Hello Friends of the Road, In an effort to portray some level of normalcy, I am writing about the upcoming year of CPRA outings and our upcoming mailing. I can’t ignore what is going on, so I want to sincerely say that I hope you are all well and safe. Normally, we talk about history in our little society of roadies. But lately, we are actually witnessing historical events. What is going on will no doubt affect everyone, and likely the generation to come. Personally, I am thankful to be still working my day job and able to maintain a level of normal routine. I am also rather introverted, so social isolation doesn’t bother me too much. I do sympathize for those who miss their social gatherings, whether it is church, clubs, or perhaps punk rock concerts you may enjoy attending. I think it is vital to keep our humanity through this situation, so be sure to look out for others, and whenever possible, allow yourself to laugh. It is good for the body and the mind. If you’re looking for a laugh, I’ve got just the thing for you. I don’t mean to make light of what you all may be experiencing, so please don’t take offense. Skip this link if you are so inclined. But I found this on the local CBS affiliate’s website this morning, and it a parody song about keeping social distancing. https://www.wcax.com/content/news/Vermont-man-shares-Social-Distancing-Song-568940481.html And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for, (drum roll)… the 2020 mailing will be going out in the next couple weeks. We are optimistic about holding all the outings, but take whatever precautions you feel necessary and only attend if you are well and comfortable doing so. All outings are subject to change, due to gov’t imposed restrictions, and bad weather, so be sure to check with outing leaders shortly before the planned dates. In the mailing, there will be a few calls for action. We have projects in mind and need resources. They are exciting new projects that we want to do and can utilize skills that some of you may have. Some projects require little skill, just time. So please consider signing up for the volunteer efforts. For a preview of the 2020 schedule, you can visit our website. The full details are not published yet, but dates and brief descriptions are in our website calendar thanks to our Treasurer. Do not consume grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking viagra online for sale sildenafil citrate. How to viagra sales in uk http://amerikabulteni.com/category/yazarlar/cemal-tuncdemir/page/28/ overcome from sexual weakness is through intake of herbal pills like Kamdeepak capsules daily two times with milk or water. Pocono made announcements cialis no prescription via Twitter and Facebook and its track PA, but Igdalsky wouldn’t specify further details of its emergency notification plan. SafeWay Driving Centers are one of the leading cialis professional india http://amerikabulteni.com/2017/12/21/amerikalilarin-ucte-ikisinin-interneti-tek-bir-sirketin-elinde/ driver education schools in Texas. You may notice other changes on our website. We are making an effort to add more content and functionality. For those who aren’t Facebook users, the website will be a source for the same content that you don’t have access too. I encourage everyone to check the site over the next few months as more changes are made. Link to the site: https://www.crownpointroad.org Speaking of calendars, as we have done in past years, there will be a magnet calendar included in the mailing. You may find that the text is not as readable as it has been in the past. I do regret this, and feel free to provide feedback on how you feel about the appearance. I will make an effort to improve the readability for future designs. Continuing the focus on historical content, I am a member of the Rutland Historical Society, and their website has become quite the resource for content. If you haven’t visited the site, you should. They have recently posted a collection of photos of historic buildings in Rutland. For their website, go here: https://rutlandhistory.com (or for the new photo collection, go here: https://archive.org/details/historicrutlandbuildings_202002/page/n135/mode/2up ) On a more scientific topic, I’d like to share information about something high above us. I am referring to the ISS, or the international space station. It orbits the Earth rapidly and often passes over us. It is hard to see unless it is during dusk or dawn. Tonight at 8:12pm (Rutland, VT), it will pass over. So weather permitting, perhaps we can all go out and watch this together. It isn’t recommended to be together in person, but doing this will allow us to be together in spirit. Here is a link to find the sighting details for your location, along with future sightings: https://spotthestation.nasa.gov/sightings/ I hope that you are all doing well. I hope I have provided some good information for you, or at the least, a good distraction. Try to keep your spirits up. We need to get through this crisis and hopefully be wiser because of it, so we are better prepared for future outbreaks.
Take care of yourself roadies, and until we meet again,
Dale ChristieCPRA Secretary (of defense)
Hello Friends of the Road,
How is everyone doing? It is still only Autumn, right? Or did I forget to change my calendar again? Winter came early here, but other than the cold, I don’t mind the early snow. I don’t usually care much for “stick season” and the snow has made it a bit more enjoyable. For those who don’t know what stick season is, allow me to educate you. It is the time after the leaves fall off the trees, until the snow comes. For me, it is a bit dismal because everything is the same blah color and everyone seems dead looking. For me, the snow seems to brighten the appearance (literally) and seem more cheerful.
The CPRA board has met once this Fall to start planning the list of outings for 2020. It looks like it will offer a good variety once again. Parts are in the early stages, and others are mostly in stone. It usually takes until about February to get it all finalized so we can prepare the annual mailing to members. The “offseason” has a lot of moving parts and planning before it all comes together. The guest speaker for the Annual Meeting may be all arranged and I’m pretty excited about it. I’m not going to reveal the details just yet though. I don’t want to jinx anything.
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Each Spring and Fall, volunteers for the CPRA add and remove flags placed at roadside markers for the CPR. This year, with snow coming early, some have been difficult to get to. We are grateful for volunteers to do this, and I’d like to give a special thanks to “Lieutenants” Nancy and George Smith for their above and beyond efforts. It is completely unnecessary, but they provided a written report describing the conditions of the markers and their successful efforts to remove the flags. We are lucky to have them on the “payroll”.
This is all I have for you today. I’d like to wish you all the best this holiday season. Until we meet again…
Cheers!
Dale Christie
CPRA Secretary of Defense
Hello Friends of the Road,
Are any of you planning on dressing up as a revolutionary war soldier for Halloween? I know it is is traditional to dress up as something scary, but why not something educational? As the leaves fall off the trees, things are changing fast and soon we’ll be in “stick season”. That is one of my least favorite times of the year. I’ll try to focus on enjoying the outdoors as much as I can before it gets too cold and too dark.
I have a special offering for you all today. Thanks to a very generous CPRA member, Dennis Devereux, there is a limited time only opportunity to visit a local memorial. it is located in Mount Holly and is on private land, thus the reason why it is a limited time only offer. On the site, there is a plaque placed by parents of a young soldier that was killed in WW1 while in France. Dennis will lead a couple hikes to see the plaque this coming week. The weather looks good for some of the days. If you cannot make one this week, he plans to offer several more over the next 3 weeks. He will not finalize the days and times until he sees some responses from interested people. The hikes will be offered sometime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The hike would be rather short. For more details or to report your interest, write to Dennis at: ddevereux@vermontel.net
I have one more topic for you all today. It is about an outing that is expected to be part of our 2020 outing schedule. Jim Rowe will likely lead another car tour to cover the next segment of the Taverns, Homesteads, and Other Points of Interest Tour. It will continue from where this year’s tour ended, in the Cavendish/Ludlow area. If any of you would like to contribute or help in anyway, please contact me. Perhaps you have a story to tell, a site to invite the tour to, or a site to recommend. Any help is welcome. Thanks!
That is all I have for now. I hope you all are doing well. Soon we’ll be “stuck” inside more, so be sure to enjoy the opportunities we have left for the year.
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Dale Christie
CPRA Secretary of Defense
Hello friends, brothers and sisters of the road, I hope you’ve been enjoying this nice weather we’ve had. The foliage has been amazing this year after a dull season last year. The weather has allowed the color to remain on the trees, and not fall to the ground early due to rain or wind. It is also a nice time of year to walk in the woods. There is less daylight in the day, but still plenty of time to explore. Be aware though, there are still ticks in the woods! Darn little devils! I don’t have any valuable documents or links to share with you today. I will offer a nice picture of a road I took on Rt 30 recently. Something about the meandering road always gets my attention. The nice sunset was also a nice addition! For those holding out on whether or not to attend our Annual Meeting, I have something to entice you. One quick word of advice, grab some water based lubricant http://amerikabulteni.com/2017/01/06/obamanin-beyaz-saraya-veda-partisi-unlu-isimlerin-akinina-ugradi/ levitra 20 mg while you are there. It accounts for cialis viagra on line more than 95 percent of diabetic cases. ED may strike up to 15-25 percent of individual who has land up in grave head injury. more helpful tabs cialis uk Take your own extra care to keep yourself safe from cialis viagra online them. A much anticipated guest speaker has been formalized. Paul Huey, a legendary archaeologist that many of you may already know, will offer a program about archaeological excavations from 1955-2009. A map previewing what he will discuss is attached. Here is the formal write-up:
The title of Sunday afternoon’s program in Bridport will be “Archeological Research at Crown Point State Historic Site, 1955 – 2009.” Pictured is our presenter, Paul R. Huey, Ph.D who has personally researched the history of Crown Point every year, starting in 1956! Paul is the program speaker after the 1:00 p.m. potluck lunch [Bring your own place setting.] and annual business meeting of the Crown Point Road Association in the Community Hall at Bridport (just west of Route 22A) VT on Sunday, October 20, 2019. THIS Sunday! Please come!
I hope to see some of you there. For all that attend, you will receive a Collector’s Edition of my Secretary Report for 2019.
Cheers!
Dale ChristieCPRA Secretary of Defense
Hello Friends of the Road,
I hope everyone is enjoying the nice weather we’ve been having. I just played some outdoor tennis at the local school, which was great. I’ve heard about snow out west and heavy flooding down south, so I consider myself fortunate to be in the Northeast at the moment.
Some of you may already know about this, but we have made some small markers for marking the known areas of the CPR. They measure 5-5/8” x 3-3/4”. Attached is what they look like. To avoid playing favorites, we also got some markers made for our other “child”, the Hubbardton Military Road. It is the same size and also made of vinyl and made to last. Attached is an image of what they look like. The markers have been made to help preserve the knowledge of the areas that we have some level of confidence about the exact route. Previously, there was some tin can lids used to mark the routes. They have held up well, but the years have been catching up with them (as so many of us can relate to). Attached is a picture of what the old markers look like.
The main reason why I brought up the markers again, is to address those landowners who own known sections of either road. If you are willing, we would be excited to share some of the markers with you for installation on trees. Contact me if you are one of those fortunate individuals and willing to help us.
I have some great literature about the Crown Point Road to share with you all. Perhaps some of you have seen or read this, but I presume most of you have not. I am very thankful to a CPRA member named Ken Hatch who told me about this article. It was published in the October 1993 edition of Muzzle Blasts. It feels to me like a hidden treasure that Ken was nice enough to share with us all. I hope you enjoy reading it.
I have two upcoming events to talk about now. One is on our calendars, but one has come in “under the radar”, but is worthy of consideration. CPRA V.P. Barry Griffith, will be speaking about the CPR in Vergennes. He has been doing a great job with public outreach lately. We are thankful for his efforts and the extra time his retirement has given him. I hope you can attend one or both of these great events.
September 21: Barry will be speaking at the Annual Meeting for VOCA (Vermont Old Cemetery Association). Attached is a copy of the VOCA newsletter page outlining the schedule. If any CPRA members want to attend the AM meeting and lunch, please request a reservation from VOCA. Otherwise, all are welcome to attend Barry’s presentation at 1pm. For those who do not know about VOCA, it is one of the best organizations in the state and do a tremendous about of work to preserve our historical cemeteries. Their website is: https://voca58.org
September 28: The route of the Crown Point Road used during the Revolution and by Plymouth’s first settlers descended from the “Kingdom” to the shores of Lakes Echo and Amherst. A CPRA outing a decade ago was able to find traces of the road still visible. We’ll walk about two miles along the route and see what we can find. Meet in the parking lot of the Tyson Congregational Church off Route 100 (39 Dublin Road) on Saturday, September 28 at 10am. Bring a lunch, wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. For more info, contact leaders Barry and Barbara Griffith at (802) 492-3573 or bgriffithvt@gmail.com
Until we meet again,
Don’t forget your history!
Hello Friends of the Road,
It is me, the one that sends you thought provoking information mixed with useless rambling. I’m hoping the former is true occasionally, and certain the latter is true. The clock of life continues to spin faster and faster as another season of CPRA outings is coming to a close. Wasn’t it just May and we were exploring the Charlestown area? Today has become a rainy day so I’m trying to get some indoor tasks done. It has been great weather for the past month with very little rain and plenty of opportunities to do some leaf peeping. The foliage is now on the downward slope, but still quite good in places. And if you’re into astronomy, there’s a comet up there to look for during the next evening with clear skies.
I have a very exciting offering for you all today. It has been in the making for a little while now. The board of directors discussed and agreed that we should interview long time historian Elaine Purdy. For those that don’t know her, she has been involved with the CPRA for a long time, continues to contribute and has been invaluable to many historical societies in the area for decades. We pondered a while and came up with a list of questions for her. At the bottom of this letter, you’ll find the questions and answers. I really enjoyed reading what she wrote and I expect you will too. Many answers give great advice, and others offer insight into the life that she has had so far. I’m very thankful to have gotten to know her. Thank you very much Elaine for taking the time to do this interview and Linda for assisting her.
The annual meeting is coming up for us. That means I should have my Secretary’s Report finished, but have procrastinated a bit on that. I’ll blame the good weather we’ve been having. Rest assured, I will have a report for those that attend. The outing is very flexible, and those who want to attend don’t need to be there for the whole thing. Feel free to come late, leave early, or arrive late and leave early! Our guest speaker has a lot of great information to share, and many in the area know him well. He is the pastor of the Pittsford Congregation Church, has served as a trustee of the Maclure Library for years, and has been hosting the show “Historically Speaking” also for years. If you’re not familiar with that show, you really should check it out, and perhaps binge watch the series. You can find past episodes here: https://rutlandhistory.com/historically-speaking/ You can read about all the 200+ episodes at that website, but WARNING: the video hosting website is down right now, so you won’t be able to watch them today. Hopefully soon it will be back online, so for now bookmark the page for later. Getting back to the annual meeting, it will be on October 20th, a week from today in Pittsford. Here is the full write-up: Our CPRA Annual Meeting will be at the Pittsford Congregational Church at 121 Village Green, in Pittsford, VT. We will commence at 1PM with our traditional potluck dinner — bring your place setting and a dish to share – followed by our business meeting and concluding with our featured presentation by noted historian Michael Dwyer. With four decades of teaching history and genealogical research behind him, he will share a variety of stories about his personal discoveries and the lives they have touched. Guests welcome to attend any part of the schedule. For more info, call Barry at (802) 492-3573 or email bgriffithvt@gmail.com Potluck Meal: 1:00-2PM~CPRA Business Meeting: 2:00-2:30PM~Guest Speaker: 2:30PM
And now for the Elaine Purdy interview. I hope to see a good turnout Sunday. Take care everyone and keep enjoying the wealth of historical content that is accessible to us all!
QUESTIONS:
1. How did you first get involved with the CPRA?
2. What makes you so interested in history?
3. What are important personality traits for an historian?
4. Have you ever wished you could have lived during the era when the CPR was used?
5. Do you think you could have been Ann Story?
6. Name one or more of your favorite known or believed to be known locations on the CPR?
7. Have you ever participated in any archeology work?
8. Tell us two things about the CPR that is NOT in the recent Markers Guide Book?
9. Tell us one or more of your favorite outings with the CPRA?
10. Tell us one of more of your favorite guest speakers to have attended an annual meeting?
11. Tell us the most important reason to preserve the history of the CPR?
12. What are you most proud of during your years of involvement about with the CPRA?
13. What is the one thing that you want future boards of the CPRA to accomplish most?
14. What do you think is the most effective way to get people interested in history?
15. In your opinion, what are the 5 most important events in Vermont history?
16. How has technology changed history research?
17. What can you tell us (that is not in the markers book) about CPRA’s founding fathers and mothers who created our organization and did so much for it in the years 1960 – 2000?
ANSWERS:
17. What can you tell us (that is not in the markers book) about CPRA’s founding fathers and mothers who created our organization and did so much for it in the years 1960 – 2000?
I will do my best to answer the 17 questions that have been submitted. The responses will be off the top of my head – a head cluttered with trivia I might add – so I will try not to wander too much. I will begin with the final question, Number 17, about some of the founding members of the association.Phyllis Humphries lived in West Rutland and was a descendant of quarry owner Charles Slason. With her husband, Hubert, they spent time attempting to establish the true location of the road through primary sources: studying deeds, town records and maps and creating detailed overlays. They created a wonderful springboard for future exploration.Flora Weeks, who was single, and a Registered Nurse, researched texts and sought out old timers with ties to the earliest local settlers. Her ancestors were early settlers in Clarendon and she grew up in the old homestead. She was a natural historian and writer.Both Phyllis and Flora, through their columns in the Rutland Herald, created awareness of and interest in the CPR. They were, no doubt, inspired by their membership in the DAR.Martin Howe and Carl Hollender were undoubtedly responsible for the establishment of the CPRA as an Association. I think they were both engineers and successful in business. Howe was raised on the Martin property in Mount Holly, now the Perry Farm . Marker 34A was dedicated in his memory. This site was called Halfway Hill by Ruth Fletcher Charland, who wrote a seminal article describing the probable direction of the road. Howe was related to the Pollards who were very early settlers in the area. His description of the history and lure of the Crown Point Road in the Introduction to the Marker book is eloquent and ought to be included in future editions.Carl Hollender is probably the most notorious and interesting character among our founders. He was born in Brattleboro to parents who resided in what was then a sizeable enclave of German emigres. During World War I, Germans were the objects of constant suspicion, and Carl, because of his young age, became one of them. According to the story (there was a book written about his travails) an ambitious government agent pursued him until he was sent to Federal prison for several months as a German spy. When he was released some suspected his mother may have been the spy because of her many inflammatory statements in favor of the Kaiser. After a successful business career, he and Fran retired to Shrewsbury and took interest in local history.Eroe Howe carried on with the CPRA as an officer after her husband’s death. She was responsible for many of the early photographic records. After Hollender died in 1968 wife Fran remained in their home in Shrewsbury on the road to the Poor House and explored the section of the CPR that led to the school house marker on Lincoln Hill. Note: a large iron cooking pot similar to those carried by the British army was found on the road North of the house, according to Flora Weeks.Augustus Aldrich must be mentioned because he is sort of our Patron Saint. His enthusiasm and over-the-ground exploration surely kindled an interest in others to continue his quest. Carmine Guicca was his disciple and friend and carried on his work with Boy Scouts and as trail guide.Carmine was profoundly deaf due to undergoing a prolonged barrage while with a landing party on a Pacific Island (Iwo Jima?) during WW11. He and Carmella attended two church services every Sunday at his church and then hers.
Numbers 1-16
1. How did you first get involved with the CPRA?
The columns written by Phyllis and Flora for the Rutland Herald in the late Fifties sparked an interest in the Crown Point Road but I wasn’t able to go on a hike until sometime later. The hike was led by Larry and Peggy. It included the Prickly Ash site and the Doolittle house and I was hooked!
2. What makes you so interested in history?
My father shared his love of History with me at an early age. Week-end and vacation trips nearly always had a destination of historical and sometimes just unusual places. My grandmothers were proud of their lineage and encouraged an interest in Genealogy so my interest in the past was pre-ordained.
3. What are important personality traits for an historian?
A historian must have a sense of curiosity, a need to find answers and then the ability to do proper research to find them. The research then has to be compiled, sorted and verified. Sometimes a local legend will turn out to be false and has to be discarded; although in some cases it may lead in a promising direction. You have to rely on primary sources. Once you believe you have made a true find you can introduce it to an audience where it will be welcomed and appreciated.
4. Have you ever wished you could have lived during the era when the CPR was used?
I think I can answer Four and Five together, about wanting to return to the Colonial era on the Crown Point Road. I would probably only want to go back to that time in History as a teen-ager. Having a sense of adventure and no responsibilities might compensate for leaving a comfortable home for an uncertain yet promising future.
5. Do you think you could have been Ann Story?
As to being Ann Story: Probably not, although you never know how you might react if your children are threatened. I did have several great, great, great grandmothers who might have given her a run for the money. Maybe I could have been Molly Pitcher.
6. Name one or more of your favorite locations known or believed to be known on the crown point road.
The site of the long-abandoned Pollard home site at the four corners between Shrewsbury and Plymouth is one of my favorite locations. The four roads lead almost directly to the four points of the compass. Going North you will pass the grave of the Unknown Soldier who died at the nearby spring associated with an early campground. One of the first school houses was located there also. Continuing on you will arrive at Captain John Coolidge’s early pitch. To the South you pass signs of early settlement and arrive at the Halfway Encampment in Mount Holly. To the West are more early home sites and family cemeteries. Then on to the town of Shrewsbury. Go East and you will travel brookside down to Tyson and the Black River ponds. You can just imagine the back-and-forth travel and socializing amongst these early settlers once peace had come.
7. Have you ever participated in any archaeological work?
I have never done any archaeological work unless you count the time Al Ransom had permission from landowners to conduct a dig at a promising cellar hole at the top of Dix Hill. He had constructed rudimentary items for the search and I was elected to operate the sifter. Unfortunately, we found only items related to sugaring and they were left with the landowner.
8. Two things about the CPR that are not in the current guide book.
It would be interesting to note in the book that Revolutionary War Generals Washington and Schuyler were well aware of the old road and its strategic importance. It is mentioned a number of times in their correspondence. Another thing I would like to see is improved mapping. The current maps involved a lot of research and have been very useful but GPS probably will take over in the future I can imagine a laminated map embracing the entire road in a rear pocket of the book. There are a number of businessmen in the area who would probably assist funding. Also it would be good to better identify documented points in the book. Location and description and an image would be very informative.
9. Tell us one or more of your favorite outings.
One of the earliest outings I went on was with Barbara Jones at Fort Number Four and the New Hampshire markers on the New Hampshire side of the Connecticut River. Barbara was a serious historian and was instrumental in organizing the first hike and Crown Point Road celebration in Springfield in 1958. She was also deeply involved in the restoration of the Old Fort and preserving its place in history.A second special outing was with former president Bill Allen in Old Deerfield. Even though he was in ill health at the time, he accompanied us pointing out the many points of interest. Bill was a native of the area and attended Deerfield Academy so he knew his history well. He was also interested in the Sudbury Vermont area since he was a descendant of the Ketchams What a privilege it was to meet and know these two interesting people.
10. Tell us the names of some of your favorite guest speakers at our annual meeting.
The first speaker that comes to mind is our own Tom Hughes. The occasion I especially remember was when he lectured us on the history of the fort at Crown Point. He gave a detailed chronology and answered many of our questions relating to both the French and the English occupations. In addition, he passed out maps and diagrams for us to study and keep. I know I have mine in a safe place and have studied and looked at them many times. A second speaker of note was Art Cohn from the Champlain Maritime Museum. He brought to life the early days of Skenesborough and Benedict Arnold’s time there building his ships and later destroying them. Cohn went on to doing much valuable work in the underwater archaeology of Lake Champlain and the further development of the museum. His contribution to history and education is sizable.
11. Tell us the most important reason to preserve the history of the CPR.
As with many of the historic events leading to the establishment of our country it is important to remember and preserve not only the event but also the immense contribution of our ancestors. If we look around ourselves today we can see the immense damage that can be done to the heritage that has been passed on to us by others. And it only takes one person.
12. What are you most proud of during your years of involvement about with the CPRA?
It would probably be my involvement in the instigation of our attempt to have the CPR placed on the National Register of Historic Places. I talked to Vt. Senator Jim Jeffords who offered encouragement and advice on how to approach the project. The board members agreed and we proceeded to secure a grant and backing from the state. An archaeologist was hired and Al Ransom became project manager. The time and effort spent by assisting members helped compile reams of information about the road in the area of Socialborough, later the town of Rutland, even though our submission failed. I sincerely hope new attempts will be made in the future It has been suggested that a simpler, less complicated pursuit would be to have the markers placed on the register instead.
13. What is the one thing that you want future boards of the CPRA to accomplish most?
While I don’t know if by laws have been altered to expand inclusion, I do understand a younger generation’s desire to pursue research in other old roads and places of historic interest. I do hope the goals and dedication of the founders will also continue to be pursued and honored. They were true Patriots and historians.
14. What do you think is the most effective way to get people interested in history?
Some people become interested in history because of the discovery of an interesting artifact or an old letter or photograph. This leads them to a desire to know more and to begin some exploration. However; not everyone possesses this character trait. In this case, perhaps an interest may be aroused by visiting a museum or witnessing a commemorative event. This might be a patriotic holiday celebration, parade or reenactment. The substitution of Social Studies in place of History in our schools was a big mistake in my opinion. It really is the responsibility of teachers, parents and family members to teach respect of country and family. With institutions such as the CPRA they can perform outreach such as has been done in the past by offering lectures and narrations for public education. Having representation at appropriate public events contributes to living history and may inspire someone’s interest.
15. In your opinion, what are the 5 most important events in Vermont history?
The fact that the state of Vermont was blessed with a wonderful location between two major waterways, Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River, plus the many streams draining into them, destined it to become a major thoroughfare throughout the ages. Its rich soil and mineral deposits attracted settlers who were soon involved in land title disputes. The coming of the Revolutionary War and its successful outcome was a major event ushering in Vermont’s importance in agriculture, travel and commerce. Included in this period were two other major events which occurred on the same day. They were the Battle of Hubbardton and the Constitutional Convention in Arlington. Statehood was attained in 1791. The coming of the railroad in 1849 led to the growth of industry and markets. The growing ease of travel also allowed over crowded households to emigrate westward. During World War II Vermont contributed to the war effort producing war material with its manufacturing plants and heavy industries. In the 1950s the Vermont legislature passed Act 250 a major piece of environmental protection.I think I listed five but I would like to add one more. A tribute to US Senator Jim Jeffords whose principles and concerns for the ideals of his constituents compelled him to resign from the Republican party.
16. How has technology changed history research?
Early CPR researchers worked so diligently, traveling to town offices, searching deeds and wills, looking at old maps, plotting sites and then seeking them out on foot. All this when today they could have been sitting comfortably at home in front of a computer.But they were not that sort of people. They were adventurers and true researchers. Even today I imagine they would welcome computers but I think they would miss the spirit of discovering something for yourself and walking where others had walked. Without technology they managed to locate most positions on the trail and left a multitude of accurate information for those who followed.
Closing: Respectfully submitted by Elaine Purdy, former CPRA officer, with many thanks to daughter Linda Shelvey for editing, compiling and printing the above.
Afternotes: During my time as an officer, I kept files on all activities I was involved in. They were kept in file folders together in a box which I have given to Dale Christie. I also kept yearbooks of each year. They are also with Dale. All the information from the National Register application is in the archives at Middlebury college. Confession: Aside from meeting old friends at annual meetings I really looked forward to Barb’s potato salad, Dennis’ lasagna, Peg’s chicken and biscuits, Larry’s huge apple pies, Gayle’s chocolate chip cookies, Jim’s wonderful maple syrup, Jim Moores’s BBQ chicken wings, Dale’s pulled pork, Sanford Witherell’s apples, Carmella’s chicken and biscuits and luscious egg salad sandwiches. Carmine always brought apple cider. The two of them always arrived early, to open the place, turn on the heat and get the coffee percolating, and finally Sanborn’s block of cheese and anything left over from lunch at Wake Robin!
“Freedom and Unity”
Over and out!
Hello Friends of the Road,
This area seems to be basking in a stretch of good weather. Our gardens are in overdrive still and the apple season seems to have arrived a bit early. I picked some apples this morning and certainly enjoyed it. It always seems so easy after working the fields for berries. I hope you are all enjoying the weather and doing well.
The new Ira Allen book is out. Any of you have any feedback on it yet? I have to thin down my herd before I take on any more. Even the newspapers seem to be piling up more than I’d like.
For those who attended the recent outing in Springfield, the research and discussion continues on. I have a feeling when the tour picks up again where it left off, there will be much more to share and talk about. Lonnie did a great job putting together points of interest, reading material and recruited great assistance from local land owners as well. This year’s outings are quickly going by, but we have 2 more to come.
Recently I crossed paths with historian lover and CPRA member Kellie Meyer. She was excited to tell me about a photo she found that was taken in the original Catamount Tavern in Bennington. With her assistance, I found a source online that has the complete article that goes with it. I think you’ll enjoy the read and at least the photograph. Thank you Kellie, and those who helped produce the article for the Vermont Historical Society. Here’s the link to the article: https://vermonthistory.org/journal/misc/EconomicStructureBennington.pdf
I am cramming to put together a handout and plan for the outing coming up. I have a lot of information and know the area well, so I don’t expect I’ll have a shortage of things to say. I hope many of you can attend as this will be the last outdoor outing for 2024. I will cover multiple centuries in my discussion, but don’t worry, there will be plenty of talk about the CPR. It will get center stage for sure. Here’s a write-up for those who want details:
September 21: Starting at 10am, we will gather and explore parts of the Proctor area. The meeting area is the west shore of Beaver Pond, at a large parking area along the Beaver Pond Road. We will begin by walking part of the original Crown Point Road, and possible historic landmarks along it. Following that, we will visit a 20th century industrial site that is being “re-wilded”. Total hiking distance is about 2 miles and includes some minor bushwacking. Bring sturdy shoes, water and snacks. For info, contact Dale.
The day is flying by quickly, so I will wrap things up now. I have football picks to make and chores to do. Be well and keep studying your history. It is much easier than studying the future.
Hello Friends of the Road,
History is made everyday. What happens may not seem historic, but it doesn’t mean events aren’t impactful. I do believe in the butterfly effect. I’f you don’t know what that is, look it up. On a lighter note, I am drowning in cherry tomatoes! I know zucchini often overruns gardeners and growers are often forced to leave it on unattended doorsteps. Soon my neighbors will stop answering my calls if our plants don’t calm down. I hope all you gardeners out there are reaping your rewards and your stomachs are happier because of it.
Recently I’ve been revisiting a website full of aerial photo data. It has burned up a lot of my time in the past and will likely do so again. It offers a great glimpse into the past and also offers unique views of current Vermont as well. I recommend you check out this website if you haven’t. It isn’t the most intuitive site, so be patient. I’m most amazed that there is such great quality imagery from 1942 of my area. It is priceless. Here is the link: https://geodata.vermont.gov/pages/imagery
There is a volley of outings coming up. One on the East side of the state and one on the West side. Which will you choose? Or both perhaps? I have a feeling I’ll be putting some miles on my car the next couple weekends. The year’s calendar of events is flying by, so if you are determined to attend your 1st outing, time is running out. The last one was at Historic Deerfield. It was a warm day, but history was alive and well there. Each time I go I see new stuff and learn new things through the people that work or volunteer there.
First up for my “marketing efforts” will be this coming Saturday’s car tour. Leader Jim Rowe can do this tour in his sleep as he’s done it many times before, so his well polished presentation is a popular one. Here is the full write-up: August 17, At 10am, meet at the Mount Independence museum in Orwell for a segment of the 10th annual driving tour. Historian Tom Hughes will kick off the event by making an introductory speech. Following that, Jim Rowe will lead the tour and the day will end at the Hubbardton Battlefield. There will be several stops along the way for discussion. People should bring snacks/lunch. It will take about 3 hours. Admission will be charged at either historic site if participants want to spend time exploring. For more info, call Jim at (802) 434-7415.
My 2nd round of “marketing efforts” goes to an introductory tour at the opposite side of the state. The leader has been working hard on this all Summer and since he first proposed the idea back during the Winter of 2023, I knew it would be a good one. For those who know Lonnie, he does his work and goes the extra mile. I have a feeling he will give you quite a show. That outing is coming up fast too and will be here the week after this one. Here is the full write-up: August 24th (Saturday), Crown Point Road Association will be hosting a driving tour to view markers 1 – 8, all located in Springfield, VT, with an optional hike to marker 3 at the end. Meet at the parking lot at Fort # 4 in Charlestown at 10:00 am. Join CPRA members and local historians to hear about the beginnings of the 1759 military road. The driving tour will be approximately 2 hours long with optional hike to marker 3 an hour. Barry Griffith (802-492-3573) and Lonnie Lisai (lonnielisai@gmail.com) will be hosting this event.
A new biography is coming out real soon and it looks like it could be good. If any of you get it, please let me know how it is. It is about Ira Allen. Here is a link to info about it: https://vermonthistory.org/ira-allen-biograpjy-kevin-graffagnino-vermont-history-book
That is all for now. Thank you all for reading my ramblings.
Hello Friends (and enemies) of the Road,
I expect most of you are friends, but there could be spies in the group, so watch out! What we should really watch out for is the incoming weather. Tomorrow will be a year to the day from last year’s devastating floods in VT, so let’s hope tomorrow isn’t a repeat. I will be glad to take a day off from watering the gardens though. The heat has given my hose lots of action. My wife has waged war on beetles and other insects with her secret ammunition and it has been very effective. Our future food is on track for the dinner plate.
Perhaps some of you attended part of the re-enactment in Hubbardton? Perhaps we even saw you there on Saturday. We had a well attended tent, especially during the heavy rains! It was unfortunate for the soldiers on the field during the 2pm demonstration. The weather that morning was very accurate from what the history books tell us of the actual battle in 1777. We did enjoy the many conversations we had with visitors. There now are a few more of our markers books in people’s nightstand or library now. Our prized historian Tom Hughes gave a tour of the battlefield to many lucky and interested participants. I highly recommend this next year if he is to offer it again.
I am excited to remind folks, or inform folks about the upcoming outing on 20th of this month. This will be my 2nd time visiting the historic area of Deerfield, MA. I want to see the big sycamore trees and the cemetery again. The buildings and their contents are also very interesting to most. We are not offering a motor coach, so it is up to you all to find your way there if you want to attend. Car pooling is always recommended. If any of you want to raise your hand to hook up with others, please contact the outing leader Dennis Devereux. Per the website Historic Deerfield is open 9:30 – 4:30. Admission is $20. We are hoping to arrange a docent, but haven’t been able to secure one yet, so plan on self guided tours. Here is a link to a five minute video about the site, which you might want to include in the newsletter: https://www.historic-deerfield.org/welcome/ Anyone interested in carpooling should contact Dennis soon to be most effective. He can’t guarantee a response and may not be checking messages shortly before the trip. Here is the full official write-up: We will all gather at the Visitor Center on Old Main Street at 10am to explore a colonial village in Deerfield MA. Visitors can tour twelve carefully preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850, and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display. There is also the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions. Carpooling will be recommended. For more info contact Dennis Devereux at (802) 259-2460 or email him at ddevereux@vermontel.net.
I have been doing some research to prepare for my outing in September. I don’t mean to hype it up, but I expect there will be lots for me to talk about and attendees will likely get a lot of reading material to take home with them. I sure do enjoy old maps as many of you can relate to. Sometimes even a document you have looked at many times before can reveal something new to you in a particular light. So keep picking up those old books and keep them well dusted off!
That is all for now!
Hello Friends of the Road,
As I write this, the rain has stopped for now. It has been a good weekend to read some history. I am eagerly looking forward to watching the Celtics play tonight. Why they needed so much rest in between games is beyond me! I have finished 2 books in the past week. That is really good for me! One was about the first 20 years of the Dave Matthews Band and the 2nd about the revitalization of the former Howe Scales location in Rutland. I got the latter at the Rutland Historical Society, and it is a great account of the history of the scale company that began in Brandon, through to the more recent years where the location was transformed into the business complex it is today. I recommend this book to all local Rutland Country historians.
I hadn’t planned this, but the book review above ties into the upcoming CPRA outing planned for Saturday the 15th. The meeting location is at the Rutland Historical Society, so you can take this opportunity to buy the book, or other items while you’re there. They are an excellent organization and we need to support the local historical societies. We’ve had some warm days lately (not today!), so a car tour with air conditioned breaks is always welcome, right? The upcoming outing is a mixed event, but will include some travel to different points of interest in the Rutland area. Here is the official write-up: Members and the public are encouraged to attend the 4th segment of the “Taverns, Homesteads and Other Points of Interest Along the Crown Point Road Car Tour”. Meet at the Rutland Historical Society at 10am. We will tour by car along the route of the Crown Point Road to learn about many points of interest. This year’s tour segment will end in the Center Rutland area. Bring a lunch. The leaders will be longtime CPRA historians Jim Rowe and Tom Hughes, assisted by members of the Rutland Historical Society. For more info, call Jim at (802) 434-7415
There’s been some good efforts made to help promote the history of Ann Story and the historic sites that honor her. Recently, a film was recorded at PEGTV in Rutland. You will likely recognize the host of the presentation as our historian and long time CPRA president Jim Rowe. I encourage you to watch this and you will likely learn about Ann. Here is the link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__3VEufOd6M
I look forward to seeing some of you this weekend. I hope you can attend and it doesn’t interfere with any Father’s Day plans you may have.