October 5, 2018 – Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins – New Hampshire

Today we went to Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. The Madame Sherri Castle Ruins are located in the Madame Sherri Forest. This Castle was built by Madame Sherri. Madame Sherri and her husband Andre were involved in show business, including: dancing, musicals, and costume designing. They were originally from France, but moved to New York. They started their own business and were very successful. After Andre passed away Madame Sherri bought some land in Chesterfield, where she built her Castle. This was her party house, as she actually lived across the street in a smaller bode. The Castle burnt to the ground in 1962. Madame Sherri later passed away in 1965.

We had a mystical Adventure to the Madame Sherri’s Castle ruins. Another Adventure I was thankful for researching ahead of time, as there were no clear signs to the location. However upon arrival we did see the sign for Madame Sherri Forest. I decided to dress Shadow and Wilma in bright orange, as I read that hunters were free to roam the Forest. They did not seem to mind, and we then headed on our journey. We crossed the bridge across a little brook, and headed to the ruins. A little more spectators then I preferred, however, we took turns with the many visitors taking photographs. We wandered around and through the ruins, especially enjoying the stairs up into the sky. There were arches, columns and beautiful stones framing which clearly was a fascinating castle. We spent our time in the area, trying not to miss a piece of the ruin.

After enjoying the ruins we spent some time wandering the trails. The trails were not well marked, but we made sure to get some exercise while in the Forest. The beginning of Fall was clear, with beautiful yellow leaves along the trail. This was Shadow’s first Adventure since surgery, making it an even more joyous Adventure (Rating: 3).

September 7, 2018 – Bancroft Tower – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Bancroft Tower in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Bancroft Tower is a natural stone, and granite structure that appears like an ancient castle. The Tower was built in 1900 in memory of George Bancroft, a secretary in the Navy, diplomat, historian and a native of Worcester, Massachusetts. The Tower was built by Brancoft’s childhood friend, Stephen Salisbury, and is situated in the Salisbury Park. The Tower is open for tours during certain days in October.

We had a magical Adventure to this spectacular, castle-like structure. Although another cloudy and dark day, we were pleased to feel like Fall is just on the horizon. Parking was available next to the Tower, and we had this intriguing landmark all to ourselves. We walked around the castle, through the arches, up the stairs, again, and again taking in this majestic Tower. The structure made you feel as though you were transformed into medieval times, away from the worries of the modern world. Definitely one of those places where you could stay for hours, such a unique, and extraordinary location. There were no colors, landscaping, or any additional perks, however our fascination with the structure was all we needed to feel fulfilled. So glad we were able to find the Bancroft Tower to explore on our adventure today (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Fort Williams Park – July 2017

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.

In July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park is a 90 acres Park located in the Casco Bay. It includes: the Portland Head Lighthouse and museum, beautiful coastal views, and historic ruins. It was formerly a United States Army Fort, but in 1979 became designated as Fort Williams State Park.

We had a short, yet wonderful visit to Fort Williams State Park. It was especially exciting as it was Wilma’s first trip to Maine! We started our journey with the Portland Head Lighthouse, a beautiful lighthouse, providing a close-up, and personal view. We spent some time near the lighthouse, taking in the moments, and the gorgeous scenery. We then were elated to see a sign for Gelatos, but yet soon disappointed that it was closed. Oh well, we were on to the magnificent coastal views, so no complaining here! There were splendid wild flowers and benches along the trails, a peaceful oasis. Definitely not lacking stunning scenery for some photographs.

From there we headed to the ruins. I do not believe I captured all the areas in photographs, but snapped some quick one of Goddard Mansion, on the hill above. It was beginning to get dark, but I did my best to capture this incredible mansion ruins. A new Adventure for Shadow, and the beginning of Wilma’s many adventures to come (Rating: 4).

June 23, 2018 – Greycourt State Park – Massachusetts

Today we visited Greycourt State Park in Methuen, Massachusetts. This Park is a recreation area that covers 24 acres atop the partially restored ruins of the Charles H. Tenney estate. Grey Court, which is also referred to as Tenney Castle, was built in 1893. It was the centerpiece of the Charles H. Tenney estate. The Tenney family were a successful business family, world known merchants in the business of hats. The Tenney Castle was later destroyed by fire in 1978.

This Park was not easy to find, but luckily I had done some research ahead of time, and knew exactly how to locate it. We parked at City Hall, and hiked from the Historical Society down the paved road to the park. It did not take long to locate castle ruins up on the hill. Many tall trees and green landscape surrounded this spectacular landmark. The paved trail took us up a small hill, and directly to the ruins. We strolled through the beautiful architecture, taking many photos. I was awed by this castle ruins, and enjoyed studying the many architectural features. There was an old water fountain, lots of holes to peer through and beautiful arches, and pillars. Standing in the ruins really made me feel like I was on an international journey, almost magical.

Once we had finished wandering the ruins we sauntered past and found some dirt paths. There were no markings, or directors, but we weaved in and out of the trails. I found them a bit humdrum, and was disappointed to hear clear sounds of cars and construction. However, we found some unique trees, and were able to get some always valued exercise.

After we finished at the trails we headed back to the castle ruins for one last visit. We sat for a bit next to the ruins, where Shadow and Wilma enjoyed their normal rolls, and some time playing together. We only saw a couple people on our visit, mostly locals walking through the area with their dogs. It was a fun little spot, and definitely a cool ruin to explore (Rating: 3).