Mystery for Christmas…or Anytime

Mystery for Christmas…or Anytime

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

If you love a good mystery, you will surely love Kary Turnell. If you have an affinity for the White Mountains and the seacoast and the Lakes Region of NH, you will easily picture these places as Kary Turnell deals with murder in New Hampshire.

NH mystery writer Mark Okrant.

For those who follow the Commissioner Kary Turnell Mystery series by author Mark Okrant, each new book is eagerly anticipated for the great story lines and the manner in which Kary solves the crimes that take place in select areas of the state. While the books are pure fiction, the settings are real and places Mark knows well, which is spart of the uniqueness and appeal to the mystery stories.

Mark’s background has certainly been a help when he sits down to write a mystery novel, of which there is quite a list thus far, with more in the works. Born and raised in Connecticut, Mark majored in geography in college and later taught on the university level. When he and his wife, Marla, moved to New Hampshire, Mark developed the first academic tourism program for Plymouth State University and was on the faculty full-time for 37 years. (Although technically retired, he continues to teach online for the college on a part-time basis.) With his extensive background in tourism – he also worked in tourism for the state of NH for 26 years – Mark has gotten to know the state quite well.

That knowledge of tourism aided Mark when he began to write. “I wanted to write in a way that would promote New Hampshire tourism, and that led to the mystery process,” he says.

All Mark’s books are reflected in his work in tourism, and also his training in geography has been a big asset, although it might not seem to relate to mystery books.

“Geography is about the physical relation of things on the earth’s surface,” he explains. “And the study of tourism deals with places of origin and destination.”

How did Mark, who lives in central New Hampshire, decide on the mystery book genre when he began to write? “In the early 1990s I picked up my first murder mystery and I loved it. Some years ago, at Plymouth State University, I wrote a murder mystery to be used in a tourism class. I used it with my students and it was a tourism planning text book written as a murder mystery set in a place called Judson’s Island.”

It was a creative and unusual way to teach a class about tourism, but it certainly got his students engaged and looking at tourism in a new and fun way. And as a bonus, Mark discovered he enjoyed writing mysteries. The books he writes are generally set in places Mark has visited and liked a lot, such as his favorite location, The Balsams in Dixville Notch. He loves the grand hotels in the state and it was easy to set a mystery to be solved in such a spectacular location as the Balsams. He adds with a smile, “Sometimes I have to revisit these places for details when I am writing,” implying that going back to the wonderful places around the state is no hardship.

In choosing a location for a book, Mark does research and one of his methods of deciding where to set a new mystery is seeking out someone who knows the location well. The question he asks, although it might seem startling, is “where would you kill someone in this particular place?” It could be a catacomb or dense shrubbery in the public eye and even a crime in plain sight that no one would notice right away.

When it comes to the nitty-gritty of the weapon of choice used in the murder in each book, Mark says it varies. And 75% of the time, the fictional victims are men. He has a friendship with a former police chief who is Mark’s go-to guy for CSI type questions.

One might ask who Kary Turnell is, assuming at first that it is a female sleuth/heroine of Mark’s books. “Actually Kary Turnell is a man, and I have no idea where the name came from,” Mark laughs. “In the books, Kary is a former college professor in the criminology field, and he is now retired.”

As with many writers who fashion their characters from portions of their own personalities and life experiences, parts of Kary’s story reflects Mark’s. One can see similarities between Kary’s fictional background and the real-life work and experiences of Mark.

Before Mark found his niche writing mystery novels, he wrote two non-fiction books about the tourism industry: “Sleeping Alongside the Road” and “No Vacancy: The Rise, Demise and Reprise of America’s Motels”. The books have been popular and take a look at how lodging and tourism grew and altered over the years. “No Vacancy” also has some remembrances from those who stayed at various motels, offering an invaluable look at the era of roadside lodgings and cottages.

However, the mystery genre stuck with Mark and he turned to writing with a murder theme. His first murder novel, “A Last Resort,” was set at The Balsams and took a number of years to research and write. It introduced Kary Turnell, a middle-aged criminology professor at Plymouth State University.

That first book led to more, set at recognizable places in New Hampshire, such as the Mountain View Grand in Whitefield and the Mount Washington Hotel (both locations are in “Murders at the Grand”) and Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle on the seacoast, which is the setting for “Whacked”. Other titles include “One Track Mind”, “A Thief in the House” and “Long Walk, Short Deck” (set on the M/S Mount Washington) to be released in the near future. Mark says he is working on a crime novel set in the Manchester area as well.

Also, the 100-page Kary Turnell Mysteries, is a series geared for those who want a quick – but satisfying and entertaining – read.

(Along with researching and writing mystery books, Mark is a freelance writer for The Laker, utilizing his skills in the tourism industry, and authoring a variety of local travel and human-interest stories.)

If you love a good mystery, or know someone who does, a mystery novel by Mark Okrant is just the thing to satisfy. A gift of a Kary Turnell or other book by Mark is sure to be a unique and fun gift during the holiday season.

For information and to order Mark’s books, visit www.markokrant.com. There you will find a list of booksellers and contact information.

Not30 Rocks Wolfeboro!

Mark Thompson (Drums/Vocals), Aaron Marinel (Bass/Vocals), Matt Thompson (Guitar/Vocals)

Escape the holidays (and your crazy family) to party with Not30 at Wolfe’s Tavern on Saturday, December 28th at 9pm. Doors are open all evening, there will be no cover, just good music. Wolfe’s Tavern, 90 N. Main St., Wolfeboro, NH | www.facebook.com/notthirty

Holiday Events Around the Lake!

Holiday Events Around the Lake!

By Sarah Wright

December is here, and the holiday spirit is in the air! All around the Lakes Region wonderful events are planned to bring family, friends, and the community together to celebrate the season. Whether it’s through music, cheerful lights, or homemade crafts, there are many ways to enjoy this festive time. Here are a few fun events happening all around the lake this month.

There’s nothing like a room full of decorated Christmas trees to bring out the “oohs” and “ahhs.” A tradition in my family is to visit the Wolfeboro Festival of Trees at the Wright Museum on Center Street each year. The charity benefit features two levels of more than 60 trees, decorated by area organizations and businesses. Enjoy local live entertainment as well as free refreshments, while you admire the beautiful and uniquely decorated trees. The festival is scheduled for the weekends of December 7 and 8 and December 14 and 15, with special hours on Wednesday, December 11 from 6 to 8 pm. Otherwise, doors will be open from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, and from noon to 3 pm on Sunday, and tickets may be purchased when you arrive. Visit www.wolfeborofestivaloftrees.com for more information, including the entertainment schedule.

If you enjoy outdoor light displays, there’s nothing like the amazing Gift of Lights event at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon. Presented by Eastern Propane, the display features over two million twinkly LED lights. The 2.5-mile drive-through light show also has 520 displays, 80 different scenes, and a s’mores pit on Friday and Saturday nights! The Gift of Lights event runs through January 5, and is open from 4 to 9 pm, Sunday through Thursday, and from 4 pm to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday; the track will be closed on December 2 and 3, and on December 9 and 10. (On Friday and Saturday nights through December 21, kids can visit with Santa in the NHMS Main Office.) For details, visit www.nhms.com and click on “Events.” Don’t miss this spectacular light show! 

 On December 7, beginning at 5 pm, it’s Yuletide in Alton with Light Up the Night! Join the festivities at the town center for all kinds of entertainment, including a kids’ craft at the town hall with Santa, photos with Frosty on Main Street, caroling from the town hall to Ginny Douglas Park, holiday hayrides from Monument Square, an open house at the museum, musical entertainment by Jon Taber, and the Tree Lighting at Ginny Douglas Park. At 7 pm, the Prospect Mountain High School Chamber Singers will present “A Yuletide Celebration” at the Community Church of Alton. Don’t miss all the festive fun.

The Mill Falls Marketplace on Daniel Webster Highway in Meredith celebrates their Holiday Open House on December 8, from noon to 4 pm. Enjoy shopping, horse-drawn wagon rides, refreshments, strolling carolers, and a visit from Santa. You can even enter to win a $500 shopping spree!

Gilford celebrates the season with their annual Gilford Community Band Holiday Concert and Candle Light Stroll on December 14. The band kicks things off at the Gilford High School auditorium at 4 pm, before the Candle Light Stroll takes place from 5 to 7 pm. Over 1,000 candles through the village light the way to the Library Open House, the three Thompson-Ames Historical Buildings, the SAU, The Village Store, and more. Stop by the Village Field for s’mores with Santa, and visit with the Gilford Fire Department as they host a giant bonfire. Carolers add to the atmosphere and will be singing along the way. You can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride from the Rowe House to the library.

For more holiday music, there are further concerts around the lake to get you in the spirit. Enjoy the sounds of the Carter Mountain Brass Band on December 8 at their wonderful Christmas concert at the First United Methodist Church of Gilford on Wesley Way. The concert starts at 3 pm, and there will be a dessert reception afterwards. Music lovers will also be in for a treat at the annual Tuba Christmas Concert in Wolfeboro on Saturday, December 14, from 2 to 3 pm. This very popular and enjoyable event takes place at the All Saint’s Episcopal Church on South Main Street. Then at the Inter-Lakes auditorium on Rt. 25 in Meredith, the Lakes Region Symphony Orchestra will present their magical Holiday Concert of old and new favorites on Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm and on Sunday afternoon, December 15 at 3 pm. For ticket information, visit www.lrso.org or call 1-800-838-3006.

Prescott Farm will hold a creative workshop on December 14 from 1 to 3 pm for making Nature-Inspired Holiday Ornaments. What better gift to give than one you can put together with materials found in forests and fields? Kids are welcome at the workshop where everyone can make a variety of cute and decorative ornaments from nature. Prescott Farm is located on White Oaks Road in Laconia. To register for this workshop, call 366-5695.

If you’ve never seen The Nutcracker classical ballet, mark your calendar for December 15 and you’ll be in for a treat! Bring your family and friends to the holiday performance of The Nutcracker at the Kingswood Arts Center from 2 to 4 pm. Watch the magic unfold as Marie helps the Nutcracker soldier defeat the fierce Mouse King. Presented by the Northeastern Ballet Theatre, the state’s premier classical ballet company, this is a show that will delight the whole family. Tickets will be available at the door or in advance at www.northeasternballet.org.  

Canterbury Shaker Village will present Christmas in Canterbury on December 7 and 14. The Shakers loved to celebrate Christmas, and the celebrations continue from 3 to 8 pm. Tour inside the historic Shaker buildings and see an old-time 19th-century magic show, meet Father Christmas, make Christmas-inspired crafts, admire a toy train display, or listen to fiddlers. The Purple Finches Youth Chorus from the Concord Community Music School will delight with a concert on this night. Enjoy hot cider and sing Christmas carols during the lighting of the Village Christmas tree. It’s a fun event for the whole family. For more information, call 783-9511 or visit www.shakers.org. Shaker Village is located on Shaker Road in Canterbury.

 Have a blast this New Year’s Eve and join the First Night celebration in Wolfeboro on December 31. Activities are planned for the whole day with plenty of food and entertainment, including an amazing firework display over the lake. Your admission ticket is a button you wear on your coat. Buttons are available at First Night venues, or you can buy them ahead of time at stores listed on the Wolfeboro First Night Facebook page. Come join in the fun and ring in 2020!

Day Tripping | The Days of County Farms

Life on the County Farm; an image in the current exhibit at the Laconia Public Library presented by the Laconia Historical and Museum Society.

Day Tripping | The Days of County Farms

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, in the classic story “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens, is asked to make a contribution to the poor during the holiday season, he spats, “Are there no prisons? And the Union workhouses…are they still in operation? Those who are badly off must go there.”

Sadly, in times past, workhouses, alms houses or poor farms as some called them, seemed to be the answer to care for those who had fallen on hard times.

There was no pride in being forced, due to circumstances, to enter a poor farm or almshouse. Visions of deprivation and cold and terrible work conditions came to mind and one viewed it as a last resort.

During the holiday season, when charity organizations work diligently to provide for those less fortunate, we can look back and learn more about poor farms of the 1800s and early 1900s and ask if they were really so bad. What did one living in such a place actually experience and did the Lakes Region even have a poor farm?

For the answers to those questions and a peek into the lives of some of those who lived – and some who died – at poor farms in the area, a stop at the Laconia Public Library in downtown Laconia to see the exhibit “The Belknap County Farm and Alms House” is a must.

As a library card holder at the Laconia Library, I visit often and am always on the lookout for the latest exhibit in the upper level rotunda of the library. It is here that the Laconia Historical and Museum Society holds exhibits year round. The current exhibit, which is on display until December 21, is just one of the many throughout the year that spotlight fascinating aspects of local life long ago. (The library is located at 695 North Main Street in Laconia.)

If you like facts and figures to help you get a picture of something, you will find this exhibit to your liking. (There are listings on such things as the names of those who died at the Belknap County Farm.) If, like me, you are curious what the farm was like on a day-to-day basis, you’ll get answers at this exhibit.

As I started to browse the displays, I saw information and a death certificate for Belknap Farm resident Rebecca, a woman from Barnstead NH who was born in 1835. At the age of 33 she began living at the County Farm, and remained there for 52 years, passing away at age 85. I wondered what was her story? Why did she live there for so long?

I had to ask myself if perhaps the farm and those like it that served the poor were not always the frightening places of old-time fiction. If Rebecca lived there most of her adult life, could it be that the conditions were good enough for her to stay? Or was she ill of mind or body and had no choice but to reside at a place where she could receive care?

More information on the County Farm tells us that from 1873 to 1913, the place was run by a supervisor and his wife. They lived and worked on the farm, with the help of its residents. Further, we are told that it was “a thriving community that produced crops, sold lumber and raised livestock. Some inmates lived and worked on the farm productively for many, many years.”

It was a huge operation, and the residents of the farm, which was located in Laconia, were active in building the house and other structures, cutting 150,000 feet of lumber for the construction.

What caused a person or a family to enter such a farm? The reasons were varied and ranged from financial loss of home and no work to provide for oneself to ill health or aging without family to care for the person, to serving out a jail sentence to a mental illness making one unable to function in society. It must be remembered that in the 1800s and early 1900s, such circumstances were handled and looked upon much differently than today. The mentally ill were often hidden away by families and likely feared by many. The aged were usually cared for and lived with extended families in those days, but if that was not possible, where else could one turn for care and housing when elderly and poor and in failing health? Able-bodied men and probably women who had broken the law were excellent candidates to serve out their sentence on the farm, where they could provide labor for all sorts of chores. Families fallen on hard times may have had no other option but to live on the farm, where they would at least have room and board for their children.

None of these reasons for residing on the County Farm were ideal and it is likely there was stigma attached to living there, but in the time before welfare services, such places offered an alternative and sometimes a salvation for the poor.

 The exhibit offers some old medical equipment and tells us a Dr. Mace was concerned with sanitary conditions of County Farm inmates and pushed to see improvements, such as drainage and ventilation systems, bathtubs and water closets as well as replacing the water supply.

Jobs at the farm, once a person was settled in their new living space, were separated by gender. Generally, the women worked in the farmhouse and helped with baking, cleaning and sewing and laundry. The men worked outside at the many farm chores; should they come to the farm with special skills in such things as carpentry or blacksmithing, they worked on the property in those trades. During the winter, work continued with the men cutting trees and doing other non-field related jobs.

An old black and white photo shows us an elderly woman in a field at the County Farm. She stands beside a dairy cow, and she is grinning and appears to be patting the cow; two youngsters can be seen in the distant background. She does not seem to be downtrodden or unhappy, and it offers a rare glimpse into perhaps a typical day on the farm.

Places like the Belknap County Farm, and many, many others all over the state, came into being when Legislature in 1886 authorized counties to purchase farms and houses to care for “county paupers”. In the early 1800s and well into the following decades, there was a general feeling that being poor was a result of a character deficiency and such people could be reformed by working on a farm. Today we know differently, and that falling on hard times is usually due to economic reasons instead of because a person is of bad character. Further, housing the poor with those in need of mental health treatment or those serving a prison sentence would be unheard of today.

Eventually, the exhibit tells us, after the social changes as an outcome of the Civil War, entrance into a poor house/farm became voluntary.

In Laconia, the County Farm had originally been an insane asylum, built in 1835. By 1871, the original buildings were destroyed by fire, and the county built a two-story house for “the insane, the poor, the infirm, as well as people who had committed criminal acts.” Further reform happened around the start of the 1900s when the County Farm realized the need of separating the “passively insane” from “paupers”.

By the 1960s, a portion of the farm’s land was sold and the practice of housing people at the County Farm was phased out.

The exhibit offers a fascinating – if sometimes poignant – look at what life was like on the County Farm. I found the section with a long list of the names, ages and causes of death of the poor and infirm at the farm to be particularly poignant.

Among the facts and figures in the exhibit, one cannot help but read between the lines. Did people dislike living on the farm? What was it like for children? Were the caretakers compassionate? What did it take to get out of residing in the County Farm?

And in this holiday season, another question surfaces. How did they celebrate Christmas at the County Farm? Who knows if any information exists on what happened on December 25 at the farm? Hopefully, there was turkey and a mince pie and maybe even the singing of a carol or two to mark the day.

We do know that the County Farm in Laconia was one of many around the state. Another farm was located in Merrimack County in the Boscawen area, and others existed as well. Smaller poor farms were located around the state. One such poor farm was near present-day Ellacoya State Park in Gilford.

We have come a long way from the days of Ebenezer Scrooge and shunning the poor. In order to continue to move forward, exhibits such as the one, thoughtfully organized and on display at the Laconia Public Library, are well worth stopping to view.

(The Belknap County Farm and Alms House exhibit will be on view until December 21; for more information, call 527-1278 or go to www.laconiahistory.org.)

What’s New at The Art Place

What’s New at The Art Place

By Sarah Wright

The Lakes Region is full of beautiful scenery any time of the year. Many visitors and residents bring that natural beauty back to their homes with amazing artwork created by local artists. It’s no surprise the scenic vistas that surround us inspire artists to pick up their paintbrushes and cameras to capture a single, breathtaking moment. The Art Place in downtown Wolfeboro always has lovely artwork on display, and also takes care of custom matting and framing for their many customers. (I had a painting framed by The Art Place a few years ago, and I was delighted to see all of their various framing options.)

Painting by Artist Peter Ferber

The Art Place represents local and New England artists, and you can find a sampling of the artwork currently available, as well as artist biographies on the gallery’s website at www.theartplace.biz. One of their most popular featured artists is the very talented Peter Ferber, who unveiled his latest original paintings in a gallery show over the summer at The Art Place. On September 28, customers were delighted to watch him in action when he gave an art demonstration at the gallery. If you’re not yet familiar with Peter Ferber, his paintings are inspired by the rural New Hampshire landscape that he first experienced as a child spending his summers in Wolfeboro. Simple things like the evening light sparkling across a lake, the purity of a white barn in the snow, and the patina of a weathered boathouse, warm Peter’s heart. His illustrations have appeared in national magazines as well as in books. He’s also exhibited in many shows throughout New England and the Midwest, and had more than 40 reproductions made of his work. It’s no wonder The Art Place has sold countless prints of his pieces!

Another notable artist whose work is currently on display is Christine Knight Coombs. Her award-winning watercolors feature rural scenes of lakes, woods, people, and animals. She has also illustrated children’s books and covers for national sporting magazines and catalogs, such as Down East Books. Christine says, “In my paintings, I wish to document the beauty of the moment. Within that moment is a story. It may be a story that reminds the viewer of a well-known or forgotten feeling, or it may be a story that he or she may wish to escape. For all who experience my paintings, I hope to provide inner nourishment, renewal, and reconnection with the beauty within them and around them.”

There are also beautiful watercolors on display by artist Denise Patchell Olson. She was a popular local artist, known for her paintings of countryside settings with a Martha’s Vineyard look. After she passed away, her daughter found some of her mother’s original artwork in storage, and wanted to share it by featuring the pieces in a show at The Art Place. Much of the inspiration for Denise Patchell Olson’s paintings came from her travels throughout historic New England. They speak to both the reality and fantasy that is the American small town. Her artwork has been exhibited in over 75 shops and galleries across the United States, and purchased by international collectors.

If you enjoy photography, there are some amazing photographs on display by Bob Ness. Capturing the beauty of every season, his colorful photographs will inspire you. Bob Ness traces his interest in photography back to high school, although he didn’t pursue this interest until the end of his college years when he began to capture scenes of the world around him. Wolfeboro and other regional delights serve as both model and muse for his art. Many are drawn to the intricate details of his work, like the shapes and lines in the photos.

If you’re a fan of fall foliage (who isn’t?), you’ll want to see the photos on display by John Geery. His photographs beautifully capture the vibrant colors of the season, while also showing the softness of autumn scenery. I can easily get lost in his photos, and wish I could transport myself to those places. Originally an easterner, John returned to New England in 1984, after nine years of living out west. He was initially concerned that the east wouldn’t be as photographically inspiring as the grandiose west. He soon discovered that while totally different, the great diversity of seasons and intimacy of the eastern landscape quickly won him over.

Other featured artists include Plein Air painter Madelyne Albee; Valerie Schurer Christle, who works with different media; self-proclaimed “outsider” artist Tim Campbell; traditional painter Eric Koeppel; Charlene Lehto, who paints with oil and watercolors; pen and ink artist Gene Matras; watercolorist Helene Pierce; Lauren Sansaricq, a White Mountain School of Art painter; and Corina Willette, who works with mixed media. Visitors to the gallery will also enjoy WaterMark Maps, created by Concord artist, Morgan Walton. She originally started her business with her father when she was a senior in high school, and since then, she has created maps of over 350 locations. Some of them, like her map of Lake Winnipesaukee (which includes all 262 islands), took quite some time to create. The detail that Morgan captures with her watercolors is unmatched.

There are other maps and charts available at The Art Place. A popular seller at the gallery are laser-cut, “reverse relief” wood charts. These framed maps show the depth and height of the landscape through layers of stacked, precisely cut wooden pieces. The maps feature popular local destinations like Lake Winnipesaukee, Boston Harbor, Sebago Lake in Maine, and Cape Cod, among others. Customers also really enjoy the wooden cribbage boards, featuring a carved Lake Winnipesaukee design. 

In the summer season, The Art Walk events are popular and well-attended Wolfeboro events. Hosted by the Governor Wentworth Arts Council (GWAC), the Art Walk is a self-guided tour of galleries and other art locations in Wolfeboro including The Studio Gallery, The Kalled Gallery, The Art Place, Artisans Corner, The Sandy Martin Gallery, Winnipesaukee Chocolates, and The Connelly Gallery as well as Northeastern Ballet Theatre Studio. Although the season has ended, you can still support the arts year-round by visiting any of these featured local businesses.

The Art Place is located at 9 North Main Street and is open year-round. For further information, visit www.theartplace.biz or call 603-569-6159 (toll-free at 866-569-6159).

An Autumn Squam Lake Pontoon Boat Cruise

An Autumn Squam Lake Pontoon Boat Cruise

By Mark Okrant

Photos courtesy Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

More than 10 million out-of-state visitors can’t be wrong . . . New Hampshire is a treasure-trove of fabulous natural and cultural attractions. While the majority flock to the most popular destinations, there are hundreds of additional places from which to choose. Having lived in New Hampshire for more than 40 years, one of my favorites is Squam Lake. Situated immediately northwest of Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam’s 6,791 acres qualify it as the second largest body of fresh water contained entirely within the state. 

Recently, I had the opportunity to view Squam in a new way, as a passenger aboard one of the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s (SLNSC) lake cruises. Taking exit 24 from I-93, I followed Route 3 south to Route 113/Holderness for about 10 minutes. At the Science Center, I was greeted by the Center’s Marketing and Visitor Services Manager, Amanda Gillen. Amanda directed us to the Center’s dock, where a canopied pontoon boat, The Loon, awaited. Within moments, we (my wife and I) were introduced to the captain for the day, Tom Thomas, an affable retiree who has spent the last five years familiarizing passengers with this gem of a water body.  

Beloved loons on Squam Lake.

Two themes became apparent before the bulbous silver pontoons were fully wet. Throughout the delightful 90-minute experience, we were to learn about the glacial origins of the lake and its surroundings, and how the highly acclaimed 1981 film,On Golden Pond, influenced preservation of the shoreline. 

Leaving the dock, Captain Tom briefly took us past the site where Norman had gassed up his boat in On Golden Pond. After turning around in neighboring Little Squam Lake, we headed back along the Squam River and entered Big Squam, where our informative tour began in earnest. 

Passing by Colton Cove, one of 20 coves in Squam Lake, we learned that this was the first area along the lake’s shoreline to be developed. Tom instructed us to note several characteristics of the older houses, which he would compare with newer developments later. Those first homes were built within inches of the water’s edge; many had boathouses that hovered over the lake itself. Neighboring houses on Colton Cove were close enough to one another to hit with a child’s peashooter.

Tom’s presentation addressed the aftermath of having an internationally acclaimed movie set in what was largely an undeveloped, environmentally sensitive area. Within weeks of the appearance of On Golden Pondin theaters, the five communities surrounding the lake were met with demands to accommodate residential and other forms of development. Acting quickly, and in concert with one another, plus the state government, strict restrictions were passed.

As we cruised along, those quick actions were in sharp evidence. While structures pre-dating the film were grandfathered, newer units were required to be constructed a minimum of 50 feet back from the shoreline. No clear cutting of property was to be allowed, nor were boathouses. 

As an additional way to conform with surroundings, all new structures were painted in earth tones . . . no orange or chartreuse houses. 

While the pontoon boat powered along, we learned about the formation of Squam Lake and its surroundings. The last continental glacier had moved forward, then retreated 13,000 to 15,000 years ago, scouring out the region’s lakes and rounding the surrounding mountains during the process. Squam Lake consists of 18 separate basins, divided from one another by granite ridges called reefs. These reefs extend from the lake floor to within two-to-three feet below the water’s surface. Therefore, a keen awareness of the locations of those rocky hazards is essential for safe boating on the lake. 

Squam Lake scene during the foliage season.

As we looked into the distance, it was explained that there are three sets of mountains within the lake’s 44,000-acre watershed: The Squam Range, the Ossipee Range, and the Sandwich Range. To illustrate the continental glacier’s thickness, Tom pointed to nearby Red Hill, the tallest point of elevation in the Squam Range, and asked us to imagine that the ice was three times the height of that impressive rock sentinel.  

Moving along, we learned that there are 30 named islands in Squam Lake. Passing Potato Island, we observed that there was an impressive house hidden beneath a canopy of trees. Owing to its location close to the shore, Potato is one of four islands served by electricity from the surrounding community. I think each of us imagined making a real estate transaction as soon as we returned to the dock.

At this juncture, The Loonwas nearly an hour into our cruise. While no one commented, we all knew that something important was missing from our checklist of expectations. We had viewed cormorants, with their sleek black bodies and giraffe-like necks. There was an abundance of gulls and great blue herons, and we passed nesting sites that had been abandoned by bald eagles. As we traveled, Tom informed us about the abundance of fish—rainbow trout, landlocked salmon, lake trout, whitefish, small and largemouth bass, pickerel, horned pout, and white perch—that occupy the lake. All of these support an abundance of wildlife and attract recreation anglers. So, where was that one waterfowl we all had come to see?

Passing Livermore Cove, named for a signer of the Declaration of Independence, we learned that this is a loon preservation area, wherein one pair of adults and two chicks will consume six hundred pounds of fish during their season on the lake. Loons live on Squam Lake from late March until November or early December. Since loons can’t fish once the lake ices over, they spend winters in the Gulf of Maine. Each of us anxiously wondered where they were hiding on this particular beautiful early September day.

Passing Chocorua Island, known locally as Church Island, we learned that church services and weddings had been conducted on this small, wooded isle since early during the last century. Continuing on, we saw houses situated way up on the sides of surrounding hills . . . remnants of former farms, and logging operations . . . long since converted to condominiums and private estates. Soon we were passing the shoreline where Rockywold-Deephaven Camp occupies a peninsula that affords beautiful views of Squam. Another peninsula, Five Finger Point came into view. This one, managed by the Squam Lakes Association, provides naturalists and students with a place to study the local environment. 

As we reached Kimball Island, whose Purgatory Cove was the setting for a momentous boat crash scene in On Golden Pond, we spotted nearly a dozen kayakers, all patiently paddling along. Kayakers love Squam, as it is devoid of the large speedboats whose owners prefer the open water of Lake Winnipesaukee. The kayakers seemed to be looking at something in the distance . . . that’s when we saw them. 

First there were two . . . then three . . . then six Common Loons. Using binoculars supplied by our captain, we watched as the loons, with their black heads, spotted white backs, and cranberry eyes, formed a single group—a process called rafting. Tom quickly shut off the engine and we simply drifted along, getting no closer than 50 yards away. Obviously, those gorgeous birds were the real reason a bunch of strangers spent a beautiful mid-day aboard a pontoon boat on Squam Lake. In this case, reality exceeded all expectations.

As we were returning to the Science Center’s dock, the leaves of the Tupolo trees were beginning to show red. As you read this, other people are traveling to Squam Lake to view all of this natural beauty and discriminating shoreline development, but with a wonderful addition. Very soon, the shoreline will be awash in their seasonal hues. Visitors will be greeted with a broad brush of beautiful colors while being serenaded by the haunting call of loons. So, what’s keeping you from joining them? 

Each year, more than 9,000 people experience a Squam Lakes Natural Science Center cruise aboard a pontoon boat. Tickets may be purchased at www.nhnature.org. The fee for adults is $27; seniors pay $25, while the cost for children is $23. Also, tickets for the Center’s Live Animal Exhibit Trail can be purchased at that website.

It’s a Musical Autumn in the Lakes Region!

It’s a Musical Autumn in the Lakes Region!

By Sarah Wright

Autumn is upon us, with all of its beautiful color, crisp air, apples, and pumpkins. This also means the outdoor gazebo concerts we enjoy in the summer have ended for the season. However, there are still many opportunities for musical entertainment, and the Lakes Region has some exciting concerts lined up this fall. Mark your calendars and warm up indoors at one of these amazing performances!

Enjoy live music on an evening cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington with a delicious dinner buffet! Whether it’s the Swing to the Oldies theme on Friday nights, the Rock ’n Roll Saturday Night cruise, or the special Elvis Tribute on October 4, there’s something for everyone! Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to set sail from Weirs Beach. Dinner cruises run from 6 to 9 pm. To purchase tickets and view the full schedule, visit www.cruisenh.com or call 603-366-5531.

The Wolfeboro Friends of Music welcomes four talented young artists for Heifetz On Tour at Brewster Academy’s Anderson Hall, at 205 South Main Street in Wolfeboro on October 19 at 7:30 pm. This year’s featured musicians will play violin, viola, cello, and piano. Many people love this very popular concert event, returning for its eighth time. If you’re not familiar with the Heifetz Institute, Daniel Heifetz founded the program in 1996. The young musicians are trained through the Institute’s world-renowned summer program on the campus of Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Virginia. The touring program creates real-world performance and outreach opportunities for promising young Heifetz Institute alumni. To find out more about this concert or to order tickets, visit www.wfriendsofmusic.org or call 603-569-2151. Come see why Heifetz On Tour is so popular!

If you’re a fan of the Oldies, don’t miss Not Fade Away: The Ultimate Throwback to Buddy Holly and the Legends of Rock N’ Roll at the Interlakes Theatre on Laker Lane in Meredith, during Columbus Day weekend. Performances are scheduled for Saturday, October 12 at 7:30 pm; Sunday, October 13 at 3 pm and 7 pm; and on Monday, October 14 at 2 pm. Folks of all ages will surely enjoy classic hits from Buddy Holly as well as The Beach Boys, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis, The Beatles, and more! For ticket information, visit www.interlakestheatre.com or call 603-707-6035.

The Lakes Region Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 44th season with some great upcoming concerts. The premier, community orchestra based in Meredith, is comprised of amateur musicians and members from over 30 communities in the beautiful Lakes Region. On the schedule this fall, on Saturday, November 2 at 7:30 pm, listen to the beautiful melodies of the orchestra as they present, “Tales of Tchaikovsky” at the Inter-Lakes Community Auditorium on Route 25 in Meredith. Special guest artist, pianist Brigham Parker, the 2019 LRSO Concerto Competition Winner, will join the orchestra. The program will include Piano Concerto No. 1 by Tchaikovsky, featuring Brigham Parker; the Overture to The Barber of Seville by Rossini; and Symphony No. 2, “Little Russian” by Tchaikovsky. If you like what you hear, and are interested in joining the orchestra, contact conductor Ben Greene at bengreene820-at-gmail.com. They’re especially in need of trumpet and trombone players. Purchase tickets for the concert at www.lrso.org or call 800-838-3006.

If you’re a fan of musical theatre, you’ll be delighted to hear that The Village Players of Wolfeboro will present the hilarious musical Once Upon a Mattress this November. This retelling of the classic fairytale of The Princess and the Pea features music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Marshall Barer. With a cursed king, a wicked queen, a lovestruck prince, and a princess unlike any other, the humorous antics of these characters will have you laughing out loud. Performances are scheduled for November 1, 2 and 3, and then again on November 8, 9 and 10. The Village Players Theater is located at 51 Glendon Street in Wolfeboro. For ticket information and showtimes, visit www.village-players.com.

Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles, will perform at the Flying Monkey on Sept. 29.

The Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center on Main Street in Plymouth always has a schedule packed with incredible entertainment. This fall will not disappoint! There will be numerous talented artists in the next couple of months, including Don Felder (formerly of The Eagles), The Spirit of Johnny Cash, the Robert Cray Band, J.J. Grey, The California Honeydrops, The Gibson Brothers, and Peter Wolf. For tickets or further schedule information on any of the mentioned events, visit www.flyingmonkeynh.com or call 603-536-2551.

The California Honeydrops bring their musical sound to the Flying Monkey in October.

Another great music venue is the Granite State Music Hall at 546 Main Street in Laconia. Upcoming shows include a very eclectic group of artists like Candlebox, Rodney Atkins, Slaughter, Colt Ford, Trapt, Edwin McCain, Powerman 5000, and Jerrod Niemann. For full schedule information and ticket sales, visit www.granitestatemusichall.com.

Of course, many popular restaurants in the area also feature live music, such as The Broken Spoke Saloon in Laconia (www.brokenspoke.com/laconia) and Giuseppe’s Pizzeria & Ristorante in Meredith (www.giuseppesnh.com). Patrick’s Pub & Eatery at 18 Weirs Road in Gilford offers great local entertainment to listen to while you enjoy some of their delicious menu items. With Open Mic Night on Tuesdays, and live music with Cody James on Wednesdays, your weeknights just got more interesting. The entertainment heats up by Friday night, with a different special musical guest each week. The Saturday Sessions also vary each week, and diners can expect all kinds of music from jazz to blues to rock ’n roll, and of course Irish music! For the latest entertainment schedule, or to view the restaurant’s menu, visit www.patrickspub.com, or call 603-293-0841 with any questions.

As we head into autumn, there is definitely something for every music lover in the Lakes Region, not to mention the musicians that perform at local bars and restaurants. Entertainment doesn’t end with summer…the area has a lot to offer, year-round for music fans of all ages. Check out one of these wonderful performances this fall!

Get Steamin’ at the Steamboat Meet!

Get Steamin’ at the Steamboat Meet!

By Rosalie Triolo

When David Thompson was 15 years old, he acquired his first steamboat. In the summer, he would visit his grandfather on Lake Winnipesaukee and then steam back home to Wolfeboro where his father worked at Goodhue and Hawkins. Thompson has, himself, built 20-plus steamboats. He has also built 30 steamboats for other people and explained that it takes six cords of hard wood to get through the Annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet.

“Generations of steamboat builders from great-grandfathers to grandfathers and fathers have passed along to future generations, not only the skill, but the passion and satisfaction experienced from a sense of accomplishment derived from building the boat, engine and boiler and joining other enthusiasts at the annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet,” said Thompson.

Friday, September 6 will mark the beginning of the 47th Annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet in Moultonborough, on Lake Winnipesaukee. The 10-day Meet sponsored by the town of Moultonborough traditionally begins the first Friday after Labor Day. This year the date is Friday, September 6, lasting through the week and ending on Sunday, September 15. A parade of steamboats is held each Sunday of the event – the first Sunday at 2 pm and the second Sunday at 10 am. A steamboat cruise takes place on Wednesday, September 11 from the Moultonborough Town Docks to 19 Mile Bay in Tuftonboro.

Steamboat on Lake Winnipesaukee

The annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet is not only the largest, but also the oldest in the country. In 1972 David Thompson, a steamboat aficionado, invited other steamboat enthusiasts to Moultonborough to hold the first Steamboat Meet on Lake Winnipesaukee. Only four boats showed up. Disappointed but not discouraged, David persisted and through the years the annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet has successfully attracted more than 50 avid steamboat owners, operators and/or builders. Each year, when they are able, most of the same people return. Since many of the participants are retired, they seem to have more time to take part in the Meet and every now and then a few novice steamboat enthusiasts will show up to join in the camaraderie with those who are more experienced. Out of the 50 steamboat enthusiasts maybe there are two non-retirees and some who are younger than retirement age.

Crediting David Thompson for helping him build his first steam engine, Roger Reed, also a steamboat enthusiast, has built a couple of steam engines himself. Roger has two steamboats, one made of wood and the other of fiberglass. He usually takes the fiberglass steamboat to the Meet. A steamboat enthusiast for the past 10-plus years, Roger said, “The nicest thing about being part of the Steamboat community is working with and talking to other steamboat enthusiasts about the boats, steam engines and boilers. If you would rather purchase an engine, there are companies who sell the engines and boilers, but the real fun is in putting them together.”

How long does it take to learn how to operate a steam engine and boiler? Roger finds that it takes somewhere between about one to two years to fully understand how to operate a steam engine and boiler and become familiar with the distinctive sounds of the engine and boiler, which is similar to an experiment dealing with a period of trial and error. The best part of the Meet is the camaraderie forged between members. It is especially enjoyable when a member of the Meet has a problem and needs help solving it. Not the fact that the member has the problem, but that all the members gather together to talk about it, ask each other how to solve, and come up with a solution to the problem. It’s the fellowship that comes from having the same interests.

Roger also explained, “There are 80 percent repeat steamboats every year and about 20 percent come and go. Usually there are about 50 or more boats at the Meet each year. Some trailer their boats from as far away as Florida and Virginia, as well as those from New York or right here in New Hampshire. All steamboats come in on trailers and are launched at the ramp in Lee’s Mills where there is lots of help. Twenty-five temporary numbered docks are put in place before the Meet.” Roger emphasizes, “If it wasn’t for David Thompson and his sons Brian and Blair, who check the boats before launch, provide the heavy equipment for putting docks into place, and, also provide storage space for the docks after the Meet there would probably be no Meet. David’s daughter, Kelly, runs the snack shack.”

Each owner of a steamboat is responsible for testing their boilers, using water safety rules and having sense. Ideally steam pressure should be about 80 lbs. to 90 lbs. and not go above 125 lbs. of pressure. A “must” requirement is one that ensures each boat has a safety valve release certified for 125 lbs. of pressure. The association provides six to eight cords of hard wood cut into small pieces to operate the boilers. Four or five boats use coal, not the Anthracite used in homes, but a soft coal and two or three boats use propane. The Town of Moultonborough provides free sanitation facilities.

Friends and families gather at Lee’s Mills each year to watch the Meet and gather with old friends and acquaintances. Some observers from Moultonborough and surrounding towns join in the excitement of watching the Meet, and sometimes they may be given the opportunity to take a relaxing ride on one of the steamboats. It is also interesting to watch some of the Steamboat Meets from prior years on You Tube and become acquainted with the variety of steamboats involved in the Meet. Many are drone videos while others are taken from passing boats.

Whether you arrive by car or power boat, the Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet is fascinating to watch, especially, if it is a beautiful sunny day on Lake Winnipesaukee.

For information on the Annual Lee’s Mills Steamboat Meet, call David Thompson at 603-476-2224. Lee’s Mills Road, the site of the steamboat meet, is located off Rt. 25 in Moultonborough, NH. Follow Lee’s Mills Road and the Loon Center signs; the meet is beyond the Loon Center.

Ooo La La…Memories of the Shangri-La

Yesteryear

Ooo La La…Memories of the Shangri-La

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Photos courtesy of Robert Ames, webmaster of WeirsBeach.com

Shangri-La Hotel

It was originally operated as the Winnecoette (hotel), located in the bustling Weirs Beach area. Each summer, guests arrived for a short or entire summer’s stay and enjoyed the delights of the beach, Lake Winnipesaukee…and the large and beautiful Winnecoette.

Imagine staying at the Winnecoette, where you could relax on the hotel’s spacious porch and enjoy breezes from the lake cooling you on a warm summer evening after a home cooked meal in the dining room.

The hotel was well known in Weirs Beach for many years; it opened in 1879, and overlooked the area from its vantage point high on a hill. In 1952, it was purchased by George and Mary Spanos and renamed the Shangri-La. Change came slowly and a visitor in the 1950’s might have assumed George and Mary were going to continue with the original hotel structure and layout. But things changed over time and the new resort was expanded…and modernized.

Shangri-La pool with a view

An early brochure from the era of ownership by Mr. and Mrs. Spanos tells us the motel and cottages were “Truly a Shangri-La; with an unparalleled view of lakes and mountains – set apart with a unique atmosphere all its own. Large hotel rooms with private bath; attractive cottages, and modern new Motel. Excellent Dining Room and Scenic Cocktail Lounge on premises. Sports including tennis and shuffleboards. Golf and Playhouse nearby. ½ mile north of Weirs Recreational Center.”

Indeed, the Shangri-La, which encompassed 220 acres, was unlike other vacation spots, and if you stayed there, you could enjoy just about every summertime activity you might wish for. Or you could simply sit by the pool and relax. The resort’s most luxurious attractions to guests were the two pools: one, a large outdoor swimming pool located on the lawn with a panoramic view of Lake Winnipesaukee and the mountains; the other, a large, L-shaped indoor pool, with large picture windows to the outside.

Shangri-La indoor pool

Brochures of the Shangri-La show the greatly enlarged hotel high on the hill. If you knew what the original Winnecoette House looked like, you could see that the new hotel retained some of the original design, but with more rooms and modernization transforming it into a full-fledged resort.

Guests also enjoyed the New Mermaid Lounge, Panorama Restaurant and Coffee Shop serving a variety of cocktails and “imaginative” cuisine. Numerous picture windows only added to the treat of eating in the restaurant, no matter the time of year.  

The resort was a wonderful place for families, with two large heated pools, tennis, badminton, croquet, ping pong, archery, horse shoes, shuffleboard, outdoor barbecues, dancing, movies, bingo and even vaudeville! The Shangri-La also was the headquarters for photography classes taught by “a world-famous authority” although brochures do not identify who that photographer might have been.

Referring to old pamphlets, we see photographs of the hotel/motel rooms, and while they look simple by today’s standards and styles, at the time they were the height of luxury. These rooms actually had televisions at a time when that was not always the case when staying at a motel; the views were incredible from the picture windows in the rooms, and the food and variety of activities were unsurpassed.

Another brochure exuded the delights that awaited those who stayed at the Shangri-La: “A recreational Motel Resort, a celestial retreat of 200 beautiful acres for your uncrowded enjoyment, 2 king-sized swimming pools with water warm as the South Seas, indoor and outdoor. An American Shangri-La for leisure, play and rest.” Who could resist all that?

Added to this list of recreational fun, in the winter the Shangri-La offered skiing. A rope tow was added along with a lighted slope by the late 1960’s. Although this was not a full-fledged ski resort, it added fun for guests who wanted a wintertime get-away in the Lakes Region.

With an extensive resort established, the Spanos family eventually sold the property in the spring of 1970. The new owners renamed the business the Brickyard Mountain Inn. One of the things added was extensive skiing on the property. The owners acquired snowmaking pumps and lights, and a new 1,357 ft. long Borvig double chairlift was installed, which greatly added to the size and capacity of skiing at the resort. According to www.newenglandskihistory.com, new trails were opened and night skiing was added. Those who wanted to try out skiing could sign up for lessons at the resort’s ski school, and rent equipment there as well. The ski area lasted about a decade before closing permanently in the early 1980’s.

The inn and property were sold in 1981 and in 2001. With 220 acres in Weirs Beach, the property was divided into several parcels and one became the Village at Winnipesaukee condominiums and another, Cedar Lodge. In 2004, the Meredith Bay housing development began construction on land in the area.

If you have memories and/or photos of a stay at the Shangri-La, The Laker welcomes them for a future story on this important Weirs Beach landmark. Please email to lkr@thelaker.com or pressreleases@thelaker.com.

(Thanks to Robert Ames, webmaster of weirsbeach.com, and The Lake Winnipesaukee Historical Museum for information for this article.)

Outdoor and More Store Home and Garden Accents

Outdoor and More Store Home and Garden Accents

Story and Photos by Rosalie Triolo

Opportunity, Chance, and Foresight. Nate and Mary McShinsky met in high school, in Vermont and as Mary added, “We were high school sweethearts.” After high school, Mary worked at a gas station/auto body shop and Nate worked in construction.

In 1991, opportunity presented itself when the owner of the station, eager to retire, approached Nate and Mary, giving them the chance to purchase the shop. After they bought the business, Nate and Mary gutted, renovated and turned it into a convenience store/gas station, while raising two young sons.

Vacationing on Lake Winnipesaukee was an annual retreat for the McShinsky family. They would pack up their camper and head to the Paugus Bay Campground in Laconia. At the lake, everyone enjoyed family-time and Mary and Nate somewhat forgot the difficulties of owning and operating a convenience store/gas station, which was open from 5 am until 10 pm, hiring and keeping reliable help to work shifts and complying with the standards and restrictions put upon gas stations by the EPA. Mary explained, “The store took up much of our time as well as trying to comply with EPA standards. It seemed as soon as we were compliant with one standard, the EPA introduced another.” By the end of 2017 Irving Oil and Gas approached the McShinskys and offered them a buy-out deal for their business. As Mary said, “They made us an offer we couldn’t refuse.”

Nate and Mary both agreed that after 28 years in business this would be the perfect time to do some traveling. Mary thought they should take a year off to figure out what they would do next. However, fate had a different timetable. In September of 2018, the McShinskys took their camper to Paugus Bay Campground in Laconia for another vacation on Lake Winnipesaukee. On an ordinary day, while driving down Route 25 in Tamworth, NH, Nate and Mary passed an old auto body/paint shop. They pulled into the parking lot, entered the shop and saw the possibilities which would alter that day from ordinary to one of new beginnings. To quote Mary, “Our one-year plan lasted six months. Throughout the years, we have built five homes, gutted and renovated two gas station/auto body and paint shops and turned them into convenience stores while raising our sons.”

With a combination of imagination and foresight the McShinskys yet again gutted and renovated another old, tired shop and this time created a country cottage atmosphere in the “Outdoor and More Store.”

Nate and Mary drove to Atlanta, Georgia in January 2019 to attend a trade show. It was their first time attending a trade show and a chance to determine what exactly would be involved in owning and operating a seasonal store. They needed a direction in which to take the Outdoor and More Store. At the show Nate and Mary discovered a world of handmade and hand-painted crafts and met with some very creative craftsmen, artists and dealers. The Outdoor and More Store had its grand opening in May of 2019, Mother’s Day weekend, introducing a collection of 90 percent “Made in USA” products, as well as crafts specifically made in New Hampshire.

Looking for “Outdoor” furniture, garden accessories, planters, bird houses, arbors, gliders, water fountains, or browsing for indoor specialties where there is “More” offers a lot to customers. Shelves are arranged with an array of delightfully whimsical and distinctively creative handmade, hand-painted crafts. Amish craftsmanship and creativity are unmistakable in the unique iron wall art coatracks depicting a bear or deer or moose in the wild, accented by striking rugged wooden frames and arranged next to iron wall clocks also accented by similar wooden frames. Crafted by the Amish, handsome wooden Dory’s stand in line resting on stern-end with bow pointing upward, the seats between can be used as shelves.

Tom of Seven Lincoln Designs in Milford, NH creates handmade wooden signs, hand-painted tables, decorative oars or special orders. At Outdoor and More, there is so much to see and gather ideas from a variety of handcrafted items; copper weathervanes, wooden cupolas, pergolas and arbors to Woodstock chimes and hammock swings. About the hammock swing made of durable material, this is no ordinary hammock swing but one which is portable. You can transport this lazy, hazy summer day cozy hammock swing in a slightly larger decorative canvas tote bag. The tote bag holds the swing, a sturdy chain, wooden bar, and a very comfortable sink-into seat with extra pillow. It makes the perfect gift for family, friends or for yourself. Candles sold at the Outdoor and More Store are supplied by the Bridgewater Candle Company. Mary explained, “We buy candles from the Bridgewater Candle Company, because with the sale of every candle one dollar is contributed to feeding a child three meals a day.”

Just to be forewarned, Maple the mascot bear, stands ready to greet you as you pull into the parking area of the Outdoor and More Store. Although she looks ferocious, Maple is harmless.

What are Nate and Marys’ plans for the future of Outdoor and More? This coming January 2020 they plan another trip back to the Atlanta Trade Show focusing on Mountain and Lake themes. The Atlanta Trade Show is the largest consisting of two 18-story buildings filled with all types and varieties of crafts.

Next season Nate and Mary are working on some interesting ideas to grow and enhance their business, possibly adding a rental program for arbors.

Also, the business will expand their delivery service, whether on land or on the lake. Nate will deliver to island properties as he has already done. He told the story of a couple who came into Outdoor and More and purchased quite a bit of outdoor furniture. When they realized their boat was not large enough to accommodate all the furniture, Nate loaded the furniture onto his pontoon boat and delivered it to the couple’s home on Treasure Island. He has a truck to accommodate furniture deliveries to homes in Ossipee and the surrounding areas. Porch/patio furniture made with stainless-steel screws comes with a 20-year warranty and does not need to be covered. However, it may be a good idea in extreme weather conditions to cover the furniture, and if you have a metal roof, it might be a good idea to keep the furniture out of range of snow falling off the roof.

Adding to their plans for the future of the Outdoor and More Store, Mary and Nate plan to sell propane tanks for campers, bagged ice and cold drinks.

This past Fourth of July, Nate and Mary participated in the Wolfeboro parade. The theme of their float was “Nation, State, Community and Military.” Nate constructed a plywood replica of the state of New Hampshire with towns represented. The military was represented by 19 cement figures wearing the uniforms signifying each branch of service they represented: Army, Navy, Marine, Airforce and Coast Guard figures stood at attention honoring our nation with a permanent salute and an American flag draped over a cross honored those fallen soldiers. For their efforts in creating an outstanding float, Nate and Mary received second place in Business Division and the Grand Marshall Award.

Outdoor and More is located on Route 25 – 1287 Bearcamp Hwy., Tamworth, New Hampshire and is open from Mother’s Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend. They can be reached by calling 802-356-7660, by e-mail at info@outdoorandmorestore.com or visit www.outdoorandmorestore.com.

Rustic Little Rumney

Day Tripping

Rustic Little Rumney

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

I had the best of intentions. I always do. It was clean-up-my-messy-house-day and I planned to get everything neat and tidy and spotless. It was time to put away the beach towels and coolers and sunscreen from my adult daughter’s recent four-day visit, among the chores to be completed around the house.

However, it didn’t happen, because I got thinking about Rumney. I remembered the old, rustic barn beside the road and the pretty landscape and the lure of maybe finding an antique shop as I had in the past.

You may well ask, “Why Rumney?” Why would I want to spend the day visiting a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it village?

First of all, I have very fond memories of the town from previous visits. Many years ago, on an autumn day, I discovered the rural treats that wait in Rumney. I can’t recall why I was driving through the area, but I took a turn off Rt. 25 into the village and found a shop that specialized in antique paper goods. They had some great old postcards and sheet msic. I had lunch at a nice restaurant and stopped by a pottery business. It was a beautiful fall day with bright sunshine and foliage, so wonderful that I always remembered it.

The lure of revisiting the town was strong, especially on a sunny summer’s day. The housework could wait, I told myself, because I wanted to also do some landscaping drawing and try out a new set of pastels I recently acquired. (I find drawing and painting outside in summer to be very relaxing and after all, everyone needs to relax now and then.) Rumney, with its rustic backroads and scenery would be a great place to get away from it all.

To reach Rumney from the Laconia area, I took Rt. 3/Daniel Webster Highway through Meredith to Bristol. I love the Bristol/Newfound Lake area, and on this day I was tempted to stop and relax lakeside, but I was on a bit of a mission to get to Rumney

Taking Rt. 3A from Bristol toward Bridgewater, I savored the road with its beautiful scenery and lake views. In Plymouth, I rounded the traffic circle toward Rumney, and soon passed Polar Caves on Rt. 25, an attraction that holds a special place for me, because it was where I took kids many m when they were little.

The road is considered a major route, but if you are looking to get away from it all and take in some pretty fields and mountain views, this is the place to be. My goal was to find that old barn (I never did, and I suspect it may have been razed), but as I drove into the village area off the main road, I immediately felt the peace and tranquility. The village green is pretty, with a little gazebo and benches and I thought what a nice spot it would be to relax during lunchtime…or anytime.

I decided, on a whim, to visit the Mary Baker Eddy House at 58 Stinson Road in Rumney. Again, it brought back fond memories of a previous visit some years ago when I toured the little Cape-style historic home with the property’s caretaker. This time, I noticed the open flag was flying in front of the little house and decided to stop. I was met at the front door by Cindy Love, the resident overseer of the property. Cindy invited me in and asked me to sign the guest book in the little entrance area where some books on Mary Baker Eddy and other items were for sale.

The last time I visited, I was given a brief bit of information on Mary and then taken on a tour. My visit lasted maybe a half-hour because the home is modest in size: A two-up and two-down sort of structure. This time, I spent about an hour and a half at the home, because Cindy gives an informative talk after inviting visitors into the parlor. Guests are told they may sit on any chair unless a ribbon is placed on the chair to indicate it is fragile. A family of four was also visiting and the two pre-teen daughters sat on the green silk fainting couch where Mary Baker would have once rested; I doubt if they had ever seen such a pretty but unusual sofa before!

Mary Baker Eddy's Rumney home

Cindy shared the story of Mary Baker Eddy and the many hardships and ill health Mrs. Eddy endured before, during and after the Civil War times. Although Rumney and the surrounding towns were busier back then, it was still a remote area and one can only imagine how lonely it may have been. Mary’s husband, a dentist, ran a practice from the room across the hall on the first floor. In such a small home, there was probably no other place for Mary to sit and sew and write and read than in the parlor. It was here that the dentist’s patients would wait for their appointment. Back then, a visit to the dentist likely meant pain and patients were understandably nervous. Mary was a comfort to many, offering a gentle, supportive presence that was a precursor to her later spiritual work.

After the talk, Cindy led me on a tour of the home, pointing out architectural features. We talked about what the original house would have been like, how Mary coped with life in the country and the ups and downs of living with her husband. (The dentist abandoned her and ran away with another woman; he returned and while she tried to make the marriage work, she eventually tired of his behavior.)

I was struck by the sense of quiet and the atmosphere of history in the home. Mary’s long struggles and ill health and eventual spiritual healing that led to the start of Christian Science were forming while in Rumney. Certainly, she went on to lead an exceptional life.

I asked Cindy, before I left, where the road in front of the house led, since I had never ventured further than Mary Baker Eddy’s home. She replied, “It leads to Stinson Lake and it’s just a few miles up the road.”

Stinson Lake

Intrigued, I decided to take a little adventure drive to see the lake. Although I have heard of Stinson Lake, I had no idea it was nearby and I was a bit surprised that there was a lake up there, as I drove up, up, up the hill. Eventually I came to the lake area, and it was a pretty little body of water with many cottages hugging its shores. I did not venture far, because a road crew was doing construction, and it would have made travel on that particular day a bit difficult. I plan to return in the fall to follow Stinson Lake Road to see where it leads in true day-tripping fashion.

I turned around and headed back down Stinson Lake Road and on a whim, decided to stop at the Rumney Village store for a snack. The store is just what you imagine a village country store to be: with a porch, and lots of locals shooting the breeze about all the local and national news.

Historically, the store was built in 1865, right about the time Mary Baker Eddy was finding her spiritual path. The store is a rarity: it is one of the few surviving examples of a late 19th-century village store. It was originally a residence with a blacksmith shop, and later became a store. Today, it still operates as a store where, if you live locally and realize you are out of milk or bread, you can stop at the Village Store. The store is located at 453 Main Street and also has art work and gifts.

I took my coffee and snack to the Rumney Common, which is nearby. It was hot in the mid-day sun, but the common was cool, surrounded by shade trees. I sat on a bench and soaked up the peace and quiet. Now and then, I could hear someone at a nearby house chatting with a neighbor over the back fence, and a car would rattle by on the road to Stinson Lake, but mostly it was just small-town quiet and serenity. It was just what I needed to relax and enjoy the beauty of the day.

The Byron Merrill LIbrary

Just around the corner, I spotted a large brick building and was a bit surprised that such a small town had an impressive structure for its library. I like to stop at small-town NH libraries now and then. I don’t have a library card at the many libraries I visit, but you can be assured most of them have some great architectural features and the Byron G. Merrill Public Library in Rumney did not disappoint. Located on Buffalo Road, the library also fronts Main Street and the common. Taking the entrance steps, I looked up at the very large stone columns on each side of doorway. Once inside, I saw the lobby area had lots of mellow woodwork and marble.

The 1904 library was designed in the Colonial Revival style, donated by Adelaide Merrill in honor of her father. Clearly, the Merrill family was one of wealth because the library cost $16,000 to build in its day, quite a large sum of money.

Byron G. Merrill was born in Rumney in 1834 and educated in local schools. When the Boston, Concord, Montreal rail line was surveyed, Merrill acted as rod man under the guidance of Josiah Quincy, another Rumney resident. In 1875, Merrill became superintendent of the mechanical department of the Gelena Oil Company in Franklin, Pennsylvania. He became one of the best qualified experts on lubricating oils and their proper use. He traveled and sold large quantities of oil. Merrill spent his last 30 years in Concord, NH, and was involved in municipal affairs.

A big book sale was taking place when I visited, and I came away with a few great books for bargain prices. While I was paying for my books, I asked the librarian to tell me a bit about the building and its history. She was eager to oblige and like any hard-working, dedicated librarian, she took me on a tour of the building. Every book shelf, every book and detail of the library was important to her and she also pointed out the handicap access area and then took me to see the lower level with another fascinating feature.

If you like to imagine what life was like in a remote, rural village many years ago, you will find the lower level area with a nice small stage area quite appealing. “What is a stage doing in a library?” I couldn’t help but ask. It seems it was once used by the local women’s club and other civic groups for poetry readings and meetings. I could just imagine a local ladies club in the early 1900s or even 1940, during the war years, gathering at the library to work on war-effort projects or getting together to discuss a book or poems, or even to put on a little play for the townspeople. The stage was modest in size, but had beautiful woodworking details. These days, the lower level is used for a teen room, probably appreciated by local kids as an after-school spot to study and gather. For information on the library, call 603-786-9520.

After leaving the library, I realized I had not gotten lost yet, which is a bit of a marvel for me. (I have a terrible sense of direction!). But that soon changed, when I thought I was taking the correct road back to Route 25. As I continued on Buffalo Road, I realized I was wrong. However, the road is the place where rock climbers and hikers convene to use the Rumney Rocks and Rattlesnake Mountain areas.

Rumney Rocks climbing area has two parking lots on the right-hand side of the road approximately one mile from the village intersection. The trailhead to Rattlesnake Mountain is about another 1.5 miles past these parking areas. It was too hot to go hiking on this day, and I was not dressed for such an activity (sandals vs. sneakers or hiking boots do not make for a good hike) but I plan to return with my adventure-loving son or daughter in the fall when the temps are cooler and foliage will create an added beauty to the landscape. For more information on the area, contact the White Mountain National Forest Headquarters at 603-536-6100.

View from Quincy Bog

As the afternoon wore on, I decided to head back from Rumney to explore the Quincy Bog Natural Area on Quincy Bog Road. I parked (there is a good parking area) and then took a nice walk towards the boardwalk over the bog. Trail stations are marked and give the history of the bog, the plant and animal life and other interesting information. There are many stations along the trail and this area is well worth visiting. Go to www.quincybog.org for more information.

Just when I thought my day trip jaunt was complete, I happened upon a gem of a farm stand/farm. Longview Farm at 175 Quincy Road in Plymouth was a must-visit stop, with its large farm stand area. The farmers were busy and I appreciated the wide range of vegetables with such unusual additions as lemon cucumbers (of course I had to purchase some of these), as well as fresh tomatoes and all sorts of veggies. I spied an extensive flower garden in the field and asked if they allowed customers to cut their own flowers. They were eager to let me do so, and I found myself in one of the largest, most beautiful floral gardens I have ever had the pleasure to find. After gathering my flowers and paying for them back at the stand, the owners of the farm gave me permission to park nearby and do some outdoor sketching of the gardens. It was a wonderful way to end my day before driving back through Plymouth and onto I-93 and eventually to the Laconia area.

Flower gardens at Longview Farm

While my housework was still there when I got home, the day trip escape to Rumney was just what I needed to relax and rejuvenate. Next winter, when the winds howl and the snow piles up around my door, I will pull out my photos of Rumney in all its summertime glory and remember Mary Baker Eddy and her little home and the beautiful town library, the rock cliffs, the bog and the farm stand. And those memories will make my rustic day trip to Rumney all worthwhile.

The Great Meadow Wetlands Project

The Great Meadow Wetlands Project

Article and photo by Rosalie Triolo

It takes a community to Preserve, Protect and Provide for nature’s gift. The Community, Tuftonboro; Nature’s Gift, The Great Meadow Wetlands.

Great Meadow Wetlands

The Great Meadow Wetlands is located between Sodom Road, Mountain Road (Rt. 171) and part of Dame Road. On a recent tour of the Great Meadow Wetlands led by Steve Wingate, Chairman of the Tuftonboro Conservation Committee and retired Forester, he explained that a few years ago while leading another tour through the Great Meadow Wetlands, a member of the group made an interesting suggestion and possibly planted the seed which was to be the beginning of this project. “Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a trail here so that more people could enjoy this resource?”

The task at hand began from words uttered in a single sentence. The Tuftonboro Conservation Commission successfully brokered a grant from the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program to provide a Natural Resource Inventory for the Great Meadow area. This led to the hiring of Dr. Richard Van de Poll who provided a wealth of information from the geology of the area to its wildlife habitats and was instrumental in helping the Tuftonboro Conservation Commission obtain grants for the project.

In 2003 Dr. Van de Poll, of Ecosystem Management Consultants located in Center Sandwich, New Hampshire, compiled an extensive and thorough 103-page report, which he submitted to the Tuftonboro Conservation Commission. In his report he provided the Committee with a synopsis of ecological conditions, water quality and the relative value for the benefit of the users of the wetland area. Dr. Van de Poll stated in the report, “During the 12-month period, between 2001-2002, a total of 12 species of amphibians, 3 reptiles, 3 fish, 93 species of birds, 33 species of mammals and 256 species of plants” were observed and noted. “In terms of feeding and resting, the Great Meadow serves as a critical winter and local migration habitat for black bear, as well as a host of other species. Moose were quite common, heard and/or seen, and the use of common game trails often contained the signs of this animal. Only the white-tailed deer was apparently more prevalent in terms of the sign left behind.”

As for the predators, “All of the major predator species were present at the Great Meadow property, inclusive of bobcat, coyote, red and gray fox, otter, fisher, mink and ermine…”

Following the orange-ribbon trail markers which indicated the location of a trail to be cleared, Steve led the way through some dense areas of tall gracefully lush fern fronds and thick sedge grass, a tall nutritious wetland grass. In the 1800’s, this was a farming area used to raise cattle. At the time sedge grass was an important source of food for cattle grazing in the Great Meadow Wetlands. At a spot about half-way through the orange-ribbon marked trail, Steve pointed to the place where Phase 3 of the planned project, an Observation Platform, was to be built overlooking a vast expanse of flourishing meadowland and beyond, a view of the Ossipee mountain range.

The Great Meadow Wetlands Project is a three-year, 3-Phase project. Phase #1 will is a parking area; Phase #2 is a 1+-mile loop trail; and Phase #3 is an observation platform. Currently, orange ribbons attached to tree limbs define the 1+ mile winding loop trail and the blue ribbons define the placement of the wooden boardwalk platforms over wet areas. With the completion of all three phases of the project, the Great Meadow Wetlands may be used and will easily lend itself as an educational tool for school children.

Steve talked about the declining rate of moose in the area. “The moose population in the area and in most of New Hampshire is declining due to the infestation of winter ticks. Winter ticks attach themselves to moose in the fall and feed on them through winter.” It is thought by many that this is due in part to climate change. More than 70% of the moose calf population has been affected.

Walking across a tree limb to cross to the other side of a wet and muddy area, Steve pointed to the rocks in the stream. “This is an important habitat for wild turkeys to feed in spring-fed winter waters. Turkeys turn over rocks to get at the aquatic worms for their source of protein.” In an area with conifer trees growing close to each other, Hemlock, Fir and Spruce trees provide a mantle of cover, which holds the heat in on clear winter nights. Here is where you’ll find grouse, wild turkey and chickadees.

In the summer 2019 edition of the Quarterly Newsletter published by the Tuftonboro Association, Steve Wingate wrote, “Before European settlement, open wetlands were important to native Americans. They trapped fish in narrow portions of the river (the Melvin River) and hunted beaver, waterfowl, and moose, which used wetlands as an important habitat. Native Americans also harvested foods and medicinal ingredients from the wetland vegetation. Blueberry plants were common along the tree-lined edge. Many succulent plants could be harvested from wetlands in the spring before any other food plants were available. Migrating waterfowl could be hunted in spring and fall.”

Discussing the role of volunteers, Steve expressed a need for more people to help cut and pull invasive weeds, glossy buckthorn and European bittersweet and do away with twigs cluttering the prospective trail.

With the financial help of the Tuftonboro Association, Phase #1, Jeff Moody has cleared the parking area next to the Tuftonboro Town DPW. Help is now needed to clean up trails so trucks carrying wood and other building supplies can get down to a flat spot to turn around and for a place to pre-build wooden walkways to be used to get across wetland areas. On several occasions, older boys from the YMCA Belknap camp have volunteered for part of the day, and have also been instrumental in clearing an educational trail behind the Tuftonboro Central School.

The Tuftonboro Association is handling fundraising for the trail. Donations may be sent to Tuftonboro Association, PO Box 121, Melvin Village, NH 03850. Please specify this donation is for the “Great Meadow Project.”

Trail Volunteers may call the Town Office at 603-569-4539 x 24 and leave a message for Linda Bean or send her an e-mail at conservation@tuftonboro.org. Any help would be much appreciated.

Estelle Parson and “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” in Wolfeboro

Estelle Parsons

Estelle Parson and “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” in Wolfeboro

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper 

A chat with Estelle Parsons is like a lesson in local history, conservation, childrearing, keeping healthy, race relations, the prison system, how to live a creative life, and a play called “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz”.

Most people know Estelle as the feisty, blunt character she played on the wildly popular television show, “Roseanne”, and now, “The Connors”. There is also her Academy Award winning role as Blanche Barrow in the 1960s movie “Bonnie and Clyde”.

However, when you talk to Estelle, her movie-star status is not the first thing she wants to speak about. Rather, it is her lifetime of work in theatre and her love of live performance that is first and foremost in her thoughts.

A great deal of a conversation with Estelle is focused on a play in which she is deeply involved - “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz”. The thought-provoking work will be presented on stage at the Village Players in Wolfeboro on August 23 and 24 (and also at the Bank of NH Stage in Concord on August 22). 

How did the play make its way to Wolfeboro, far from New York City, where it has been receiving great reviews? “I’ve been coming to Wolfeboro since I was four months old,” Estelle explains. “My grandfather had a farm here and my family has a long history in the area.” That history includes an association with the Village Players Theater in Wolfeboro. Thus, it seemed like the perfect place to perform “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz”, which is directed by Estelle. 

It is a very different sort of play and you won’t see Estelle on the stage, but rather she will be speaking and answering questions with the cast at a Talk Back after the show. A synopsis of “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” is fairly straightforward: eight formerly incarcerated men come together after their release from long prison terms and start a theater group to help them stay on the “straight and narrow.” (Each developed a love of theater during their prison sentence.) Using free-form theatre, each man’s experiences outside the walls are explored, including how they feel about being free, and how they use their creative and theatrical work to transform their responses to society’s biases against them. The depth of each performance is anything but simple and straightforward. Estelle says the play covers race relations, prejudice, starting over, and trying to find a place in a world full of suspicion when it comes to those who have served prison time.

Estelle got involved in the play after visiting Sing-Sing Correctional Facility in New York State; she talked with prisoners and others there and heard many stories about what former-prisoners face when re-entering society. Although far removed from Estelle’s life as a well-known, Caucasian female actress, the very-human stories resonated.

She recalls having a meal with her extended family and explaining about the prison visit, the prisoner’s stories and the idea of a play. She says, with a wry smile, that she wasn’t too keen to do it at first. “I just wanted to get back to Shakespeare or other theatre that brought me joy and move away from how bleak and depressing the prisoner’s stories were.” Her niece, a public defender, challenged Estelle and told her she had to do the play even if it wasn’t the sort of thing she was used to tackling. Clearly, Estelle could not turn her back on the subject and soon, she had gathered a group of actors to perform “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz.”

“The idea was that if we could take a play and perform it around the country, it might make people realize that former prisoners are human beings,” Estelle says. She says “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” is not really a play, but rather a piece utilizing a road map that allows the story to happen by itself. With five to eight male actors in the cast, the story is free form. Each actor plays a former prisoner telling his story of re-entry into society. 

“The premise of the play is that these guys form a theatre club to keep them out of trouble,” Estelle explains. “They aren’t memorizing a script but just getting up and performing. Some of the actors are telling the stories of their relatives in real life.”

Although Estelle is there to direct, she is modest about her role, saying the actors (or “the guys” as she fondly calls them), pretty much do the show without any needed direction. Estelle may downplay her part, but it is clear the work has become an impactful performance night after night, wherever it plays, because of her expertise and ability to bring the subject to theatregoers.

“We want to show that theatre is nourishment and also that the former prisoners are human beings. If everyone could see what I am witnessing with these actors; they have taken the work so much further and it is astonishing. Audiences love it and say it is riveting. For example, Alec Baldwin (the actor) keeps coming back to see the show because it is so good,” Estelle adds.

After the performance in Wolfeboro, there will be a Talk Back, with the cast and Estelle and Carroll County attorney Michaela Andruzzi answering audience questions. (The cast, all members of the Actors Studio, has numerous New York stage, TV and film credits. They are Leland Gantt, Ron Scott, Marcus Naylor, Javier Molina, Erick Betancourt, Ryan Johnson, Justin McManus and Victor Almanzar.)

“Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” has become an important project for Estelle and she also mentions it coincides with the 400th anniversary of the start of slavery in Jamestown, Virginia. While this anniversary is certainly no “celebration”, it offers a moment of reflection for Estelle in how far we have come, and how far we still need to go concerning race relations and humanity. 

As the conversation continues, Estelle speaks of her love of the Lakes Region and her long history in Wolfeboro. And of course, that leads to talk of her family. Born and raised in Massachusetts, the family had the beloved farm in Wolfeboro. Estelle’s parents and other family members spent many summers in the Lakes Region. 

Estelle’s mother had hopes that her daughter would be a writer, and in some ways, that wish was realized. Early in her career, Estelle worked as a writer and producer for “The Today Show”. Also, Estelle was a talented singer and performer and that is the direction her career took her, with extensive work in theatre. One need only search online to find a long list of Estelle’s film and theatre credits, as well as her television work. 

Of all the performance work Estelle has done in her career, it is clear theatre is where her heart lies. Her talk is peppered with the names of plays and writers, and one realizes Estelle is deeply entrenched in theatre in all its forms. 

“When I was 4 years old,” she says, “I saw my first live theatre performance at the Barnstormers.” (The Barnstormers Theater is still in existence in Tamworth, NH today.) That early experience impressed the little girl. She saw how magical theatre could be and years later, she still believes theatre has the power to impact people’s lives. “As I have said, theater is a kind of nourishment,” she reflects. “You can’t get that nourishment any other way. It is important to me that it continue.”

In a conversation that spans her love of theatre to her belief we should conserve the Lakes Region for future generations to her role as a mother (“my kids are adults, but I find I still want to tell them what to do!” she laughs) and finally, to her excitement in bringing “Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” to Wolfeboro, Estelle Parsons has no plans to slow down. And for that, we are all very lucky.

“Re-Entry: Actors Playing Jazz” will be at the Village Players Theater on Glendon Street in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire on Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24 at 7:30 pm. For tickets, visit www.village-players.com or call 603-569-9656.

Historic Tea at Clark House Barn

Historic Tea at Clark House Barn

Alan Harding as Henry Ford.

Henry Ford, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Anne Franke and Madame Chiang Kai-Shek will be among eight “special guests” at the Second Annual Historical Figures Tea to be held at the Clark House Barn, Wolfeboro this Sunday, August 18.
Sponsored by the Wolfeboro Historical Society, this limited-seating event was such a big hit last summer that two seating’s are planned this year: one in the afternoon from 2-4 pm, and the second after dinner, from 7-9 pm.
Collectively, the lives of these famous people span over two and half centuries from the 1700s to the late 1900s. They will be portrayed by community members, including Alan Harding as Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company; Barbara Wilson as Madame Chiang Kai-Shek, wife of Chiang Kai-Shek, leader of Nationalist China; David Owen as Governor John Wentworth, the last Royal Governor of New Hampshire, Patricia Lord (afternoon) and Katy O’Meara Keough (evening) as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, wife of U.S. President John Kennedy and Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis; Charles Horsken as Joshua Haines, an 18th-century blacksmith and founder of Haines Hill Farm; Joy Perkins as Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945); Todd Neff as British General James Wolfe, for whom Wolfeboro was named in 1759, and Rose Guttman as Anne Franke, the 15-year-old Dutch-Jewish girl who wrote the World War II Holocaust account “The Diary of Anne Franke.”
They will share their stories, rotating among eight tables where guests will be enjoying light refreshments, iced tea and wine samples provided by local businesses including Butternuts Good Dishes, La Boca Bakery and Restaurant, Winnipesaukee Winery and the Yum Yum Shop. Flower arrangements by Branch and Bloom and Linda Siracusa, and linens by divine inspirations! custom sewing design studio is appreciated at what promises to be an inspiring afternoon and evening.

Tickets for the event are $22, available at Black’s Paper Store on Main Street in downtown Wolfeboro. Proceeds benefit the Wolfeboro Historical Society, which is a 501C-3 non-profit organization.

New Singletrack Mountain Biking in Wolfeboro

New Singletrack Mountain Biking in Wolfeboro 

By Molly Ingram

Wolfeboro Singletrack Alliance Logo

Throughout the year and no matter what the season, you can always find a local spot to enjoy the outdoors in the town of Wolfeboro. The Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Wolfeboro Cross Country Ski Association, and local beaches around the area are just a few of the destinations where you can paddleboard, ski, bike, run, or kayak. New locations for recreational activities have expanded over time. In the past year, a group of locals put their skills together to construct a recreational location and to bring a new sport to the area.

Wolfeboro Singletrack Alliance is a non-profit organization actively developing multi-use, single-track trails designed for mountain biking and non-motorized users, in partnership with the Wolfeboro Conservation Commission. The trails are located in multiple spots, one being off the Cotton Valley Rail Trail’s Fernald Station, off Governor John Wentworth Highway (Route 109). Other locations throughout Wolfeboro where you can find single-track are Abenaki Ski Area and Sewall Woods. The trails are designed to sustainably work within woodlands to navigate a mountain bike as well as other multiuse activities. The mountain bikes aren’t the only ones welcome on these trails. Other adventurers are invited to run or walk the trails, along with their furry friends!

You may be wondering what a single-track is. Single-track is a type of mountain biking trail made for the width of one bike. It’s smooth, but may have technical rocky sections, banked turns, the track may go over tree roots, hills, or jumps. Many mountain bikers prefer single-track, as single-track is designed specifically for the sport, and has elements mountain bikers would opt for. The Wolfeboro Singletrack Alliance has been maintaining and planning to build more trails throughout Wolfeboro since 2018. They say their mission is “to work with land managers to ensure access to well-built sustainable trails, while protecting the environment at the same time and envisioning Wolfeboro as a destination with an expanding network of sustainable trails”. The trails are built by volunteers or local riders who utilize the single-track trails. The idea of building single-track trails is to construct them properly so environmental impacts are minimal, and people are able to stay on the trail and not make any additional trails throughout the woods. Single-track trails give the rider a different experience by immersing each person into undisturbed nature.  

For a nonprofit to build these kinds of sustainable trail systems takes a lot of volunteer work and financial support. The Wolfeboro Singletrack’s website provides access for an individual to donate to their organization. The donations help maintain the existing trails, along with creating new ones and expanding the single-track. The donations are also used to help hire trail builders, purchase equipment to build, and for grooming trails for fat tire bikes in the winter. Volunteering is also needed to help with trail building and maintenance. 

The organization meets the first Wednesday of every month at the Abenaki ski lodge, so if you are interested in learning more about the organization’s goals and plans, you are welcome to join. 

The goal of building and incorporating single track trails throughout Wolfeboro is to not only expand the sport, but to drive a young demographic to town to help grow the economy. By embracing this adventure tourism as a low cost and environmentally sustainable way of generating more economic activity, local businesses and other services in town will be able to benefit from travelers coming to utilize the trail systems. This is why the goal of the Wolfebore Singletrack Alliance is to create more legitimate trail networks throughout town and to utilize volunteer labor. 

Each week on Tuesday evenings at 5:30, a group will meet at the back parking lot of Nordic Skier Sports to ride. All ages and skill levels are welcome. By visiting the Wolfeboro Singletrack’s website, you will be able to learn more about the trails, such as skill levels, mileage, blog, events, and conditions. This nonprofit organization’s work has only just begun. It is quickly growing to better serve the local community and outdoor recreation. 

If you like exploring New Hampshire’s beautiful woodlands, this will be an excellent source for you to see new routes and get outside. To learn more, visit www.wolfeborosingletrack.org.

Mini-Golf Is Fun for Everyone!

Mini-Golf Is Fun for Everyone!

By Sarah Wright

I admit that I’m a big fan of mini-golf. That’s not to say I’m particularly good at it, but I have gotten a hole-in-one from time to time. Mini-golf is a great leisure sport, especially on a hot summer day, since you can play without breaking a sweat. I did some quick online research about the sport and found out that the first mini-golf course was built in 1867 at the Ladies’ Putting Club in St. Andrews, Scotland. And I was surprised to learn there is a World Mini-Golf Sport Federation. Yes, some players take their putting very seriously. Whether you are an amateur or a professional, there are some fun courses in the Lakes Region, so let’s tee up! 

A section of the property at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.

Funspot in Weirs Beach has a great course with some wonderful New Hampshire landmarks featured in the design. These structures were refurbished from Funspot’s famous outdoor mini-golf course that was open from 1964-2014 before being moved indoors. Some of the re-created historic landmarks include the M/S Mount Washington cruise ship, the Jackson covered bridge, and the Cog Railway. My kids have always liked “Waldo” the Whale. As Funspot is the “Largest Arcade in the World,” there is plenty to do when you’re done golfing. With countless videogames, pinball machines, air hockey, and bowling, you can easily spend most of the day there. My personal favorite is Skee-Ball, and I make sure to play it every time, even though my kids prefer the racing games. On a hot day, or a rainy day, Funspot is the perfect place for fun! Located at 579 Endicott Street North, in the Weirs section of Laconia, Funspot is open every day from 9 am to 11 pm, with a closing time of midnight on Saturdays. For more information, visit www.funspotnh.com or call 603-366-4377. 

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf is super fun outdoor mini-golf, with three locations in the area. I’ve played with my family at the Weirs Beach location, and the course was beautiful, complete with waterfalls and a cool cave tunnel. My sons loved the pirate décor with cannons, steering wheels, and the skull and crossbones “Jolly Roger” flags. One of my favorite features on the course were the sign markers along the way with true facts about infamous real-life pirates. It was fun to read these aloud to the kids, since they didn’t believe me when I said that pirates were real. If you get a hole-in-one, you’ll receive a small prize. However, if you play poorly, have no fear—they will not make you walk the plank! Pirates Cove Adventure Golf is located on Route 3 in the Weirs Beach section of Laconia, heading toward Meredith. Call 603-366-5058 for details. The Winnisquam location is on Route 3 near I-93, exit 20. They can be reached at 603-528-6434. There is also a location in North Conway on Routes 16/302, otherwise known as the White Mountain Highway. For more information, call 603-356-8807. All three locations are open from mid-May to mid-October. The Pirates Cove Adventure Golf in Weirs Beach and Winnisquam are currently open daily, weather permitting, from 9 am to 10 pm. The North Conway location is open on Sunday to Wednesday, from 10 am to 8 pm; on Thursdays from noon to 8 pm; and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 am to 10 pm. Information about all of the locations can be found online at www.piratescove.net. 

Putter’s Village has been delighting mini-golfers in Wolfeboro for over 30 years. I love this course, set back from the road among the trees where there’s a little shade. Like the Funspot course, this golfing green has beautifully handcrafted structures representing local landmarks. My favorite is the large nesting loon, but you’ll also see Castle in the Clouds, the Old Man of the Mountain, and many more! Putter’s Village is located at 9 Center Street in Wolfeboro, and is currently open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 9 pm, and on Sundays from 1 pm to 9 pm, weather permitting. For more information, contact the friendly staff at 603-569-6715 or visit their Facebook page. 

If you like your mini-golf with a side of ice cream, check out the course at the formerly named Jay’s Bayside Ice Cream & Mini-Golf in Alton Bay. Now under management by Chucksters, this is another cool, shady course thanks to the many trees that surround it. Happy putters will love the quaint bridges and water spouts along the center stream. Located at 5 Mount Major Highway, the course is just across from the town docks, so you can even park your boat and stop in to play a round. Current hours are Mondays from noon to 9 pm; Tuesdays through Fridays from noon to 10 pm; Saturdays from 10 am to 10 pm; and Sundays from noon to 9 pm. Don’t forget to bring your appetite for ice cream! With around 50 flavors, there is something for everyone. I like some of the fun names for flavors like Bear Claw and Dough Dough Bird. For further information, call 603-875-4263, or visit www.chucksters-altonbay.com. 

One of the mini-golf courses on my list to try this summer is one I’ve driven by on my way through Moultonborough. Paradise Falls Mini-Golf is a beautifully maintained course located at 252 Lee Road. Designed with a tropical feel, you’ll think you’re at an oasis with the pretty fountains and palm trees. I think it’s in a nice location if you’d like to get away from the crowds for a while. Open every day from 10 am to 9 pm, weather permitting, this would also be a great stop for fun if you’re on the long drive around Lake Winnipesaukee. If you have any questions, the friendly staff can be reached at 603-476-5909. 

With wonderfully unique mini-golf courses spread out all around the lake, there’s really no excuse not to try one this summer! Kids will love the fun obstacles, and it’s great practice for aim and focus. Mini-golf is also great for photo ops—perfect for your vacation album. Fore!

A Polar Caves Adventure

A Polar Caves Adventure

By Mark Okrant

Photos courtesy Polar Caves

Driving into the parking lot and spying the momma polar bear and her cub on the sign at the Polar Caves, I flashed back to my first visit as a pre-teen, during the mid-1950s. My parents, older brother, and I made the trip from Connecticut to Plymouth, New Hampshire in my father’s green Henry J automobile. Mom and Pop convinced us to suppress our boundless energy by promising we would do something special when the car stopped. The Polar Caves did not disappoint.

What makes this place so exceptional? The Polar Caves is actually what geologists and physical geographers would describe as the natural byproduct of an advancing continental glacier where it flowed over a mountain or hill. As the glacier advanced, it wasn’t able to sustain its enormous load of boulders, rocks, and smaller materials. While passing over what today is called Hawk’s Cliff in Rumney, the glacier deposited granite boulders, or erratics, in an enormous pile. 

Jump ahead thousands of years. The caves were discovered in 1900 by a group of local teenagers who were playing among the boulders. Years passed before automobiles were beginning to carry travelers into the White Mountains. An entrepreneurial individual named Edwin Collishaw determined that this impressive collection of rocks and caves would be of interest to people touring in the region; in 1922, the Polar Caves Park was opened for public viewing.

The massive rocks that form the Polar Caves are evidence of the amazing power of the continental glacier that covered New Hampshire until approximately 15,000 years ago. This is the difference between cavesformed by glacial deposition on a massive scale versus limestone caverns. As a kid, I saw something more spectacular and unusual than a cavern. 

Now, more than 60 years later, this summer I returned to Polar Caves. The gateway into Polar Caves is its Main Lodge building, a single story, log structure. Once inside the Main Lodge, visitors can purchase tickets, choose from a selection of t-shirts and interesting items and buy snacks to fortify themselves for the adventure ahead. 

The main feature of Polar Caves is a series of nine granite caves: Polar Pinch, Ice Cave, King Tut’s, Fat Man’s Misery, Indian Council Chamber, Bear’s Den, Devil’s Turnpike, Orange Crush, and the Lemon Squeeze. Each of these necessitates that visitors duck, squeeze, and shimmy their way through passageways that are alternatingly low, narrow, or both. 

During this season’s visit, I received my blue wristband, and then proceeded along gravel walkways, boardwalks, and steep stairs where I met four delightful people from Massachusetts, the Weiss family. Their story was common to the Polar Caves—repeat visits. Mare, the mom in the family, told me they visit every year, sometimes twice per season. Both parents said they use a trip through Orange Crush and Lemon Squeeze to test their fitness while proving they’re not getting old too quickly!

While we were exploring the caves, other visitors were taking advantage of the park’s six additional attractions:   

·           Glacial Wall is a rock climbing experience that provides five routes of varying difficulty. 

·           Polar Ascent is a 172-foot-long iron way. Here iron bars have been hammered into the rock face to make steps. At the conclusion, visitors repel back to a base camp. 

·           Maple Lodge provides a maple sugaring exhibit and offers fudge, Bavarian nuts, and other snacks for sale.

·           Animal Park is a small zoo that features three species of animals—Fallow Deer, pheasants, and ducks. Feed may be purchased and given to the animals.

·           Baker River Mining Sluice is an excellent educational opportunity for visitors of all ages. With signage that identifies the region’s geology, this attraction provides an opportunity to mine for gemstones using a sluice provided by the park. Fees are charged to purchase mining rough.

·           Rocky Ridge Way is a series of nature trails, including a wooden walkway that wind around the caves while offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and woodland.   

As a retired university professor, I continue to be impressed by the educational quality of the experience offered at Polar Caves. Excellent signage provides a primer about the region’s geology, geomorphology, flora, and fauna; small wonder that the park attracts 50-55,000 visitors per year.

If you take my advice, you’ll give this place a try. It is situated along New Hampshire Route 25, approximately five miles west of Exit 26 from I-93. During the 2019 season, the park is open seven days per week from May 11 to October 15. Hours of operation are 9 am to 6 pm until Labor Day, then from 10 am to 5 pm. 

For directions, group visits, and information about recommended clothing, visit www.polarcaves.com, or call 603-536-1888.

Marvelous Meredith Historical Society

Day Tripping

Marvelous Meredith Historical Society

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

It’s a place I had always wanted to visit. The big display windows at the front of the building are chock full of interesting items. On view are intriguing things that made me want to see more, but I always seemed to be on my way elsewhere. 

Meredith Historical Society Museum

However, my luck changed on a hot July day when I was in Meredith and saw the open flag was out in front of the Meredith Historical Society Museum. 

I have been to many historical society museums all over the Lakes Region and beyond and I have to say they all are pretty good. My expectations are generally not too high when I visit these places, because I know they operate on minimal budgets, with mostly volunteer staff. However, each and every museum I have visited more than meets expectations and I am always surprised at the quality and depth of exhibits and the interesting items on display.

The Meredith Historical Society at 45 Main Street in Meredith is no exception. I was treated to a wonderful visit with each area, each wall space and display case full of interesting items. From an early mover and shaker in the development of the town to an exhibit of artwork by the town’s folk artist extraordinaire, the museum is a great place to visit.

Meredith Historical Society President, Karen Thorndike, greeted me and she was eager to show me what is on display this summer and to share the unusual and fun tidbits of information about the town over the years.

“This building was once the town’s post office and in the 1960s and 70s, it was an auto museum. Our current exhibits encompass two floors and we also offer an area where people can do genealogy research,” said Karen. 

She had a lot to say about Seneca Ladd, the founder of local Meredith Village Savings Bank. He did a tremendous amount of good for the town and there is a display with photos of Seneca, his wife and other items that help tell the story of life as it once was in Meredith. He lived from 1819 to 1892 and had a manufactory of pianofortes and melodeons in the building that is now the Historical Society’s museum. An old photograph on display shows the stately home where Ladd resided and it is a large, beautiful building. A charming painting depicts the SA Ladd building in winter, with horses and wagons parked outside. In the background is what I assume to be Ladd’s home and just up the hill, a whitewashed typical New England church. 

Seneca seems like someone we would all have enjoyed knowing. He had a deep interest in all sorts of things, and among them was our earth; he was known as an amateur geologist and archeologist. In an old photo, he appeared to be an imposing figure, with thick, unruly hair and piercing eyes. Skilled in all sorts of things, Ladd noticed his employees in the manufactory were not the best at managing their money. He decided to start a mutual savings bank to help people organize and save money; in 1869 Ladd and some associates opened Meredith Village Savings Bank. The bank’s safe remains in the building today and is a unique part of the museum. Among the collection at the museum is a melodeon made by the Seneca Ladd Manufacturing Company. It is on display at the museum. 

Drawing of townsman Caleb Towle

One of the things I love about the museum is the homage paid to the town’s unusual citizens. One such citizen, who is highlighted in a display space on the second floor, is Caleb Towle. Hardworking Caleb was born in 1767 and owned a property called Caleb’s Clearing in Meredith. He built a log cabin on the land and later, a frame house. Caleb and his brother were among those who signed an early petition to have “Centre-Harbour” broken off from New Hampton. This was done in 1797 and Caleb was later among the 11 original members of the Centre Harbor Congregational Church. But it was Caleb’s unusual size - it is said he weighed about 515 pounds - that created his local fame. He stood 5 feet, 10 inches and a special chair was made to accommodate his size. Caleb was beloved in the town and was known as a hardworking, active citizen with a “jovial spirit.” In a display at the museum, there is a drawing of Caleb, decked out in his finery and nearby, a pair of very large trousers it is said he once wore.

Perhaps my favorite display was the paintings on the stairwell going to the second floor. My eye was immediately drawn to the folk-art style of the paintings, some landscapes and some portraits. Karen, when asked, told me about the artist, Freda Weeks. It seems Freda used her considerable art talent to capture in her paintings, a variety of local people. My absolute favorite was a painting of a little elderly lady wearing a fine hat with a large feather. It is an absolute gem of a picture, as is the portrait of a local man smoking a pipe. “Freda was a Meredith artist and she passed away over 20 years ago. She painted local scenes, such as a church, the village and even the dump!” said Karen. 

Admittedly, I was fascinated with Freda and later searched the internet for information on the local woman. I found some information about her, and the most interesting was an article in the Boston Globedated 1949. There was a photo of an attractive Freda sitting in front of her painting called “Christ Blessing Little Children.” The painting, the article related, was to be unveiled at a Palm Sunday Boston church service. 

Elsewhere in the museum, a display of Dudley Leavitt was also interesting. Dudley, who lived from 1772 to 1851, was born in New Hampshire. By the time he moved to Meredith, he was a teacher and farmer. As if that wasn’t enough, Dudley began publishing Leavitt’s Farmers Almanack, among the nation’s earliest farmer’s almanacs. As can be imagined, the almanac was very popular with farmers all over the area.

Dudley Leavitt

Dudley was quite an asset to Meredith and he is given a good spot in the museum where his story continues to be told for everyone. He was as much a mover and shaker in the town as Seneca Ladd; Dudley also opened and ran a school and taught until he was elderly. It was a matter of pride for former students to say they had been educated at Leavitt’s school.

The list of items in this special museum is way too numerous to include in one story. If you like unusual items that speak of the origins of a town, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Meredith Historical Society Museum. And if you like the “real” stories of locals, such as Caleb, Dudley, Seneca and Freda and how they lived, this is the place to learn more.

The Society also has a charming barn museum called the Farm Museum/Pottle Meeting House located at 61 Winona Road and open Saturdays until Columbus Day from noon to 4 pm.

The Main Street Museum is open Wednesday through Saturday until Columbus Day weekend from 11 am to 4 pm.

For more information, call 603-279-1190 or visit www.mhsweb.org.

Not30 is rocking the Lakes Region

Not30 is rocking the Lakes Region

Whether you are age 30 or older…or maybe younger…plan to be in Tuftonboro for a great concert on Thursday, August 1 at 6:30 pm when Not30 takes to the bandstand. The free outdoor concert is part of a lineup of concerts at 19 Mile Bay Beach Pavilion, located next to the lakeshore. Not30 will bring the party to Lake Winnipesaukee, featuring original music with a variety of cover songs from artists such as Elvis Presley and Cyndi Lauper. 

Not30 performing | Photo courtesy of French’s Fried Photos @frenchsfriedphotos

Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and a picnic dinner or purchase food at the concession offered by Tuftonboro Parks and Recreation while Not30 entertains the crowd.

Billed as “just a few kids out to change the world with punk rock and we're definitely Not 30,” the band consists of local talent Aaron Marinel on bass and vocals; Matt Thompson on guitar and vocals, and Mark Thompson on drums and vocals. The group was formed by longtime friends Matt and Aaron. 

Says Aaron Marinel, “Matt and I formed the band in 2014 as an acoustic duo, but we soon realized we had one of New England’s best drummers available to us! That drummer happens to be Matt’s younger brother, Mark. When he joined Not30, we became a Rock ’n Roll trio.”

Not30’s Drummer - Mark Thompson | Photo by French’s Fried Photos @frenchsfriedphotos

You can see the band August 2 at the Dover Brickhouse at 2 Orchard St. in Dover with the band Cross the Divide and on August 13 at 6:30 pm during a Brews Cruise with Stoneface Brewing Co. on the Winnipesaukee Belle in Wolfeboro. Also, the band will play on August 31 at 9 pm at The Lone Wolf Brewing Co. in Wolfeboro.

Board the Belle at the Wolfeboro Town Docks (pay as you board). Once on the Winnipesaukee Belle, you will cruise the lake while sampling great brews from Stoneface Brewing Co. and listening to the sounds of Not30.

With gigs all over the area and in Maine and elsewhere, Not30 has gained a following wherever they play… and you don’t have to be 30 to enjoy the music!

Not30 performs year round in New England, from Wolfeboro to other Lakes Region venues and elsewhere in Maine, Massachusetts and nearby states. “In the future, we hope to branch out even more and to tour,” says Aaron.

For information on Not30 and the band’s schedule, visit www.notthirty.com or find the band on Facebook at www.facebook.com/notthirty.com.

Outdoor Bandstand Concerts ... Free and Oh So Fun

Outdoor Bandstand Concerts ... Free and Oh So Fun

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Free, fun, family-friendly and musical. You just can’t go wrong with a summer bandstand concert. If you like that idea, you have many from which to choose. Free outdoor bandstand concerts are taking place all over the Lakes Region this summer. Grab a lawn chair or blanket for seating/relaxing and sit back for some great music; many concert series also offer concessions so you can get a snack and drink while enjoying the music.

Moulton’s Band summer concert.

If you want to experience a true town band, attend summer concerts by Moulton’s Band, the oldest continuous band in New Hampshire. Now celebrating its 130th year, the band offers free outdoor bandstand concerts the second, third and fourth Wednesdays in July and August, rotating at three locations. Those bandstand locations are The Baptist Church on Rt. 132; Mountain View bandstand on Steele Hill Rd., and the Town Square Bandstand on Tower Hill Rd. The concerts are at 7 pm and refreshments are sold during the shows. Visit Moulton’s Band Facebook page for updates and a schedule. New band members of all ages and abilities are welcome.

The Weirs Community Park offers free outdoor concerts in July and August. On July 20, The Bel Airs will be the entertainment and on August 2, Saxx Rox takes to the stage. Performances are at 6 pm and are free; bring a lawn chair or blanket for outdoor seating. Call 603-524-5046 for further information.

In the Laconia area, the bandstand in Rotary Park on Beacon Street East is the place to be for a series of great free outdoor concerts. The Belknap Mill has coordinated the concert series, and the Mill is located right next to the park. In the event of rain, concerts will be held inside the Mill on the third floor. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. On July 19, the Michael Vincent Band takes to the bandstand, followed by Crescendo’s Gate on July 27; Club Soda on August 2; Great Bay Sailor on August 30, and the Rockin’ Daddios on Sept. 6. Concerts are from 6 to 8 pm. Call 603-524-8813 for details.

Stop by Gilford Village field for some good, old-fashioned band music performed by the Gilford Community Band on Wednesdays, July 17, July 31, and August 14. Concerts take place in the Weeks Bandstand and all are welcome to attend. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, then relax and enjoy the music. The band will present an eclectic mix of patriotic marching tunes, popular music, and classical selections. In case of rain, the concert will be at the Gilford Performing Arts Center in the high school. For more information, contact Lyvie Beyrent at lbeyrent@sau73.org.

The little town of Hebron near Newfound Lake offers a popular gazebo concert series each summer. The concerts are a bit unique, because a different business or organization does a barbecue/food during a concert. On July 13, Club Soda performs with a barbecue by Hebron Store; July 20 will see Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki performing Celtic music with an ice cream social by Friends of the Hebron Library, and Lunch at the Dump band with barbecue by Hebron Village Store takes place on August 3. A Family Fun Day on Aug. 17 will feature events all day with John Irish Duo and Don Campbell Band in the evening, followed by a fireworks display. For information, call 603-744-3335.

Also in the Newfound Lake area, Bristol is celebrating its bicentennial this summer and offers a lot of happenings. Among those events are the free concerts at the Kelley Park Concert Pavilion each Thursday from 6:30 to 8 pm. On July 11, Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki performs; on July 18 the Country Mile Band is scheduled, followed by Studio Two Beatles Tribute Band on July 25; Uncle Steve Band on August 1; the fun Back Shed String Band on August 15 and Honest Millie on August 22. On August 8 plan to attend the 67th annual Penny Sale at Newfound Regional High School at 6:30 pm.

The Alan and Savina Hartwell Memorial Free Summer Concerts at Tilton Island Park’s bandstand on Main Street in Tilton are beloved in the area. This is the 27th year of the concert series; shows are free and in memory of Alan and Savina Hartwell. Savina was a talented professional singer and her husband, Alan, worked tirelessly to present the concerts in her memory each year until his passing. His family carries on the organization of the concerts. Show run from 6 to 8:30 pm. On July 14, Doo Wop All Stars take to the bandstand; July 21 brings Club Soda; July 28 will feature 60s Invasion, with East Bay Big Band on August 4; Soultown Band on August 11; August 18 sees the Bel Aires and A Salute to our Veterans with Annie & the Orphans rounds out the season on August 25. Please bring your own blanket or lawn chair for seating. No alcohol is allowed. Concerts are free but donations are appreciated. Performances are weather permitting and subject to cancellation in the event of bad weather. Call 603-286-3000 for updates and more information.

In Tuftonboro, an outdoor concert series is a popular mid-week happening in the Lakes Region. Spearheaded by the Tuftonboro Parks and Recreation committee, the free Summer Concerts at the Pavilion take place in a beautiful lakeside setting at 19 Mile Bay Beach Pavilion on Bay Road in Tuftonboro. Granite Planet will perform on July 11, followed by Big Picture Band on July 18; The Wooden Nickels Band will perform on July 25; on August 30 it will be Not30, and on August 8 the popular Carolyn Ramsay Band will entertain. Shows begin at 6:30 pm; bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Visit www.tuftonboro.org. for information.

Alton Bay is a fun place in the summer months. The bandstand at water’s edge is the location for a group of outdoor summer concerts that are free and just steps from all kinds of dining. There is docking nearby and the concerts take place each Saturday starting at 7 pm. The lineup includes July 13: Chippy and the Ya Ya’s; July 20: Shana Stack Band; July 27: Bittersweet; August 3: East Bay Jazz Ensemble; August 10: Blacklite Band; August 17: Chris Bonoli; August 24: Saxx Roxx. You can bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Also, the beloved Barbershop weekend will take place on August. 17 at 2 pm with a Harmony Jamboree at the Alton Bay Bandstand. On August 17 at 7:30 pm, the Barbershop Harmony Jamboree begins at 7:30 pm at Prospect Mountain High School in Alton (242 Suncook Valley Rd.).

In the summer, the Center Harbor Parks and Recreation Band Concert Series performs in the town bandstand near the Fire Station. There is plenty of lawn space for concertgoers to spread out a blanket or bring a lawn chair for seating. Concerts take place Fridays on July 12, 19, 26, August 2 and August 9 at 7 pm. Rain dates are the day following the scheduled concerts. Practice for each concert takes place at 6 pm, an hour before each scheduled show. Guest concerts include: August 16 with Michelle Canning Band, banjo and bluegrass from 6:30-8:30 pm; August 23: Moose Mountain Jazz Band and August 30: Annie and the Orphans. All guest concerts will be held in the fire station in case of rain. Visit the Center Harbor Parks and Recreation at www.centerharbornh.org for information.

The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand will present a season of concerts in the park each Saturday in July and August in the bandstand in Cate Park in Wolfeboro from 7 to 9 pm. The concerts are free to the public, though a pass-the-bucket offering is taken at intermission for those wishing to support the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand, who continue to bring free, quality entertainment to Wolfeboro each summer. The concerts, featuring a variety of musical talent, take place in the pretty gazebo in the park. Boat docking is nearby. Concerts start at 7 pm and the schedule will feature (weather permitting): July 13 – Freese Brothers Big Band; July 20 – Strafford Wind Symphony; July 27 – Studio Two: Beatles Legacy; August 3: New Legacy Swing Band; August 10: Michael Vincent Band; August 17: Seldom Playrights; August 24: Acoustic Radio and August 31 – Yardbird Temple. For information, visit the Friends of the Community Bandstand Facebook page. In the event of bad weather, the concert will be cancelled. A sign will be posted at the park entrance near town docks and updates will be posted at wolfeborobandstand.org.

A free outdoor concert series will be held in Franklin’s Marceau Park on Central Street in July and August. The concerts will entertain area residents and visitors with a great variety of musical styles. This year's lineup includes: July 16, Don Bartenstein; Li’l Penny Band on July 23; Bryan Conway on July 30; Bow Junction on August 6; The Tim & Dave Show on August 13 and Bend the Ride on August 20. All concerts begin at 5 pm. Please bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating. In case of rain, the concerts will move to the Franklin Opera House (City Hall). For more information, contact the Franklin Opera House at 603-934-1901.

(For questions and updates and possible cancellations of concerts, please check with each presenting organization listed in this story.)