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.
Hello Friends of the Road,
I hope you’re all doing well. We got some much needed rain here recently, but we still could use more. The dry weather has certainly strained some gardens and lawns, but thankfully I have municipal water and hearty grass (and weeds). I can’t believe it is almost August already. Don’t let the Summer slip away. Enjoy it while you can!
My first offering for today is a video I have spoke of with a few of you. It is a recording of the recent dramatization of the aftermath of the violent capture and rescue of Arlington settler and Green Mountain Boy captain Remember Baker, 250 years ago. So make a bowl of popcorn and enjoy this feature presentation!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tu5VOaccGAs
For those who don’t get the annual mailing, allow me to do a little soliciting. The CPRA has a lot of merchandise to offer, but the most valuable item is the markers guidebook. It includes maps and info about every marker placed to honor the history of the Crown Point Road. It also includes some good history as well. Currently they are only $10 plus shipping for members. They can be purchased by mailing us a check, or on the website using PayPal.
I have another video for your viewing pleasure. It is a short news segment aired on WCAX, the local CBS affiliate. They reported on the recent re-enactment weekend at Hubbardton. Enjoy!https://www.wcax.com/2022/07/10/living-history-display-hubbardton/
As a new segment, I thought I’d share a calendar event from the recent Vermont Historical Society newsletter. If you don’t get that, you should. It is a good.
Roadside Marker Dedication & Reenactment, July 30th, 2pm – 3pm, Ira Town Hall, Ira
The Ira Vermont Historical Society will host a dedication ceremony for the new Vermont Historic Site plaque describing the town’s iconic eighteenth-century Ira Town Hall. The marker has been in place for two years and this is our long-awaited opportunity to celebrate. After the dedication, the Society’s museum on the second floor of the Town Hall will be open to visitors for the first time. Revolutionary War reenactors from the Massachusetts 3rd Regiment will have an encampment with a cooking demonstration, musket firing, and talks on period dress and food planned for the day. Light refreshment offered. Details.
And now to advertise the upcoming CPRA outing. It is not a traditional one, and it isn’t an easy one either. It involves navigating the Otter Creek via boat and climbing a steep bank due to the low water level. So if you’re considering it, here’s the details:August 7: The DAR has placed scores of markers at historical sites in Vermont, many along the Crown Point Road. The DAR marker dedicated in 1914 at the site of Ann Story’s Cave on Otter Creek is unique — accessible only by water. BYOB – bring your own boat, canoe or kayak – and a willingness to climb up the steep bank to the marker. Meet at 1PM at the F&W fishing access site @ 1762 Swamp Road, Cornwall (on the Leicester town line). For more info contact Jim Rowe (802) 434-7415, or mtnsidemaple@GMAVt.net
In closing, I’ll share a great quote I heard recently. Until we meet again, be well and remember your history!
The farther back you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.
~Winston Churchill
Hello Friends of the Road,
Assuming you are all in the northern hemisphere, it is now officially Summer. For the most part, the weather has been good here lately but we could use a little rain as lawns are drying out and I’ve seen some hillsides are looking a bit brown. With the costs of most things going up, I’m glad to have a well producing garden and local farms to get food from. No matter how fresh the stores say their food is, it is hard to beat a local source.
Back in May, we kicked off the year’s schedule with a presentation by local historian and ground explorer Phil Mandolare. He has done some polishing and adjustments to his digital presentation for a wider audience and has made it available for us to share. Even those who attended may enjoy watching this material again. Thanks Phil, and here is the link to view it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFqDXZBgb-w
Coming up during the month of July is not one, but TWO outings I’d like to share. They are both the same weekend, so you’ll be able to get your fill of us. One is our annual attendance at the re-enactment activities in Hubbardton. The other is a hybrid event involving some hiking and some car touring. Let’s hope the weather is good that weekend! This coming weekend will include 4th of July, and if you are one to attend barbecues, and eat lots, than maybe you’ll want to attend one or both of our events to work off some calories. Here are the full write-ups for the two outings:
July 9: As part of the annual weekend of events to celebrate the historic battle in Hubbardton, and as one of the event’s regular attendees, the CPRA will have a booth on Saturday to meet visitors. Come attend the event and support your organization at the re-enactment. Admission fee for the weekend’s events will be $6 per person, per day. For more info, call the Battlefield Welcome Center at (802) 273-2282
July 10: Sunday afternoon, meet at 1PM at the Downer’s Corner Store, located at the intersection of VT 106 & VT 131 in Weathersfield (area also known as Downers). There will be a combination auto and walking tour from CPR Markers #17 to #24. The tour will be led by long-time CPRA members Steve Aikenhead and Dennis Devereux. Contact Steve at stevea47@tds.net or Dennis at 802-259-2460.
I’d like to share a fabulous website that was shared with me by CPRA Treasurer Whitney. It is a wealth of information that gives you an interactive view of the populations of the world. Things get really interesting the further back in time you go. I hope you all enjoy this jewel:http://geacron.com/home-en/
In closing, I often urge everyone to keep reading and study your history, but a very wise local historian offered me the following comments that are quite worthy of passing along:Perhaps you could encourage people to visit our local historic sites in lieu of long vacations due to the prices of gas. Lots to see nearby on short day trips from Plattsburgh (War of 1812) to Albany. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Chimney Point & Crown Point, Mt. Independence & Hubbardton, Bennington, Roger’s Island, Saratoga, Schuyler Mansion in Albany, New York State Museum in Albany, Johnson Hall in Johnstown, NY. Also The American Heritage Museum in Hudson, MA, New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT, are all day trips.
Vegetable are great but history has a longer shelf life.
Thank you Paul for all of that! Until we meet again. Be well all!
Hello Friends of the Road,
With the price of gas, it seems like a good time to stay home and do some historical research, and tend to your vegetable gardens. Outside of a couple early scorchers here in VT, it has been a pretty good Spring so far. I have a variety of stuff for you all today, so I will now get into it.
First of all, a recap from the previous outing in Brandon. We couldn’t have been treated to any better hosts. Attendees were met with comfortable seating, refreshments and snacks to enjoy. The guest speaker put on a great show with a narrated video and artifacts on hand. I’m working on getting a copy of the video and will share it with everyone in a future newsletter. If anyone attended the event and have pictures to share, please send them my way and I’ll make them available to everyone.
I’d like to announce a huge sale on our new bumper stickers. Yes, you read that right. All new bumper stickers are now on sale for a hard to resist price of only $3 each! Shipping not included. You may have noticed the new product offering in the recent annual mailing. You may have also noticed a RIDICULOUS price of $15 for the new bumper stickers. That was obviously a mistake. We were not trying to pay for any college loans. It was simply an error. So if you were considering buying one (or two) to support the CPRA, but were scared off by the advertised price, please reconsider the purchase now. Thank you.
I have an interesting find to pass along to you. Acclaimed local historian Bill Powers found a mention of the CPR in an Rutland Daily Herald newspaper from 1911. I’ve attached a scan for your enjoyment. Thanks Bill for sharing that with me!
Quickly approaching is our next CPRA outing, less than 2 week away! It will be a car tour and feature long time CPRA Historian, Larry Clark. Jim Rowe, car tour extraordinaire will lead, but Larry will assist with the discussion. Having lived in the area for many years, Larry has a lot of local knowledge. I hope to see many of you there. Here is the full write-up for the outing:June 5: Meet at 10:30AM at the McCuen Slang Fishing access on Rt 125 in the town of Addison. Bring a lunch. We will go by car along the Crown Point Road through Bridport, Shoreham and Whiting. Points of historic interest will be discussed. For more info, call Jim Rowe at (802) 434-7415, or email mtnsidemaple@GMAVt.net
That is all I have for you today. Be safe, remember the past, and be thankful for today.
Hello Friends of the Road,
How is everyone doing? We’ve made it through another Winter. For those not in areas of snow, you don’t get credit for weathering another season of cold, ice, and back breaking snow removal. I’m sure you have other challenges in your area, but no snow patch for you scouts! I have been busy as always. I now have vegetable plants in the outside gardens and a new kitten to care for. The plants are much less work! Both are rewarding in their own ways.
Sorry I didn’t write earlier. I certainly have been thinking of you all as the outings have been scheduled. I am looking forward to seeing you again. By now, those who have provided mailing addresses should have received your annual mailing. Many of you have already mailed in membership dues and contributes. Thank you very much for your generosity and support! For those who aren’t familiar with our mailing, it is a mixed bag of content, and contains a magnet with the year’s outing schedule to help you keep track of your crazy historian get togethers. If you’d like to be added to that mailing list, just email me your mailing address. We aren’t strict about memberships, but always welcome and start at just $5 a year. As you may have noticed, we changed the content of the mailing a bit this year. The pamphlet portion was getting a bit stale and mostly repeat content for the longterm members. I welcome any and all feedback about the content provided this year. We’ll likely still make a tri-fold pamphlet, but will only distribute them to local libraries to spread awareness about the Crown Point Road and our organization.
The new merchandise we’re offering this year are hats and bumper stickers. The hats have been sold in the past, but weren’t officially on our order form. The bumper stickers, a great addition, was thanks to historian Tom Hughes. It was his idea and handiwork. They are well made, and have clear backgrounds to look more attractive on your vehicle. They are a great way to show support of the CPRA.
Our facebook feed has been active lately, which is great. If you’re not following our page, please do so. We’ve been involved with different historical anniversary events, including Breakenridge (last year), Remember Baker, and others are already being planned. It is important to keep these huge contributors of the past in the present.
In case you missed it, Bennington has some new colors lighting the historic monument. You can read about it here: https://www.wcax.com/2022/04/19/bennington-battle-monument-lit-colors-ukrainian-flag/
We’d like to believe we are all out of the pandemic now, but recent numbers continue to climb. Currently we aren’t planning to have any mask requirements, but everyone is encouraged to social distance where possible, and be respectful of those who are concerned for their health.
One outing on our schedule that is very dependent upon the health conditions and political policies, is the bus trip to Montreal. Yes, another bus trip and we are excited! It will be a one day event and include multiple historical destinations in the Montreal area. So if you have intentions to go, make sure your passport is up to date. We’ll be announcing more details about pickup locations, costs, etc in the upcoming weeks.
The final topic for today is the upcoming outing on May 15th. It will be an outdoors event, so be prepared for the weather. There will be 3 parts that you can attend and feel free to participate only in what you’re comfortable or interested in. The first will be a presentation of and about artifacts found at the site. 2nd, there will be a very short hike nearby. And lastly, for those interested, the short hike can be extended to see more of the area. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the outing leader identified below. Here is the official write-up: Lyn and Jim DesMarais have allowed Phil Mandolare to explore the Crown Point Road route through their Brandon property with his metal detector. CPRA members and friends are invited to gather at the DesMarais Farm (215 Ella Dean Road) Sunday at 1PM. Phil will report on his search, reveal his findings, and then lead a short drive and walk to the site. An optional longer hike along the Road back to the Farm will follow. Rain date May 22. For more info contact Barry Griffith (802) 492-3573 bgriffithvt@gmail.com
That is all for now. Be well and do what you can to preserve history!
Hello Friends of the Road,
I hope you are all well. Most of my gardens are now set for Winter and I’ve got a suet feeder hung and ready to go. Flags are being picked up at CPR roadside markers now (thank you George and Nancy!) and daylight fades earlier every day. But that all means we can watch more football with less guilt, right? No chores left to do outside means more TV, right?
I have been watching a different form of “TV” as I’ve been getting a monitor tan using my computer. I have been doing some video editing and now can release to the public video of our recent Annual Meeting. I know many of you weren’t able to attend, but now you can attend in spirit! I’m no Hollywood producer, nor do I have great tools, but I like what I did with the clips. There are two videos, one of the business meeting (somewhat boring) and the featured presentation by Bob Hoar. If you like history and the CPR, maybe you’ll find neither boring. I do hope you give them a chance as you’ll find some humor mixed in and some great content. The business meeting can be watched HERE and the featured presentation can be watched HERE.
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One last thing I have for you today, is about some LIDAR info. The technology is awesome and has helped historians greatly to uncover the past, and without disturbing the soil! News of this event circulated on our Facebook page, so for those that didn’t see this already, here is a link about the event: https://www.henrysheldonmuseum.org/events/breadloaf-and-battell-wilderness-through-the-laser-lens?rq=lidar
That is all for now. Take care and keep uncovering history!