Throwback Adventure – Fort Revere Park – Massachusetts

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

In April 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Revere Park in Hull, Massachusetts. Fort Revere Park is less then 10 acres in size. It is located on Telegraph Hill, and is famous for its’ role in the American Revolution. The Property includes a Water Tower, remnants of the Fort, and picnic tables. Fort Revere Park is owned by the Town of Hull and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Revere Park on a day full of Adventures. The Park was very small, and had minimal property to explore. However, we still enjoyed the experience. We pranced around the Water Tower taking photographs, and then headed over to the Fort which was scattered with graffiti. I was disappointed to see the Fort in this condition but we still wandered around checked out the ledges, doors, and various aspects of the Fort. I especially remember walking around on a ledge high above the Fort. We appreciated the views of the Harbor, and even noticing a lighthouse far in the distance. There were no other visitors at the Park, which appeared to be hidden away in the quiet Town of Hull. Glad we were able to visit the Fort Revere Park (Throwback Blogs will not always be rated).

February 22, 2020 – Fall River Heritage State Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fall River Heritage State Park in Fall River, Massachusetts. Fall River Heritage State Park is a historic public park that is located along the Taunton River. The Park includes: a large carousel, a visitor center, a boardwalk, and views of the battleships of Battleship Cove – America’s Fleet Museum. Fall River Heritage State Park is popular for sailing, walking, educational programs, and summer activities.

We had a scenic Adventure to the Fall River Heritage State Park. Upon arrival, I was immediately awed by the World War II battleships docked at neighboring Battleship Cove. They were gigantic, and absolutely fascinating. We immediately wandered toward these ships, but did not enter the actual Battleship Cove, unlikely to be dog friendly. We explored the minimal grounds finding several propellers, a 9-1-1 Memorial, and various other artifacts.

After wandering around the Battleship Cove grounds we headed toward the Visitor Center. I almost neglected to locate the carousel as we passed by, closed for the season. Our entrance began as we traversed a wooden bridge leading us to the doorsteps of the Visitor Center. We headed up to and around the Center, making sure not to miss sight of the River. Over to the left were the ships and the impressive Baga Bridge, while to the right the boardwalk resumed. Our journey continued down the boardwalk, parallel to the River. Along this boardwalk we passed a small park with benches, and what appeared to be a building for sailing ventures. We spent about two hours in the Park mostly walking along the boardwalk, while also stopping to take photographs and explore various sites. Throughout the Park we located small kiosks identifying our location, which eventually ended, leading me to the conclusion that we ventured far past the Park’s border. We walked and walked until we arrived at a World War II Memorial. We visited the various statues, and memorials before heading back to the Park.

Throughout our visit to the Heritage River State Park I especially was drawn to the spectacular Battleships, and the scenic boardwalk along the River. The Park unfortunately was quite dirty, and was scattered with geese poop. However, we did our best to avoid these unpleasantries, and enjoyed our brisk walk. As per our usual Adventure, it was filled with cheerful rolls, lots of posing, and enthusiasm for a new Adventure. I worked on some training with Wilma during today’s Adventure, and was quite proud of her work, a wonderful role model by her side. It was nice to see the sun out, and a slight increase in temperature for our New England Winter. Definitely glad we could explore the Fall River Heritage Park today (Rating: 3).

February 9, 2020 – Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Saugus, Massachusetts. Saugus Iron Works is the Site of the first integrated ironworks in North America, begun by European iron makers. The Park is nine acres and includes: a museum, working waterwheels, a mill, a 17th century home, and a short nature trail along the marsh and woodlands. The Park is open seasonally.

We had a unique Adventure to the Saugus Iron Works. As I am recovering from a back injury (yes again!) and still being cautious with Wilma recuperating toenail, we decided to defer from a daytrip and instead explore the Saugus Iron Works. I had observed the sign on the highway several times, leading to our discovering of this National Park.

Saugus Iron Works was well marked, and easily located. Upon arriving we found one car in the parking lot, however had not expected it to be crowded due to the current off-season. Immediately we located a brochure providing additional information about the Site. We spent about an hour exploring the Park, checking out the water wheels, furnace area, and all structures in site. The Park was on the basin of the Saugus River adding some scenery, and songs of nature. There were some picturesque bridge structures, and a cement path leading the way. After finishing exploring the main features we took a stroll along the nature trail, very short, but a nice little add-on to our experience. I was pleased to see a blue sky, contrasting with the browns of winter.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma appreciated many rolls, while Wilma especially loved watching the ducks. Shadow and Wilma were eager to inhale the smells, and enthusiastic to explore. I was disappointed by the excessive geese poop along the grounds, but I guess that comes with New England winter. I found the Park simple, yet distinctive. I can imagine it is quite the learning experience when in-season with demonstrations, tours, and working wheels. So glad we were able to visit the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Park today (Adventure will not be rated as Park was closed for the season).

February 2, 2020 – Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the ground of Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House in Concord, Massachusetts. The Orchard House is most famous for being where Louisa May Alcott wrote and set Little Women back in the 1800s. The Alcott family resided in the home for many years. It currently is a historic museum.

We had a simple Adventure to the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House. Poor Wilma hurt her paw/claw on Friday so we rested yesterday, and just took a short, local walk today. I thought it would be fun to explore one of the many local historical homes, so I chose the Orchard House. So I decided not to research the home to see if it was dog friendly, as I assumed it was not, so of course we only explored the grounds. We had the property all to ourselves, walking around the property, peering in the windows, taking photographs, and of course enthusiastic rolls for Shadow and Wilma. There was not much to explore from the outdoors, but the buildings were quite scenic. I am sure, even more lovely in the non-winter months of New England. So not necessarily a “normal” Adventure but glad we could get out to add some variety to our weekend of rest. Definitely many historical hot spots in New England (Adventure will not be rated as only the grounds were explored).

December 22, 2019 – Fort Taber Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Taber Park in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Fort Taber Park is an oceanfront Park in Clark’s Point which includes a museum, Fort Rodman, a playground and a walking and bicycle path. On top of the Fort you can find the Clark’s Point Lighthouse. In the summer months the Park is also popular for swimming, and picnicking.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Fort Taber Park. We were quite lucky to get a warm and sunny New England day adding quite the picturesque coastal scene. Shadow and I had been to Fort Taber Park about three years ago, but only visited briefly as it was the end of the day of a long day of exploring, and dusk was upon us. I therefore was quite thrilled to more thoroughly explore this area. The Park was quiet with few other guests. We began following the paved trail around the Fort Rodman, taking the outside loop to ensure a coastal experience. The sun was shining brightly, just beautiful. We sauntered around, taking many pictures. The Fort was tall, and grand, clearly 19th century history. I attempted to get a photograph of the Lighthouse, but not a simple task being located on the very top of the Fort. We enjoyed walking around, lots of rolls, and numerous photos per our usual Adventure.

Besides exploring the outer grounds of the Fort itself we enjoyed some time on the beach which had contrasting colors, and ice throughout adding a unique scene. We then wandered down the lengthy pier, which appeared from afar to bring you to the foot of the Butler Flats Lighthouse. Wilma was quite curious about all the shells, and smells, the shells appearing to have been dropped onto the pier from birds above. The sun sparkled off the water, creating a lovely scene. We spotted some boat from afar, and took or time checking out the view.

We enjoyed every moment of our Adventure at Fort Taber Park taking in the sights, sounds, and smells. Such a perfect location that combines recreation, history, and coastal splendor. Definitely a special place in New England. We look forward to returning again in the future (Rating: 4.5).

Winter 2017 Adventure

New Bedford Fort Taber.jpg

Throwback Adventure – Castle Island – Massachusetts

In April of 2018 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Castle Island in Boston, Massachusetts. Castle Island is located on the shores of Boston Harbor. Castle Island was formerly an Island, but was connected in 1982 by land, therefore creating a peninsula. At the top of the land is Fort Independence, the oldest fortified military site in British North America. Castle Island is the home to the Popular Sullivan’s restaurant, and is a favorite summer spot for Boston locals.

We had a windy Adventure to Castle Island. I was quite pleased to visit Castle Island as it is a location I had heard about often. As on many occasions we decided to explore Castle Island in off-season. There were paths along the Fort, and airplanes flying throughout. We enjoyed walking next to the Fort, the walls towering high above us, and checking out the views. Castle Island was not the cleanest spot, but I guess that is to be expected in a more urban setting. We were glad to visit a new location and enjoy a long walk. As per my usual Throwback blogs I had some difficulty locating photographs, but I did find some to represent our Adventure as well as a video along our stroll (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Castle Island 1 Castle Island 2 Castle Island 3 Castle Island 4 Castle Island 5

November 16, 2019 – Battle Road Trail, Part I – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Battle Road Trail in Concord, Massachusetts. The Battle Road Trail is an almost ten mile round trip Trail, connecting historic sites from Concord to Lexington Massachusetts. The Trail focuses on the Battle of 1775 which began the American Revolution. It crosses wetlands, forests, and farmlands, and contains various landmarks and kiosks along the way. The Trail is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.

We had a well-needed Adventure to the Battle Road Trail on a brisk November day. Having been sick, and with a family member in the hospital we have not been on any new Adventures in the last week or two. And although we have enjoyed many local walks, I was thrilled to head off on a new Adventure, even though I am far from feeling well.

We spent about two and a half hours traversing the Battle Road Trail, and nearby paths, exploring over half of the East Section of the Trail. Some of the landmarks we visited included: the Paul Revere Capture Site, the Hartwell Tavern, the Jacob Whittemore House, the Samuel Hartwell House Site, and the Captain William House. The Trail was simple, but varied terrain, the anticipation of the next landmark added some elation to the journey. We often walked at a quick pace, but of course took some time to sniff out the new landscape. Due to the chilly weather I was surprised to see many others walking the Trail, including: families, furry friends, bikers, and runners. Shadow and Wilma even got to say hello to a happy toddler who was very enthused about meeting the pups.

Throughout the day Shadow loved many rolls in the hay-like grass, while Wilma was quite obsessed by the sheep, who were loudly vocalizing their “baaa”. I think my favorite part, besides a long walk with my two best buds, was the historic homes along the Trail. I loved their unique architecture, and the often scenic placement amidst the fields. And although I have not stopped coughing since this Adventure, I could not be more happier that we had a long walk on the Battle Trail. We will definitely be visiting the other half of the Battle Trail in the near future. A unique way to combine exercise, the outdoors, and history (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Fort Phoenix State Reservation – Massachusetts

In January 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to Fort Phoenix State Reservation in Fairhaven, Massachusetts. Fort Phoenix Reservation is one of the smallest State Parks in Massachusetts. It is a historic site and has opportunities for recreational activities including swimming. Fort Phoenix dates back to the American Revolutionary War. It was originally built in 1775 but later reconstructed after being destroyed by the British.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Phoenix State Reservation back on a dark winter day. I remember Shadow rolling almost immediately, obviously thrilled to explore a historic Fort (haha). We walked around touring the Fort ruins, viewing the canons, and enjoying views across the Atlantic Ocean. We even spotted a lighthouse from afar. We appreciated the history and our Adventure to yet another New England Fort. And although I thought we may have been there on one other occasion, I have yet to locate those photographs. So glad we were able to Adventure to the Fort Pheonix State Reservation (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Throwback Adventure – Plymouth, Massachusetts

In May 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the town of Plymouth in Massachusetts. Plymouth is a coastal town in Southern Massachusetts. It is famous for the site of the first Pilgrim settlement and contains famous landmarks including: Plymouth Rock, and the Mayflower.

We had a fun Adventure to Plymouth back on a cool May morning. We explored the Harbor area, including parts of Brewster Garden, and of course checked out the Plymouth Rock. The Plymouth Rock was much smaller then expected, but it was still nice to view this important landmark of history. We wandered around for awhile checking out the boats, and taking a nice long walk. It was challenging locating old photographs, but I found several below which are a good summary of our visit. We definitely will be back to explore more thoroughly, and share a more detailed account of our visit (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Plymouth Plymouth 3 Plymouth 2 Plymouth 4

October 19, 2019 – Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park – New Hampshire

This past weekend we had a getaway to Vermont, which involved many Adventures, most of which I will blog about. We stayed in a cabin in the woods, and due to no wifi I am far behind on my blog, therefore posting much later then preferred. However, definitely some amazing locations that I am excited to share.

One of our Adventures on the way was the the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park in Cornish, New Hampshire. This is the second time we have been to this location as Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to this Park back in October of 2015. We were thrilled on our recent visit to have My Parents join us! The Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park is the former home, gardens, and studios of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Much of his artwork is displayed in the gallery and on the grounds. The Site also includes: nature trails, tours, various statues, and gardens. The Park also sponsors summer concerts, and workshops.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. Although I had blogged about it in one of my Thursday throwback segments, I could not resist writing about it again. Shadow, Wilma, and I arrived about an hour previous to meeting My Parents so we could explore the trails, before returning to tour the main grounds. I was quite pleased to quickly locate the Ravine Trail, which contained a waterfall we had discovered on our past visit. The trail was packed with colorful leaves, and sloped quickly into the ravine before turning and following the brook, scattered with fall foliage. It was a crisp Fall day, but just perfect for an energetic hike. The trail was not too clear, but I followed it by memory, and also spotted several informational displays, and a bridge on the path. I was quite thrilled to find the waterfall again, simple, but lovely. We continued through the trail before hiking up the ravine, and ending in the field on the opposite side of the property.

After traversing the Ravine Trail we wandered around the property checking on the buildings, statues, gardens, and spectacular mountain views. I tried not to miss a detail snapping numerous photographs throughout. It was not long after then that My Parents arrived. Having been there previously, and in refreshing my memory of the site before their arrival, I was pleased to provide an informal tour. We wandered around viewing the various features throughout. Shadow engaged in continual enthusiastic rolls, causing me to ponder, did he know he was on vacation?! Wilma was a bit overzealous, but how could you blame her having her Grandparents in tow! We picnicked with a view, enjoyed the wonderful company, and created memories. I really do love the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park, and can just imagine the indoor exhibits are quite fantastic as well. So glad we were able to spend a family afternoon at this beautiful Park, definitely a special National Park in New England (Rating: 4.5).

Please see below for photographs from both of our Adventures. You can also read about our first Adventure by typing in “Saint-Gaudens” in the “search box” (to the right side of the page on a computer and on the bottom of the page on a phone)

October 2019