Yesteryear
Belknap Mill Beginnings
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
As we swing into 2025, it is a time to look back and also to move ahead. That is the case with the historic Belknap Mill on Beacon Street East in downtown Laconia. The mill is quite old, built in 1823 and operating for years as a textile business. After its near demise in the 1970s, it is now a thriving history and art museum/center.
Laura LeMien, chair of the Belknap Mill’s board of directors, says “In 2025, the mill will be focusing on events, programming, and of course, the museum. We have put together new event packages such as micro weddings, baby/bridal showers as well as meetings. We also have incorporated the museum into these packages, which we feel will attract many.”
Since its beginning as a cultural center many years ago, the Belknap Mill has focused on the arts. Says LeMien, “We are excited to continue our monthly exhibits showing off the many talents of our community.”
By 1969, the Belknap Mill was no longer in operation; thus began the struggle to save the building from the wrecking ball. Looking back in time, the early 1970s was a perilous time for the old mill buildings on Beacon Street near downtown Laconia. The buildings were no longer the site for production of textiles and other goods, and the
Real Estate
rooms were empty and dusty. If you were to walk through the mill buildings, you might fancy hearing the call of one former worker to another or the sound of the loud textile machines.
All around the downtown area, old buildings were being demolished as the trend for everything new took over. Little regard was shown for anything historical, and this was especially true for old mill structures.
But not everyone agreed with that mindset, and a group of such citizens must have been distressed to see the former downtown Laconia they knew and, in some cases, grew up with being torn down to make way for a parking garage, parking lots, modern buildings and busy thoroughfares. The group asked themselves if there might be a way to retain at least a few buildings, specifically the two former mill buildings built in the early 1800s of brick. Today, we would look at these buildings and recognize their architectural beauty. But in the early 1970s, many saw the mills as an eyesore, with no purpose in holding onto them or fixing them for later use.
An article in the Laconia Evening Citizen, dated October 23, 1970, predicted the demise of the mill buildings. The headline read “Mill Disposal Deadline Set.” The Laconia Redevelopment and Housing Authority report-
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ed to the mayor and city council that unless funds and plans were forthcoming, the Seeburg and Belknap-Sulloway mills would be torn down by June 1, 1971.
It is worth noting that the article also mentioned the Belknap Mill was reserved for museum use. It was warned, however, that plans and funds would be needed by March 1, 1971, or demolition would begin on June 1.
Luckily, there were already those meeting and working hard to save the old mill. At the first annual meeting of the Save the Mill Society, it was reported that for the first time ever, the National Trust for Historic Preservation contributed to the preservation of something other than a Presidential Residence. The amount given was $500 to go toward the preservation of the Belknap Sulloway and Busiel mills.
It was hoped that the buildings would be placed on the National Register in Washington, which would help save the mills.
No matter what efforts were made to keep the mills from demolition, deadlines were looming. An article in the Laconia Evening Citizen, dated December 26, 1970, reported that the Laconia Housing and Redevelopment Authority set a firm deadline of June 1, 1971, to decide on the fate of the buildings.
In the efforts to save the mills, the buildings had been under consideration in the past year in connection with the Urban Renewal project. Ideas for the mills were restoration as a city hall and the Belknap Mill specifically for use as a museum and cultural center.
Resources state, “In essence, what the authority advised … was what steps will have to be taken to demolish the mills if no development proposals assuring their rehabilitation for private or public use are firmed up by next June 1.”
Whether one agreed with the idea of saving the mills or tearing them down, all seemed to agree that the structural condition of the buildings and the work required to bring them up to local code standards should be examined.
A Save the Mill committee report on December 21, 1970, stated that the members regularly met each Friday for a noontime working lunch. They kept up with current trends and other mill-related business. It seemed the committee was not about to give up on its intense efforts to preserve the historic buildings.
One can only imagine the committee members’ sense of urgency when they were informed that the Planning Board of Laconia had altered the schedule to • Yesteryear continued on page 5
Maureen Padula
EDITOR
Charlene Muscatell
CIRCULATION
Kathy Larson
A New Playground for Alton at Jones Field: Your Input Matters
The Friends of Alton, NH Parks and Recreation are proud to announce plans to bring a new, accessible playground to Jones Field. This initiative aims to upgrade the current playground to a modern, inclusive play space that serves the needs of children, families, and the entire community.
Our vision is to create a safe and welcoming area where children of all ages and abilities can play and families can come together. To ensure this project reflects the needs and priorities of Alton residents, we’re asking for your input through a community survey.
Share Your Thoughts We want to hear from you! Coming in January, we will have a survey asking for your input. The survey is brief but plays a crit-
ical role in shaping the future of Jones Field.
Funding the Project The primary goal is to fully fund the project without impacting local taxes through private donations, corporate sponsorships, fundraising, and grants. The Friends of Alton, NH Parks and Recreation are committed to a transparent and community-focused fundraising approach.
The Friends of Alton, NH Parks and Recreation is a volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing recreational opportunities for the Alton community. We are in the process of becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which will expand our ability to secure funding and make projects like this possible without impacting local taxes. Sitting on the
board for our volunteer organization, we have Jill Houser, Sarah Goodrum, Carol Diveny, Joanna Fencer, and Kelly Sullivan. Get Involved
● Coming in January 2025! Complete the community survey on our Facebook page or our website at https:// friendsofaltonnhparksrec.wordpress. com. Other community locations, to be announced.
● Follow our progress and updates on Facebook @Friends of Alton, NH Parks & Rec or on our website at https://friendsofaltonnhparksrec.wordpress.com.
Contributions to this effort are appreciated to help move the project forward. Until the organization has received our 501(c)(3) designation as a charitable organization, contributions are not tax deductible.
This project is about more than building a playground—it’s about creating a space that strengthens community connections and serves as a source of pride for Alton. For more information, contact us at FriendsofAltonNHParksRec@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook. Also be sure to check out our website! Thanks for reading!
Concord Community Music School’s “New England Roots & Branches” Series Debuts
Concord Community Music School’s “New England Roots & Branches” series will kick off on Saturday, January 25 with “Contradance Music: The New England Contradance Repertoire,” honoring the genre’s melding of a variety of folk traditions. This event will be held at the Citywide Community Center, 14 Canterbury St., Concord, NH. It begins with an open slow jam session at 6:00 pm, followed by a contradance called by David Millstone at 7:00 pm and then open band.
Folk musicians of all levels are invited to bring their instruments to play along with performers (and CCMS faculty) Audrey Budington, Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki, and Liz Faiella, fiddles and Dan Faiella for the second half of the dance, starting at 8:00 pm. However, it is not necessary to play an instrument or have contradance experience to attend and enjoy the event.
Says Liz Faiella, CCMS fiddle teacher and Folk Department Chair, “I’ve been contradancing since I was a kid and playing fiddle for contradances for many years. I love the convivial spirit that I find in this dance tradition and in the folk music that accompanies it. Traditional New England dance and folk music can be delightfully social, and it has a beautiful way of bringing people together. “
She adds, “Concord Community Music School has a vibrant folk program, and I’m so grateful to be part of it. I hope that, as we bring the kick-off event of our new series out beyond the Music School’s walls, folks who may never have contradanced before, or
who haven’t played with a contradance band, or haven’t had contact with New Hampshire’s rich folk scene at all, will join in and experience this amazing tradition.”
The “New England Roots and Branches” series is free and open to the public. It is made possible in part through a Folklife and Traditional Arts grant from the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts. Located at 23 Wall St. in Downtown Concord, NH, Concord Community Music School employs more than 50 faculty who teach more than a thousand students each week. Music lovers of all ages participate in individual instruction, workshops, classes, choruses, ensembles, expressive art therapy, and recitals. Financial aid is available. For more information, visit ccmusicschool.org. The New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, a division of the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, enhances the quality of life in New Hampshire by stimulating economic growth through the arts, investing in the creativity of students, making the arts accessible to underserved populations, and preserving heritage arts. Its Folklife and Traditional Arts program supports art forms that are passed informally from generation to generation through demonstration, conversation and practice. These arts reflect the cultures of community groups that can be defined by ethnic heritage or by occupation, religion, geography, way of life, language or familial groups. Learn more about the NHSCA at nh.gov/ nharts.
hear plans for using the Belknap Mill by March 1. The new plan could demolish the mill buildings immediately.
Swinging into action, the committee decided to attend a meeting that same evening in the mayor’s office. At that meeting, they would protest and lay out their plans for mill renovations. They would also meet with the Chamber of Commerce that very afternoon.
The committee had a plan for a museum and restaurant for the Belknap Mill. The museum would not be a tale of an early elegant home such as those found in Portsmouth’s Strawbery Banke or a display of local farming equipment. In capital letters she wrote that a mill museum would be “The Story of the Lakes Region and the Industrial Revolution.”
The proposed museum would center on a display of the country’s oldest, untouched brick mill building. The display would also include the story of weaving fabric for Civil War uniforms and knitting socks, both of which were done at the mill. According to the report, a restaurant would also be a possibility. The dining establishment would use antique mill equipment and other items for decoration, and even the dining tables would have lighted, locked displays on the tabletops.
It was a creative and worthy idea, but not all came to fruition; only the museum effort became part of the finished Belknap Mill.
There is no doubt that dedicated committee members at this time were totally committed to saving the mills. Their work was tireless, but they faced a long road with many meetings, trips to give reports, and constant efforts to obtain funding for renovations to the buildings.
Today, it is worthwhile to look back on the early days of the Save the Mill effort. The early 1970s were a time that embraced the modern and new, while others wanted to move forward but preserve the history of the community. Eventually, both efforts were joined, and these herculean goals created the
brick mill buildings that are still a big part of downtown Laconia today.
Due to its age (built in 1823), many things about the mill may be unknown to most people. The following is a list of facts about the Belknap Mill.
• The brick mill was designed based on an 1813 mill in Lowell, Massachusetts, and was listed in 1972 as one of the first buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.
• A handmade stool was donated to the Belknap Mill by Gwendolyn and Rolland Gove and is a good example of the days of child labor in mills. This stool and others like it were used in mills as chairs for children as young as 10. The children wound bobbins and did other work. Their feet barely touched the floor as they sat at their tasks.
• In 1860, the historic Belknap Mill was nearly destroyed by fire when a huge blaze took much of downtown Laconia. Luckily, the Niagara Engine Company of Lake Village came to the rescue, and the brave men pushed into the area, showing the community “how fires were fought by real men!” as a newspaper reported at the time.
• In 1973, members of the Belknap Mill Society cast 150 replicas of the original Holbrook Bell. The number
Lights on Squam at Wolfsburg Farm Through February 16
Thursdays through Sundays from 4 pm - 9 pm, immerse yourself into the winter season with the first annual Lights on Squam, a first-time light installation at Wolfsburg Farm, located in the heart of the Squam Lakes Region! Prepare to be dazzled by five unique lighting experiences, expertly curated by New Spectrum Lighting, designed to bring joy and awe to all ages. This is a self-guided tour down a woods trail with varying slopes. The terrain can be best compared to what you would most commonly associate with a “Blue Square” trail at a ski resort. The hike is approximately 1/4 mile and you experience the light show from two directions. Guests will begin and end their experience at our 1879 historical barn where refreshments and warm beverages are available for purchase near a fire pit. Due to ever-changing and unforeseeable weather conditions, this path may
be covered in snow and/or ice, with potential wet/muddy spots. Please wear appropriate outdoor hiking attire and footwear to match the winter elements. Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times and picked up after. Please note this trail is not ADA accessible, and therefore not suitable for wheelchairs or walkers. Only off-road, big-wheel strollers are permitted, at your own risk. Adults $16, Kids $10, Children 3 and under free. Please Note: You are welcome to come anytime during the hour you purchased tickets for. In the event you are running early or late, you will still be permitted to enter the light walk unless we are at full capacity for that time slot. Phone: (603) 581-9761Website: https://lightsonsquam.simpletix.com/ 84 E Holderness Rd, Holderness, NH 03245
(150) reflected one bell for each year the mill existed until 1973.
• When the Belknap Mill was built, fire was a frequent occurrence. The Belknap Mill was constructed primarily of brick to prevent a fire and featured post-and-beam construction. The bricks were made at a brickyard in the Weirs area. The wooden beams of the mill had shaved corners to make them as fire-resistant as possible. It is uncertain if these measures kept the mill from burning, but something went right because the structure stands to this day.
• Hollywood personality/TV host Jay Leno visited the mill and signed the guest book around 2000.
• In 1977, a Proclamation was distributed to state that the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration regarded the Belknap Mill as a project
of national scope with state focus and recognized it as an official program for the Bicentennial.
• In the 1990s, the gallery at the Belknap Mill had an exhibit featuring the work of New Hampshire artist Ted Sizemore. His detailed paintings were used as artwork for the covers of romance novels. The exhibit was one-ofa-kind, offering the viewer a significant collection of unique and beautiful paintings.
• The Belknap Mill’s summer outdoor concert series started in the 1990s, with the first band playing and making do with the back cement flat surface as a “stage” of sorts. Today, the area is the beautiful Rod & Gail Dyer Powerhouse Patio. Audience seating for the first concert was comprised of folding metal chairs in the former parking lot (now Rotary Park). What started as a one-evening concert morphed into the summertime ambitious lineup of outdoor concerts well attended by the public each year.
• Politics, politics, politics! Before area citizens vote, there is the campaign trail. That trail has led to the Belknap Mill on many occasions, from Bob Dole to Bill Clinton and many more. Over the last 45 years, visiting presidential candidates have included John Edwards, Marco Rubio, Newt Gingrich, Joe Biden, Edward “Ted” Kennedy, and Jerry Brown. Candidates stopped at the mill to speak, meet voters, and answer questions in their bid for the presidency and vice presidency. It is a testament to the Belknap Mill’s title as the “Meetinghouse of New Hampshire.”
The Belknap Mill in old-time Laconia, NH. (Courtesy Belknap Mill Society)
Albert Dow III and the Granite Man Triathlon: Honoring a Local Hero’s Enduring Legacy
By Charlene Muscatell
Forty-three years ago this month, tragedy struck a local family and entire New Hampshire communities when beloved Albert Dow III perished on Mount Washington while searching for two lost hikers. Albert was profoundly mourned at only 28 years old as he was well-loved by family, friends, and many who knew him. He was a selfless man who often thought about the well-being of others. He was looked up to as a great friend, a professional mountain climber, a mentor, and a highly trusted companion to many.
From this tragedy, inspiration ensued. A scholarship, triathlon, novel, short film, and memorials have all been constructed in his name and in his honor. Search and rescue protocols were forever changed and a survivor who was inspired to do great things with a second chance at life innovated to improve the lives of many.
Born in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and raised in a large house with much of his close-knit family in nearby Tuftonboro, Albert and his two sisters spent much time together with opportunities to develop different skills. Outdoor sports, such as ski racing and watching wildlife, were two of the Dow family’s ever-present passions. Albert was no exception, and he excelled. He and his siblings were involved in ski racing at an early age. When Albert and his sister, Susan, were teenagers, they were both on ski racing teams traveling around the region for different competitions. In his college years, Albert was
invited to try rock climbing, and he took to it naturally. He was part of the first wave of rock climbers in North Conway. Climbing even brought him out west to explore.
When Albert returned to New England, he began working for EMS (Eastern Mountain Sports) as a climbing guide and enjoyed it greatly. As tech gear wasn’t as big as it is now, Albert actually favored his baby blue ski parka from his days at the Waterville Valley Trail Smashers Ski Club.
“My brother befriended a couple of road workers through his lawn care service, and they would run into each other on the side of the road from time to time.
Albert saw they were out working, and it was a hot day, so he asked our grandmother for a bucket of her famous lemonade and he brought it up to them with a couple of cups…they were cleaning up brush on the side of the highway near our home in Tuftonboro… He was always thinking of others.”
cause of his act of kindness, Albert was gifted with one of the eagle’s feathers wrapped in a red ribbon by the Natives as a thank-you for their respect.
Susan went on to talk about Albert’s great sense of humor and that when Albert would take new climbers out, he would often make jokes. One day, he was climbing the slab on Whiteface, where it rounded out on top. He told the guy he was guiding to just walk the rest of the way, but he felt that it was too steep. Albert told the man, “I grew up in New England, where the kitchen floors are steeper than this rock.”
He became an extraordinary climber; some even called him “a ballerina on rocks.” He joined the Mountain Rescue Service in North Conway, not hesitating to help other climbers and hikers in need. “If I was in trouble, I hope someone would be out there looking for me,” he would often tell friends and family when they asked why he did it. Albert’s beloved kind and heroic nature showed throughout his short life. He would often think of others, even when he was very young. Albert’s sister, Susan Dow Johnson, shares a story from when they were in grade school:
Albert’s selfless nature went beyond people. One day, while traveling west to rock climb in Monument Valley, Albert, and his friend pulled over on the highway when he saw that a bald eagle had died. Growing up watching eagles and other wildlife with his family, as the Lakes Region is in the flyway for many species, Albert had a respect for birds of prey. Knowing that Bald Eagles were protected, he stayed with the animal and sent his friends off to the authorities. Laws protecting these birds are connected with Native American tribes, and because of this, only a Native Person can retrieve the animal. Be-
Hiking Mount Washington offers challenges and potential dangers all 12 months of the year, and the strongest hikers can potentially run into trouble. Mount Washington has the most extreme weather in the world; even with the best weather predictions and preparation, one must take caution and know when to turn around. Sometimes there is a strong need to reach that summit, especially when one feels well prepared to do so. Some decisions do not seem like mistakes until it is too late, especially with little experience in this type of decision-making. It is not only about your skills as a climber or hiker. In late January of 1982, Hugh Herr, 17 years of age at the time, and Jeff Batzer (20) were climbing a technical route up Huntington Ravine on Mount Washington. As many who trek up this peak, they experienced an unexpected storm which turned into a blizzard.
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Albert Dow III
Dealing with minus-20 windchills and waist-to-chest-deep snow, they kept pushing for the summit. Once they had decided to change course, attempting to turn around, they headed the wrong way and started hiking off-trail. They were lost, could not see their way, and it was frigid. Eventually, they found shelter in a cave and hunkered down in hopes of warming up, waiting out the storm, or being rescued.
In the middle of the night, the New Hampshire Fish & Game and Search and Rescue services were notified of the missing climbers. Mountain Rescue Services in North Conway was also called in. Not knowing where the climbers could be, four teams of two, including Albert Dow, were deployed to different locations on the mountain. Albert and his teammate Michael Hartrich were higher up on the mountain than the others, near the Lions Head Trail, on day two of the search, when they spotted tracks in the snow. They followed the tracks until they were no longer visible, so they began their descent back down the mountain. By this time, some of the volunteers had started to suffer from severe hypothermia and frostbite.
Shortly after they started back down, a call came through the radio to the rest of the team with Michael yelling, “We have been avalanched.” A horrifying situation as the other search and rescue teams quickly reached their location and dug for the two buried under the snow. Michael was found alive with a hand he managed to push through the heavy snow. Tragically, Albert had been found struck by a tree, which broke his neck. He had already passed away.
Three days after the two men became lost, a MRS team finally discovered Batzer and Herr in their cave. They had suffered severe frostbite. Jeff lost fingers and part of a leg, while Hugh
lost both of his legs. In the hospital recovering, Hugh and Jeff were visited by some of the search and rescue team members, who explained what had happened to Albert. Despite the many challenges this proved to be, their survival and the devastation by the news of Alberts’s sacrifice inspired Hugh Herr. Hugh felt obligated to push the boundaries for himself for Alberts’s memory and those in need. He is now a world-renowned developer of hightech prosthetics at the MIT Media Lab, and he still climbs mountains to this day. Hugh often states how he feels forever connected to Albert. You can often find him giving inspiring speeches.
Since Albert’s death, Mountain Rescue Services has changed its protocols regarding how it runs its search and rescues and has also included worker’s compensation for volunteers. Albert was the first and only member of New Hampshire Search and Rescue to have been killed in the line of duty.
“The Mountain Rescue Service provides specialized technical teams comprised of world-class guides and climbers who volunteer their time and expertise in the service of hikers and climbers who need assistance in and around the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The team is ‘on call’ 24 hours per day, all seasons, with volunteers being mobilized for a full range of incidents: complicated multi-day and nighttime searches in the depth of winter throughout the White Mountain National Forest; technical rope rescues on the region’s many rock climbing cliffs; swift water rescue assistance; and lift evacuations at area ski resorts.”- Mountain Rescue Service at https://nhmrs.org.
Soon after Albert Dow’s passing, his family members who had moved away returned to New England. They realized how important family is and decided that being near each other was most important. A few of Albert’s close friends, adamant about doing something in Albert’s name to honor him,
founded The Albert Dow III Scholarship, established at Kingswood Regional High School in Wolfeboro that year. Local businessman Steve Flagg, owner of the Nordic Skier Bike and Ski shop, was one of those founders.
This scholarship aimed to raise funds for “an award recognizing a Kingswood High School Graduate who exemplifies unselfish devotion to the service of mankind. Albert Dow III gave the ultimate sacrifice, his life, in the mountain search and rescue of two complete strangers on January 25, 1982. The Scholarship Fund memorializes Albert’s heroic acts and outstanding life while seeking to inspire others with his service and selfless devotion.” www. thedowgroup.com. In the first year, a total of $500 was awarded.
The summer after Albert was killed, his family and the friends who founded the new scholarship in his name also created the first-ever Granite Man Triathlon in Wolfeboro to raise funds for the Albert Dow III scholarship fund.
The Granite Man is a race including a .75-mile swim, a 15-mile bike ride, and a 4.2-mile run, making it a fitting memorial to Albert. With the exception of 2020, this triathlon has been held every summer since. To this day, Steve Flagg, the Dow sisters, and their children have been very involved in the triathlon.
In 2024, the 41st Annual Granite Man Triathlon had an estimated 230 participants. In 2025, the triathlon will be held on Saturday, August 16. Now in its 42nd year, the award has distributed nearly $250,000. The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation currently manages the fund, which allocates approximately $10,000 annually. The triathlon is now a popular annual event that attracts participants from as far away as Europe.
“The Granite Man Triathlon was established in honor of Albert Dow, with proceeds initially funding a scholarship created in his name. Thanks to the success of the race over the years, the scholarship has now reached its fund-
ing goals.” - Lexey Austin (Wolfeboro Parks and Recreation).
Because of the popularity of the event and donations to the fund, the scholarship is now self-propelled and will be able to sustain itself moving forward. Susan Johnson and everyone involved feel that now that the scholarship is secure, the proceeds of this triathlon should be allotted to the Wolfeboro Parks and Rec department.
“Parks and Rec has been an absolutely wonderful partner and very involved...They even offer a kids’ version of the race earlier in the summer... We decided to turn the proceeds over to those who helped us”- Susan Dow Johnson. Although the proceeds of the race will no longer contribute to the scholarship fund, the race continues to memorialize Albert’s life.
More than four decades later, his friends and family remember how selfless Albert was and keep his legacy alive in interviews and short films. Joe Lentini, Albert’s friend and MRS member who deployed Albert and the seven other volunteers that day, worked with Arc’teryx to create the short film “109 Below: A Fateful Rescue on Mount Washington” dedicated to this tragic story on Mount Washington that day and what changed for rescuers and the prosthetic industry in the aftermath.
“I keep coming back to how heroic Al was. This didn’t happen to him because he was paid to be up on that mountain. He did it because he cared so much for other people…And if he was still around, I suspect he’d still be doing it.” -Joe Lentini (The Morning Journal, 2002). The film was released in December of 2024 and can be found on YouTube.
As this article only touches on the surface of the events that unfolded for Albert and everyone involved in the rescue and what came after, you are encouraged to read Ty Gagne’s recently
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*Depending on model
The Colonial Theatre of Laconia presents Anthony Rodia
A first-generation Italian-American born and raised in Westchester, New York, Anthony Rodia came out of the womb making people laugh. In his twenties, he tried a few open mics but ultimately took a different career path as a finance manager of a luxury car dealership. In 2019, Rodia returned to comedy and left his day job to become a full-time stand-up comic. He hit the ground running and performed 100 shows in just nine months, and within three years, Anthony has gained a massive fan base online and around the country.
In a very short time, Anthony gained over 900,000 social media followers and his YouTube videos have amassed over 22 million views. Rodia’s comedy pulls from his real life and razor-sharp observations on marriage, parenthood, road rage, and everything else worthy of a social media rant.
Tickets for Anthony Rodia at The Colonial Theatre of Laconia on Friday, February 21 at 8 pm are $39-$59 and go on sale Friday, December 13 at 10 am at ColonialLaconia.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774.
First opened in 1914, The Colonial Theatre was designed by George L.
Griffin. The original owner, Benjamin Piscop, was from Italy, and the theatre featured a fire curtain depicting Venice as seen from the water. The theatre hosted a variety of stage productions and photoplays. By the early 1930s, The Colonial had pivoted to show motion pictures. In 1983, the theatre was divided up into 5 separate movie screens. In August of 2002, the theatre closed after 87 years of operation.
On June 15, 2015, the City of Laconia announced a partnership with the Belknap Economic Development Council (BEDC) to purchase, renovate, and reopen The Colonial. 609 Main Street LLC was created to conduct the capital campaign for the renovation. The restoration of the Colonial began in March of 2016 and concluded in early 2021.
The newly reopened Colonial Theatre has a seating capacity of 750 and plays host to a wide range of performances, including music, theatre, comedy, and civic events. The Colonial Theatre is managed by Spectacle Management and is home to the Powerhouse Theatre Collaborative. The Colonial Theatre is located at 609 Main Street, Laconia, NH 03246. www.coloniallaconia.com
published novel “The Lions of Winter: Survival and Sacrifice on Mount Washington” which thoroughly and carefully pieces together the story, including riveting details of this harrowing tale. Ty is well known for capturing countless perspectives and details in a story, bringing light and inspiration from
tragic events sympathetically written in his previous novels “Where You’ll Find Me: Risk, Decisions, and the Last Climb of Kate Matrosova” and “The Last Traverse; Tragedy and Resilience in the Winter Whites.”
“The Lions of Winter” has just been released and can be purchased at local bookstores.
By Chef Kelly
Happy 2025 my local foodie friends. I hope and trust you all had an outstanding holiday and happy new year. I know it is kind of cliché but the older we get, the quicker the years go by and 2024 was an absolute blur for me so I guess that confirms I’m old. All in all, it was a decent year for me, more than I can say about other years of late and I truly hope your 2024 was as good as mine. One thing that doesn’t change regardless of what year it is that Jan-
uary of every year is cold, snowy and screams for comfort food this time of year. Although I do prefer cooking outside on the grill, this time of year, I do spend most of my cooking time inside. Although, my grill still does see some use. Grilling isn’t what I call comfort food, although I do love the barbie flavor. Let’s start the new year by busting out some great recipes from a breakfast treat to soups to a dinner casserole and then, of course, an incredible dessert. To start with, we have a cruffin.
Winter Delights: Recipes to Savor This Season
Cruffins are a delightful fusion of croissants and muffins, combining the flaky layers of a croissant with the convenience and shape of a muffin. These pastries are buttery, sweet, and can be customized with various fillings or toppings, making them a versatile treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They are a simple yet impressive pastry that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with creative toppings or fillings. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated later, these buttery treats are sure to impress your family and guests. These are made with 2 sheets of puff pastry dough and will get you 8-12 cruffins,
depending how you slice them. You can have these prepped in 15 minutes and plan on 20-25 minutes to bake. Easy money and these will melt in your mouth.
Scrumptious Flaky Cruffins
2 sheets of frozen puff pastry dough, thawed ½ cup unsalted butter, melted or softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
Powdered sugar for dusting
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Preheat to 375 degrees. Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper. Lay the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Brush them with melted butter and sprinkle generously with sugar. Add cinnamon. Roll each pastry sheet tightly into a log. Slice each log into 4-6 pieces, depending on your preferred size. Place the pieces spiral-side up into the muffin tin. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cruffins are golden brown and puffed. Let them cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar or additional cinnamon sugar. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Probably more than any other food this time of year, soup is often the #1 comfort food out there. I know it is the backbone of much of our winter diet at home from November to March. When I have soup during warm weather months, I’m usually all about thinner broth soups, but this time of year I want a good old-fashioned hearty soup, and I have a couple of them for you today. This first one screams a great chipotle flavor which is chock full of chicken, onions, peppers, corn, potatoes and tomatoes, combined with some classic combo of Italian and southwestern seasonings. This cheesy soup will feed a bunch of you which is my kind of soup as I love leftover soup for a couple of days as the flavor just keeps getting better and better. You can have this made in barely an hour although letting it simmer longer is never a bad thing. Depending on my mood, I’ll use diced cooked chicken meat or usually shredded chicken. The choice is yours. This is loaded with many ingredients giving you an outstanding final product.
Chicken Chipotle Chowder
2 tbsp butter
½ sweet onion, diced
½ red bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp cumin
¼ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp dried thyme
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk or half & half
32 oz box chicken broth
1 chipotle chili in adobo, seeded and minced
2 tsp adobo sauce from chipotle chiles
½ can Hatch chilies, 4 oz
½ can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz
5 medium-sized red potatoes, rinsed and cubed into 1-inch chunks
2 cups corn, fresh or frozen, not canned
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated, plus more for garnish
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for garnish
In a large Dutch oven or stock pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and red pepper, sauté until tender, then add the garlic. When the garlic is fragrant and translucent, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and thyme, along with the flour, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the flour becomes lightly golden in color, but not brown. Whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Add the chipotle chilies, adobo sauce, hatch chilies, and fire-roasted tomatoes and stir some more. Bring to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling, add the potatoes and corn and reduce to medium heat again. Simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in the chicken and cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted. Continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes. Garnish each serving with cilantro, cheese, and lime. This one will definitely warm you from the inside out as well as make your taste buds jump up and down. It’s now time to indulge in a luxurious dining experience with this creamy seafood bisque bursting with the rich flavors of crab meat and shrimp. This
velvety bisque is a blend of savory seafood delights. The buttery base, infused with the aromatic essence of green onions and celery, sets the stage for a culinary masterpiece. With a blend of milk, heavy cream, and tomato paste, this bisque achieves a silky texture that will tickle your palate. Seasoned with Old Bay Seasoning for a touch of spice and depth, each spoonful promises a tantalizing journey for your taste buds. This bisque is a delightful celebration of seafood indulgence. If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ll dig this warm and comforting treasure. This will feed 6-8 of you and plan on everyone truly enjoying it.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup onion, finely chopped
¼ cup celery, finely chopped
¼ cup carrot, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional, for a spicy kick
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¾ lb cooked crab meat, shells removed
¾ lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
2 tbsp sherry, optional but highly recommended
Fresh herbs for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cayenne, if using, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring until well combined. Cook for another minute. Gradually add broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Puree the soup until smooth using
an immersion blender, or transfer to a standard blender in batches. Mix in the heavy cream and simmer for 10 more minutes, until slightly thickened. Add crab meat, shrimp, and sherry. Simmer for 5 minutes or until seafood is heated through, keeping the heat low to avoid curdling the cream. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs. I love Mexican food so let’s do an enchilada pie. Enchilada Pie is made with seasoned ground beef, veggies, beans, cheese, enchilada sauce, and corn tortillas, all baked together until perfectly cheesy and golden. This casserole recipe is an easy twist on enchiladas without the hassle of rolling them individually. It’s perfect for serving a crowd, making it a great option for potlucks or family dinners. It’s also so much easier than making enchiladas because there’s no fussing with spooning ingredients. Instead, in this recipe, the tortillas are layered together. Baking this dish makes the cheese melty and the enchilada sauce adds moisture and flavor. It comes out of the oven irresistibly steamy, cheesy and gooey. It’s super easy to put together, leftovers are delicious, and it can even be assembled ahead of time. It doesn’t get much better than that. If you care to tweak this recipe, you can sub the beef with taco-seasoned chicken if that is more your style. If you care to make this before cooking it, I suggest doing so no more than 12 hours before cooking it and if you do so, you will likely need to add an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time. Prep time is a half hour and cooking time is 45 minutes. This will feed 6 of you.
Enchilada Pie
For The Enchilada Sauce
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp flour
3 tbsp chili powder
1 can tomato sauce, 15 oz
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1 ½ cups vegetable stock
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper
For The Filling
1 ¼ -1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
1 tsp salt
1 tsp fresh grind black pepper
½ medium sweet onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can black beans, 15 oz, drained 12 corn tortillas, 6 inch in diameter
2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside. For the enchilada sauce, in a medium-sized skillet, add the olive oil, flour and chili powder. Whisk until it starts to brown, and it is fragrant. Slowly whisk in the tomato sauce, vegetable stock, garlic powder, onion powder and cumin. Whisk until it starts to thicken. Remove from heat and salt and pepper to taste, set aside. As for the filling, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the ground beef until it is browned. Add the onion and green bell pepper, cook until the onion is transparent. Add in the garlic and black beans and cook for just about 2-3 minutes, stirring well. Remove the beef and vegetable mixture from heat. In a medium bowl, mix the pepper jack and Monterey jack cheeses. To the prepared baking dish, pour a little of the
enchilada sauce in the bottom, about ¼ cup. Line the bottom of the pan with 6 tortillas; they will slightly overlap. Add half of the beef mixture in an even layer on top of the tortillas, spread half of the cheese mixture on top of the meat. Place a layer of the remaining 6 tortillas over the top of the cheese, pour half of the enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas. Spread the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas and the remaining cheese over the beef. Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the whole dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese begins to color and bubble. Remove the enchilada pie from the oven and let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving and dig in. You’ll love it!
For today’s grand finale’, it’s time to share an amazing dessert cake made completely from scratch where peanut butter is the dominant flavor and theme. The cake is full of peanut butter flavor, as well as the yummy frosting so this is a guaranteed winner to almost everyone, unless your family has a peanut allergy in the mix, which I feel sorry for you if that is the case. Dealing with food allergies can be very depressing at times, not to mention a little scary as well. This easy peanut butter cake is made with just a few pantry staples, but one southern secret makes it ultra-tender, that being buttermilk. Even though the soft and moist cake is delicious, the cream cheese-peanut butter frosting really puts this “over the top” tasty. Tangy cream cheese balances out the sweet peanut butter in a light and
fluffy frosting that you might want to eat by the spoonful. This peanut butter cake only has 25 minutes of hands-on time, but you’ll have to wait until it’s completely cooled to frost it, so plan accordingly. A great cake for any celebration or even a normal weeknight dinner, everyone in the family will be reaching for a second slice. Easy to make, feeds a crowd, and appealing to the eye, this peanut butter cake is everything we could want in a go-to dessert. I usually make this in the morning to serve at night or even the day before serving
Peanut Butter Cake
For The Cake
¾ cup butter, 1 ½ sticks, room temp
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp table salt
1 cup whole buttermilk
2 tsp vanilla extract
For The Frosting
6 oz cream cheese, room temp
½ cup butter, 1 stick, room temp
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 lb powdered sugar, about 4 cups
1/8 tsp salt
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp heavy whipping cream
¼ cup dry-roasted, lightly salted peanuts, coarsely chopped
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 inch pan with baking spray, then lightly flour it and set aside. Beat butter with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed until creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually add
sugar, and beat until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition and stopping to scrape down the sides of bowl as needed. Add peanut butter and beat until smooth, about 1 minute. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. With mixer running on low speed, add flour mixture and buttermilk, in alternating batches, to butter mixture, starting and ending with flour mixture and making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla. Spoon mixture into prepared pan, and smooth top with a small off-set spatula. Bake in preheated oven until cake is light brown and a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean, 35-40 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool in pan on a wire rack until completely cool, about 2 hours. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, and peanut butter with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed until creamy and blended, about 2 minutes. With mixer running on low speed, slowly add powdered sugar and salt, beating until well incorporated, about 2 minutes. Add vanilla, and beat on low speed until incorporated, about 10 seconds. Add cream, 1 tsp at a time, until frosting reaches desired consistency. Spread frosting over top of cooled cake, and sprinkle with peanuts. I hope you all enjoy at least a few of these recipes as that is what eating is all about. Keep your taste buds smiling and if you have any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com
Educators Invited to Professional Development Day at Castle in the Clouds
Castle in the Clouds will host a professional development event for educators on Thursday, February 6 from 8:30 am to 3 pm. “Cultivating Teacher Care at the Castle” will be held in the Winnipesaukee Room that overlooks Lake Winnipesauke from the heights of the Ossipee Mountains.
Along with networking opportunities, the event will feature sessions on mindfulness journaling and crafting, avoiding burn-out and recentering with yoga. Nutritionist Katy Magoon will provide the keynote address, “Good Food, Good Mood.”
In addition, Castle in the Clouds Curator & Director of Preservation Robin Sherman will present “From Canvas to Film: Exploring the Art & Artists of Lucknow.” Lucknow was the name given to the estate by Thomas and Olive Plant when it was constructed in 1914.
Lunch will be provided, and a weather-permitting short hike is planned. Each participant will be entered into a raffle with prizes that include a complimentary Castle in the Clouds Family Membership, a $50 gift certificate for use at the estate and a Family Four Pack for the Castle. Those who register prior to New Year’s Day will receive
an extra raffle entry. “This professional development day is designed as a day of renewal for participants,” said Debbi Finkelstein, Director of Education & Partnerships. “Educators give so much of themselves to their students and this event will offer the opportunity to regroup, connect with peers and enjoy a day surrounded by nature at Castle in the Clouds.”
Pre-registration is required, and the fee is $150 per person. For more information and to register, visit www. castleintheclouds.org/event/cultivating-teacher-care-at-the-castle.
the Clouds, hike miles of hiking and walking trails maintained by partner organization the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, or enjoy one of our many programs and events. Operated by the Castle Preservation Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Castle in the Clouds is revered as a cultur-
al and educational resource and listed on the National Register of Historic Places with national significance. Castle in the Clouds is also available as a fairytale wedding venue and versatile private event rental. For more information about Castle in the Clouds, visit www.castleintheclouds.org.
As the premier historical museum in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Castle in the Clouds provides each visitor with a look into the past while providing contemporary comforts to make every visit memorable. Originally called Lucknow, this breathtaking 6,300-acre property was developed in 1913 by Tomas G. Plant, a wealthy shoe manufacturer, to create a luxurious lifestyle with state-of-theart amenities, beautiful hand-made furnishings, and a large staff to run the estate. These days, visitors come from all around the world to tour the mansion and exhibit gallery, dine in the Carriage House Restaurant or Café in
What’s UP
Please call ahead for event updates. Information and schedules subject to change. Through Jan. 31, Collage Artwork: An Interactive Exhibit by Andrew Hillman, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, www. laconianh.gov.
Jan. 7, Caring for Houseplants with the Boro’s Floral Boutique, 6 – 7 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
Jan. 8, Wednesday Winter Hike, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., join director Kyle Salmons for gentle hike and steep climb on Cotton Mountain, all skill levels welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult, Squam Lakes Assoc., 534 U.S. Rt. 3, Holderness, 603-968-7336, www.squamlakes.org.
Jan. 9, 16, 23 & 30, Guided Meditation & Journaling with Clare Persson, 10 a.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, https:// www.laconianh.gov/1000/Library
Jan. 9, 16, 23 & 30, Storytime with Special Guest Readers from Moultonborough Women’s Club New Day!, 3:30 – 4 p.m., drop-in story time, no pre-registration necessary, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
Jan. 10, The Machine, 8 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com
Jan. 11, Intro to Home Cheesemaking, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www. prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.
Jan. 11, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, 3 – 6 p.m., with Keith Briggs, Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
Jan. 11, Tyrus Live: All New What it is Comedy Tour, 7:30 p.m., Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse.com
Jan. 11, Winter Tree ID, 1 – 3 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. pre-register: 603-366-5695.
Winter Maintenance
Jan. 13, Sourdough Bread Basics, 10 – 11 a.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, www.laconianh.gov.
Jan. 13, Writer’s Night Out, 6 – 7:30 p.m., 2nd Mon. of each month, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, free, 603-534-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Jan. 14, Full Moon Snowshoe Hike, 5 – 6:30 p.m., Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm. org. pre-register: 603-366-5695.
Jan. 14, Science Pub – Big Night: The Spring Amphibian Migration and How You Can Help, 6 – 7 p.m., by Squam Lakes Assoc, held at Walter’s Basin, 859 US Rt. 3, Holderness, pre-register: 603-968-7336, www.squamlakes.org.
Jan. 14, Tech Workshop: Phone Hacks for a Happier New Year, 2 - 3 p.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
Jan. 14, Teen Craft: Fairy Light Orbs, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., for ages 9-18, Laconia Public Library, 695 N. Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, www.laconianh. gov.
Jan. 14, The Benefits of Reiki and Self-Care Practice, 1 – 2 p.m., Laconia Public Library, 695 Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, www.laconianh.gov.
Jan. 15, Wednesday Winter Hike, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m., join director Kyle Salmons for hike on Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest Loop, all skill levels welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult, Squam Lakes Assoc., 534 U.S. Rt. 3, Holderness, free, pre-registration required: 603-968-7336, www. squamlakes.org.
Jan. 16, Grace Wallace Concert, doors open at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. concert, Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets/info: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.
Jan. 17, Barron Ryan piano concert, 7 p.m., First Congregational Church of Wolfeboro, 115 South Main St., Wolfeboro, by Wolfeboro Friends of Music, 603-569-2151, www.wolfeborofriendsofmusic.org
Jan. 18, Five Sense Snowshoe Hike, 10 a.m. – noon, multi-generational program, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. pre-register: 603-366-5695.
What’s UP
Jan. 18 Homemade Pizza Making, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., adult program, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www. prescottfarm.org. pre-register: 603-366-5695.
Jan. 18, MLK Fireworks Show, 7 p.m., Town Square, 33 Village Rd., Waterville Valley, www.waterville.com, 1-800-993-3149.
Jan. 18, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, 3 – 6 p.m., with Paul Warnick, Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
Jan. 18, Upcycled! Metal Embossing with Larry Frates, 10 a.m. - noon, adult class, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-register: 603-366-5695.
Jan. 19, Karaoke Party at the Freestyle Lounge, 4 – 7 p.m., apps, entrees, music, Freestyle Lounge, Waterville Valley Resort Base Lodge, www.waterville. com.
Jan. 20, Tales and Travel Memories of the Middle East, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-8895, www.moultonboroughlibrary.org.
Jan. 21, Nature Station, 1 – 3 p.m., Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 N. Shore Rd., Hebron, Newfound Lake Region Association, free, open to all, 603744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org. (Also on Jan. 25, 10 a.m. – noon)
Jan. 22, Wednesday Winter Hike, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., hike on Livermore Loop, all skill levels welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult, Squam Lakes Assoc., 534 U.S. Rt. 3, Holderness, free, pre-registration required: 603-9687336, www.squamlakes.org.
Jan. 22-26, ETC Presents The Show Must Go On!, 7 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center, 39 South Main St., Plymouth, 603-5362551, www.flyingmonkeynh.com.
Jan. 24-25, Waterville Freestyle Cup, 9 a.m., Waterville Valley, www.waterville.com, 1-800-993-3149.
Jan. 24-Feb. 15, Musical Murder Mystery – Roch of Ages!, Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester, 603-335-1992, www.rochesteroperahouse. com
Jan. 25, Nature Station, 10 a.m. - noon, Grey Rocks Conservation Area, 178 N. Shore Rd., Hebron, Newfound Lake Region Association, free, open to all, 603744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org
Jan. 25, Needle Felting Winter Landscapes, adults/older youth, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, pre-register: 603-366-5695, www.prescottfarm.org
Jan. 25, New England Stone Walls, 10 a.m. – noon, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org pre-register: 603-366-5695.
Jan. 25, Paper Airplanes!, 10 – 11 a.m., ages 6-12, Laconia Public Library, 695 Main St., Laconia, 603-524-4775, https://www.laconianh.gov/1000/Library
Jan. 25, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, 3 – 6 p.m., with Henry LaLiberte, Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.gunstock.com
Jan. 29, Katie Dobbins Songwriter Roundup, dinner and doors open at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. concert, Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, tickets/ info: 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.
Feb. 1, America’s Got Comedy – Eric Dittelman, Tom Cotter and Dan Naturman, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie House and Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, 603-536-2551, www.flyingmonkeynh.com
Feb. 1, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, 3 – 6 p.m., with Joan Cicatelli, Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com
Feb. 5, Music Informance Series, interactive discussions 6 p.m., Wolfeboro Public Library, South Main St., Wolfeboro by Wolfeboro Friends of Music, pre-register: 603-569-2151, www.wolfeborofriendsofmusic.org
Feb. 8, Saturday Afternoon Music Series, 3 – 6 p.m., with Paul Warnick, Pistol Pub, Gunstock Mountain, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Gilford, 603-293-4341, www.
ONGOING
ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts/CCAC, art, workshops and events, open year-round with seasonal hours, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www. chocoruaartworks.com
Start Your Day Off Over Easy
BREAKFAST & LUNCH - MADE FRESH DAILY
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100% Colombian Coffeefreshly ground from whole beans Farm fresh eggs | Specialty Omelets Eggs Benedict - topped with homemade hollandaise, made fresh to order Buttermilk Pancakes | French Toastserved on thick Texas toast Sandwiches & Burgers | Don't forget to check out our daily breakfast & lunch specials!
Grab breakfast or lunch at The Farmer’s Kitchen. We use only the freshest ingredients for our homemade creations. Come by today to try our: 444
www.Farmerskitchen-NH.com
What’s UP
Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, gallery and textile museum, events and programs, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Breakfast Buffet, 7 a.m. - 11 a.m., Wolfeboro Masonic Lodge, 35 Trotting Track Rd, Wolfeboro. Pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, omelets made-to-order, Eggs Benedict, biscuit and gravy, juice, and coffee. Served the second Sunday of every month, 603-569-4637. Dam Brewhouse, events, 1323 NH Rte. 175, Campton, 603-726-4500, www. dambrewhouse.com.
In the Round, 8:45 a.m., Sundays, thought-provoking topics related to tolerance, Benz Center, Sandwich, 603-284-7211.
Indoor Pickleball, 5 p.m., Sandwich Central School gym, Sandwich, every Tues., Thurs. & Fri., parksandrec@sandwichnh.org
Ladies of the Lake Quilt Guild, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., meets second and fourth Wednesday of each month, First Congregational Church, 115 Main St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
Lakes Region Curling Association, winter leagues, matches at Pop Whalen Ice & Arts Center, Rt. 109A., Wolfeboro, Sundays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., 603-5695639.
Makers Mill, a variety of workshops, arts and crafts classes and more, 23 Bay St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1500, www.makersmill.org
Making Strides, 8 – 9 a.m., drop-in walking for groups or singles, Ossipee Town Hall, no pre-registration required, 55 Main St., Center Ossipee, takes place various times: www.ossipee.recdesk.com.
New England Racing Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., open Saturdays, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www.NEMSMUSEUM.com
Plymouth Square Dance, 7:30 – 10 p.m., David millstone calls traditional squares, fiddle tunes by Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki, pianist Sue Hunt, no experience necessary, all dances taught, complimentary Common Man goodies and hot drinks, cash bar, Barn on the Pemi, 341 Daniel Webster Highway, Plymouth, 603-481-0789. (Takes place Jan. 2, Feb. 6, March 6 & April 3, 2025.)
Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org. Call ahead for event information and to inquire if program pre-registration is necessary: 603-366-5695.
Quilting Group, 1 - 4 p.m., meets every 2 weeks, Ossipee Public Library, 74 Main St., Ossipee, schedule/info: 603-539-6390.
Roller Skating Night, 5 p.m., Mondays, bring your own skates, for age 18 and up, Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St., Ossipee, info/updates: 603-539-1307, www.ossipee.org
Rug Hookers, 10 a.m., meets Tuesdays, Tuftonboro Free Library, 221 Middle Rd., Rt. 109A, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4256.
Second Saturday Contradance, Tamworth Outing Club, 7:30 – 10 p.m., Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, admission charged, info.: Amy Berrier 603-651-5800 or Teresa Fournier at 978-609-2181.
Song and Jam Circle, 6:30 – 8 p.m., community created jams and song circle, 3rd Monday of each month, Runnells Hall, 25 Deer Hill Rd., Tamworth, free, bring your favorite instruments, Arts Council of Tamworth, 603-584-2712, www.artstamworth.org
Tamworth Farmer’s Market, 9 a.m. - noon, Saturdays, 30 Tamworth Road, Tamworth, www.tamworthfarmersmarket.org
Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, info: www.tamworthhistorycenter.org.
Tamworth Townhouse Hoot – Bruce Berquist & Jim Alt, 1 – 3 p.m., Saturdays, 27 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, song circle, local musicians welcome to participate, bruceberquist@gmail.com
Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861
Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays from 4 – 6 p.m., in basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-520-5651.
Opportunities Abound for Winter Anglers Throughout the Granite State
Winter anglers in New Hampshire had trout stocked especially for them during 2024. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department stocks trout during the fall to bolster the winter ice fishery, resulting in some exciting fishing action this winter.
Winter anglers chasing trout can find lists of waterbodies that are open for the taking of these fish year-round on the Fish and Game website. For these rivers, lakes and ponds, visit www. wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/trout-fishing-new-hampshire/. Rules for waterbodies with special regulations are listed in the NH Freshwater Fishing Digest, which is available from license agents or on the Fish and Game website at www.eregulations. com/newhampshire/fishing/freshwater.
The following is a list of New Hamp-
shire lakes and ponds that were stocked with trout during the fall of 2024 and are open to ice fishing: Akers Pond in Errol, Beaver Pond in Woodstock, Bow Lake in Strafford, Cedar Pond in Milan, Big Diamond Pond in Stewartstown (opens January 1, 2025), Higher Ground Pond in Wentworth, Highland Lake in Andover, Hildreth Pond in Warren, Kiah Pond in Sandwich, Little Dan Hole Pond in Ossipee, Manning Lake in Gilmanton, Martin Meadow Pond in Lancaster, Mascoma Lake in Enfield, Mirror Lake in Whitefield, Mirror Lake in Woodstock, Newfound Lake in Bristol, Oguntz Lake in Lyman, Pearl Lake in Lisbon, Perch Pond in Campton, Perch Pond in Lisbon, Pleasant Lake in Deerfield, Streeter Pond in Sugar Hill, Sunapee Lake in Newbury, Tewksbury Pond in Grafton,
Webster Lake in Franklin, White Lake in Tamworth, and Winnisquam Lake in Laconia. Please note that there are additional New Hampshire waterbodies open for year-round fishing in addition to those on this list.
“The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s hatcheries stock post-spawn brook and brown trout into selected waterbodies that do not have a closed season before winter,” said Fish and Game’s Inland Fisheries Program Supervisor John Magee. “These fish can range from 2 to 3 pounds each. Numbers, dates, and stocking locations vary annually. I would encourage anglers of all skill levels to take advantage of this season’s stocked opportunities throughout New Hampshire when weather conditions are favorable and once the ice is safe.”
“The Granite State’s rivers and streams open to fishing on January 1, and there are some quality fish to be caught in some of the tailwater fisheries such as the Newfound River,” said Magee. “When water levels are drawn down on larger lakes for the fall, prizesized fish often drop down below dams, creating opportunities for savvy winter anglers. This winter’s free fishing day is January 18, so why not try your luck through the ice this year.”
Learn more about ice fishing in New Hampshire at www.wildlife.nh.gov/ fishing-new-hampshire/ice-fishing. To learn more about fisheries management in New Hampshire, which is funded in part by the federal Sport Fish Restoration Program, visit www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ new-hampshire-fish-hatcheries.
Free Fishing Day in New Hampshire January 18
If you’ve ever wanted to try ice fishing, why not take advantage of New Hampshire’s free fishing day on Saturday, January 18, 2025. That’s a day you can fish without a license in New Hampshire.
Note that all other regulations must be followed. Persons participating in a fishing tournament must still hold a license on free fishing day, however. Learn more about fishing rules by reading the NH Freshwater Fishing Digest at www.fishnh.com/fishing/publications.html.
This annual winter event takes place
on the third Saturday in January each year. New Hampshire also offers a free fishing day on the first Saturday in June.
Find more information about ice fishing in New Hampshire, including videos, a list of bait dealers, and more at www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ice-fishing. Ice fishing in New Hampshire begins with safe ice and ends when ice becomes unsafe. You may be able to ice fish in small ponds for chain pickerel, perch, black crappie, and bass as early as December if the ice is safe.
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Some ponds and lakes are stocked with trout and open year-round, giving anglers the chance to catch brook, brown, and rainbow trout through the ice.
Opportunities for lake trout can be found in New Hampshire’s larger lakes. Lake trout waters have a defined ice fishing season of January 1 through March 31.
Remember: Salmon may never be taken through the ice. It is advisable to cut the line as close to the salmon’s mouth as possible rather than remove the salmon from the water.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state’s marine, fish, and wildlife resources and their habitats. Visit www. wildlife.nh.gov to learn more.
Hooked on Winter: Exploring Ice Fishing and the Rotary Fishing Derby
By Charlene Muscatell
Fishing is a sport near and dear to many in New Hampshire, especially in the Lakes Region, where there are thousands of ponds, lakes, and rivers to test the sportsman’s skills year-round. The fishing styles are vast, and every angler has their own personal and unique process regarding their preferences and routines. From custom rods to secret spots, superstitions, and traditional ideas alike, variety is the name of the game when it comes to fishing.
Many anglers feel a calling to the sport of fishing. Whether fishing to fill their bellies, the thrill of the chase, discovering what lies beneath, catching “the big one,” or spending time with loved ones in an activity they enjoy, every angler has a reason to be out there. It is a sport to enjoy at any age, from children to seniors.
Whether it is the new experience of baiting a hook with a wiggly nightcrawler, catching your first fish, or the excitement of winning tournaments and teaching a newbie the ropes, fishing can be a wonderful bonding experience for friends, families, and co-workers. It can also be a fun date activity for adventurous couples. Additionally, it promises peaceful days of solitude where one can enjoy the quiet of nature.
For many anglers, the bonding and camaraderie created through the sport of fishing are like nothing else and are treasured over all other activities. Some positives include seeing firsthand the multitude of species that our underwater world holds, the thrill of the fight, and occasionally cooking a tasty meal knowing where that fish came from.
The time of year has come when ice fishing moves into full swing. The
recent Arctic blast started to set the frozen wonderland in place on land and water, creating a new ecosystem where fish behavior and terrain alter, and fishing tactics and gear follow suit.
For the community who enjoys fishing once waterways have frozen over, this is their time to shine. With the change in fish behavior and ecosystem conditions, fishing laws and regulations shift to keep fish populations healthy and abundant. It is now a whole new sport.
Lakes Region angler Jen Parker shares memories of ice fishing. “I remember fishing with my mom and Papa [grandfather] on Lily Pond when I was very young and how exciting it was catching that first fish through the ice.”
Parker’s experience was during the Belknap County Sportsmen Club Ice Fishing Derby on Lily Pond in Gilford, designed to teach children about ice fishing. Since then, Parker has had many great days on the ice with family and friends, and she makes it a point to ice fish each year.
“You don’t just go out there for the
fishing. Sometimes, you go to hang out and have fun with your friends. If you catch fish, all the better… My favorite part is when we start out in the pitch black and watch the sunrise over the ice. There is nothing more beautiful,” Parker shares.
When asked for pointers, Parker says, “The most important thing is the ability to stay warm and have good footwear.” She also mentions that she prefers mittens that fold back so she can easily bait hooks while keeping her hands warm.
Ice fishing is not always only about fishing. One trip out may be an exciting, active day of catching your limit of fish, while on other days, you play card games, corn hole, or skate around playing ice hockey. Whether you are enthralled waiting for that tug on the line or relaxing watching the sunset over the barren ice, days spent on frozen terrain can be filled with various activities. Having a bonfire on the ice to keep warm and cook hot meals or s’mores throughout the day is also a treat. You make it your kind of fun
while out there, and a little planning will go a long way toward keeping spirits high.
The yearly ice fishing derbies offered around New Hampshire are a major draw to the sport. The most largest event of the year is the Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby (now in its 46th year), scheduled for February 8 and 9. Over its history, the Derby has donated $2.8 million to charities, including local scholarships, non-profits, senior dinners, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, and local municipal projects to help the community. This year, $50,000 in prizes will be offered, and a top tournament prize is $15,000. There will also be many chances for raffle cash prizes throughout the weekend, with no fishing necessary.
Fish species eligible for prizes are lake trout, rainbow trout, black crappy, white perch, yellow perch, cusk, and pickerel. Each species will have its own category. FAQs, rules, and regulations can be found at www.icefishingnh.com. Live leaderboards will be updated throughout the Derby and accessible online at www.icefishingnh. net.
Anyone with a New Hampshire freshwater fishing license can enter the tournament and fish at any listed state pond, lake, or river. For legal fishing locations and rules, refer to state guidelines NH RSA 271:20 or www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ ice-fishing.
To register for the Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby, visit icefishingnh. com/ or stop by one of the many locations listed to purchase tickets.
• Fishing continued on page 19
Many precautions are taken to keep anglers and their families safe on the ice during the Derby, but ultimately, everyone is responsible for their safety first. Conservation Officer Ken St. Pierre with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, who is involved in the Derby each year, explains how they coordinate the upcoming event. “We have specialized teams that prepare for the derby. Our dive team will be conducting ice diving and rescue training ahead of the event and will have their dive equipment and gumby suits with them during the derby weekend. We will have two airboats on standby specifically for the derby. We move one airboat to Lake Winni and the other will be on a trailer for easy deployment.” Gumby suits are a specialized dry suit and an essential piece of equipment for if you are ever in a cold-water survival situation. Ice fishermen often wear these to protect them and keep their body temperatures up if they fall through the ice.
St. Pierre notes that the ice is never safe as it is always changing. “If you don’t know the ice, find someone who does. Stay away from bubblers, inlets, outlets, and anywhere the water is moving.” He suggests that anyone unsure of the ice conditions should contact a local fire or police department and to always have your own safety equipment including ice picks, ropes, and PFDs for self-rescue and to potentially help others who may need assistance. What happens to your fish after en-
tering them into the tournament? Anglers can keep their fish, granted their catch is within legal regulations. That being said, many fish each year go unclaimed. Where do all the unclaimed fish go? At the end of each tournament day, the Squam Lakes Science Center picks up all unclaimed fish and freezes them. They use the fish to feed the otters, eagles, bears, and other animals at the Science Center as the animals enjoy these delicious treats, and it adds to their life enrichment.
Fishing derbies offer a chance to participate in a fun weekend event on the ice, try a new sport, test skills in healthy competition with people from all over the area and beyond, fight fish to win prizes, have laughs and make good memories.
Local ice fishing guide and YouTuber Josh Treadwell, with experience that spans several northern states and over seven ice fishing seasons, is enthusiastic when discussing the sport and willing to share advice and tips for those starting out or looking to build on skills. “The best thing about ice fishing is that almost anyone can do it, no matter your age or the level of investment you can put into it,” he says. Ice fishing by itself offers a variety of equipment options, and Treadwell explains that there are many levels, from simple equipment to all the gadgets you could want. “You can get out with just the basics of an ice axe, rod and shiners or go all out with a bob house, underwater cameras, equipment to find fish and a snow dog to get around. But you don’t need all of that and you can still have a fantastic time.”
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Josh was first invited out on the Connecticut River by his cousin and was immediately hooked. “I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew I loved it right away: being outdoors, finding fish on a nice day, and winning all the tiny battles with the fish throughout the day,” he recalls. He also enjoys camping on the ice and explained how it has become a recent trend, some even take propane heaters out to keep warm overnight. Caution should be taken while using propane heaters.
When asked for advice for enthusiasts who would like to try ice fishing Josh says he wishes he had researched more and bought the right equipment. When he was getting into the sport, all the information he found came from Canada, where they have much bigger fish, so bigger lures are used. “I was doing it wrong until I met an old guy named Will on the ice one day. He was friendly and gave me a lot of good advice. I am very grateful for his help,” says Treadwell.
One piece of advice Treadwell offers anyone looking to get into the sport is to hire a guide to ensure you get the correct information and someone to show you what to do out on the ice. “It will save you time and money, not making mistakes like I did.”
Treadwell goes on to offer a pointer on what bait to use. “Most species here eat smelt, so match lures that are the right size and look like smelt for this area.”
When asked what the most critical factors are in preparing for ice fishing, Treadwell says the most important thing is checking ice conditions and
having proper safety equipment. The ice is dangerous, and you need to be able to self-rescue if you go in. “Wearing the right gear is a must. My best investment was purchasing a floatation suit, ropes, and getting the suit from a well-known top brand.”
He continues, “The main thing to remember is to know your ice. Ice can look safe but constantly change underneath as water moves.” Ice fishing videos and other content Treadwell has created can be found on his YouTube channel @BendItFishing.
If you are unsure how to get started in ice fishing, a good place to begin is by purchasing a fishing license and learning local ice fishing rules and regulations. Consult a professional guide for the proper safety gear and talk with local fishermen, or look one up if you don’t know any personally. Realize you are responsible for your safety and following the fishing laws where you practice the sport. Violations are taken seriously by local officials and Fish and Game, who are on the ice to actively enforce rules for the conservation of wildlife and for your safety. “As the guardian of the state’s fish, wildlife and marine resources, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department works in partnership with the public to: conserve, manage and protect these resources and their habitats, inform and educate the public about these resources; and provide the public with opportunities to use and appreciate these resources.” For more information please visit www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ice-fishing.
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How to Combat Seasonal Affective Disorder
The common cold is synonymous with times of year when temperatures dip. When people spend more time indoors, they’re more vulnerable to contagious cold viruses. But the common cold is not the only health issue that presents itself most often when the mercury drops.
Seasonal affective disorder, also known as “SAD,” affects millions of people every year. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that SAD is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern. Symptoms of SAD, which can include nearly daily and day-long feelings of depression, changes in appetite or weight and feelings of lower energy, last around four to five months.
Researchers are unsure about the exact cause of SAD, but in most people, its onset is believed to be connected to the reduction in hours of sunlight during the winter. (WebMD notes that around 10 percent of people with SAD get it in reverse, experiencing symptoms of depression at the onset of summer as opposed to winter.) Despite uncertainty about the causes of SAD, the NIMH notes there are ways to treat the condition. It might benefit people who have experienced SAD to begin treatment prior to winter, as NIMH notes
treatments that begin before fall could help to prevent or reduce the depression associated with the condition.
Individuals who suspect they have SAD should relay their concerns to their healthcare provider, who will then ask patients to fill out a questionnaire to determine if symptoms meet the criteria for SAD. If such a diagnosis is confirmed, individuals may be present-
ed with any of the following treatment options.
Light therapy: The NIMH notes that light therapy has been used to treat SAD since the 1980s. The crux of light therapy is to expose individuals with SAD to bright light every day with the hope that such exposure can serve as a stand-in for natural sunlight. Individuals undergoing light therapy typically begin their day sitting in front of a very bright light box for around 30 to 45 minutes. The boxes filter out potentially harmful UV light, but alternative therapies may be recommended for individuals with certain eye diseases or
those taking particular medications.
Psychotherapy: According to the NIMH, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been adapted to help treat people with SAD. CBT is a type of talk therapy, and CBT-SAD typically entails two weekly group sessions for six weeks. These sessions focus on replacing negative thoughts related to winter with more positive thoughts. The therapy also tries to help individuals identify and schedule pleasant, engaging indoor or outdoor activities. The NIMH notes that researchers’ comparison of CBTSAD with light therapy found both treatments were effective at improving SAD symptoms.
Medications: Doctors may recommend patients with SAD take medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Various types of depression have been found to disturb serotonin activity, and SAD is no exception. SSRIs have been proven to effectively improve patients’ moods, but it’s important that individuals discuss the side effects of SSRIs with their physicians prior to taking medication. Vitamin D has been linked to improving symptoms of SAD, but the NIMH notes this is a misconception, as the research regarding vitamin D supplementation as a treatment for SAD has thus far produced mixed results. Individuals who suspect they may have SAD are urged to speak with their physicians so they can overcome this often treatable condition.
Lucknow Designated New Hampshire’s 24th National Historic Landmark
Castle in the Clouds and the Lakes Region Conservation Trust are proud to announce that the Lucknow Estate has been designated as a National Historic Landmark (NHL) by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This esteemed recognition highlights the national significance of the Lucknow Estate for its remarkable architecture, landscape design, and conservation efforts spanning over a century.
An NHL designation is the highest federal recognition of a property’s historical, architectural, or archeological significance and a testament to the dedicated stewardship of many private and public property owners who seek this designation. While the National Park Service (NPS) maintains NHL listings, most are privately owned.
The designation covers more than 5,300 acres of the original 6300-acre estate built between 1913 and 1914 as a retirement retreat by shoe manufacturer Thomas Gustave Plant. The estate is a premier example of the American Arts and Crafts Movement, featuring an exceptionally intact ensemble that includes Lucknow Mansion, two gatehouses, and an extensive road and bridle trail system linking seven mountain peaks.
Today, the preservation of this nationally significant estate is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Castle Preservation Society, Lakes Region Conservation Trust, and Crystal Geyser Alpine Water, who manage portions of the historic estate.
“Lucknow is an unparalleled example of craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and natural preservation,” said Charles Clark, Executive Director of Castle in the Clouds. “This National Historic Landmark designation underscores its historical and cultural importance, especially in the areas of architecture and landscape architecture, and recognizes the dedication of our partners and the community who help preserve this treasure.”
The announcement made by Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland is part of the designation of 19 new NHLs across the country, reflecting the diversity of America’s history. As a National Historic Landmark, Lucknow joins an elite list of over 2,600 landmarks recognized for their value in illustrating
the heritage of the United States. “As America’s storyteller, it is our privilege at the Department at the Interior, through the National Park Service, to tell our nation’s history and honor the many historical chapters and heroic communities that brought us to where we all today,” said Secretary Haaland. “These newly designated historic landmarks join a list of the nation’s premier historic and cultural places, all of which were nominated through voluntary and locally led stewardship.” For more information, please contact director@castleintheclouds.org or visit
www.castleintheclouds.org
As the premier historical museum in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Castle in the Clouds provides each visitor with a look into the past while providing contemporary comforts to make every visit memorable. Originally called Lucknow, this breathtaking 6,300-acre property was developed in 1913 by Tomas G. Plant, a wealthy shoe manufacturer, to create a luxurious lifestyle with state-of-theart amenities, beautiful hand-made furnishings, and a large staff to run the estate. These days, visitors come from all around the world to tour the mansion and exhibit gallery, dine in the Carriage House Restaurant or Café in the Clouds, hike miles of hiking and walking trails maintained by partner organization the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, or enjoy one of our many programs and events. Operated by the Castle Preservation Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Castle in the Clouds is revered as a cultural and educational resource and listed on the National Register of Historic Places with national significance. Castle in the Clouds is also available as a fairytale wedding venue and versatile private event rental. For more information about Castle in the Clouds, visit www.castleintheclouds.org.
