pvhn Architecture, Buildings, Hampshire County, History, Pioneer Valley, Uncategorized, Westhampton

RECOVERING 19th CENTURY CORNERSTONES

Submitted by:  Barbara Pelissier, Westhampton Historical Society  What do 19th century churches and lunatic asylum’s have in common?  Both had dedication ceremonies that included the placement of a cornerstone either at or near the entrance or within the facade of the structure. Often accompanied by music and a simple Masonic ritual involving corn, wine and … Continue reading RECOVERING 19th CENTURY CORNERSTONES

pvhn Activities, Boats, Connecticut River, Franklin County, History, Ideas, Northfield, Pioneer Valley, Transportation

NORTHFIELD RIVERBOAT TOURS

By Betsy McKee  Earlier this summer we booked a tour on the Quinnetukut II, which is supposed to be a replica of the boat from the old movie “African Queen.”  Our captain took us on a tour down the Connecticut River to Turners Falls, with a guide telling us facts about the river, the geology, … Continue reading NORTHFIELD RIVERBOAT TOURS

pvhn Activities, Genealogy, Hampshire County, History, Ideas, Pioneer Valley, Uncategorized, Westhampton

CARNEGIE HERO FUND AWARDEES

By Barbara Pelissier Did the individual you are researching perform a heroic deed or even die while trying to save the life of another?  If so, there’s a possibility that a Carnegie Hero Award was bestowed upon that individual or, posthumously, upon their surviving family members.  Such was the case for Patrick O’Connor of Southampton, … Continue reading CARNEGIE HERO FUND AWARDEES