she is ready to head out again and explore — thanks for looking, love, RAY
I need to catch up with writing about past adventures, but best start is to begin with my recently completed adventure. Six years ago I started writing about my trips exploring the Erie Canal, but my interest goes back much further, Joining the Canal Society of New York State in 2019 I have been able to join their trips and learn more, and thus provide you with some of that adventure and learning. This “study tour” covered spots I have explored on my own, but it is so much better when you can tour with a focused group. This post may get long as I try to share history, but hopefully keep it brief to spur you to your own explorations – in the Mohawk Valley.
Within this stretch of the Mohawk Valley you can easily see all three stages of the Erie Canal. The engineering and construction solutions amaze me, and I need to learn more. Ironically, this morning as I sat down to write this, on Facebook the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor provided this background, which I will share, giving them the credit, of course.
Since its grand opening in 1825, the canal has been enlarged three times to accommodate larger boats and more traffic. Changes were made to the route and to canal structures like locks and bridges each time.
1825 – CLINTON’S DITCH: At just four feet deep and 40 feet wide, the original Erie Canal quickly became choked with boats. It was enlarged starting in 1826 and only a few original structures remain.
1836-1862 – ENLARGED ERIE: The Enlarged Erie built upon and improved the original. At seven feet deep and 70 feet wide, the canal could handle increased loads and traffic. If you’re looking at an old stone lock, canal wall, or aqueduct, it’s probably from the era of the Enlarged Erie.
1905-1918 – ERIE BARGE) CANAL: With the advent of motorized vessels, mules and towpaths were no longer needed along the canal. New York State enlarged the canals and moved some sections into rivers and lakes to create the New York State Barge Canal System. The structures and channels that operate today are largely unchanged from when the system went into operation in 1918.
The tour was on Saturday the 5th, but with preliminary explorations on Friday. I headed to Amsterdam, NY, on Thursday to be in position for the Friday informal explorations. Lodging was planned at the Amsterdam Castle – originally built in 1895 as a National Guard Armory. I needed to learn more. My son, Gary, and I call these research “rabbit holes.” Briefly a good number of these local armories were built in New York State following the Draft Riots in NY City in the 1860s and continuing with civil unrest between immigrant groups, religious factions and laborers in years following. The idea being the presence of the guard may lessen the chance of any civil unrest – the Armory here is prominent on a hill across the river from the large mills in Amsterdam. Please visit the National Guard Armory website where there is a great history is in the fourth paragraph down explain all this.
The exterior of the “castle” is little changed from the early 20th century postcard view above. The main floor drill area, however, has been transformed into a banquet hall, decorated with armor and other medieval accouterments.
some interesting areas reworked into suites, but on the second floor is this room where campaigning John F. Kennedy spoke September 29, 1960.
remember when you see my “side by side” galleries you can click for larger image views.
After settling in I headed out to explore awhile. Coming west from Ballston Spa I took NY 67 to Amsterdam. This evening I headed back east on 5S which I have not been on in this area. I first pulled into Lock 10.
turning around and heading back west I crossed the river to Tribes Hill and Lock 12 which I first visited in July 2019.
also on that July trip I first explored SCHOHARIE CROSSING STATE HISTORIC SITE – RAY RECOMMENDS – If you must limit your Erie Canal explorations this is where to come because you can experience all three iterations of the canal with remaining routes and structures in close proximity. You will see more about this area in this post, and in the July 2019 post I linked above.
FRIDAY APRIL 4 — I drove west towards Little Falls on 5S stopping in Danube to meet the group for the pre-tour adventures. Craig Williams, the president of the Society and who is a retired senior historian at the New York State Museum, is in the center introducing the first hike.
we crossed this bridge over a cut for water control, the destination the Rocky Rift Dam. Having had a fall 36 hours earlier, I did not make the entire walk to be safe.
Later we assembled on the west side of the Schoharie River (bottom of map on right), which is part of this amazing state historic area. Why you ask? With the canal shut down dams are open, winter waters flowing, and river levels down allowing Canal Fanatics the opportunity to explore under the famous enlarged canal Schoharie Creek Aqueduct to see the amazing workmanship. In the image to the right (with my WAZE app) you can see the creek and areas of the historic site. The museum is on Schoharie St. additional earlier canal remains in area of the “Florida” wording, and Lock 12 to the left after the road crosses the Mohawk River.
pointed out was the care the craftsmen took to match up the quarried stone graining, even though not a showpiece area.
the next two images illustrate the supporting areas for the tow path and the trough for the water. You can also see a cut out area for supports to hold the trough with its weighty water.
after years of my posts you should know I like (and have an eye out for) textures – shadows – and framing. Can’t get more texture with shadowing at once – or fun framing.
of the fourteen arches some had fallen, and others taken away so as to not hold back ice and flooding. No this is not a fallen Roman aqueduct, but New York grown and fallen.
the informal day concluded, I headed back to the Armory on the south side of the river, but first stopped at the park and footbridge across the river. In the top image you can see the old carpet mill on the hill in the background. Bottom image is looking east. Warning – in this area there is a definite lack of dining options.
Saturday the 5th (dreary with light rain – thus poor images) the tour bus was off at 8:30, our first stop was the Canal Corporation repair facility in Fonda. Bouys were stored on the shore and the banner above shows them lined up. I captured a similar image on the Oswego Canal trip in May of 2022.
of interest is this canal work tug. If I recall correctly it was built a few inches shorter than the length that the Coast Guard would require a licensed captain. A strange shape I had to share.
As I mentioned before – in this area you can see features of all three canal phases. With Clinton’s Ditch (1825) several creeks or rivers were crossed by building dams to create slack water flowing opposite the canal. Then there would be a gate (as in image below) in the canal to be opened when time for a canal boat to pass.
opposite the above is the creek, and you can see the remains of the stone dam that created the slack water. At the top left is the remnants of an early aqueduct.
and, in the museum is this model of the large aqueduct from the Enlarged Canal construction. This is the aqueduct we explored yesterday, and later on below.
we then headed back over to the west side of the creek where yesterday we were under the aqueduct. Joining us was a site employee with the key to the gate and we were allowed to carefully traverse the tow path. Path on the left – trough for the canal boats on the right side (wood structures supported by piers long gone)
below you can see the museum in the background on the east side of the creek
on the west side the canal was constructed across fields with berms built up to hold the water and tow path. Imagine farming your land and looking up 20 to 30 feet and seeing a boat going by.
It was then back on the bus up onto the Thruway and a stop at the Mohawk Valley Welcome Center at milepost 187 when heading west. A great place to stop — and I have many times when cheating on the “super-slab” – the building was designed to look like a lock warehouse and has great exhibits. Outside a fun themed playground – and easy access and viewing of Lock 13 on the Barge Canal.
We continued west on the Thruway. At the museum is this early view (with some artistic license) of THE NOSES located near Sprakers. often referred to as the Gateway to the West (1614-1925). Little Nose is on the left – 414 feet high, and Big Nose on the right (north side of river). The Mohawk River flows between.
I took a picture from the bus, but could only capture the north Big Nose. Later I found in the Canal Society’s 2013 tour guide the below image, and received permission to share here. Route 5 on the right side of the river, and on the left side is the Thruway. The canals also ran on the south side as did the West Shore Railroad. Do click to enlarge for full impact.
Photo above from the late Thomas K. Grasso who was president of the canal society for over 30 years, and an accomplished geologist. You may recall I attended a five day seminar at Historic Deerfield on the geology of the Connecticut River Valley – and I cannot now look at “rock cuts” without wanting to know more. Well, again it is geology that allowed this passage west, and the means for canal construction, and later the railroad. While chasing another rabbit down a hole, I found this YouTube video by Grasso discussing the geology of the area. So, take the time and view and learn – click image.
A next stop was in Fort Plain on 5S. I had seen buildings built over locks, but Craig received permission for us to explore the property. From The Erie Canal Website – “Enlarged Erie Canal Lock No. 32 is located in Fort Plain, N.Y. at the east end of town on Route 5S. The lock is a double-chamber lock originally built about 1850, with the south chamber double-length, lengthened in 1888. Lock No. 32 currently has a garage and house built atop it. The lock runs through the basements of both the garage building and the house to the west and across the front yard of the house.” Below and filled in are the top stones of one of the locks.
As traffic increased, with as many as 200 boats a day, many of the locking locations added a second lock to facilitate two way traffic. Usually the east bound locks were longer for larger loads of goods heading to New York City. In the old postcard below you can see the newer longer and larger lock on the left. Note the partial building on the right side – more about this later.
Below the right hand lock (as seen above) — the house on the left has the newer lock as a basement.
long view of both locks – was overcast and raining thus not great images.
inside the larger lock on the south side closest to 5S
the stonework at the east end of this lock
you can make out the foundation of the canal store I mentioned above. Deteriorated, disassembled, and put in storage by the state museum years ago, Fort Plain asked for it, got remaining pieces back, and is preparing an exhibit…
inside this building…
a model of the store that was along the canal
the facade is being recreated inside to the left – I will have to visit this interpretive exhibit when finished.
On 4 May this post and image appeared on Facebook, and I thought it fun to share here: Fred Fineour’s canal store was located at the end of present day State Street by the old Erie Canal lock 32. Canal boats stopped here to stock up on necessities as the boats made their way along the canal. In the 1980’s the State Museum in Albany dismantled the store and removed it to their warehouse with the thought of reconstructing a part of it at the museum in Albany. That never happened and the state returned the storefront to the Friends of Fort Plain where it is presently being erected inside 47 Main Street.
You have to know where to look — and on the opposite bank, hidden by the branches are aqueduct remains from Clinton’s Ditch in Sprakers.
WOW – a full day, after dinner a great evening program on the GUY PARK MANOR adjoining the Mohawk River damaged by flooding and its restoration.
If you made it here, I applaud and thank you. Documenting these memories took me over several days as I kept finding more things I needed to learn more about, and then included those links in case you wish to dig further. – Yours, RAY
RAY RECOMMENDS 1 – Explore this section of the Mohawk Valley and its history 2 – Let those explorations expand from one tidbit to another – follow those rabbit holes 3 – Learn about the Erie Canal, its impact on our nation, and marvel at its engineering feats and what remains after 100-200 years.
12 April — this just popped up on my Facebook feed — looks like a great history series – I will watch later today – looks like great history and images – click below and give it a try. NOTE – if you click the > at the bottom of the first video you will get the chapter list on the right.
This adventure and project started began 29 June 2024 when I had a casual chat with Ashley and her mother. “We may wish to sell our Model A Ford Roadster,” they told me; “Do let me know if you decide,” I replied. October 1, 2024, the email came, “we are ready.” The first chance they had for a visit was 2 pm the coming Saturday October 5, 2024, the Saturday. Arriving promptly, ten minutes later I was counting out my cash. “She runs great,” I was told, “but this morning she would not start, and we would prefer you not drive her home.” She would not start, and sadly I left trying to figure out what to do next. November 1, 2024 — instead of moving Auntie EM directly to Dr. Dewey, he and I decided to wait for to fix what was supposedly “a starter problem” AUNTIE EM had a piggy back ride to “44”. about January 3, 2025 — the good Doctor and I chatted, and he planned a visit to “44” – when here we found the engine stuck, and the gas tank totally dry – no wonder she would not start on October 5.
January 13, 2025 – AUNTIE EM had another piggy-back ride to Dr. Dewey’s on a remote mountain top in Weston, VT. A half hour after her arrival he emailed with this image saying, “be prepared for a complete engine rebuild.”
It got worse — starting at the front bumper — replace bearings and king pins in front end — recore radiator – total engine rebuild – flywheel teeth chipped (freezing engine) – three gears in transmission shot – emergency brake assembly bent.
Enough said – you get the point – EVERYTHING mechanical from front bumper to rear bumper inspected and repaired or replaced (no Federal funding – no Medicare – simply cash – thank you books). I now have a 95 year old car with a new drive train – and that was our plan for my serious driving to come — my desire to replicate some of my road trip adventures in NH and VT in 1963 and 1964 traveling up from my home in Wilton, Connecticut.
Below my visit at Dr. Dewey’s on March 28 — almost done !
And, on 31 March we agreed to meet in Chester, Vermont (yes was first there in 1963 in my 1929 Model A Ford Roadster – Belzebuth). We changed cars at the Sunoco station after gasing up.
and, now 1 April — I took a five mile spin (no fooling) with two young Belles in the rumble seat. LET THE ADVENTURES BEGIN — and remember to follow AUNTIE EM’s adventures on “Shunpiking with Ray” – luv, RAY
I have mentioned I am behind in my posts “to remember and to share” and here I am “catching up” with this year’s and last visits to The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Mass., both to quietly celebrate my birthday, and for the memories. So here goes first with 2025 and then followed by last year 2024.
to set the stage — here is an image of curiosity that may get you to continue scrolling and reading down to find out the “hook.” This image was taken when I arrived in Stockbridge on Monday the 10th
By now you should know that “this is my spot” – waiting to hear her footsteps and then her beauty and fashion coming into view. Dark and quiet, hard to get a sharp image, but the memories.
I do not recall being on the fourth floor before, but my room was great. Sitting area in bedroom, spacious, and an amazing bathroom. If I was not worried about falling I would have used the tub, but opted for the separate shower to be safe. Remember you can click my images for larger sizes.
My plan on Tuesday was to head to Hudson, NY, which is packed with antique shops. Cathy and I visited there over 25 years ago. There is a large antique warehouse, fun, but mainly large items – few smalls, and less books. I then travelled some back roads I had not been on for ages back to Great Barrington only to find scouting again poor. At least I was out seeing old haunts — BUT Monday’s drive from Pittsfield down US 7 to Lenox was so sad with such massive changes in one year – big condo buildings and new massive retail building going up the entire route. I do not understand it – where do the people work?
on the way back I looped through Housatonic on Route 183. Was pretty sure this was the spot I have visited before and had to see again – I did drive past a few years ago. Yes, and now the background history – below the Glendale Power House is a historic power station on the Housatonic River. The 1905 power house, built for the Monument Mills, is one of the first places in the United States where electricity was generated to provide power to an industrial facility. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the facility has been rehabilitated and converted into modernized hydroelectric power generation plant.
Posted KEEP OUT – DO NOT ENTER, etc. etc., the gate was open. I parked just inside the gate and walked down for the above image figuring I could talk my way out of getting arrested. And why? Because I just wanted to take some shots where I parked in September, 1963 in my 1929 Model A Ford Roadster – Belzebuth. I trust by now you know I will be revisiting many of my explorations this summer in my “new” 1930 Model A Roadster. Please click these to enlarge.
Then not even 3 miles north it was back on the porch enjoying life as it passes by.
and out for a walk up Main Street I always enjoy stopping in this store which reminds me so much of my Country Store collection. In 1963 or 64 at a country auction in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, I sadly was underbidder for the nickel plated display case exactly to the right in the image below, BUT, I was able in the early 1980s to purchase the same style case in oak in an old shop closing in downtown Philadelphia. I love my country store stuff.
Disappointed with the poor scouting on Tuesday, I decided to simply enjoy the Inn on the 12th (sort of a special day for the past 79 years), and I read a cozy mystery, finished my presentation for a 250th anniversary on the 15th, and completed my Did You Know That…. history article for my April CLARION. And, waited for son, Gary, to arrive from Boston to join me for dinner. First time I got to see his “new” car.
and, dinner.
Thursday time to head north. I had moved this holiday up a day so I could be back to give a presentation at the 250th Anniversary of the Westminster (VT) Massacre across the river from me. This is the little known first blood and deaths in the American Revolution. On the way home I was able to stop in Cheshire, Massachusetts to visit the MAMMOTH CHEESE MONUMENT below to capture this image to include in my Did You Know That History…. article in my April CLARION – click here for my article if you wish to take a look. And, then it was home.
Now back to 2024’s visit, documentation begun a year ago here.
Finally again after a three year hiatus – no excuse other than thank you COVID for slowing us all down. But I am back continuing my stays since Cathy and I came for Valentine’s Day in 1996. But my history on US 7 (you know my favorite road) goes back, and I first drove past the Inn in 1962 (63 years ago) in my 1929 Model A Ford Roadster. On a camping trip in the 1970s, driving by and I think the kids were asleep in the car, I parked, came up on the porch, entered, looked around, and knew someday I would be back to enjoy this world.
Reading about the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum and Train Rides I was surprised to learn of a train station in Lenox that I had never seen. Before “beating myself up too much” for missing it I discovered it is located far to the east of “downtown” Lenox.
Some views around this “out of the way” train treasure.
of course I then had to stop at the Stockbridge Train Station – a real beauty.
I took a similar picture of a baggage cart at the Branchville, Connecticut, station in about 1960. Entering it in the Kodak contest I won an honorable mention and my picture was displayed at the Kodak Exhibit on the second level of Grand Central Station in NYC. I will have to dig it out to share here – yes I have many momentoes of my past.
and my fine room on this visit – complete with “Victorian” wallpaper.
and from “my spot” watching for her and listening for her footsteps.
my first visit with half of the dining room changed into additional lounge area — pretty nice.
Yes, I have “my spot” on the porch as well.
In March 2024 I then had dinner at ZINC in Lenox — “off season” the dining room at The Red Lion Inn is now closed Mondays and Tuesdays. The French Onion soup is amazing.
the next day I took a round about route over favorite roads to Millerton, NY, for an antique center, and then return to Stockbridge. Through West Stockbridge to NY Route 22 down towards Austerlitz, but first backroading to Edna St. Vincent Millay’s home. I have yet to be there “in season” when open for visits.
One of my favorite spots that I have often explored – and recently in going through my travel records from 1963 discovered I camped at the adjoining camp ground at that time with my 1929 Model A. Roadster — will visit this summer (2025) but maybe stay in a cabin – past tenting and sleeping bag on the ground days.
In Copake the octagon house — I need to knock on the door and ask for a tour.
I continued on down NY Route 22 (another of my favorite roads in places – at least where over the Massachusetts border) — and down to Boston Corner – as per sign below.
Living in Boston Corner (Peter Helck – 1893-1988) was an important artist, illustrator and car enthusiast. He acquired, in 1941, the famous Locomobile (Old Number 16) that won the 1908 Vanderbilt Cup on Long Island, the first American-made car to win a race against international competition. Kept original, his son sold the car to the Henry Ford Museum. I am pretty sure Peter Helck drove down to our car meets in Connecticut in the 1950s. I am thinking he did come in No. 16, and I am thinking my Dad and I may have visited him at Boston Corner at some point – sorry cannot remember everything.
I made it down to Millerton, NY, to a favorite antique mall, and then back across the border to Sharon, Connecticut, for a great lunch at J. P. Gifford — need to go there again. One of Cathy’s doctors offices was around the corner, as was the hospital where she had a few operations.
Then, heading east to my favorite US Route 7 (particularly tn this area) across the bridge you see to the right over the tracks, and then down to the Cornwall station – love it.
Heading north on US 7 — this is my favorite stretch from Cornwall to West Cornwall
Where I arrived at the covered bridge.
The West Cornwall train station
And – really my favorite spot that I discovered in 1963 in my ’29 Roadster when it was TOLL HOUSE ANTIQUES. I would visit owner Bruce often, and sold him one of my Model A Fords – the only one I do not have a picture of – it was a ’30 Tudor Sedan shell of a car, but drove – not road legal. Yes, my van in one of my spots that has seen three of my vans, and my 1929 Roadster and my first 1930 Roadster — AND – STAY TUNED — the plan is to this summer park Auntie EM, my “new” 1930 Roadster in the same spot — pinch me, too much fun,
Continuing on, the backside of the station in Canaan, CT
and crossing back into Massachusetts, off on the old route is Ashley Falls. When there was an antique shop here I would always stop – looks like it should have been a train station, but in finding images of the station – not so. But across the road is an old mill that I fancied buying in the early 1980s or late 70s.
if you got this far — remember the “teaser” I started with? Well, when I got back to Stockbridge this was the reading on my odometer — so appropriate since I live at “44.”
cruising a tad north on (did I say my favorite?) US Route 7 is this old inn. Years ago I did explore the grounds and the porch, but now the property is posted. I am positive this is the Inn I read a great book about (the inn keepers experiences) maybe 40 years ago? “Ring a Bell?” any ideas of the title? Let me know, please.
And, think it was the next day – remember I am finishing this a year after experiencing – I drove by Chesterwood which is just past the Norman Rockwell museum. Always there off season, someday I will plan to be there the right time to see the home of Daniel Chester, the sculptor who is known for his sculpture of the Minute Man in Concord, Massachusetts and the seated figure of Abraham Lincoln for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC
I concluded this day at the Norman Rockwell Museum — do plan a visit, but below I do have for you the FOUR FREEDOMS.
this is Rockwell’s painting of Main Street Stockbridge. The windows of The Red Lion Inn are dark as it was closed and not operating at this time in 1967.
a collection of Saturday Evening Post covers.
and the FOUR FREEDOMS
If you got this far thank you. First I promise not to be so tardy in reporting adventures in 2025 – but I still have many from 2024 to finish up
I am in AYU (As Yet Unnamed) writing this – finally perfect to be in my secluded retreat to read and write. So, hopefully more coming soon – thank you, love, RAY
Since April 2011 I have shared 447 writings of adventures, projects and thoughts with you here. Sadly, last year 2024, I only wrote and posted here 18 times, and also sadly have at least five additional major adventures from last year still “in the works” to document. Starting this post on 30 January, hopefully I will be posting in January to have my first words to share here in 2025. But, now back to this on February 1st, hopefully tonight you will see this.
You may remember a chance meeting I had the end of June 2024, ending with “if Mom decides to sell her Model A, I will let you know.” The email came on October 1, “we are ready to sell,” and on October 5th, “Auntie EM’ was mine.
My plan was to drive “her” home after purchase. “She started this morning and runs fine,” I was told but then told, “but she won’t start now since the staring button rod is stuck under the floor mat.” A tad dangerous knowing Model As, this did not make sense, but she did not start. I left sadly with the idea to move her to Dr. Dewey to fix that problem.
Soon I decided just to have her “piggybacked” home, and Dr. Dewey and I will figure out what to do in the spring. On 4 January, 2025, the good doctor and I emailed, and he came to “44” for a visit. Upon a brief inspection he first saw oil had come out around two spark plugs, we found the engine stuck (but did break it loose) and the gas tank was bone dry. Remember I was told she was running fine – NOT – end of that story, and loss of sleep. On Monday the 13th Auntie EM had another “piggyback” ride – hopefully her last – to the hills of Weston. A half hour after her arrival, the dear doctor wrote — “Front bumper off, spare wheels off, hood off and spark plugs removed. Only looked at the tops of #1&4 pistons and they are SOAKED with oil. Be prepared for a rebuild.”
Since then Dr. Dewey has poked, prodded anddissected her sending me almost daily updates of her condition. As he found one problem of wear and neglect after another, we decided that an entire mechanical overall was in order. Why? My hope is to replicate my trips from my home in Wilton, Connecticut to Vermont and New Hampshire that I made in 1963 and 1964 (62 years ago) in my 1929 Model A Ford Roadster.
Thursday, January 30, I was able to visit her in intensive care tucked away on a picturesque hillside in Weston. As I entered the “operating room” Auntie EM posed quite a different picture.
Radiator off to a radiator shop for an entire re-coring (I was told “my lady” overheats), engine block is out to a machine shop for reboring (all needed innards on order), front end needs rebuilding (I was told she shimmed, previous owner was lucky car did not veer off the road), an engine mount was broken off (not a good thing) – where do I stop? Transmission easy to look at, popping the cover Dr. Dewey saw a bad tooth on first gear, so then pulling it out saw wear on the teeth for second gear, to which he explained “this indicates she probably pops out of second gear.” Yes total rebuild there as well. Remember you may click my galleries for larger views.
not the usual neat and tidy view of the “cockpit” but to show you extent of disassembly
and since you never get to see this angle —-
At this point so far, this rebuild is costing more than I paid for adopting AUNTIE EM. But, the total expense in the end should be less than her “street value.” BUT THE BIG PLUS FOR ME, is that with my plan for “shunpiking” with her, I will have a basically “new drive train” and should have many carefree miles. And, the fun I am having now includes planning those trips – five in the planning stages so far. And, you will ride along, albeit here unless I hold an auction for space in the rumble seat.
I had a plan after my visit with Dr. Dewey and Auntie EM. Looking at google maps the other day I saw noted the General John Stark Monument in Peru. That renewed my interest in Stark, and more research and eventual writing and trips following his routes — BUT, if you get anything from this post – PLAN AN IMMEDIATE VISIT
and from the Weston, Vermont Common head out of town to the west, south of the Common, cross the West River and TAKE YOUR FIRST LEFT onto LANDGROVE ROAD
I have come into Weston this way from Landgrove with leaves on the trees, but do not remember heading up the hill out of town, and particularly not with snow on the ground and amazing mountainous views. As you begin your climb, to the right hopefully you will see the remains of several mills that were here. Just keep climbing, and enjoying. In about 4.5 miles you will come upon the Landgrove Inn on your left – a nice place I have eaten at. Soon you pass the Town Hall, and can continue to the picturesque village.
Then turn about, head back to the Town Hall, but just before it turn left onto Hapgood Pond Road, which, of course, heads to Hapgood Pond Recreation Site. I believe this is where I camped in the summer of 1963 when I visited a family friend in Dorset, and then spent an evening chatting with Vrest Orton at the Weston Country Store. Ends up he knew my great-grandfather, Franz. I am looking forward to a visit this summer for a picnic and reading.
Then I continued on Hapgood Pond Road towards the little village of Peru. You may recall the great visit I had there 22 September 2018 for the Peru Fair. Well, I missed the monument driving in, but turning around at the Common in the village, I easily spotted the obelisk a short distance heading back to the pond from the Common, and the way it is positioned did not “beat myself up” for missing it coming from the opposite direction. General Stark and his men spent the night in this spot 7 August 1777 on their way to the Battle of Bennington.
Too early to catch lunch at the general store and deli in Peru I headed into Manchester. Manchester is not as enjoyable as it was a decade or two ago, I had lunch, but do not have to hurry back. Heading back up Bromley Mountain I turned down Route 30 to circle back home that way, to Townsend, over to Athens, Saxtons River and home.
Again – hoping you run out and take the route from Weston to Peru I encourage above, I also encourage you to come back home on Route 30 — again totally different each time of year, and so open and picturesque with snow on the ground. I was in Jamaica (Vermont) in August and that is one adventure I still need to share. But in the center of the village I turned down Depot Road (I always turn onto Depot Roads) to where the West River Railroad traversed (do read THIRTY-SIX MILES OF TROUBLE). The bridge over the river is a definite must for Auntie EM to cross.
It was then home. Dr. Dewey is having fun with his project of total rebuild, and I am having fun planning trips to happily enjoy his total rebuild.
And, “all through my house…” it is quiet, and I am relaxed, and with a tradition I first shared December 17, 2022, and last year, 2023, on the 23rd – “the night before…the night before…”
Again this year – 2024 – I have stayed woefully behind in writing my posts and sharing my travel adventures and thoughts with you, now going back over one and a half years. I still have fun things from 2023 to share with you, and now a number of folders of 2024 adventures to also share. In time, I hope, because I at least wish to relive those adventures which then will help me planning for 2025.
BUT FIRST TO MY HOLIDAY SHARING TRADITION.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL – REDUX (Like You Have Never Heard Before)
Fourteen years ago from December 21 to 26, 2010, I attended a program – Fête de Noël: Christmas in Québec City. It was great. Besides the history we had Christmas Eve Dinner at the Hotel Frontenac (below), and a carriage ride in the snow around the city on Christmas Day.
Heading home on Autoroute 20, the afternoon of the 26th, I was dial switching on the radio. Now, you may recall that from 2008 through 2014, I produced, as a benefit for local food shelves, my own adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Having completed performances before I left for Canada, this tale of redemption as Scrooge faced three separate ghosts, was fresh in my mind. Landing on the CBC I heard that A CHRISTMAS CAROL REDUX, narrated by Russell Thomas, was about to begin. “Now I want to hear that,” I said to myself, and it soon began with a kazoo prelude.
It will help if you know the basic plot before you spend 54 minutes listening to this REDUX production, but not necessary. I was soon laughing hard, tears of laughter were streaming down my cheeks, and I feared that the car seat was not waterproof in case my bladder lost control. Fortunately I saw a rest area, and pulled in, parked, and listened to the radio. I had to find a copy to share, and finally I did a few years ago and enlisted son Gary to figure out how we could share it.
So, now I invite you to the party. Pour some non-dairy eggnog, or glasses of wine, get some dry underwear in case, put your feet up and turn out the lights and close your eyes. Click the audio link below Mr. Fezziwig’s Ball. But my disclaimer – the show is irreverent, often politically incorrect, raunchy at times, and hysterical – ENJOY!
I also enjoy sharing my THE HISTORY BEHIND CANDLES IN THE WINDOW
I share a tidbit of history each month in THE WALPOLE CLARION in my “column,” DID YOU KNOW THAT…? In the December, 2019, issue I explored the background behind placing candles in windows. Since then this post has become the top Google answer to the question “candles in windows history,” with over 47,000 views on line as of December 23, 2024. Below are the “candles in the windows” of my 1806 Colonial on a quintessential New England Village Common followed by my article.
DID YOU KNOW THAT…
… the tradition of lighting candles in the windows of homes during Christmas, dating to colonial times, was brought to America by the Irish? Candles in windows have always been considered a sign of welcome to others. In early America, when homes were often miles apart, the sight of a distant candle in a window was a sign of “welcome” to those wishing to visit.
Religious practices and persecution have a long and complicated history in Ireland. As early as 1171, King Henry II’s invasion of Ireland began persecution against the Irish. Pagan solstice celebrations were replaced by Christmas celebrations. Protestantism attempted to replace Catholicism. The British Government, between 1691 and 1778, perfected their oppressive Penal Laws, targeting Catholics in an attempt to squash the religion. Catholic priests were not allowed to practice their faith. Ordered to leave the country, the priests instead went into hiding. The Irish were forced to obey British Rule.
During Christmastime, faithful Irish Catholics would, in darkness, light a candle in the window and leave the door unlocked. This was a sign to priests it was safe to slip into their home to say Mass. In return they offered hospitality to the priest. The British, questioning the Irish about the candles, were told it was their way to welcome Joseph, Mary, and the Baby Jesus as they sought shelter. On immigrating to the United States, the Irish brought this holiday practice with them.
CANDLE IN THE WINDOW — FENNO HOUSE c 1725 — Old Sturbridge Village, November 17, 2019
The tradition of the lit candle in the window in colonial America has been interpreted in many ways. It has been seen as a beacon of hope for any passerby during the holiday season, and signaled strangers that there would be food and shelter there, should they ask. Candles also showed hope that Mary and other saints would pass by their home and bless it. The candle’s welcome was part silent prayer for the safe return of an absent person, and part sign there is someone waiting and tending the fire. Other interpretations say the candle would be sending a message – a child had been born or a family had received a blessing of some nature. Often the candles would be commemorating a community event or celebration. Inns (and now bed and breakfasts) used candles announcing rooms were available, and leading travelers to the door. The key being the sense of welcome.
When Colonial Williamsburg was established, they were unsure how Christmas should be represented. Remember, it was not much of a holiday in colonial America. They hung colored lights on ten evergreen trees in 1934, continuing to search for decorations representative of the period. The landscape architect remembered his family’s practice of placing a candle in their Boston window in 1893. With that idea, the next year a single lighted candle was placed in the windows of the four buildings open to the public. The candles were lit from 5 to 10 PM between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Worried of fire, four janitors were paid $1.00 each to light the candles and guard against fires.
Electric candles solved the concern with fire. Colonial Williamsburg visitors liked what they saw, and wanted candles to take back home. In 1941, Williamsburg department stores sold their entire stock of 600 electric candles by Christmas Eve. Today, having candles in the windows is even easier. My candles take batteries, and are remotely controlled.
CANDLES – Traditions — For Some Reason “I am hooked” — please enjoy
And, speaking of traditions, on Christmas Eve 2020 I compiled a post of my Christmas Season Festivities and traditions going back to 2013. this summary has links to the full stories which you may also enjoy. I will be updating within the next two days. Please click below and enjoy —
and, unfortunately this calendar year (and even back into 2023) there are many adventures I have not written about to relive – probably giving you an idea I have not been doing anything – “au contraire” – Yes, maybe I have not been on long trips, but my time has been filled with other adventures that have kept me closer to home:
Acquiring and designing an AYU “retreat” Selling my pick-up truck Finally replacing my old drive with a new one Passing BLACK BEAUTY on to its new home after 14 years in residence Extensive stripping and repainting of “44” Moving “Auntie Myrtle” in to “fill various voids” Living without heat due to failed boiler for 27 days ending 14 November
And now, Gary and I have again “escaped” back to the 19th century joining Rudyard Kipling at his Carriage House – meaning I must write. Always having high expectations of what I will accomplish on these “external hibernations,” I did cut down on “work” that I brought limiting myself this time to: 1-three books to read – 1/3 of one read 2-four books to prepare enticing descriptions to maximum return on eBay – Done 3-a carton of old issues of NEW HAMPSHIRE PROFILE magazines to review and catalogue – Box not opened – no review 4-seven file folders of past “shunpikings” to write about and then share – Moved around Only 5-and many DVDs to wile the nights away – not to mention our traveling movie theater – ask me about my “big screen”
And, into my second full day away, with 20 percent into my “cozy mystery” the quote to share, and for us all to remember and reflect upon — “… This is a great spot…It’s crazy it is so close, yet it feels so far away.” (Greg in KILLER PARTY: A Tourist Trap Mystery) — RAY RECOMMENDS: Find that special spot that feels “far away” yet close to be “rejuvenating.”
What did Gary and I accomplish so far? We had a starting plan – and with flexibility to deviate from our plan. After dinner Friday we set up our movie theater, dialed in and started watching Season 4 of ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING. Ten Episodes, the plan to get started. … but,
The writing and “cliff hangers” so wonderful one episode rolled into another — the “cliff-hanger” for the next season revealing at 2:40 am (first deviation from the plan).
“Catching Up” I have updated my LOG OF ADVENTURES, previously only having listed my January 2024 start. Below is a list of outings I hope to write to remember about – a roadmap so to speak, and click any image for a larger view:
October 6-9 — Camp Sagamore
September 15 – Island “Fix”
September 8-10 – Canada without Passport
August 17 – Jamaica (Vermont that is) and August 24 Crown Point Road
March 12-15 – Red Lion Inn and New Discoveries
Even more delinquent – checking my notes, hopefully this is all I also need to complete:
I am enjoying “reflecting back” and am anxious to finish my older posts so I can also visually “reflect back.” If you see in my lists above something you wish to see before other postings are completed, send me a note or comment and let me know what you would like to see soonest.
And, I do have some ideas left for the last six weeks of this year to explore and experience. Stay safe and well, as always, yours, RAY
Where do I begin? I am so behind in documenting my adventures “to remember and to share,” in fact going back to mid-2023. But, a little plaque that has been on my desk for over five decades says, “THE BEST WAY TO GET SOMETHING DONE – IS TO BEGIN.” So, here goes, at least from well over a week ago, and hopefully working back since I have some great adventures photographed and documented to share for your enjoyment and possibly doing yourself.
I live in the present, and not in the past — but sometimes it is nice to revisit the past and the memories. I was last in my hometown three years ago –A TRIP TO WILTON, CONNECTICUT – 15-16 OCTOBER 2021 – for a memorial service, but now a more joyous and reflective time – a high school reunion (the title may give an idea of the time that has passed). As you will see, I re-experienced a great deal and my TIMING WAS PERFECT to complete the cycle. Of a class of about 143 (if I remember correctly) about 22 of us said we would come. Hey, I am alive and (I think) look good – so I had to go, and an excuse to re-explore. I drove south on Friday October 18th for the reception that evening. The next event was dinner on Saturday, so off I was to explore and “relive.”
This writing will be reflective, and give you insight to “what makes Ray tick” and do what he does. You may know that books are a big part of my life (a very big part). I first haunted antique shops while riding my bicycle on my favorite US Route 7 (almost before there were cars on it – at least not the traffic of today). And, yes I bought books. Starting in 7th grade I had the opportunity to start working in the town library shelving books. I also was offered a spot on the 7th grade basketball team. “But, coach,” I exclaimed, “I will be working and miss some practices due to my job.” “You have to make a choice young man,” he replied. Yes, books over basketball, and $1.50 for one and a half-hours work after school two nights a week. Of course I have all my records to substantiate my library choice.
Done work I would wait for my Dad to pick me up in Wilton Center (retail now relocated further south). I sat here on this stone wall waiting for him. On the left used to be the entrance to the Village Market where my teddy’s bear’s head fell off when I was maybe five.
The main retail was in the Barringer Block (built in 1936) to my right from where I sat. I would stop in Stiver’s Drug Store (in the space on the left) to check out the 10 cent comics and treat myself to two nickel rolls of Lifesavers – I would get Butterscotch and Peppermint to savor together.
Above — Two doors to the right was Boyd’s Toys and Stationery (yes, several purchases over the years). Two more doors down a bank (I got Savings Passbook Number 2 – yes of course still have it). Two left windows on second floor was my dentist.
Below looking up from my perch on the stone wall watching for my Dad come down the hill. Building on right was post office — where from age six on I would buy commemorative stamps to collect. Later a shopping area was built behind and below – post office moved there, and I followed.
And, I previously shared Center School where I was interned for Kindergarten through 4th grade. Now offices, the right side (which included the offices where my mother worked as school secretary) was removed ages ago as driveways were changed over the years. Clearer maybe in the rear view.
I have an uncanny knack (often) for timing — and Saturday and Sunday were perfect for me – I also got over the reticence of knocking on doors unannounced. Driving up Nod Hill Road, below is the old farmhouse (with large new addition to the rear) that my grandparents bought in 1926. Barn was across the street, and close to 200 acres – but that is another story. Until my Dad built our house in 1948-49, I lived in the barn in the summer, and this house in the winter. Saving you some reading time, ask me sometime about the porch and what my grandmother did when they staked out where to put in polls for telephone and power.
I have driven by the home my Dad built on 15 Partrick Lane in 1948-49 many times over the years on land my grandparents bought. I stopped this time, and knocked only disturbing the dog. I then drove to the end of the road. What my Dad built is the small part on the left with the gable facing out, and a separate two car garage.
I continued on to Boas Lane that my grandmother developed, and took yet another image of Vanity Plate and Sign.
And, for the first time I drove down the drive at the end to the family barn my grandmother moved a good distance when she opened this land. Knocking on the door, no one answered, but I left a note asking if they would like pictures I took when the barn was moved, maybe 1957 or 58. (after a week or so, the owner, Sam Halsey, called me. He (age 91) and his wife are still in the “barn” having purchased from my grandmother over 60 years ago.
driving back there was a fellow walking. He built one of the homes on my family’s land. We shared stories and history — so many things I may be the only one who knows, so I have to share. BUT – going back down the slight hill on Partrick Lane where I rode my soap-box racers there was a fellow in my old drive — I STOPPED – Ross and I chatted, and chatted. He was a friend of the new owners, and I shared and shared, he promising to share with the owners, who later emailed me. With him I went to one of my FORTS — the land level had been raised (almost three feet), probably in a septic field rebuilding. More of the rocks were exposed 70 years ago keeping me safe during Indian attacks. I usually won – well, I am still here.
below is where the family barn was originally located across Nod Hill Road from the farmhouse. As I recall my Dad told me he either built or restored the well house. Barn was to the left – tall pine I do remember being big 70 years ago – bigger trunk now.
three years ago I also shared my bus stops where I waited. Roads widened now, some rocks where I sat removed – did I say I do not like change? – Remember you can “click” my galleries for larger images.
and the house my Dad built on Nod Hill Road (AD) across from the entrance to Partrick Lane. Hidden mostly by trees now, my grandfather planted many acres of pines in the early 30s – killed by a blight in the 1970s. The garage you see is a recent addition.
It was probably this rock on Nod Hill Road that began my fascination with Glacial Erratics – not on our former land, but across the road from where my Dad built a pond for my Grandmother that two lots sat on. And, on the hill (probably smaller now than when I maybe 10) sat my “mica mine.”
Then, back down towards Wilton Center stopping at Hillside Cemetery on Ridgefield Road (Route 33) for the Boas plot with my grandparents and Dad.
and, back to the Norwalk Inn for the Saturday night dinner and celebration …you may recognize the fellow, third from the left.
this group shot was posted on the class’s Facebook page
A lovely evening, nice conversation, and period appropriate DJ. With no reunion plans for Sunday, I had plans of my own to work my way back north to New Preston – the former home of RAY BOAS, BOOKSELLER, and my late-bride, Cathy. But, first I stopped at the famous ELEPHANT’S TRUNK Flea Market in New Milford. I had a great time both evenings with my best high school friend, Phil and his wife. Learning they had a large booth there – my plan was to stop and see them, I sat with them, and did walk around some searching (yes six books were acquired). May I say, and I can, watching Phil and Pat chat with the crowd, and how they had things displayed and priced — they could give classes on how to be a successful flea marketeer.
Off I headed north on US Route 7 (I will tell you again and again sections are my favorite road in the US). Traveling in BELZEBUTH as a 16 and 17 year old (learn more about BELZEBUTH and her later siblings at — Welcome AUNTIE MYRTLE) I would stop at an old barn full of cars in Garlordsville, and swing over to a little antique shop. Under restoration I took a look at the old hotel in Merwinsville, alongside the railroad tracks of course.
Then back toward Route 7 passing this building with the antique shop, and the “monument” across the street. There used to be a sign on the building, but you may wish to click this link and read about Jan Pol’s SPITE HOUSE.
Did I say antique shop above? Yes, even as a 16 year old I bought what spoke to me — the below toy fire truck spoke to me – $4 in crayon still written on the back – yes, of course I have had it 62 years.
Driving north, Kent was packed with leaf-peepers, but I continued north towards Cornwall looking for a certain unmarked turn. Above you saw the farm house my grandfather, Ernest, bought in 1926. In 1927 his sister, Helene Yampolsky, bought remote property on a remote road. I remember as (guessing) a seven year old an exciting visit there, touring the house and outbuilding where Franz, Ernest and Helene’s father, had a study. The home had many, many items Franz brought back from his anthropological trips to British Columbia. I knew the road was somewhere near a fun Glacial Erratic, and there it was.
and, driving up the hill — there was the house. When Cathy and I were in New Preston and my Dad and Uncle visited we made a nostalgic trip. The home vacant, I took their picture under a tree they remembered as a stick decades ago. Cathy and I often drove up the hill so I could show her the house and reminisce wondering if it was still in the family, finding it always vacant.
and on the opposite side of the road is the garage/shed and studio on the lower level – ALAS there was a car parked there, I turned around pulled up to the house, and got out. A fellow obviously saw me and started walking out. I called out, “are you a Yampolsky?” He replied, “are you a Boas?” Those of you who know how to figure, he and I are what second cousins how many times removed? I remember my Dad talking about his cousins, guessing his grandparents. Oh my, a weekend of perfect timing continuing.
too much fun — we toured the house – exactly as I remembered it 70 years ago – I cannot believe it made that much of an impression. In chatting we realized we met 40 years ago on a Boas-Hunt reunion in Alert Bay, BC, Canada. Franz Boas worked with George Hunt over the years. We eventually went down to the studio/study Franz Boas used.
entering the door, exactly as I remembered it (but maybe my Dad and Uncle snuck in when we stopped). Just think, Franz may have sat in this chair.
great fun for both of us. Heading down the hill, I turned north, and yes, just on the bend was the Glacial Erratic I remembered as my marker.
I headed back down Route 7 to Bull’s Bridge, and turned left over the hills to New Preston – probably 23-24 years since on that fun hilly route. Plan was to check into the Hopkins Inn on Lake Waramaug where we had many a lunch on the patio overlooking the lake. The plan to next drive around the 600 acre plus lake that went over my waterfall at Ray Boas, Bookseller. And, then getting better at “dropping in” I hoped to see neighbors I had not seen in 20 years.
driving around the lake counterclockwise I saw the state park I stayed several times (BC – “Before Cathy” but she had stayed there more than 20 years before with her family – she served as outhouse inspector) when I started buying books in the area in 1991-1992 before taking space in a book co-op there. Gary joined me camping here once. And, below the campground and view of the lake from there.
I knocked on Ron and Libby’s door. Thrilled, we had a great visit. My former neighbors, now in their 80s, had not aged a bit. It was then around the corner to the former home and shop of RAY BOAS, BOOKSELLER, with much horticultural improvement by now owners Anne and Rich.
Cathy and I owned the waterfall and most of the “mill pond” the town owning the dam. Twenty-five years ago I recommended that the leaks in the dam be sealed using hydraulic cement as was used in the caissons building the Brooklyn Bridge. But, alas, what does a bookseller know about engineering, and no one listened to me, thus the current status below in the image on the right.
and, some views on the down river side of my former waterfall.
SHUNPIKING and BACK ROADING EXPLORATION and THREADS THROUGHOUT MY LIFE
Growing up there was a large road map of Wilton on a basement wall above my Dad’s desk. One summer my mother decided we would explore each road. My friend Phil, who you met above, and I rallied sports cars in high school (well full disclosure we participated in VWs or his 1957 Ford – which we slid off the road once onto the left side and me in his lap). We explored back roads on those events, often with unique twists. And then I was out and about in BELZEBUTH exploring and even on camping trips through Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire (close to Walpole, but never “downtown”). One of those rallies we had to find clues in various rocky locations including an abandoned railroad tunnel from the Shepaug, Litchfield and Northern Railroad that ran through the now Steep Rock Park along the Shepaug River just miles from where Cathy and I lived. I CANNOT BELIEVE that during the seven years we lived there I did not re-explore the tunnel. After that one rally Phil and I drove back in BELZEBUTH – he remembered that trip and the large ice blocks in the tunnel. Here BELEZUTH wanted to go through.
FINALLY – over 60 years later I carefully drove along the small dirt road along the Shepaug River (RAB highly recommends a trip) to a parking lot (well dead end with room for a few cars to park) I looked around and found a small sign high on a tree pointing TUNNEL Off I carefully hiked soon getting to the entrance – terrain a tad different 60 plus years later – remember I drove here before.
Walking out the south end of the tunnel with the river right ahead
and then turning around
back to the north entrance
and back out — remember this “train roadbed” I drove on in 1962.
about to get dark and time to slide back to the Hopkins Inn for dinner. Maybe getting cooler, but for nostalgia I ate on the patio – memories kept me warm.
Not bad – only taking me 16 days to complete my “writing to remember” and now “to share.” I will be working back on sharing my adventures with you all the way back to sailing the St. Lawrence River summer 2023. Stay tuned for my notices or posts, or if seeing this for the first time “sign up” to get notices if you wish. Never an obligation to read, buy you may get an idea or two for your own adventure.
You know I am over a year behind in documenting and sharing my adventures, but they are “on the list.” But, now I must give you this adventure first. Actually this adventure began on June 29, 2024 (do visit that post of 29 June 2024,) — well, actually this adventure and ultimate adoption began back in 1962 – yes 62 years ago. On June 29th I attended a festival in Andover, NH, where I found a rack card advertising the THE ICE HOUSE Museum in New London, NH. which ended up being a bonus on the way home. I had heard of the museum, but it had slipped my memory. Essentially a car museum spread across about five buildings there are many fascinating collections interspersed – RAY RECOMMENDS A MUST VISIT THERE.
Welcoming visitors was Ashley, a member of the museum’s board. We chatted cars – and my relationship with so many in the museum that my Dad had owned. She said her mother may someday be selling her 1930 Model A Ford Roadster – I expressed an interest. Ashley’s mother drove in later on, and we talked Model As some more, they promising me they would let me know when/if they made a decision.
When I joined my son and grandson in Canaan July 13 for the go-kart races I emailed Ashley if I could stop and see their “A.” “No,” she replied, “we will not be around at that time.” So, meant to be, and I figured when ready, hopefully Ashley will email. October 1, I get Ashley’s email, “Mom is ready,” I reply and she sends the image below the next day – we make a date for Saturday October 5. I head up north an hour with a friend – and cash – and made the perfect purchase – no way I could resist.
Often a “slight hiccup.” I planned to drive her home, but alas, starting fine in the morning she resisted after 2 pm when we were there. Obviously she had another idea. So, Ray starts to figure out how to move to Dr. Dewey to resolve whatever hesitancy “she” had. But, my October schedule was not conducive to a resolution, so a couple days ago I decided to have AAA just bring her home to “44” for hibernation until the spring. That will work, says Ashley for “Auntie Myrtle.” “Auntie Myrtle?” You know my possessions with four wheels are named – PERFECT – and learning that “Auntie Myrtle” had been in the family for over 60 years, “Auntie Myrtle” she remains.
Friday, 1 November, still a crazy schedule and phone calls back and forth with towing companies once AAA changed vendors. I was sitting on the front steps. Well, time to go inside back to “work.” Always the case, as I am getting up, what appears?
and backing down the drive
and a fantastic driver positioning to roll right into “Auntie Myrtle’s” stall in my stable – next to BLUE BELLE and with CORNELIA to the side. You can click the small images for a larger view.
time to acclimate awaiting Dr. Dewey and fun, fun, and more fun.
But why Ray? Well, you may know that threads run through my wonderful life. I grew up with my Dad’s old cars and exploring barns. I rode my bike on US 7 poking in antique shops (and buying books among others things that spoke to me). And, I finally convinced my Dad shortly after I got my driver’s license to sell me a 1929 Model A Ford Roadster he was planning to “flip.”
Yes, my father’s son. I have all of his license plates, and on my wall I have all the license plates I have had on my cars. Of the 29 on the wall below, eight (8) have been on my various Model As.
The beginning – December 10, 1962 – I named her BELZEBUTH (a Brazilian spider monkey – it just came to me)
My favorite image of BELZEBUTH is in West Cornwall, Connecticut, just over the Covered Bridge crossing the Housatonic River, and off my favorite stretch of my favorite road – US Route 7.
Below is twenty years later, just before I sadly sold her (for the second time, but that is another story) on November 7, 1982.
Make sure you start counting the number of As I have had of the 4,858,644 that Henry made between 1927 and 1932.
Number 2 came January 11, 1965, halfway through my freshman year at Northwestern. BELZEBUTH was in Connecticut, so I bought this original 1928 Tudor Sedan south of Chicago. At spring break I drove her east – replaced a head gasket in Ohio, and barely made it up Nod Hill Road in Wilton. The rings were so shot there was no compression to climb “Nod Hill.” How do I get back to school? My Dad had just finished a 1931 Model A Cabriolet which he let me drive out and back – not mine so do not count it. I sold the Tudor shortly later to my brother.
Home that summer I bought a running 1930 Tudor Sedan from friend Leland on June 17, 1965. No interior, I recall we ran it around the woods pushing small trees down while sitting on milk crates for seats. My plan was to make it into a popcorn “truck” and serve popcorn out the back windows (remember corn has been popping though my life as well). Plan never materialized, my Dad sold the car to Bruce who owned Toll House antiques at the Covered Bridge in West Cornwall. I kept the radiator shell to make a shadow box for my Models of Yesteryear – but alas, never doing so, sold the shell last year (2023) after having it 58 years.
Don’t worry – number four came along real quick. Leland was going to school in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and had bought a 1930 Fordor “Blind Back” sedan, but decided to sell it to me. I went out to Iowa in my 1956 Chevy Two Door hardtop (wish I had kept it – about 70K today) and towed her back to Evanston October 15, 1965. Getting hard to keep “all balls in the air” between school and Navy ROTC cruises, this car departed my life May 20, 1966 (trust you keep similar records of your automobiles – at least collectible ones).
Still counting? Stay with me, do not loose track. Cathy and I married in May of 1995, and moved to New Preston, CT, with our bookshop on top of the waterfall. I thought it would be fun to have a Model A pickup parked outside with a sign advertising the shop. Cathy always encouraged me to get what I would like to have (and she as well was encouraged to do the same). A customer we were chatting with mentioned a pick-up for sale. We contacted the caretaker for the owner, and on a buying trip to NH for books first stopped near Hartford at an airport finding our pickup under the wing of one of the last DC-3s made. First purchase of that trip made March 5, 1997, and delivered a week later.
Never really used the pick-up – but at least I have owned one. Ebay was now coming into its own, and I saw a rare 1931 Model A Two-Door Phaeton — my Dad restored one and I enjoyed driving it. It was pricey, but we headed to nearby New Milford to look. Guess what? Next to it was a 1930 Roadster that had come out of a barn near where we lived, restored by one fellow, sold to this other fellow, and now became ours September 26, 2001. Knowing it was to happen we sold the pick-up a few days before on September 21, 2001.
Yes, “A” number six, and where did we drive to right away? The West Cornwall Covered Bridge, placing her in the same spot BELZEBUTH posed in 39 years earlier.
This Roadster moved with us to New Hampshire, and enjoyed Old Home Day Parades, as well as taking two brides to their weddings.
In early 2010 I finally purchased a 1958 TR3A, having wanted one since my neighbor bought a new for his son when I was growing up. A former customer in CT had been begging me for years to buy my roadster, and I gave in August 20, 2010, and she went back home to Connecticut.
Sadly, pining for another Model A, and thinking I needed to buy one, the hunt was on again, this time for a Tudor Sedan to die with. Ebay had one in Connecticut – owner and I emailed and planned a visit hours later. My small town bank did not have enough cash on hand (really I did not need much, but alas), I took what they had and drove south. Negotiations made, I had a Tudor, and delivery shortly by the former owner.
And, as I saw, and adopted her in Connecticut December 14, 2013. You still counting? Number 7.
coming home, she joined BLUE BELLE and BLACK BEAUTY – stable complete !
well, not used as much as I should have (but at least passed dozens of times a day in the stable), and not to mention bending with arthritis and back problems into the drivers seat, she headed to New York State September 19, 2018. Goodbye Number 7.
But wait — I just cannot live without a Model A Ford. I had thought that was it, but awakening one morning – actually March 19, 2019 (slightly late birthday present) and looking at Facebook Marketplace for Model A Fords — WELL you guessed it – a 1929 Roadster down in Charlton, Massachusetts next to my favorite Sturbridge and OSV. We exchanged messages, I hopped in the “new” car, and Number 8 was mine.
Yes, I drove her home — and made it – only to find later that the upgrade to a 12 volt system caused some ignition problems – Dr. Dewey to the rescue.
You still keeping track? Number 8 had some incorrect features with its “restoration” – but at least I had another 1929 Roadster. But, again not using her sufficiently I decided someone else should enjoy her. My Facebook Marketplace post got the perfect response – a young lady wanting to treat her dying Dad with an “A” arrived with trailer and cash, and away she went on June 28, 2021. Guess I will die without a Model A Ford.
Did I say back and bending problems? With that I did not drive BLACK BEAUTY for almost three years, and a month ago she went to Maine — again to an older gentleman with health problems thanks to Vietnam. He as well wanted to “relive his youth.” It was the right transition, but left a hole in my garage.
But, then as I related above, a serendipitous meeting a few months ago led to Number 9 – my last “A” and I am thrilled to have “Auntie Myrtle.” Purchased in about 1962 by Laurie’s family (we still have a date so I can get all “Auntie Myrtle’s” history) — this brings me about full circle to the timing of my first “A” – BELZEBUTH. I love “meant to bes” — and this was an ultimate perfect connection for all.
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
Shunpiking with Ray 
