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The view looking southeast from near the top of Burial Hill in Plymouth, on October 22, 1929. Image courtesy of the Boston Public Library; photographed by Leon Abdalian.

The scene in 2023:

These two photos show the view looking toward the center of Plymouth from Burial Hill, the main colonial-era graveyard in the town. This site offers expansive views of Plymouth and the harbor further in the distance, and it was here on this hill that the Pilgrims constructed a fort in 1622. This fort also served as the town’s meeting house, and it was protected by a palisade. The fort was enlarged several times over the years, and it was also joined by a brick watchtower here on the hill in 1643.

After the conclusion of King Philip’s War in 1676, this site was no longer needed for defensive fortifications. The structures here were dismantled, and by 1679 the hill was in use as a graveyard. This was not the first burial ground that was used by European settlers in Plymouth. During the first winter of 1620-1621, the dead were evidently buried closer to the harbor on Cole’s Hill, and that site remained in use until at least the 1640s. As  result, most of the Mayflower passengers were likely buried there in unmarked graves, rather than here on Burial Hill. The oldest surviving gravestone on Burial Hill is dated 1681, which is long after most of the Mayflower passengers had died.

Burial Hill continued to be used for new interments until around the mid-19th century. By that point, trends had shifted in favor of newer, park-like cemeteries, rather than the old colonial-era graveyards such as this one. Instead, Burial Hill came to be recognized for its historical significance, both in terms of its use as a fort in the 17th century and also for its variety of intricately-carved headstones, which often feature skulls and other grim reminders of death.

In the meantime, downtown Plymouth continued to grow and develop over the years. The first photo, taken in 1929, shows two churches in the background at the foot of Burial Hill. On the left is the Third Congregational Church, also known as the Church of the Pilgrimage. This building was constructed in 1840, but it was subsequently remodeled in 1898 to give it more of a Colonial Revival appearance. The church to the right is the First Parish Church in Plymouth. It was built in 1899 on the site of an earlier church building, and it has a Romanesque-style design that resembles the style of church buildings that existed in England prior to the Pilgrims’ departure.

The trees in the present-day scene make it difficult to see the churches and other buildings at the base of the hill, but not much has changed in nearly a century since the first photo was taken, and both church buildings are still standing. Here on Burial Hill, the scene has likewise remained essentially the same. Most of the gravestones from the first photo are still here, although some have since been encased in granite in an effort to better protect them. Because of its significance to the early history of Plymouth, Burial Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.

Burial Hill, Plymouth, Massachusetts Read More

Looking north on College Street from the corner of Chapel Street in New Haven, around 1900-1906. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress, Detroit Publishing Company Collection.

The scene in 2018:

These photos were taken from about the same spot as the ones in the previous post, just angled a little to the right to show the view up College Street. As mentioned in that post, this site has long been important in Yale’s history, starting with the construction of its first building in New Haven in 1718. Over a century later, a rail fence was built here along the perimeter of the campus, and for many years it was a popular hangout spot for Yale students, who would sit and socialize on the fence. However, by the time the first photo was taken at the turn of the 20th century, the old fence was gone, having been replaced by a group of new buildings.

The most visible of these buildings is Osborn Hall, which was used for recitation rooms. It was completed in 1890, with a Romanesque-style exterior that was designed by noted architect Bruce Price. Just beyond it is Welch Hall, a dormitory that was completed a year later and was also designed by Price. Further in the distance, and mostly obscured by trees in the first photo, is Phelps Hall. This building, with its tower-like design and distinctive gate leading into the Old Campus, was completed in 1896, and it is the newest building in the first photo.

Today, this scene looks significantly different from the first photo, thanks to the loss of the trees and the demolition of Osborn Hall. The trees, which once lined both sides of College Street, appear to have been some of New Haven’s ubiquitous elm tees. However, the trees in Elm City, along with those across the rest of the country, were decimated by Dutch Elm Disease in the mid-20th century. Osborn Hall is also gone, having been demolished in 1926 to construct Bingham Hall, a dormitory that now stands on the site. Further in the distance, though, there are some surviving features from the first photo, including both Welch Hall and Phelps Hall, which still comprise part of the Old Campus at Yale.

College Street from Chapel Street, New Haven, Connecticut Read More

The house at 241 North Main Street in Suffield, around 1935-1942. Image courtesy of the Connecticut State Library.

The house in 2017:

This house was built around 1762 for Josiah King, Jr. and his wife, Sarah Kellogg. The couple were married that year, and they went on to raise three children here. In 1775, in response to the battles of Lexington and Concord, Josiah marched toward Boston with other area militiamen, serving for nine days until the initial crisis had passed. He would later see additional service in the war, and in 1778 he was commissioned as a captain in Connecticut’s First Regiment. Aside from his military service, Josiah was a farmer, and he lived here in Suffield until his death in 1815, at the age of 84.

Although the house dates back to the mid-1700s, it appears to have been altered sometime later, probably after Josiah King’s death. Many of its prominent features, such as the wide entablature above the second floor, the pilasters in the corners, and the fan window on the left side, did not become commonplace until the Greek Revival era of the early 19th century, so these alterations probably date back to that time period. When the first photo was taken around the 1930s, the house was listed as being in “very good” condition, and not much has changed in the 80 years since then. It remains well-preserved, and is one of the many historic 18th century homes in the center of Suffield.

Josiah King Jr. House, Suffield, Connecticut Read More

The house at 74 Washington Square East, at the corner of Forrester Street in Salem, on May 12, 1941. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress, Historic American Buildings Survey Collection.

The house in 2019:

This house was built between 1804 and 1806 for Clifford Crowninshield, a merchant who was a member of one of Salem’s most prominent families. It was the work of noted Salem architect Salem McIntire, and featured a Federal-style design that was typical for mansions of this period, including a symmetrical front facade, three stories, and a hip roof that was originally topped by a balustrade. Crowninshield had the house built around the same time as his marriage to Elizabeth Fisher, the daughter of Nathaniel Fisher, who was the rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. There was a considerable age difference between the two, with Clifford about 44 years old and Elizabeth only about 20 at the time of their marriage in 1805.

Ultimately, though, neither of them lived in this house for very long. Elizabeth died in March 1806, less than a year after their marriage and possibly before the house was even completed, and Clifford died three years later in 1809. However, their short marriage did manage to cause significant controversy within the Crowninshield family, and not necessarily because of their age difference. Writing in his diary on the day after Clifford’s death, local pastor William Bentley explained the circumstances surrounding their marriage:

In this wealth & unmarried he [Crowninshield] attracted the notice of N. Fisher . . . & was persuaded to marry his only daughter, who soon deceased after marriage. This alliance was displeasing to his 6 sisters who had no advantages from education, & many of them scanty means, & an open alienation from their Brother ensued with continued three years till within a few months of his death.

Fisher had evidently hoped that Crowninshield’s estrangement from his sisters would give him access to the family fortune, but Bentley went on to explain that, after he and his sisters reconciled shortly before his death,

This reconcilliation excluded the Rector & disappointed his hopes who had removed into one of the houses of his Son in Law & had indulged great expectations. In the last hours all intercourse ceased & the Rector has been left to lament his numerous indiscretions & ill placed confidence, in the serious evils of his affairs.

In the end, Crowninshield’s mansion was inherited by his sister Sarah and her husband James Devereux. He was, like so many of Salem’s other upper class men of the era, a ship captain and merchant. In 1799, his ship, the Franklin, became the first American ship to sail to Japan, and he subsequently developed a lucrative trading business with Europe, Southeast Asia, the West Indies, and South America. His company specialized in commodities such as coffee, pepper, and sugar, and included one 1808 voyage from which the Franklin returned with a cargo of over half a million pounds of coffee.

Sarah Devereux died in 1815, only a few years after inheriting the house from her brother, but James lived here until his death in 1846. His daughter, Abigail, then inherited the property, and lived here with her husband, William Dean Waters. They were both in their 40s at the time, and had six children, four of whom were at the house by 1850. That year’s census shows their sons William, James, Edward, and Clifford, whose ages ranged from 20 to nine, and they also lived here with Abigail’s sister Elizabeth and a servant.

Abigail died in 1879, followed by her husband a year later, and the house was then inherited by their son, William Crowninshield Waters. He sold the property in 1892, ending almost 90 years of ownership by the same family, and it was purchased by Zina Goodell, who was a machinist and blacksmith. Goodell made some alterations to the house, including moving it closer to Forrester Street. This made room for a second house on the lot, which was built just to the right of the house, at 72 Washington Square East.

Goodell lived here until his death in 1920, but the house would remain in his family for many years. His daughter Mary and her husband, George Patterson, were living here when the first photo was taken in 1941, as part of the New Deal-era Historic American Buildings Survey. Today, more than 75 years later, the house has since been converted into condominiums, but the exterior has not seen any substantial changes from this angle, aside from the loss of the balustrade atop the roof. It is now a contributing property in the Salem Common Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Clifford Crowninshield House, Salem, Mass Read More

The view of Mount Greylock as seen from the corner of Randall and Second Streets in Adams, around 1900-1915. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress, Detroit Publishing Company Collection.

The scene in 2019:

These two images do not line up perfectly; the first one was taken a few yards to the south of where the 2019 one was taken. However, the view from that spot is now blocked by a house that stands where the cornfield in the foreground used to be, so the present-day photo was taken a little closer to the corner of Randall Street. However, the overall scene is the same in both photos, showing the town of Adams at the bottom of the hill, with the summit of Mount Greylock as the backdrop in the distant center.

Standing 3,491 feet above sea level, Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts. It is part of the Taconic Mountains, a range within the Appalachians that runs roughly along the New York-Massachusetts border, and it is also one of the most topographically-prominent mountains in New England, rising nearly 2,500 feet above all of its surrounding valleys. As a result, it is visible for miles in every direction, and it is the most distinctive landscape feature within the town of Adams.

The east slope of the mountain, shown here in this scene, is its steepest. From the summit, it drops more than 2,700 feet in less than three miles to the floor of the Hoosic River valley. The town of Adams was settled here along the river, and during the second half of the 19th century it developed into a thriving industrial community. The town was divided in half in 1878, with the more populous northern half becoming North Adams, but Adams continued to grow, and by the time the first photo was taken at the turn of the 20th century its population had risen to over 10,000 residents.

The photo shows the downtown area of Adams, as seen from the hills immediately to the east. By this point, this area was in the process of being developed for housing, and the 1904 county atlas shows that the land in the foreground had already been subdivided into individual lots. Some of the houses had already been built by then, but other lots were still vacant, including the cornfield here in the first photo. However, within a decade or two this site would also be developed, and there is now a 1920s-era house that stands just out of view on the left.

Today, Adams is no longer a major factory town, and its population is actually smaller than it was at the turn of the last century. Overall, though, this view is not significantly different from the first photo. Probably the single most noticeable change is the increased number of trees. In the foreground, downtown Adams is mostly hidden by the trees, although there are several buildings visible, most notably the First Congregational Church, which stands in the center of the scene. Beyond the town, the slopes of Mount Greylock are much more wooded today than in the first photo, and at the summit is the Veterans War Memorial Tower, which was dedicated in 1933 in memory of Massachusetts residents who died in World War I.

Mount Greylock from Adams, Massachusetts Read More

The Clarendon Residence stands as a haunting reminder of a time long past. Hidden away from the bustling city streets, this abandoned house is cloaked in mystery, with its crumbling walls and overgrown grounds. The eerie silence surrounding the residence invites exploration, as urban legends and rumors of its troubled history circulate among locals. But beyond the decay, this residence still holds secrets waiting to be uncovered.

History of the Clarendon Residence

Once a grand estate, the Clarendon Residence was built in the early 1900s and originally served as the home to a wealthy family with ties to influential figures. Its towering columns and intricately designed windows exuded elegance, making it the pride of the neighborhood. However, after the untimely death of its last resident in the 1950s, the mansion was left to deteriorate. Today, it remains a time capsule of a bygone era, preserving fragments of its once-glorious past.

The Unexplained Secrets of the Clarendon Residence

Inside the Clarendon Residence, an air of mystery hangs thick. Visitors often report strange occurrences, such as flickering lights, cold spots, and even whispers that seem to echo through the empty halls. Many claim to have witnessed shadows moving in the corner of their eyes, as if the spirits of former inhabitants are still present. Strange symbols have also been discovered on the walls and floors—cryptic markings that don’t seem to belong to any known language or cultural group.

These symbols, carved into the wood and stone of the residence, spark curiosity and fear. Some believe they were created by the original owners, who were rumored to have had occult interests. Others think they were added later, as an attempt to harness whatever energy might still linger within the house. The symbols are intricate and foreign, with some resembling arcane script or religious iconography.

What Lies Beneath the Surface?

As with many abandoned places, the Clarendon Residence hides more than meets the eye. Beneath its grand staircase lies a dark and forgotten basement, accessible only through a narrow, hidden doorway. The air in the basement feels heavier, and the faint smell of mildew and rot is overwhelming. Some explorers have discovered remnants of old furniture, broken glass, and strange artifacts that appear to have no connection to the home’s original inhabitants.

The Deserted Clarendon Residence Still Holds Secrets Read More

Germany is known for its breathtaking castles, but few embody the magic of a fairytale quite like Lichtenstein Castle. Perched dramatically on a cliff in the Swabian Alps, this neo-Gothic masterpiece stands as a testament to both Germany’s rich history and its cultural fascination with medieval romance.

In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history behind Lichtenstein Castle, a true gem that seems plucked from the pages of a storybook.

The Origins of Lichtenstein Castle

The story of Lichtenstein Castle begins in the early 12th century. During this time, noble families built the first version of the fortress. This structure served as a defensive stronghold for the lords of Lichtenstein. However, conflicts during the Middle Ages, such as the Swabian War in the late 1300s, led to its destruction. Consequently, by the late 16th century, the castle lay in ruins and was abandoned.

In the early 19th century, Lichtenstein Castle experienced a revival. Wilhelm Hauff, a famous German author, wrote a historical novel titled Lichtenstein in 1826. His romantic portrayal of the castle inspired Count Wilhelm of Württemberg to rebuild it in 1840. Eager to create a romanticized version of a medieval fortress, Count Wilhelm commissioned the reconstruction.

Neo-Gothic Revival and the Modern Castle

Count Wilhelm’s vision reflected the neo-Gothic architectural movement that gained popularity across Europe in the 19th century. To realize his dream, he hired architect Carl Alexander Heideloff. Heideloff designed the castle with towers, turrets, and intricate details. Thus, these features blend medieval spirit with fairytale grandeur.

By 1842, builders had completed the new Lichtenstein Castle. Almost immediately, it became known as one of Germany’s most beautiful castles. Its steep, jagged silhouette complements the rugged cliffs of the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors can explore medieval-style rooms, ornate wood carvings, and collections of weapons and armor. All of these elements reflect the knightly era of the Middle Ages.

Lichtenstein Castle in World War II

During World War II, Lichtenstein Castle largely escaped significant damage. In contrast, many other German castles suffered greatly during this time. Although the military temporarily occupied the structure, it did not suffer major harm. After the war, caretakers restored the castle, and it reopened to the public. As a result, it began attracting visitors from around the globe.

The Castle Today: A Tourist Attraction and Cultural Symbol

Today, Lichtenstein Castle draws thousands of tourists each year. Its picturesque location and storybook architecture appeal to both history enthusiasts and casual travelers. Moreover, visitors enjoy stunning views over the Echaz Valley and can explore the castle’s richly decorated rooms. Additionally, scenic pathways around the castle offer beautiful hiking opportunities. This makes it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lichtenstein Castle symbolizes Germany’s fascination with its medieval past and romantic ideals. From its beginnings as a fortress to its 19th-century rebirth inspired by literature, the castle’s story remains one of transformation and timeless beauty. As one of the most enchanting destinations in Germany, it continues to captivate visitors and offers a glimpse into a fairytale world.

Lichtenstein Castle, German Fairytale Escape Read More

Abandoned bunkers on cliffsides evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, with their hidden pasts and eerie remains. These structures, once symbols of defense and security, now stand as silent witnesses to a tumultuous history. Throughout the world, many of these bunkers are perched on dramatic cliffside locations, offering a stark contrast between the man-made structures and the natural beauty surrounding them. The idea of abandoned bunkers conjures images of forgotten wartime fortifications and the enigmatic stories they hold.

The role of these bunkers during war times was often pivotal. Built to withstand aerial and artillery attacks, their strategic positions on cliffsides made them ideal for protecting coastlines and borders. In particular, bunkers built during World War II were designed to house soldiers, store supplies, and provide a vantage point for monitoring enemy movement. While many of these fortifications were left behind after conflicts ended, their locations on cliffsides made them inaccessible for most—adding to their sense of mystery.

The Architecture of Abandoned Bunkers
The design of abandoned bunkers on cliffsides often reflects the era and the technological capabilities of the time. Concrete walls, reinforced steel doors, and narrow passageways were typical features. These structures were engineered to withstand extreme conditions, and their location on cliffsides offered a natural defense against invasion. However, time has taken its toll on many of these bunkers, with rusted metal, cracked concrete, and overgrown vegetation now dominating their appearance.

The Hidden Stories of Abandoned Bunkers
Behind every abandoned bunker on a cliffside lies a story of war, secrecy, and survival. Soldiers once occupied these spaces, keeping watch over the surrounding land for any signs of enemy activity. The bunkers were not just functional; they were also designed to be places of refuge during periods of intense conflict. Over time, however, they were abandoned, leaving only remnants of their former purpose. Many such sites now attract historians, urban explorers, and even those curious about the military history of specific regions.

Some bunkers also hold deeper secrets, with rumors and conspiracy theories circulating about their true functions. In some cases, they may have been used for clandestine operations or to house valuable equipment, making them more than just mere fortifications. The legends surrounding these places continue to fuel the curiosity of those who visit them.

The Modern Day Relevance of Cliffside Bunkers
Today, these abandoned bunkers on cliffsides are slowly being reclaimed by nature. Vines crawl over the walls, and wildlife finds refuge in their forgotten corners. Many of these bunkers are now part of local hiking trails, offering adventurers a unique opportunity to explore history while enjoying stunning vistas. Their isolated locations also make them popular destinations for photographers, who capture the haunting beauty of these abandoned structures in the wild.

The stories of abandoned bunkers on cliffsides remain hidden for now, waiting for new generations to uncover the layers of history and mystery they contain. Whether you’re an urban explorer or a history enthusiast, visiting these places offers a glimpse into the past and the chance to witness the enduring legacy of wartime defenses.

Abandoned bunkers on cliffsides and their hidden pasts Read More

The Winfield Manor stands as an eerie monument to the past, a place once brimming with life, now forsaken by time and abandonment. This mansion, located in a quiet corner of the countryside, offers a haunting glimpse into the life that once flourished within its walls. With its crumbling architecture and overgrown gardens, it evokes a sense of mystery and nostalgia. Winfield Manor is more than just an abandoned building; it’s a story frozen in time, a silent witness to decades of forgotten memories.

The Haunting Silence of Winfield Manor

The Winfield Manor was originally constructed in the early 1900s, designed to be a grand estate for a wealthy family. The sprawling property boasted lavish interiors and manicured grounds, fit for aristocrats. But as the years passed, the once-thriving home fell into disrepair. Economic hardships and changing social landscapes left it abandoned, with only the whispers of its history remaining.

Winfield Manor’s interior, though largely decayed, still holds the vestiges of its former glory. The intricate woodwork, the ornate chandeliers that once illuminated lavish parties, and the expansive hallways that echoed with footsteps are now shrouded in silence. These silent walls seem to tell stories of generations who lived, loved, and eventually left.

What’s Left Behind: Traces of the Past

Despite its quiet decay, there’s something undeniably haunting about Winfield Manor. The stillness is almost oppressive, with only the sound of wind through broken windows and the occasional creak of the floorboards to break the silence. Some claim that the manor is haunted, that the spirits of its former residents still roam the halls. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, there’s no denying that the abandoned rooms of Winfield Manor hold an unsettling presence. The once lively home now stands as a ghostly relic, trapped in the past.

Silent Walls of the Deserted Winfield Manor Read More

The King Arthur Statue in Gallos stands as a remarkable testament to artistic excellence and historical reverence.

This stunning piece not only captures the legendary king’s grandeur but also showcases the immense talent of the artists involved. In this article, we will delve into the artistic mastery behind this iconic statue, exploring its design, materials, and cultural significance.

The Visionary Artists

Who Designed the King Arthur Statue?

The creation of the King Arthur Statue in Gallos can be attributed to a collaborative effort of visionary artists who aimed to bring the legend to life.

Description: The majestic King Arthur Statue in Gallos, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship.

The primary sculptor, was known for their ability to blend realism with idealism, creating figures that resonate with viewers. Their understanding of classical forms and mastery of anatomy allowed for a statue that feels alive.

The Role of Local Artisans

In addition to the primary sculptor, local artisans played a significant role in the statue’s completion. Their expertise in traditional techniques ensured that the final piece adhered to the cultural and historical context of Arthurian legend.

The collaboration highlights the importance of community in preserving art and history.

The Materials Used

Selecting the Right Stone

The King Arthur Statue is crafted from high-quality granite, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the elements. The use of granite not only symbolizes strength but also connects the statue to the earth, grounding it in the natural beauty of Gallos.

Description: Close-up of the granite texture used in the King Arthur Statue.

Techniques of Sculpting

The sculpting process involved traditional methods that date back centuries. Techniques such as chiseling and polishing were employed to achieve the fine details that characterize the statue.

This meticulous process reflects the dedication of the artists and the intention to honor the legend of King Arthur.

The Artistic Details

Iconic Features of the Statue

The statue is adorned with several iconic features that enhance its visual impact:

1. The Sword Excalibur: Positioned prominently in Arthur’s hand, Excalibur symbolizes strength and leadership. The intricacy of its design captivates viewers.
2. Regal Armor: The detailed armor showcases craftsmanship, with each piece reflecting historical accuracy while also adding a fantastical element.
3. Facial Expression: Arthur’s expression conveys wisdom and resolve, drawing visitors into his legendary story.

Description: The intricately designed Excalibur sword held by King Arthur.

Symbolism in the Design

Every aspect of the King Arthur Statue is steeped in symbolism. From the pose of the figure to the elements surrounding it, the statue embodies themes of heroism, loyalty, and chivalry.

This deliberate design invites viewers to reflect on the values that King Arthur represents.

The Cultural Significance

A Beacon of Inspiration

The King Arthur Statue serves not only as a work of art but also as a cultural landmark. It inspires local artists and visitors alike, encouraging them to explore the depths of Arthurian legend. Its presence in Gallos has transformed the area into a hub for art and history enthusiasts.

Events and Community Engagement

The statue also plays a pivotal role in community events, such as annual festivals celebrating Arthurian culture. These gatherings promote local craftsmanship, foster community spirit, and attract tourists, making the statue a central piece of Gallos’ cultural identity.

Description: Community festival celebrating Arthurian culture around the statue.

Conclusion

The King Arthur Statue in Gallos is not merely a statue; it is a symbol of artistic mastery and cultural significance. Through the skilled hands of artists and the choice of materials, the statue captures the essence of a legendary figure while enriching the community it resides in.

By appreciating the artistic mastery behind the King Arthur Statue, we celebrate not only the art itself but also the stories and values it embodies.

Description: The King Arthur Statue surrounded by visitors, highlighting its significance in the community.

Artistic Mastery Behind the King Arthur Statue Read More