Ornamental Blacksmith Maintains Healthy Balance
By Thomas P. Caldwell
A visit to Jay Aubertin’s shop at 329 Kearsarge Valley Road in Wilmot will reveal a range of blacksmithing tools, from a 125-year-old anvil made in Brooklyn, New York, to a CNC [computer numerical control] plasma cutter that directs a plasma torch along a path established by numerical codes. Whichever tool he uses helps him to bring his artistic visions to life.
Jay is an ornamental blacksmith, one of three general types in the trade. Farriers take care of horses; bladesmiths make knives, daggers, and swords; and ornamental blacksmiths forge useful and artistic pieces, such as decorative railings and sculptures.
In front of his shop is a feather sculpture, made with “weathering steel” that allows a certain amount of rust to form and seal itself against the weather. The quill is stainless steel, and the feather portion is formed to resemble the feather from an injured owl that his daughter named “Toby” before they took it to the Vermont Institute of Natural Science rehabilitation center in Quechee, Vermont.
“Blacksmiths can do a lot of different things, but it’s typically a very narrow knowledge set,” Jay explains. “To the public, we’re all the same. … What they do is beautiful, what I do is beautiful, but our skills are so separate in so many ways.”
To explain how he comes up with ideas, Jay said, “It’s usually a couple of cups of coffee on a Sunday morning. I sit down with a sketch pad and
I start moving my hand over the page, and all of a sudden — like the feather, right? Okay, well, that’s a pretty line, you know; okay, this is how we draw feathers, you know; and then what scale do we want that at? What type of materials?”
Sometimes what he does is influenced by a new tool, a new technique, or a new skill he has learned.
“With, say, a hydraulic bender — I have a 16-ton hydraulic press. It can
bend thick, cold steel, and just bend it over a 90-degree, or you can bend it into curves. Rollers can bend big arches and big circles or small ones, you know, so you can start playing with that. So that can spark creativity as well.”
He also takes inspiration from his surroundings. He lives on an old farm, so things like wagon wheels can provide ideas. A member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, Jay said he plans to make a sculpture using stones and metal from busted farm machinery.
“All this machinery stood the test — it’s still around — but it succumbed to the stones on the land,” he said.
Even a walk in the woods can spark creativity.
Jay found his vocation by way of working at his father’s sign shop.
“He taught me a lot about metalwork,” Jay said, “measuring, finishing, design, and things like that.”
He also is a bicyclist, and he started making bicycle frames.
“I was fortunate enough to work with one of the bicycle masters down in southern New Hampshire, Ted Wojick, and he taught me a lot about welding, measuring machines, things like that,” Jay said.
He earned a degree in welding technology at Manchester Community College, but went back to making bicycle frames. He also worked with a jeweler along the way, before taking classes with other blacksmiths. He said he had
• Blacksmith continued on page 5
for Takeout
Legendary Singer-Songwriter Judy Collins to Appear at Great Waters
On Saturday, August 3 at 7:30 p.m., legendary Singer-Songwriter Judy Collins will perform as part of the Great Waters Concerts in the Clouds series at the Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough.
Since the late fifties, Judy has inspired audiences with her sublime vocals and bold songwriting. She is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her poetically poignant original compositions. Her renditions of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” and that of Stephen Sondheim’s “Send in the
Clouds” are known to most.
Judy began her music career at age 13 as a piano prodigy and has since achieved a 55-album body of work, having been nominated for several Grammys, authored books, and co-directed an Academy Award-nominated film.
Tickets for all performances are available online at www.greatwaters. org or the Great Waters office located at 54 North Main Street in Wolfeboro. Office hours are Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact the office at 603-569-7710 for more information.
Nature Journaling At Grey Rocks
Join Newfound Lake Region Association (NLRA) Watershed Steward, Shannon McCord, for some time spent noticing nature at Grey Rocks Conservation Area, on Friday, August 2, from 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Getting outside into green spaces has many benefits, and slowing down to notice the nature all around can help with physical and mental health. Participants will learn about how time in nature and nature journaling can improve health.
Come and explore Grey Rocks in a new way and leave with journaling
activities to try at home. This free program is oriented toward teens & adults. Registration is required.
Visit NewfoundLake.org.org or call 603-744-8689 to reserve your space.
For more than 50 years NLRA has been protecting Newfound Lake and its watershed, maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Along with educational programming like guided walks and paddles, NLRA monitors water quality, conserves land, manages stormwater pollution, and monitors for invasive species.
Southern Rail will return to the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand on Aug. 3. Photo courtesy Ken Tibert
Southern Rail Kicks Off August In Cate Park August 3
The nationally known bluegrass band, Southern Rail will return to the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand on Saturday, August 3 at 7 p.m. for a concert in Cate Park.
Known for their riveting harmonies and sparkling banjo and mandolin solo work, the group’s reverence for the traditional shines throughout their concerts and is reflected in their prolific songwriting.
The band includes Jim Muller on guitar and lead vocals, Sharon Horovitch on acoustic bass and harmony vocals, Richard Stillman on banjo and harmony vocals, and John Tibert on mandolin and lead and harmony vocals.
Jim is known for his distinctive lead vocals and polished flat-picking. Sharon offers her tenor and high-baritone
harmonies. Richard has been playing bluegrass banjo for more than three decades and has numerous studio recording credits with many New England folk artists. John adds fluid, lyrical mandolin playing and superb bass vocals to the band’s sound.
The Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand concert series is presented free of charge each Saturday night at the bandstand in Cate Park. Each concert lasts two hours with an intermission when there will be a passthe-bucket offering collected to help support the free concert series.
In the event of bad weather, check the Friends of the Wolfeboro Community Bandstand Facebook page. Signs will also be posted at the entrance to the park.
done some sculptures in a metalwares class in high school, and he decided that blacksmithing would be something to try that would be a little more creative than making bicycle frames, with a more diverse scope of work.
“As the world changes with bicycle frames, it’s hard to convince someone they want a more expensive frame that’s heavier, versus … state-of-theart equipment for the same or less money, and looks really sharp,” Jay said. “So when I came to that realization, it was like, okay, what kind of skill set do I pull on? I’ve been working with my father, fabricating signs for about 20 years, and I have these fabrication skills, so let’s put those and do something that’s more artistic, more varied, and see where that goes.”
Jay began his official career as a blacksmith in Hooksett, asking his grandfather if he could have his anvil that he was no longer using. He then taught himself the skills and watched videos.
“I sold a table to an interior designer,” Jay said. “He needed it for a client of his, so they were happy. Sold the next job, sold the next job, sold the next job, and then just kept going.”
His friends in North Sutton introduced him to central New Hampshire, and Jay found it to be a beautiful area that also was conveniently located between Concord and Hanover.
of Danbury.
Membership in the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen provided one outlet for his works, and he also has items at the John Hay Estate at The Fells in Newbury, but Jay said a lot of his work is with interior designers, landscape architects, architects, and builders.
“Probably 90 percent of my work is with another professional,” he said.
One piece at The Fells ended up with a buyer in California, but most of his work is local.
“It’s nice, because I get to meet the customers and interact with people. That’s part of what gets me excited about this,” Jay said. “I get to meet cool people who want to see my work in their homes, or want a handrail, or I get to help them, or whatever it may be.”
Perhaps his most complicated project was making railings for a spiral staircase built by woodworker Myrl Phelps
“He built this beautiful set of curved stairs; actually two sets,” Jay said. “Thank goodness he was doing the math with the stairs; I just followed his stairway. This was a very ornate build: a lot of scrollwork, acanthus leaves, molded-brass handrail that needed to be curved around. That was technically a challenge, making the tools to make the pieces. I had a whole process for making the leaves, because the job was going to be 100 and some leaves. They had to be cut and veined and formed and then fit to the rail. That was really a mind-bender.”
“when I get to do sculpture, that’s fun, because it’s relaxing. That’s creative, and I get to pull on maybe that chunk of metal that’s been sitting over there for a while.”
Jay likes to work with metal discs that he can pick up at a steel yard; they can serve as a base or an element of a sculpture.
“Steel is my primary metal, just mild steel, because it’s economical to use,” Jay said. “It forms well, heats well, welds well, finishes well. Sometimes I use aluminum, which is lighter-weight, corrosion-resistant. I much prefer steel, but if we need aluminum,
we’ll use aluminum. Sometimes we get into bronze, which is a really beautiful metal to work with. Certain types of bronze can be forged really nicely and are relatively soft, compared to steel, and then, unlike steel, with bronze, you can leave it raw, and then it weathers over time, and it really gets that look of having been there forever. You can do that with steel, but it’s going to rust and then, eventually it’s going to be too rusty and then you’re gonna have to mess with it. Stainless steel is another material that’s a pain in the butt to work with, but it’s corrosion-resistant. You can put it next to the ocean, it’s gonna be fine. Copper is beautiful to work with. Except the, like, really exotic metals, like titanium and stuff like that, I use everything.”
Many of his sculptures are kinetic works that have to be carefully balanced. One sculpture at a home in New London features a rotating nine-foot arm, counterbalanced by a large rock.
“A bird sits on it, and you can see it move back and forth, it’s such a fine balance,” Jay said. He emphasizes that all his work is hand-forged, without using pre-made pieces.
“It came to me as square stock,” he said. “I heated it up. I forged it to put that texture, and I think that’s where a lot of the value comes from.”
Jay has a “healthy backlog” of jobs to do, “and I try to keep it that way.” He then is assured of year-round work while being able to balance it with family life. His wife handles the bookkeeping and accounting for him, so he does not get overwhelmed. • Blacksmith
He had to set it up in his shop where the railing extended from the ceiling to the floor, with compound curves.
“Everything needs to fit the stairs,” Jay said. Everything needs to meet code so it’s safe. I had the ability to do it in one piece, so that’s how I wanted to do it, because then you can make sure everything flows right.”
Jay has a mobile trailer that he uses to transport objects back and forth from the shop to the worksite, and sometimes he has to build them in pieces. The trailer also allows him to sometimes do all the work on-site; it is equipped with everything he needs to fashion pieces away from the shop.
He has found that 75 percent of his work relies on precise measurements and matching curves or slopes, but
Mouthwatering Fruit And Berry Recipes To Round Out July
Today’s topic is a popular request from many: recipes with fresh fruits and berries, starting with a French toast bake. I prefer to use large croissants, but if you can’t find any, I suggest using loaves of French bread. Assemble the night before and bake first thing in the morning. Prep time is 15-20 minutes, cooking time 35-40 minutes, serves 6. This recipe is easy to double up on or to halve, depending on your crowd.
Strawberry and Blueberry
Breakfast French Toast Bake
6 large croissants
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ cup sweetened coconut flakes
¼ cup plus 1 tbsp sugar, divided
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries, divided
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries, divided
Pure maple syrup for serving
Powdered sugar, optional
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Rip croissants into bite-sized pieces and
spread on the bottom of the pan. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, coconut flakes, and cinnamon. Add in 1 cup of strawberries and ¾ cup of blueberries and stir to combine. Pour the mixture evenly atop of the croissants in the baking pan. Cover with film or foil and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove the topping and place the remaining 1 cup of sliced strawberries and ¾ cup of blueberries evenly on top. Top tightly with foil. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 tbsp sugar evenly over the top. Place back in the oven (without foil) for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing and serving, sprinkling with powdered sugar if you feel the need. Serve with warm maple syrup.
Now…the quickest appetizer off the grill. The pairing of the sweet melon and the salty, smoky flavors of the prosciutto are unbeatable. This recipe works with any melon and any cured meat of your choice. Simple skewers need a quick turn on the grill, and appetizers are prepped and cooked in 15-20 minutes.
Grilled ProsciuttoWrapped Melon
Honeydew, cantaloupe, or watermelon, cut into wedges
Cured meat, such as prosciutto, sala-
mi, bacon, sliced paper-thin Lime wedges, for serving
Wrap each hunk of melon with a slice of cured meat, put on skewers, then on a medium-high heated grill, flipping once, 1-3 minutes depending on the size of the melon wedges. Spritz with lime juice and serve. Scrumptious, quick, and easy.
The subject is turnovers, and peaches are the main ingredient. These are light and flaky pockets bursting with summer’s freshest flavor, taking only minutes to make. Use fresh, canned, or frozen peaches but it’s summer, so use the freshest! Feel free to supplement with any fruit of choice (for example, an apple version during foliage season and a strawberry/rhubarb version during rhubarb season). I serve these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. Prepped and cooked in a half hour; makes 8 turnovers.
Easy Peach Turnovers
2 cups peaches, small dice, peeled or unpeeled
1 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 package frozen puff pastry, 17.3 oz, 2 sheets, thawed
Flour, for dusting work surface
1 large egg, whisked
• ‘Cue the Grill continued on page 7
Sanding sugar
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, stir together the peaches, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the pastry to seal any perforations, then cut each sheet into 4 squares. Using a slotted spoon, scoop a portion of the peach mixture into the center of each puff pastry square, then fold the pastry across diagonally to form triangles. Using a fork, crimp together the edges then transfer the turnovers to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Cut three small slits in the tops of each turnover, then brush with the egg. Sprinkle the turnovers with the sanding sugar. Bake the turnovers for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Transfer the turnovers to a rack to cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve while still warm or at room temperature.
Officially at the top of the food chain of upscale desserts, this crazy good cake uses peaches and butter pecan flavors, topped with a mouthwatering streusel. Prep time is 20 minutes, cooking time is 50 minutes, this makes one dozen yummy portions.
Butter Pecan Streusel Peach Cake
For The Cake
½ cup butter, room temp
½ cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
2 large eggs, room temp
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp salt
½ cup pecans, finely chopped
3 tbsp cultured buttermilk, although you can also use whole milk or half and half.
2 large peaches, peeled and sliced
A squeeze or 2 of lemon juice
For The Streusel Topping
6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold, cut in small pieces
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
½ cup pecans, finely chopped
Preheat the oven to 350 and grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan. For the streusel topping: blend the bits of butter into the flour, sugar, and nuts until the butter is incorporated and the mixture resembles a coarse crumbly texture (I suggest using a food processor for this step). Place the mixture in the refrigerator. For the cake: combine butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Peel and slice the peaches and sprinkle with lemon juice. Set aside. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nuts. Fold the dry ingredients into the butter/sugar mixture, along with the buttermilk. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth out evenly. Evenly top with the sliced peaches then with the streusel topping. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick comes out batter-free (moist crumbs are fine). Let cool before removing from pan. Enjoy this warm or at room temp. Add a scoop of butter pecan ice cream to the individual portions. It’s officially time for blueberries to shine. This is a “no bake” blueberry icebox cake, that once made and frozen, is dumped upside down on a platter/dish and sliced. This cake is rich and delicious, although it requires a bit of intricate assembly with a cheesecake filling. I suggest making this a day before serving as it requires time in the freezer. Overall prep ~60 minutes; Yields ~8 slices.
Blueberry Cheesecake
Icebox Cake
3 cups fresh blueberries, divided
1 ⅓ cups confectioners’ sugar, divided
3 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice, divided
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp kosher salt, divided
8 oz cream cheese, room temp
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream
14 whole sheets graham crackers
Combine 1 ¼ cups blueberries, 1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, cornstarch, and ¼ tsp salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cook, mashing berries lightly and stirring constantly, until thickened, 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool completely. You should have a scant 1 cup. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, remaining 1 cup sugar, 2 tbsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp salt, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until combined and lightened, about 2 minutes. Whip cream to soft peaks. Whisk ½ cup into cream cheese mixture, then fold in the remainder. You should have about 5 ½ cups. Line an 8 ½ x 4 ½ inch, or a 9x5-inch loaf pan in both directions with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang on all sides. Spread 2 cups cream-cheese mixture in an even layer over the bottom and up sides of pan. Spoon in half of the blueberry mixture. Spread 1 whole graham cracker sheet with ¼ cup cream mixture, then add another whole graham cracker making a sandwich. Place lengthwise into pan (as opposed to not lying flat), pressing gently against one long side to create a flat surface. Spread a third sheet with ¼ cup cream mixture and place in pan, cream-side facing the first “sandwich.” Repeat with 6 half-crackers and more cream-cheese mixture, about 2 tbsp for each to fill in the gaps at the end of the pan. Continue the process with the crackers, making sure that you have 3 left for later. If they seem to be sticking out at the top, press lightly to snuggle them into the cream on the bottom. Spread the remaining blueberry mixture on top of and in between the crackers. Spread evenly with the remaining cream mixture to cover blueberries and crackers. Lay the remaining 3 whole graham crackers over cream to cover, flat this time, trimming them as needed to fit with a serrated knife. Press gently to flatten as this will be the bottom
of the cake when finished. Wrap plastic overhangs up and over crackers and freeze until firm, at least 4 hours and up to 1 week. Transfer to refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Unwrap cake. Place a serving platter over the top and flip upside down to invert the cake onto the dish. Lift away the pan and remove the plastic wrap. Decorate the top with the remaining blueberries. Use a serrated or chef’s knife to cut the cake into slices, dipping it in hot water and wiping it dry between each slice. Let slices stand at room temperature for a few minutes to soften, if desired or needed. Now, a decadent, no-bake dessert: Although easy to make, this requires 4-5 hours to set in the refrigerator. Makes 16 pieces of WOW factor!
White Chocolate Blueberry
Lasagna
2 cups crushed graham crackers
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
1 ½ cups fresh raspberries
1 cup white chocolate chips
16 oz cream cheese, room temp
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
¾ - 1 cup white chocolate curls shaved off a block of chocolate with a veggie peeler to garnish
Mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into the bottom of a lightly greased 9x13-inch pan to form the crust. Melt white chocolate chips and let cool slightly. Blend cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually blend in melted white chocolate. Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Spread half of the cream mixture over the crust. Sprinkle with half of the blueberries and raspberries. Repeat with another layer of cream mixture and the berries. Garnish with white chocolate curls. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Until next time, should you care to reach out with any questions or feedback: fenwaysox10@gmail.com
Humanities Speaker Glenn Knoblock To Present On August 4
On Wednesday, August, at 7 p.m. the Lake Winnipesaukee Museum will host NH Humanities speaker Glenn Knoblock, who will present “The Hidden History of Lake Winnipesaukee.” Seating is limited, therefore reservations are requested, to lakewinnipesaukeemuseum@gmail.com or by calling 603-366-5950. This grant-funded program is free to all attendees.
Lake Winnipesaukee’s history goes well beyond the boating and other recreational-related activities we think of today. In this presentation, Glenn will reveal the many facets of this history, including the real story about “America’s Oldest Summer Resort” in Wolfeboro, the religious sect on Gilford’s Governors Island who thought the world was ending, Massachusetts’ early efforts to claim New Hampshire territory as their own, the site of the country’s first college sports rivalry in
visitor from elsewhere, or are a summer resident or tourist, these fascinating and enlightening bits of history will change forever how you view New Hampshire’s “Big Lake.”
Glenn Knoblock is an independent scholar and author of over twenty books. He has served as the main military contributor to Harvard and Oxford University’s landmark African American National Biography, and he has also written for the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. His work documents a wide variety of subjects in New Hampshire and New England history, including African American history, historic cemeteries, and grave markers, as well as covered bridges, the Kancamagus Highway, and New Hampshire’s loon population.
Center Harbor, the African American community that once existed in Gilmanton, and the only airport of its kind in the entire country in Alton. Whether you live in the area, are a
The Lake Winnipesaukee Historical Society was founded in 1985 with the mission to promote and preserve the history and heritage of the Big Lake and its vicinity. Located at 503 Endicott Street North, next to Funspot in the Weirs, the museum is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through mid-October.
Summer Issue Now Available
Dining Out in the Lakes Region Available at Hundreds of Locations around the Lakes Region!
By Rosalie Triolo
The first “Lake Winnipesaukee Day” Laser Light Show was celebrated on August 11, 2023. The party was extremely successful sparking its continuation. This year’s “Lake Winnipesaukee Day” Laser Light Show, sponsored by the Wolfeboro Economic Development Committee, will be held on August 9, 2024. The party promises to be bigger and better than last year’s celebration. The party begins at 5 p.m., followed by the much-anticipated Laser Light Show from 9-10 p.m. at the Wolfeboro Town Docks. The awe-inspiring visuals of colorful laser lights projected into the night sky will be mesmerizing.
Laser light shows are not just about the visual spectacle but also play a crucial role in shaping the audience’s emotional journey. As an artist puts brush to canvas to tell a story, so too is the art of storytelling created with laser lights projected into the air with precise beams and radiant colors. Laser light shows illustrate a unique juncture whereby art and technology are blended. Looking towards the future, fluorescent narratives will continue to mesmerize and inspire future generations to keep the magic of this form of light show alive.
Light Show. This year’s event will be more spectacular.
read proclamations from Governor Sununu, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan.
Participating environmental non-profit associations include Wolfeboro Waters, Wentworth Watershed Association, Lake Winnipesaukee Association, NH Lakes, Lakes Region Conservation Trust, Sierra Club, the Audubon Society, Society of New Hampshire Forests, and the Mount Washington Observatory.
The event promotes an appreciation for the beauty and economic success that Lake Winnipesaukee provides, but also calls attention to the importance of the conservation and preservation of the lake and the surrounding land.
Provided by Pinnacle Laser Productions, this year’s show will be powered by a battery-operated generator set atop a trailer, which will be used to increase the number of lasers and volume to amplify the intensity of the Laser
Wolfeboro Selectman’s Representative on the Wolfeboro Economic Committee, Brian Deshaies said, “This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than last year. In addition to the restaurants at or near dockside, food options have been expanded. The Bay Dinner will be serving luncheon foods: turkey sandwiches, wraps, and chips at The Band Stand by the docks. At the Town Park next to Winni Paws, 603 woodfired pizza oven will be fired up to make pizza. Hot Dog Bob is expanding his menu to include fried dough at one of his trucks, and hot dogs and Ital-
ian ice at the other. Morrissey’s Front Porch will be indulging seafood lovers with seafood wraps. As well as 2 food trucks, Lucas Roasting Coffee, Seacoast Pretzel Company, and The Lions Club Hamburgers and Sausage Subs.”
Live entertainment will be offered by Expressions Dance Academy. Wolfeboro Town Clerk, Pat Waterman, will
For a bird’s-eyeview of the Laser Light Show, head to the M/S Mount Washington, which will be dockside at the event, with three decks of live entertainment, food and libations at 5:45 p.m. The ship will transport passengers from Weirs Beach to the event, for a fun and traffic-free way to experience this annual celebration. For ticket information call 603-366BOAT.
For more information contact Lucy Van Cleve 603-986-1097 or Brian Deshaies 603-998-3792
‘Blueberries and Books’ Library Fundraiser August 3
The annual Friends of Wakefield Libraries (FOWL) “Blueberries and Books” fundraiser will be held on Saturday, August 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside the Gafney Library, located at 14 High Street in Sanbornville.
This event includes a bake sale with a multitude of blueberry confections – jumbo muffins, pies, and scones to name a few. The book sale will include a large selection of youth fiction, cookbooks, newer adult fiction, and nonfiction. Puzzles and local artwork will also be available.
“FOWL is a well-organized group of
active volunteers that has funded items for the Gafney that is not included in our regular budget such as the Hoopla subscription and museum passes. FOWL also provides generous support to the Gafney Library’s Summer Reading Program” said Gafney Library Director, Amy Swanson.
Proceeds of this fundraiser will go toward the Gafney and Wakefield Library’s needs. Contact the Gafney Library at 603- 522-3401 for more information or amyswanson@gafneylibrary.org
Fundraising Concert ‘Songs Of The Grange’
A fundraising concert by Katherine Rhoda, who sings “Songs of the Grange”, will be held on Wednesday, July 31 at 7 p.m. at the Clark House Museum Complex in Wolfeboro. This fundraiser is designed to help repair the
1805 schoolhouse. These songs started in the 19th century as a farmer’s social organization in the barn. For more information, call 603- 8323551or visit www.wolfeborohistoricalsociety.org/index.htm
253 Sheep Davis Road
Wright Museum of WWII, exhibits and lectures on life on the home front during WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www.wrightmuseum.org
Through Aug. 3, Into the Breeches, Barnstormers Theatre, 104 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8500, www.barnstormerstheatre.org.
Through Sept. 1, D-Day: Freedom From Above, exhibit on WWII/D-Day, Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-1212, www. wrightmuseum.org
July 29, Kids’ Craft Hour, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., free, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, pre-register: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds. org.
July 29, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Jonathan Sarty performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds. org
July 29, Solar Gazing, noon – 4 p.m. free, pre-registration encouraged, field by Shannon Pond, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 29, Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m., free, pre-registration encouraged, Picnic Pavilion at Shannon Pond, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 29 & 31, Batik and Shibori-Exploring the Fabric Resist Dye Process, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., League of NH Craftsmen, Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main St., on the Green, Center Sandwich, 603-284-6831, www.centersandwich. nhcrafts.org.
July 30, Chamber Concert 4, works by Gipps, Schubert & more, NH Music Festival, Smith Recital Hall, Silver Center, 7 p.m., Plymouth State University, Plymouth, 603-238-9007, info@nhmf.org.
July 30, Climate & Community Potluck and Book Discussion, 6 – 7:30 p.m., discussion of The Light Pirates by Lily Brooks-Dalton, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
July 30, Great Balls of Fire, 7:30 p.m., Lakeport Opera House, 781 Union Ave., Laconia, www.lakeportopera.com, 603-524-5531
July 30, Lecture Series: David Dworak – The War of Supply, 7 – 8 p.m., Wright Museum, Wright Museum of WWII, 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-5691212, www.wrightmuseum.org
July 30, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Mark Bartrum performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds. org
July 30, On Water Instruction, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Goodhue Boat Company class, 31 Lovejoy Sands off Meredith Neck Rd., Meredith, via NH Boat Museum, info.: 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
July 30, Open Mic: An Evening of Poetry & Music, 7 - 9 p.m., pre-registration required, Moultonborough Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonborough, 603476-8895.
July 30, Outdoor Nature-Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., meet outside behind the library for stories, songs, and outdoor play, bring a blanket to sit on, dress for outdoor play, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
July 31, Katie Dobbins Music Songwriter Roundup, with LexiJames and Charlie Chronoupoklis, 6 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.
July 31, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Tim Hazelton performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
July 31, Music on the Lawn, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
July 31, Summer Polliwogs, Acorn Was a Little Wild, 10 – 11:30 a.m., for pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603366-5695.
July 31, Watercolor on Canvas Workshop, 1 p.m., age 16 & up, with Lakes Region Search & Rescue and NH Fish & Game, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
July 31, Yoga on the Lawns, 6 – 7 p.m., pre-registration required, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www. castleintheclouds.org
July 31-Aug. 11, Legally Blonde, The Musical, Interlakes Theatre, 1 Laker Lane, Meredith, tickets: 603-707-6035, www.interlakestheatre.com
Aug. 1, Concerts in the Park, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Rebecca Turmel, free, all ages welcome, bring a chair or blanket for seating, Kelley Park, 41 N. Main St., Bristol, www.bristolnh.gov., (in case of rain held at Bristol Historic Town Hall, 45 Summer St.)
Aug. 1, For the People, Copland’s Common Man, Hailstork’s Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed, Kennedy Portrait and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3. with Conductor Laureate Paul Polivnick and featuring Tom Reicher as narrator, NH Music Festival, concert at Plymouth State University, Plymouth, tickets: 603-238-9007, www.nhmf.org
Aug. 1, Guided Hike: Oak Ridge, 10 a.m. – noon, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 1, Lake Libations Mobile Bar Grand Opening, 4 – 6 p.m., celebration of business opening, ribbon cutting,134 NH Rt. 25, Meredith, 603-677-6123, wwwlakelibationsnh.com.
Aug. 1, Let’s Talk About Cyanobacteria, 4 – 5 p.m., Wolfeboro Town Hall, 86 South Main St., Wolfeboro, Lake Winnipesaukee Assoc., www.winnipesaukee. org., 603-581-6632.
Aug. 1, Local Author’s Night, 6:30 – 8 p.m., talk with authors over hors d’oeuvres and drinks while taking in the beautiful views from the Winnipesaukee Room, Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, Moultonborough, pre-registration required: 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Aug. 1, Loon Cam Recap with Bill Gassman, 7 p.m., Loon Center, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org.
Aug. 1, North River Music, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., free, bring lawn chair or blanket for seating, 19 Mile Beach, concessions on site, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4539 x 125. Program of Tuftonboro Parks & Recreation Dept.
Aug. 1, Print Making on Fabric, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., instructor: M. Robin Cornwell, League of NH Craftsmen, Center Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main St., on the Green, Center Sandwich, 603-284-6831, www.centersandwich.nhcrafts. org.
Aug. 1, Thursday Special: Wildlife Encounters, 10 – 11:30 a.m., with Wildlife Encounters Ecology & Wellness Center, Leavitt Park Clubhouse, 334 Elm St., Laconia, ages 3-12 and their caregivers, www.laconianh.gov/1000/Library
Aug. 2, Band Concert, 6 p.m. rehearsal, 7 p.m. show, Center Harbor Town Band, in the gazebo overlooking the water, free, bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, www.centerharbortownband.com.
Aug. 2, Concerts in the Park, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Bristol Alternative Music Night with local bands, free, all ages welcome, bring a chair or blanket for seating, Kelley Park, 41 N. Main St., Bristol, www.bristolnh.gov., (in case of rain held at Bristol Historic Town Hall, 45 Summer St.)
Aug. 2, Guided Exploration: Grey Rocks, 10 a.m. – noon, Grey Rocks Conservation Area, free, open to all, 178 N Shore Rd., Hebron, pre-registration required: 603-744-8689, www.newfoundlake.org
Aug. 2, KR Collective, 6 – 8 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.
Aug. 2, Lucknow Garden Tour, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., pre-registration required, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-4765900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 2, Stories on the Farm, The Ox Cart Man, 10 – 11:30 a.m., read by Grandma Pat, NH Farm Museum,1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, RSVP: 603652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Aug. 2, Texas Hill, 7:30 p.m., Flying Monkey Movie & Performance Center, 39 Main St., Plymouth, tickets/info: www.flyingmonkeynh.com, 603-536-2551.
Aug. 2 & 3, Club Sandwich with John Davidson, 7 p.m., 12 Main St., Center Sandwich, ing with Natural Objects
Aug. 3, Art to You with Larry Frates – Creating with Natural Objects, 1-3 p.m., for pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.
Aug. 3, Homemade Dairy and Non-Dairy Ice Cream, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., age 16 & up, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.
Aug. 3, Draft Horse Hitching Demo with Grant and May, 10 – 11 a.m., how to hitch a draft horse, Tamworth History Center, 25 Great Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-2911, www.tamworthhistorycenter.org
Aug. 3, Judy Collins, 7:30 – 9 p.m., Concerts in the Clouds, Great Waters Music Festival, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, www.greatwaters.org, 603-5697710.
Aug. 3, Katie Dobbins Summer Music Series, 3 - 6 p.m., Gunstock Barrel Bar and Grille, 719 Cherry Valley Rd., Rt. 11A, Gilford, 603-293-4341, www. gunstock.com.
Aug. 3, Southern Rail, outdoor concert, 7-9 p.m., free, Cate Park, downtown Wolfeboro, 603-569-2200.
Aug. 3, Studio Two Beatles Tribute, Hebron Gazebo, on the Common, downtown Hebron, with barbecue by Hebron Village Store, free concert, bring a lawn chair for seating, 603-744-3335.
Aug. 3, The Echo Tones, 7 – 9 p.m., concert, Alton Bay Bandstand, Rt. 11, Alton Bay, free, bring lawn chair for seating, 603-875-0109, www.altonparksandrecreation.com
9am-5pm
Aug. 4, Color Fun Run/Walk, 9 – 11 a.m., by Children’s Center, meet at Foss, Field, Back Bay, Wolfeboro, 603-569-1027, www.thechildrensceternh.org.
Aug. 4, Liz and Dan Faiella, 4 p.m., concert on the lawn, 288 Shaker Rd., Canterbury, bring a picnic and a chair, donations encouraged, rain or shine concert, 603-783-9511, www.shakers.org
Aug. 4, Sonny Landreth and Cindy Cashdollar, 7 p.m., Feel the Barn Concert Series, 1118 Page Hill Rd., Chocorua, 603-323-6169, www.thefarmstand.net.
Aug. 5, Clark Museum Evening Lecture Series, 7 – 8 p.m., Ruby Grace Miller talks about Antique Clothing Conservation, free, 233 South Main St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4997, www.wolfeborohistoricalsociiety.org.
Aug. 5, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, The Sweetbloods perform, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds. org
Aug. 5, Solar Gazing, noon – 4 p.m. free, pre-registration encouraged, field by Shannon Pond, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 5, Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m., free, pre-registration encouraged, Picnic Pavilion at Shannon Pond, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 6, Exemplary Country Estates presented by Cristina Ashjian, 6:30 p.m., Meredith Historical Society, presented at Meredith Community Center, 1 Circle Drive, Meredith, 603-260-7493, meredithhistoricalsocietynh.org/.
Aug. 6, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Mitch Alden performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 6, On Water Instruction, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Goodhue Boat Company class, 31 Lovejoy Sands off Meredith Neck Rd., Meredith, via NH Boat Museum, info.: 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
Aug. 6, Outdoor Nature Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., meet outside behind the library for stories, songs and outdoor play, bring a blanket to sit on, dress for outdoor play, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Aug. 7, Music Night at the Castle, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. seating, Eric Grant performs, dinner on the patio, Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 7, Music on the Lawn, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Welles Stafford performance, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www.tamworthlibrary.org.
Aug. 7, Summer Polliwogs, 10 – 11:30 a.m., for pre-K accompanied by an adult, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, www.prescottfarm.org., pre-registration: 603-366-5695.
Aug. 7, Yoga on the Lawns, 6 – 7 p.m., pre-registration required, Castle in the Clouds, 455 Old Mountain Rd./Rt. 171, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www. castleintheclouds.org
Aug. 8, Artist Reception, for artist Lucy Merrow, free admission, 5:30 - 7 p.m., NH Boat Museum’s Moultonborough Campus, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, info.: 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
Aug. 8, Big Picture Band, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., free, bring lawn chair or blanket for seating, 19 Mile Beach, concessions on site, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4539 x 125. Program of Tuftonboro Parks & Recreation Dept.
Aug. 8, Loons of New Hampshire by author Glenn Knoblock, 7 p.m., Loon Center, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-476-5666, www.loon.org.
Aug. 8, Sayon Camara & Landaya Trio, 6 p.m., Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery, 72 Main St., Meredith, 603-253-7968, www.hermitwoods.com.
Aug. 8, Story Hour at Moultonborough Public Library, 11 a.m. – noon, NH Boat Museum, Moultonborough Campus, 130 Whittier Highway, Moultonborough, info.: 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
Aug. 8-17, Go Back for Murder, Barnstormers Theatre, 104 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8500, www.barnstormerstheatre.org.
Aug. 9, Dakota Smart, 6 – 8 p.m., free, public welcome, bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, Rotary Park, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, 603524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Aug. 9, Lake Winnipesaukee Day, 5 – 10 p.m., Wolfeboro Town Docks, downtown Wolfeboro, food, DJ music, vendors, activities for kids, laser light show 9 – 10 p.m., info.: 603-986-1097, lucy.vancleve@Verani.com.
Aug. 9, Stories on the Farm, Thank You, Sarah!, 10 – 11:30 a.m., read by Grandma Pat, NH Farm Museum,1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, RSVP: 603652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Aug. 9, The Whitney Houston Show starring Belinda Davids, 7:30 – 9 p.m., Concerts in the Clouds, Great Waters Music Festival, Castle in the Clouds, Moultonboro, www.greatwaters.org, 603-569-7710.
Aug. 9-11, On The Green 2 Arts & Crafts Festival, 8/9 & 10: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; 8/11: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Brewster Academy, 80 Academy Drive, Wolfeboro, Joyce’s Craft Fair, 603-528-4014, www.joycescraftshows.com.
Aug. 10, Woods, Water, and Wildlife Festival, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Branch Hill Farm, 307 Applebee Rd., Milton Mills, youth fishing, arts and crafts, hayrides, and much more, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, tickets/info.: 603-4732020, www.mmrgnh.org
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
Bad Mom Night, every Thurs., Trenta, 30 Middleton Rd., Wolfeboro, 603-5151068, www.trentanh.com.
Barnstead Farmers Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.– 1 p.m., 1 Parade Circle, Barnstead, nhbarnsteadfarmersmarket1@gmail.com, www.barnsteadfarmersmarket. com.
Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, gallery and textile museum, events and programs, 603-524-8813, www.belknapmill.org.
Bristol Farmers Market, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Millstream Park, Rt. 3, Bristol, bristolopenairmarket@ atlanticbb.net.
Canterbury Shaker Village, walking trails, tours, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, 603783-9511, www.shakers.org
Castle in the Clouds, Rte. 171, restaurant, music, walking trails, tours, events, Moultonborough, 603-476-5900, www.castleintheclouds.org.
Chocorua Lake Basin View Lot, mountain views, benches for seating, free, www.chocorualake.org.
Coffee Hour, 10 – 11 a.m., coffee, tea, and snacks, Effingham Public Library, 30 Town House Rd., Effingham, 603-539-1537, Effingham.lib.nh.us.
Country Music Brunch, Sundays, brunch food & music, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
Country Village Quilt Guild, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., meets first and third Wednesday of each month, Public Safety Building (back entrance to Police and Fire Dept.), Rte. 25, Moultonborough, countryvillagequilters@gmail.com.
Cruise Night, 5 – 7 p.m., Thursdays, 50/50 raffle, prizes, Tilt’n Diner, 61 Laconia Rd., Tilton, 603-286-2204. (Thursdays until Oct. 26)
Dam Brewhouse, events, 1323 NH Rte. 175, Campton, 603-726-4500, www. dambrewhouse.com.
First Friday Receptions, through Dec., 5 - 7 p.m., refreshments, conversation & art, ArtWorks Gallery & Fine Crafts, 603-323-8041, 132 Rte. 16, Chocorua, www.chocoruaartworks.com
Friday Painters, 12:30 - 3 p.m., meet weekly, Mt. Washington Valley Arts Assoc., Gibson Center, 14 Grove St., N. Conway, ken@gibsoncenter.org.
Gilmanton Farmers Market, through Oct. 6, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sundays, local vegetables, flowers, plants, crafts, baked goods, live music, and more, 1385 NH 140, on the lawn of Gilmanton Year-Round Library, Gilmanton Iron Works, 603491-1687, www.gilmantonfarmersmarket.com
Guided Group Tour, history and machines of the historic Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, pre-register: jill@belknapmill.org, 603-524-8813, Monday-Friday.
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., Wed. & Fri., parksandrec@sandwichnh.org
Kirkwood Gardens, free, open to public year-round, Rt. 3, Holderness, tour the gardens, www.nhnature.org, 603-968-7194.
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. A second group meets Mondays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Community Center, 22 Lehner St., Wolfeboro, www.llqg.net
Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, youth and adult sailing lessons, sailing competitions, Gilford, www.lwsa.org, 603-589-1177.
Lakes Region Art Association, exhibits and classes, Suite 300, Tanger Outlet, Rte. 3, Tilton, 603-998-0029, www.lraanh.org
League of NH Craftsmen Meredith Fine Craft Gallery, handmade crafts and art for sale, workshops, 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, 603-279-7920. Loon Center, walking trails, 183 Lees Mill Rd., Moultonborough, 603-4765666, www.loon.org
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.
Market on Main, 3 – 6 p.m., farmers market, every other Wed., through Oct. 2, 115 Main St., Alton, www.altonmarketonmain.com, 513-519-8264.
guide to what’s happening in NH’s Lakes
Meredith Public Library Bookstore, run by Friends of the Meredith Library, open weekly: Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. –1:30 p.m., lower level, Meredith Public Library, 91 Main St., Meredith, 603-2794303, www.meredithlibrary.org.
Model Yachting, 1 – 4 p.m., Tues. & Thurs., Back Bay Skippers at Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Bridge Falls Path, Wolfeboro, watch radio-controlled model yachts, NH Boat Museum, schedule: www.nhbm.org.
Molly the Trolley, take tours/rides of Wolfeboro area aboard the fun trolley, info/ schedules: 603-569-1080, www.wolfeborotrolley.com
M/S Mount Washington Cruises, narrated cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee, day & evening cruises, M/S Mount Washington, 211 Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, 603-366-BOAT, www.cruisenh.com
Newfound Cruzers Antique Car Gathering, Fridays through Labor Day, 5 – 8 p.m., at Village Pizza, 825 Lake St., Bristol, weather permitting, free, over 100 classic & antique cars, theme nights, raffles, parades, 603-744-5497.
New England Racing Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., open Saturdays, 922 NH Rte. 106 N., Loudon, www.NEMSMUSEUM.com
NH Boat Museum, boating exhibits, programs, boat building workshops, 399 Center St., Wolfeboro, 603-569-4554, www.nhbm.org
NH Farm Museum, old-time farm events, tours, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 603-652-7840, www.nhfarmmuseum.org
Newfound Lake Eco-Tours, informative/scientific tours of Newfound Lake, runs until mid-Sept., Newfound Lake Association, www.newfoundlake.org, call for hours/dates of operation: 603-744-8689.
Outdoor Nature-Based Storytime for Young Children, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Cook Memorial Library, 93 Main St., Tamworth, 603-323-8510, www. tamworthlibrary.org.
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
Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, events, tours, 58 Cleveland Hill Rd., Tamworth, 603-323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.
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. – noon, meets Tuesdays, Tuftonboro Free Library, 221 Middle Rd., Rt. 109A, Tuftonboro, 603-569-4256.
Sailing Lessons, youth & adult, Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, 25 Davis Rd., Gilford, schedule/pre-register: 603-589-1177, www.lwsa.org
Sculpture Walk, tours of outdoor sculptures around downtown/lakeside areas of Meredith, free, Greater Meredith Program, maps: 603-279-9015.
Sing-Along Night with Jim Tyrell, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Thursdays, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
Photo by Stoddard Whitridge
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
Squam Lake Cruises, family/educational cruises to look for loons & wildlife, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness, www.nhnature.org, 603-9687194.
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, exhibits, nature trails, events, cruises, 23 Science Center Rd., Holderness, 603-968-7194, www.nhnature.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.
That Trivia Guy, 6 – 9 p.m., Wednesdays, individuals or groups play trivia games with host, Beans & Greens Farm Pavilion, 245 Intervale Rd., Gilford, 603-293-2853.
The Market at the Weirs, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays, fresh produce, meats, and artisan crafts, through Oct. 5, Weirs Community Park, 49 Lucerne Ave., Weirs Beach, email: bamm-nh.org., www.themarketatweirs.com
Tuftonboro Country Bluegrass and Gospel Jam, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., Tuesdays, donation requested, Old White Church, Rte. 109A, Center Tuftonboro, across from Tuftonboro General Store, 603-569-3861.
Wolfeboro Farmers Market, noon – 3:30 p.m., Thursdays, The Nick, 10 Trotting Track Rd., Wolfeboro, email: wolfeborofarmersmarket@gmail.com, www. wolfeborofarmersmarket.com.
Wolfeboro Table Tennis, meets Wednesdays from 4 – 6 p.m., in the basement of All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, all skill levels welcome, $5 admission charge each week, info: 603-520-5651.
Squam Lakes ‘Dinosaurs Return’ Exhibit Now Open
Since the first dinosaur fossil was discovered, humans have been infatuated with the gigantic creatures that roamed the Earth over 66 million years ago. Now open through November, visitors can see life-size dinosaurs, similar to the way they were during pre-historic times.
First brought to the live animal exhibit trail in 2019, the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center “Dinosaurs Return” exhibit features dinosaurs that look, move, and sound like the real thing. The featured dinosaurs are: Allosaurus – a bipedal carnivore with 6-inch long claws; Baryonyx – a fish-eating dinosaur; Diabloceratops –its name meaning ‘devil horned face’; Dimetrodon – a dinosaur with a spiny sail along its back. There is also a dinosaur that visitors will be able to climb upon at the admissions area – Parasau-
rolophus.
These dinosaurs are placed along the natural setting of the live animal exhibit trail and are included with regular
trail admission (free for members). Interpretation will explain each dinosaur and make the direct link between these huge creatures and modern-day “di-
nosaurs” – birds. This exhibit best explores connections between evolution and climate change.
This exhibit is sponsored by Meredith Village Savings Bank, NH Trust, Miracle Farms Landscape Contractors, Meredith Landing Real Estate, Meredith Rotary, and The Common Man.
“Dinosaurs Return” is included in regular trail admission ($26 for adults; $24 for seniors 65+; $20 for youth ages 3 to 15; free for children 2 and under; free for members).
The mission of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. The Center is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the last trail admission at 3:30 p.m. Visit www.nhnature.org/ dinos for more information or call 603986-7194.
Wolfeboro Historical Society Offers Free Walking Tours
Join the Wolfeboro Historical Society for a walking tour of downtown Wolfeboro on the following dates: Saturday, August 10; and Saturday, August 24
All tours begin at 10 a.m. Meet at the
Village Fair, Cookie Walk, And Raffle
Come to the Parish Helper’s Village Fair and Cookie Walk on Saturday, August 10 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Wakefield. Select from homemade cookies, find a treat at the pie and bread sale, and browse tables of crafts, vendors, and jewelry.
Outdoor space is available for crafters to rent for a nominal fee.
The Annual Parish Helpers Raffle features two items: a queen-size quilt and a 3’ x 2’ hand-braided rug. Both were lovingly made by Parish Helpers. The drawing takes place in November.
Raffle tickets will be available at the fair: $5 each or 3 for $10.
Be sure to visit the Parish Helper’s Treasure Shop located at the historic town hall across the street, open Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. throughout summer. All proceeds from the Fair, Raffle & Treasure Shop support the Parish Helpers in their work for the church and community. Located at 2718 Wakefield Road, contact the church at 603-522-3189 for more information.
With Abenaki Roots, The Abenaki Tower Turns One-Hundred
By Mark Okrant
New Hampshire is host to a range of natural and cultural attractions. One of these is about to celebrate its centennial, or one hundred years of existence: the Abenaki Tower in Tuftonboro. Under the circumstances, a look at its history is warranted.
and whose New Hampshire members spoke Western Abenaki. Prior to a series of wars and epidemics, the Western Abenaki may have totaled 10,000 members. Among the small tribes comprising the Abenaki were the Winnipesaukee who lived along the shores on the big lake.
In the early 1920s, outdoor enthusiasts lauded the outstanding view at Tuftonboro’s Edgerly Hill. The story goes that on an August day in 1923, Mr. Joshua Q. Litchfield, headmaster of a school in Jamaica Plains, Massachusetts, and Mr. Frank Speare, president of Northeastern University in Boston, went for a walk and found themselves standing on Edgerly Hill, gazing out over clear pastures with panoramic vistas of Moultonborough Bay, the Ossipee Range, and Lake Winnipesaukee. Both were immediately impressed with the potential of the view, despite the fact that extensive foresting and the ravages of forest fire had leveled the mature trees. Regardless, they were extremely enthusiastic about the area’s visual qualities.
From this grew the impetus for building a tower to offer everyone enjoyment of the area’s expansive and beautiful landscape. A group of like-minded friends and neighbors was quickly organized, naming Mr. Chester I. Campbell their president. In February 1924,
plans were drawn up and the land was purchased for $800 from a Mr. John Edgerly. Mr. Lewis McIntire of Tuftonboro put in a bid to construct a tower for $400. As it turned out, the Abenaki Tower Association went into debt during construction, as the money was raised through community projects. McIntire’s work was highly appreciated, both for the tower’s workmanship and its affordability. On July 12, 1924, the Abenaki Tower was formally dedicated in front of a crowd of 125 onlookers.
Questions arose about what to name the tower. It would have been logical to name it after President Campbell, any of the major donors, or the designer, Mr. McIntire. However, some members of the group recognized that “the tower is said to be built at the junction of several old Abenaki Indian trails.”
According to an online source, the Abenaki are classified as “Indigenous people of the Northeastern Woodlands of Canada and the United States”
The tower was a very popular spot for locals and visitors alike. However, by the early 1970s, the original tower was being overshadowed by tall trees, and visitor numbers were dwindling. The tower itself had become dangerous. One Wolfeboro resident described climbing on it as a child and noticing “how rickety” it had become.
As the 1970s progressed, people began to suggest that the tower needed to be demolished, while others disagreed. At the very least, trees surrounding the tower needed to be trimmed. Finally, the Maine Line Tree Service, now Bartlett Tree Service, was hired to rebuild the tower for $12,000. The town of Tuftonboro contributed $1,500, and the Hurlburt Fund donated $1,000. The balance came from private donors as well as a quilt that was raffled. A local builder named Bill Cornell designed the new, taller tower. Construction began in 1977 and continued until it was dedicated on July 22, 1978.
Because vegetation has a habit of growing, nearly fifty years later, the view needed to be restored by removing trees from the tower’s periphery. Credit to recent efforts led by Christo• Abenaki Tower continued on page 21
pher Burnett, president of the Abenaki Tower and Trail Association, funds have recently been raised to replace the structure.
On October 12, 2023, the Abenaki Tower and Trail Association hosted an event to celebrate the creation, installation, unveiling, and dedication of an official New Hampshire Historic Roadside marker constructed by the New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. With support from Tuftonboro’s selectmen, a New Hampshire Historic Roadside Marker was approved and installed on Route 109 near the tower’s entrance, emphasizing the connection between the tower and the Abenaki nation. Members of this same association as well as representatives from the Abenaki Nation, the Melvin Village Community Church, the Winnipesaukee Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, and the Tuftonboro Historical Society were all in attendance.
The inscription on this historical marker reads:
“Abenaki Tower, dedicated in 1924, is located on N’dakinna, the traditional lands of the Abenaki Peoples past and present. The lookout is located near the junction of two trails: the Sobagw (Ocean) Trail and the Awasebi (Beyond the Water) Trail. Built by the residents of Melvin Village, the tower offers the public free access to enjoy the expansive and beautiful view of the lake and mountains. Its name is meant to recognize the importance of these trails as well as the historical and continuing contributions of the Indigenous Peoples
of the area.”
On Earth Day of 2024, individuals from the Kingswood Youth Center and the Wolfeboro Rotary convened at the tower to initiate repairs, accentuate cosmetic features, and pick up refuse. In cooperation with the Tuftonboro Conservation Commission, an informational kiosk was installed at the tower this year.
The Abenaki Tower is situated on NH Route 109 in Tuftonboro, between Melvin Village and Union Wharf/19Mile Bay, across from Wawbeek Road. Admission is free and it is open yearround. Accessing the tower requires a quarter of a mile walk that is mildly uphill on an unpaved trail followed by a short climb that is steep in places. The reward is well worth the effort required.
Built by the people of Tuftonboro for everyone’s enjoyment, it is the responsibility of the Abenaki Tower and Trail Association to maintain the tower and its surroundings. Anyone, regardless of area of residence, is welcomed to join the Association. Volunteers are welcomed. The organization is actively raising funds for Abenaki Tower III to replace the current one which is presently entering its forty-eighth year. Fundraising will supplement the organization’s membership dues and donations.
The Abenaki Tower and Trail Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established to fund the upkeep of the historic Abenaki Tower and its grounds. The Association (and the Tower) count on private donations to support its work. Visit abenakitower.org for more information.
Yesteryear
Old Time Music…On Land And Lakes
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
A grand old band and a basket picnic lunch, ladies and men in their Sunday best, tapping their feet to the music. A church fair festive and fun with the sound of a band in the background. Or a Big Band on a summer’s evening enticing couples to dance at a club by the lake.
These events happened over time and music was provided by a town band or a group of locals who could play an instrument and performed oldtime songs. (In the 1800s women were not often seen playing instruments in a band, but they may have played a piano, a harmonica, or fiddle at home.)
Along with town band entertainment, local musicians offered shows via social clubs. In the central New Hampshire towns of Northfield and Tilton, many groups were formed for the sole purpose of entertainment. As early as 1840, a band was organized in Northfield- to furnish music for trainings and musters. According to the History of Northfield, the band also “enlivened gatherings of its members and friends.” No matter the season, the band was committed to serenading newly married couples.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there was a singing school with instruction provided by Hoitt Dimond of Meredith. Music and rehearsals were taught in a little red schoolhouse as early as 1842 and the students were mostly young men. In addition to singing, the group played instruments such as drums, clarinet, trombone, and bugle, although musicians did not perform for many years, and it is thought they made most of their appearances at community events, probably playing for little or no fees.
In Canterbury, the Fourth of July was a time of celebration and outdoor activities. Each year in the late 1700s and into the 1800s, this day ended with “martial music on a neighboring hill” which added to the “romantic pleasantness of the evening.”
The 1895 Laconia’s Merchant Week events featured a Fireman’s Ball with music by the Moulton Opera House Orchestra. The firemen appeared in uniform and danced the evening away in their finery. More music was presented during the Merchant Week with an open-air band concert by Pease’s City Band and the Carroll City Band with half a dozen other bands performing.
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It was at the original (Alton Bay) Pavilion that vacationers could enjoy an evening of dancing or other entertainment. Built in the 1920s, the construct burned, and a new building was built, with dancing still very popular. Big bands, some well-known and others just starting out, played the Pavilion, such as Count Basie and Tommy Dorsey.
Extremely popular at the time, roller skating was added by the 1940s. One could skate in the morning, at noon, or in the evening at the Pavilion.
Everyone, from Big Band musicians to locals, to tourists, enjoyed a meal or snack at the Victoria Pier, located not far from the Pavilion. The Pier had a gift shop and a coffee shop, with a marble counter where ice cream was served.
At Weirs Beach, summers were relatively sedate, but that would soon change when James Irwin Sr. arrived. A band musician from Boston, Irwin wanted to play in a New Hampshire band at Weirs Beach and saw area possibilities as an entertainment center.
By the 1920s, Irwin created a music hall where he played with a band. It was popular and brought entertainment to vacationers and local people. After a fire destroyed the building, a new dance hall was constructed and became very popular at Weirs Beach. The hall was named the Winnipesaukee Gardens. Big name bands – including the Glenn Miller Band, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and many others - played at the Gardens each summer. Visitors enjoyed dressing up for a night of music and dancing to Big Bands and later, rock ’n roll music at the Gardens.
By 1927 the Methodist Church near Newfound Lake in Bristol was active with church services and community events. An exciting concert was held on Sept. 29, 1927 when Jordan Hall of Boston performed. The Bristol Enterprise told its readers that Hall “comes highly recommended as a tenor singer and very fine concert is promised.” Hall was considered a very fine concert
musician. As a tenor singer his selections were from the best composers. Antiques and music don’t have much in common, but in Hebron in the 1940s, the two joined for an antique show and a concert for village residents and guests. Rare and costly antiques owned by residents were put on view and an evening concert with exceptional talent. The musical saw Mrs. Rebecca Dulfer of Boston as the violinist; Carl Osterberg from Boston who by then lived in Hebron as the cellist; members of the Pasquaney Music Colony of Bridgewater, NH with Virginia Snyder and Jerry Eiermann as pianists; Miss Jane Birkhead soprano; Raffala Serior reader, Carl Davis baritone; colony director Carl David was also a baritone and Robert Lawrence also served as a baritone. The event was a benefit for a local church.
Moulton’s Band was very popular and played all over the area at one time. They were in Wilmot Flat for an Old Home Day band concert and basket lunch. The rousing Moulton’s Band entertained in an afternoon concert. On Squam Lake in the late 1800s, visitors and locals enjoyed music on the water via one of a number of steamboats. On one boat, the Swiss Bell Ringers and the Carroll Cornet Band performed to the delight of passengers. Fast-forward in time to 2021, when the NH Music Festival took to the waters of Squam Lake to present a unique concert on the water at Livermore Cove. The idea of water concerts is not a new one, and it was well received by music lovers. Over 200 boats and kayaks anchored in the Cove to listen to the concert as the Festival’s professional musicians performed from a pontoon boat.
The ensemble of 13 musicians presented Handel’s Water Music, and it echoed the idea of a water concert which was first performed from barges on the River Thames in 1717. The festival musicians brought back that practice with the water concert which drew a large audience.
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Public Parks For Summer Days
By Mark Okrant
From this country’s inception, Americans have had a love affair with the outdoors. Proof of this can be seen in the creation of Boston Common dating 1634, one hundred and forty-three years before the Declaration of Independence. Park building didn’t stop there, as sixteen urban parks were created before the year 1800. Other efforts to preserve land for the people followed.
Today, we have a National Park System consisting of 53 parks as well as more than 6,600 state park sites. The National Park System has preserved the best, most jaw-dropping of our natural areas. In addition, there are 154 protected areas known as national forests. Unfortunately, many have rarely, or have never visited most of these outstanding places.
For the vast majority of Americans, parks have evolved to serve residents of our ever-growing, ever-changing cities. From the mid to late 1800s, historian Margaret Walls reflects that urban parks were designed to serve as “pleasure gardens”, or places to escape from the daily grind. Beginning in the early 1900s, there was a demand for “reform parks” which provided closeto-home recreation opportunities with an emphasis on serving children.
Most community parks comprise anywhere from two to twenty-five percent of a locale’s acreage, with the highest peaking in the 10% range. These facilities frequently consist of playgrounds, tennis courts, ball diamonds, recreation centers, swimming
pools, golf courses, dog parks, community gardens, and skate parks. The Resources for the Future organization revealed that dog parks, team sports, and walking/hiking trails have exhibited the greatest growth in popularity in recent years.
Earlier this year, US News and World Report designated the ten best city parks in the country. Based on the desired effect of connecting nature with the local community, the following were selected. Only the top three are profiled below.
A riverfront park, aptly named The Gathering Place, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma provides multiple opportunities for residents and visitors to “relax and engage with one another.” This large park features more than six million gallons of water and eighty species of trees. It further contains numerous fireplaces, a five-acre adventure playground, a boathouse and pond, a sensory garden, and a reading tree.
There are more than one thousand
Tea Garden within this park.
Forest Park in St. Louis, Missouri is one of the largest urban parks in the US, featuring bicycle paths, jogging trails, baseball diamonds, boat rentals, and ice skating.
New Hampshire has approximately sixty state lands and recreation sites (parks, forests, and historic turf) collectively serving more than one million people each year. Still, many residents rarely visit these sites, perhaps due to the unfamiliarity with the facilities
themselves. Included are eight personal favorites along with a brief description of each.
Located on the west side of the city, the 25-acres of White Park in Concord is surrounded by residential streets but is pastoral in appearance. The east side of the park is dominated by a manmade pond with lily pads and a beautiful granite footbridge. The park offers an abundance of shade in the form of trees and shrubs, and places to picnic or sit. Athletic facilities include basketball and handball courts, a baseball diamond, a large playground, and an indoor facility. The pond is a popular ice-skating during winter. Also in Concord is Rollins Park and several others, making the Capital City a recreator’s paradise.
Opechee Park in Laconia is located
Meredith Historical Society ‘Country Estates’ Program August 6
Tourism in New Hampshire’s lakes and mountains saw a parallel increase in the number of impressive high-end mansions. These “Country Estates” will be the subject of a program presented by art historian and an independent scholar, Cristina Ashjian on Tuesday, August 6 at 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Meredith Historical Society, this program is made possible by the New Hampshire Humanities.
“In the early 20th century, the New Hampshire Board of Agriculture launched a program to boost the rural economy and promote tourism through the sale of abandoned farms to summer residents,” Cristina explains.
This program will focus on those estates featured in New Hampshire program between 1902 and 1913. Using historic images and texts, Cristina will discuss those well-known estates now open to the public: The Fells on Lake Sunapee, The Rocks in Bethlehem, and the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish, for example.
Cristina holds an MA in the history
of art from the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London, and a PhD in modern art and architecture from Northwestern University. She is presently chair of the Moultonborough Heritage Commission. Her current research focuses on late 19th- and early 20th-century country estates.
In collaboration with Jane Rice, a member of the Meredith Historical Society board of directors, Cristina co-authored Moultonborough (Images of America) published last fall.
“Meredith and the Lakes Region have their share of grand estates,” noted John Hopper, president of the Meredith Historical Society. “We look forward to hearing Cristina’s review of similar estates across the Granite State.”
This free program will be held at the Community Center, 1 Circle Drive in Meredith. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for light refreshments. All are welcome.
For a complete schedule of the Society’s Speaker Series, visit www.meredithhistoricalsocietynh.org.
• Parks continued from page 23
next to the Opechee Bay Reservoir. This large facility is the go-to place for viewing local sports, offering several ball fields, a running track, and a skate park. There is a boat launch for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards at Opechee Cove Beach.
The sizeable 76-acres of Derryfield Park in Manchester contains numerous athletic fields, tennis courts, the Weston Observatory, as well as trails, and a new playground. Many cross-country meets take place at Derryfield, known as one of the most challenging running courses in New England. The Elm City also contains Livingston Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Victory Park, and other outdoor recreation venues.
Greeley Park in Nashua offers outdoor recreation opportunities including baseball and softball, horseshoes, picnic areas, a playground, a tennis court, a wading pool, and a sledding area. Parts of this facility are lighted and restrooms are available. Mine Falls Park, with its waterslide, is also located in the Gate City.
In the Seacoast region, Henry Law Park in Dover boasts a popular, multiuse public facility with a great deal of open space, and designated spaces to sit and read, picnic, or sightsee. The paved walkway along the riverfront is
a delightful area within which to jog or stroll. There is a large playground with a sandbox and an indoor swimming pool. The New Hampshire Children’s Museum also occupies park grounds.
Once the home of Benson’s Wild Animal Park, Benson Park in Hudson is a beautiful setting within which to hike, walk leashed dogs, and picnic. There are birdwatching opportunities and a playground for children.
Situated along the waterfront, Prescott Park in Portsmouth provides a beautiful place to walk, sightsee, or listen to music. The park is home to beautiful formal gardens and is the setting for concerts and the Prescott Park Arts Festival.
Wentworth State Park in Wolfeboro spans 50 acres and is located on the shore of scenic Wentworth Lake. Popular activities in the park include swimming, picnicking and fishing. Amenities include picnic tables, flush toilets and a group use area. Other parks in the Oldest Summer Resort in America include Bean Park, Cate Park, Libby Park, and McKinney Park.
Consider this a brief introduction to the many public parks in New Hampshire and nationwide. Since your interest has been piqued, now is the time to research and recreate in one of the inestimable number of places awaiting your visit.
Alton Old Home Week : A Yearly Tradition
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
Old Home Day is a tradition in New Hampshire, and many towns around the Lakes Region still hold a day, a weekend, or even a week of activities, food, music, and fun as a nod to the good old days.
Alton citizens revived their Old Home Day and now conduct this event for an entire week, as it is popular among locals and vacationers. Events are lighthearted with a block party, fireworks, concerts, and road races, to name but a few of the happenings. The town is bursting with events from Friday, August 9 to Saturday, August 18, many of which are coordinated by the Alton Parks and Recreation Department.
Historically, Old Home Day was founded by Governor Frank Rollins in 1899 to draw former residents of the state back to their hometowns. This was a time when many towns were losing younger people and people of all ages those who sought to make more money elsewhere. Feeling the effects of a dwindling population in smaller towns, the Governor saw a sentimentally, come-on-home event as a way to bring people back. The first year was a success with 44 towns in New Hampshire holding celebrations. By the early 1900s, other nearby states saw the success of Old Home Day and began to copy the event. Thus, Old Home Day spread across the country and is still presented in many states each year.
Alton’s Old Home Week has a flavor
of its own with the distinct advantage of being near Lake Winnipesaukee, which offers a place for lake-themed activities.
The fun kicks off on Friday, August 9 with a Family Block Party from 5 - 8 p.m. at the B&M Railroad Park, sponsored by the Alton Old Home Week Committee. There will be Wildlife Encounters, Touch-a-Truck, music, food (by donation), and much more. The Railroad Park is located at 13 Depot Street in Alton.
The fun continues on Saturday, August 10 with a 5K Road Race at 9 a.m. in Alton Bay. The race is sponsored by Alton Parks & Recreation and Meredith Village Savings Bank.
Those who love handmade items should shop the Old Home Week Craft Fair on Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (for the location of the fair, email parksrec@alton.nh.gov).
Saturday, August 10 is the popular Antique Boat Show in Alton Bay from 9 a.m. to noon, sponsored by the New Hampshire Boat Museum. This show is a must for those fans of classic wooden boats who adore looking at “woodies” and early fiberglass boats while meeting boat owners. Now in its 46th year, the boat show offers wooden or early fiberglass boats up to 1975. If you are a boat owner and have an antique boat you want to show off, then plan to participate. Docking is first-come, first-served, so arrive before 9 a.m. to secure your spot. Information is avail-
able at www.nhbm.org.
On Saturday, August 10, an Old Home Week Parade will take place at 11:30 a.m. starting at Letter S Road/ Jones Field and making its way to Alton Bay. The parade is sponsored by the Alton Business Association (ABA). Visit www.altonbusinessassocation. com for information.
Sponsored by Alton Parks and Recreation, a free outdoor concert in Alton Bay will feature Bittersweet on Saturday, August 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the bandstand. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, and enjoy the music, followed by fireworks over Alton Bay at 9 p.m. (rain date is Sunday, August 11.)
A fun softball game pits the Alton Police Department against the Alton Fire Department on Sunday, August 11 at noon. The game will take place at Jones Field, also known as Little Fenway on Letter S Road, and is sponsored
by the Alton Old Home Week Committee. Food will be available.
A cribbage tournament is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, August 11 at the Alton Bay Bandstand sponsored by Parks and Recreation.
Pasta lovers should plan to be at the spaghetti supper on Wednesday, August 14 at 5 p.m. at the Community Church of Alton on Church Street. A concert at the church following the supper will have a suggested donation of $10/ person.
On Friday, August 16, a Dog Show, sponsored the Old Home Week Committee and Shampoodles, will allow canines to compete in a costume contest, with demonstrations of agility and obedience at the Alton Bay Gazebo starting at 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy an ice cream social on Friday,
Alton Home Days continued on page 26
Engaging Presentations and Conversations at the Wright museum
On Tuesday, August 6, the Wright Museum will welcome back Fred Johnson. This is the ninth program of the Wright Museum’s 2024 Education Series.
Over 12,500 African Americans served in Seabee units in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II, a group largely forgotten today. During the war these men not only built advanced bases and offloaded cargo, but helped break institutional conceptions of race, paving the road toward complete integration of the Navy.
Johnson joined the Hope faculty in the fall of 2000. His primary field is 19th century U.S. history, specifically the Civil War. His other areas of study include the U.S. in the 20th century, the U.S. military, foreign policy and African history. He is an award-winning public speaker, a member of Toastmasters International and the National Speakers Association. He has advanced to the semifinal rounds of the Toastmasters World Series of Public Speaking competition eight times, placing him among the 100 best speakers in the global organization, taking second place in 2017 and 2018.
Doors open at 6 p.m., and the program begins at 7 p.m. at the Wright Museum’s DuQuoin Education Center. Admission is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
The Wright’s Gallery Gatherings are an opportunity to ask your questions and speak directly with special guests, these engaging conversations are free
On Wednesday, August 7 at 10:30 a.m have an engaging conversation with special guest speaker Linda Shen-
ton Matchett. A bestselling author, speaker and history geek, Ms. Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. Her blog, “History, Mystery and Faith”, contains posts on little-known facts about WWII, information about writers from the Golden Age of mystery writers (1930s and 1940s), author interviews and adventures in research. Ms. Matchett is also a volunteer docent and archivist at the Wright Museum as well as a trustee for her local public library. Her favorite activities include exploring historic sites and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created
Linda Matchett is well known to visitors at the Wright Museum for her appearances at the Wright’s lecture series, including a presentation on the role women played as spies during
WWII, a topic covered in one of her books, “Women of Espionage”.
Another interesting Gallery Gathering will take place on Thursday, August 8 at 2 p.m. Meet Christin Kaiser, a UNH Carroll County Extension Ad-
August 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Alton Bay Gazebo on Rt. 11. This event is sponsored by Shibley’s Drive In, Pop’s Clam Shell, and the Alton Bay Christian Conference Center.
Also on Friday, August 16, starting at 8:30 p.m., there will be a silent movie, sponsored by the Alton Old Home Week Committee, with live musical accompaniment by New Hampshire composer and performer Jeff Rapsis.
On Saturday, August 17, a chicken barbecue will be offered at the Alton Fire Station at 4:30 p.m. This meal is popular, so plan to get there early. The Fire Department is located at 65 Frank C. Gilman Highway in Alton.
The day ends with a free live concert
vanced Master Gardener, and is well known to the Wright community for her design and care of the Wright’s Victory Garden. Kaiser’s extensive background includes earning her Australian Permaculture Designer Certification in 2015, from David Holmgren during a two-week residential PDC course in Rocklyn, Victoria Australia. At the Wright Museum, Kaiser designed, built, renovated and has cared for the museum’s Victory Garden and is currently rebuilding the gardens to better suit museum and community needs. She is passionate about sustainability and local food production.
Mark your calendars for other special events celebrating our 30th anniversary. Future gatherings will feature Estelle Parsons and more exciting guests. Visit wrightmuseum.org for updates and details.
The Wright Museum of WWII, is located at 77 Center Street, Wolfeboro, NH. Addmission is $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Visit wrightmuseum.org or call 603-569-1212 for more information.
in Alton Bay at the bandstand with the EZ Band performing from 7 to 9 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and plan to grab an ice cream or dinner at one of a variety of eateries in Alton Bay before, during, or after the concert.
A car show ends Old Home Week events on Sunday, August 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alton town center. Made possible by Maxfield Real Estate and several supporting sponsors, the show will feature cars, food trucks, and live music.
For questions regarding these activities and events, contact Roger Sample rsample@tds.net, or Kellie Troendle parksrec@alton.nh.gov, or call 603875-0109. Visit the Alton Old Home Week Committee Facebook page for the most current information available.
‘Passing It On’ : A Forum On Property Transfer August 8
Do you own a home or lakeside property that serves as a touchstone for family and friends, where memories are created, and traditions handed down? “Passing It On” is a forum discussing strategies to transfer family property for future generations.
The panel will consist of Ken Evans (Evans Property LLC) of Holderness, Topher Waring (Waring Woods-Barville Pond LLC) of Sandwich, and Chris Boitnott of (Lyman Associates LLC).
Reference materials will be available and books on the topic will be on hand for purchase. Come prepared with questions and share your own experiences regarding this topic.
Join Three Squam property owners on Thursday, August 8 from 10 to 11:45 a.m. at the Holderness Public Library, 866 US Route 3 in Holderness. Learn how families have approached this issue when panel members share their perspectives on challenges and solutions These stories will illustrate how they communicated with family members, worked with professional advisors, and set up approaches designed to ensure successful transfers of their property. Hear about the limitations, triumphs, and pitfalls they experienced.
Refreshments from Squam Lakes Marketplace will be served. This event is co-sponsored by the Squam Lakes Conservation Society and the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance. Visit www.foreversquam.org/events to register. Space is limited. For more information call Squam Lakes Conservation Society at 603-968-7900 or email denise@foreversquam.org.
Register Now For August And September Hunter Safety Courses
Sign up now to take your Hunter Education class and be ready for all of this fall’s coming seasons. Register at www.wildlife.nh.gov/hunting-nh/hunter-education, select “Find a class,” to locate in-person courses, or pick “Start online course” to take the virtual Hunter Education course.
To complete each class, participants will be required to attend a field day, a schedule of which will be provided upon completion of either type of course. Walk-ins are accepted on a space-available basis, but seats are never guaranteed. Pre-registration is highly recommended.
If you are planning to take the online Hunter Education course, get started now. There are currently numerous spots available for the field days that
are required after completion of either course. These spots will become more difficult to find as hunting seasons get closer.
Hunter Education is required in New Hampshire before a new hunter can purchase his or her first hunting license. If you are age 16 or older, you need a license to hunt. To meet this requirement, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department offers classes around the state. Participants must be at least 12 years old by the last day of the course to achieve certification in basic Hunter Education. Students must be at least 12 years old to take the online course with a field day. New Hampshire’s Hunter Education course provides firearms and archery certification. Children under 16 are permitted
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150 foot kennel on 4.5 acres for overnight boarders located in New Durham. Dog walking year-round in Wolfeboro, Tuftonboro, Alton and New Durham.
to hunt with a properly licensed adult hunter who is at least 18 years of age. Hunters who purchased an Apprentice Hunting License last year must take Hunter Education before they can purchase a hunting license. The Apprentice Hunting License allows those to hunt under the guidance of an ex-
perienced hunter, without first taking Hunter Education, but it can be purchased only once in a lifetime. Learn more at www.huntnh.com/hunting/apprentice.html. For more information visit www. wildlife.nh.gov/hunting-nh/hunter-education or call 603- 271-3214.
