08.28.08
Eastman-Lord Museum, North Conway, NH
If you like to step back in time, as we do, then you would enjoy visiting historic houses. There are more of them than expected, and yesterday, we discovered one that is a pip.
Now, while most people, these days, may think of N. Conway, NH as a shopping mecca with outlet stores, or else, a town that features skiing possibilities, I have a new appreciation for the town. In the building we visited, the Conway Historical Society which is helping to preserve the past.
We enjoyed the “Victorian parlor,” in mostly black or dark colors, and with a hand-painted wooden “firescreen.” Everywhere one looks in the house, a piece of the past is waiting to enjoy. There are pieces of clothing, from a soldier’s uniform hanging on a mannequin in the kitchen to an old Shaker style, wool jacket in a closet. There is a “woman” in mourning, completely draped in layers of black, from head to toe, with lots of lace. We were shown some “long johns” previously worn by President Grover Cleveland. He had an astounding waist size and does not appear to have been too tall. I know the waist measurement, but I’m not saying!
The different styles of furniture were grand, from the Murphy bed, to a rope bed with a homemade mattress, stuffed with the most amazing “stuff.” Again, I ain’t sayin’ what! Don’t want to give away the store!
From ephemera, to a collection of millinery pieces, to the history of the people who lived in that house, the place is enchanting, as was our guide, who knew so much about everything. Thank you, Susan! The collection spans the years from 1818-1945, and includes some Abenaki Indian artifacts. The Abenakis came down from Quebec to trade.
On such a hot day, the fact that there is an ice cream store next door was a blessing. I did not have to be invited twice!
To learn more about the Eastman-Lord House, click on their website. I will tell you right now, the photos don’t do it justice. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, as would anyone, especially those who love Victoriana. The place has limited hours and is open until Labor Day. There are other goodies awaiting, about which I have not even hinted! Here’s the link:
http://www.conwayhistory.org/eastman_lord_museum.html
Patricia Cummings
