Amazing Greenfield Village Dearborn, Michigan

#greenfieldvillage

Greenfield Village is a living history museum. You will feel as if you have entered a time machine that can take you back to 17th century New England or 16th century England. Every area of the village has something different to offer.

You can purchase a ticket for the village in combination with a ticket for the Henry Ford Museum. If you do this you will only pay the parking fee once, so a good idea. Once you get into the village you need to decide if you want to use their transportation system. If you do, a day pass is $10, with this you get a bracelet and you can ride the train, the omnibus, the bus, the Model T and the carousel as many times as you want.

#greenfieldvillage

The train takes 45 minutes to make a trip around the outside perimeter of the village. There are three stations including the station near the gate. You get a running commentary and all the important points in the village are pointed out. You can get off where you would like or just take one round to get acquainted with everything.



You can pick up the Omnibus near the gate as well and take it to Main Street or down to the Porches and Parlors area. If you take it down Main Street you might want to stop at one of the restaurants for lunch. There is a modern Cafeteria and a Historic Stage Stop. Both offer good food and service.

Porches and Parlors

The depth of the collections in this section is unbelievable. Would you like to stand in the courthouse where Abe Lincoln tried some of his early cases? How about George Washington Carver's Cabin? The Martha Mary Chapel has a bell that was made in the Paul Revere Foundry. Have you ever wondered what the inside of a slaves cabin looked like? Wonder no more, the Hermitage Slave Quarters are located in Greenfield Village.



Noah Webster's home from New Haven, CT, Robert Frosts House,  a Cotswold's Cottage from England, the Daggett Farmhouse and the oldest windmill in the United States are all located on these very scenic streets. It truly is like a walk into history.



If these were the only things here it would be amazing but how about visiting the Wright Brothers workshop. See where they came up with the idea for their aircraft. You can also visit the Wright family home.

The Henry Ford family farmhouse, the schoolhouse that Henry attended and the home of his favorite teacher are all here as well as is the Firestone family farm. The depth of the collection is unbelievable.

During the off-season, there are craftspersons working in the village, also are docents in many buildings but no activities except on the weekends.



The carousel is a gem with a frog as one of the animals and that is quite rare. The Model T has to be taken from the Model T loading dock. It is quite a still be to tooling through the village in a vintage car. If you are a train aficionado there is a Roundhouse here, one of only twenty still in existence in the United States.

A visit to Greenfield Village can certainly be a multi-day affair, there is so much to see and do. Without a doubt, if I could only recommend one place in the United States to visit, this would be it, If you live in the area a membership would certainly be a great idea. On the way out be sure to stop by the gift shop, it is large and filled with interesting items, some actually made within the village.

Virginia: The Museum of the Confederacy Richmond

 #musuemoftheconfederacy

The Museum of the Confederacy is next door to the White House of the Confederacy in Richmond, Va. You will want to buy a combination ticket which is $15 for adults. Be sure to check on the times of the White House Tour to coordinate it with your visit to the museum, you can do this when you buy your ticket.

What a different perspective on the War between the States you get here. Being from the North, the Confederates are usually regarded as traitors. At this museum, the southerners are patriots doing what their forefathers did before them, leading to a second revolution to protect their rights and liberties. In the South, 900,000 men served the glorious cause, that is three out of four white males of the age to serve.

The display of tintypes and ambrotypes is particularly poignant, it puts a face on the war and the face is very young. It is gut-wrenching. Another exhibit shows the jacket of a young man killed in the conflict. The hole is quite visible where the bullet went through the material and into his body.



Stonewall Jackson is well represented. They have his cap, his scabbard, his field officer sword and even a handkerchief with bloodstains that was used to bind his wound. They do a great job of making all the exhibits easy to follow and visually appealing.

The entry-level floor introduces you to some of the main players in the War. There is an excellent display of Robert E. Lee memorabilia. Everything in the display is original. You see the sword of General Johnston that was worn by his father during the Revolutionary War. You also see the epitaph written by a young soldier and hung on his tomb as well as that soldier's jacket.

Fans of JEB Stuart will enjoy seeing his boots, his gauntlets his saddle and that jauntily rakish hat. The display brings him very much to life. 

The exhibits are spread over three floors. The upper floor has a lot of maritime information. This was a sea war as well as a land war.


On the lower floor, there is a short video about flag conservation. You will understand the importance of this work when you see how many flags they have been able to preserve. On this lower level, you meet the average soldier. There are letters written to mothers and sweethearts back home from the battlefield. These offer an insight into what was going on in their heads and what was going on in the battlefield. They are sad, touching and occasionally humorous.


There is a lot to see and read here. Depending on what your level of interest is, allow about three hours for the visit to both the Museum and the White House of the Confederacy. A small gift shop is located on the lobby level.

Three great reasons to visit Indianapolis

When most people think of great places to visit in the United States, Indianapolis, Ind. Is not necessarily one of the places that come to mind. That is a shame since Indianapolis has an amazing variety of things to see and do. You will find history, sports, and the arts. The home of the Indianapolis 500, Benjamin Harrison and one of the finest art museums in the country has a lot of offer visitors of all ages.

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

One of the most beautiful presidential sites in the country is located in Indianapolis. The Benjamin Harrison House is not only very attractive; it has one of the best tours we have ever taken. You learn things you never knew about the 23rd president such as the fact that he was the grandson of the 9th president William Henry Harrison. He also was a general during the Civil War, the last of them to serve as president of the United States and preferred to be referred to as “General Harrison”. The site is easy to visit with free on street parking available. Check the website for admission prices and opening times. 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame

Located on the grounds of the Indianapolis Speedway, the Hall of Fame is a must visit for race car fans or even those who just love an outstanding car display. This writer is by no means a racing fan, however; visiting here was an amazing experience.

More than 30 of the cars that have won the Indianapolis 500 are on display. There are always at least 75 cars on display and they are all winners of one sort or another. You will see names such as Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt Jr., Parnelli Jones and Al Unser Sr. figuring prominently. There is a film you can watch, exhibits to tour and lots and lots of amazing cars and motorcycles on display.

Indianapolis Museum of Art

This writer has visited some of the premier museums in the world and was blown away by the collection that is on display here at this gorgeous museum. Why everyone hasn’t heard about their phenomenal collection is a mystery but if you are ever in the city be sure not to miss a visit here. Among the many gems, you will see are works by Rembrandt, Rubens, El Greco, Jan Brueghel, Carravaggio, Ribera, Cranach, Monet and Renoir just to name a few.


They also have a great collection of American works as well as art from around the world. Don’t miss the great gift shop and the restaurant The IMA Cafe, is as amazing as the museum is. They have amazing homemade soups and sandwiches that will offer in their own words "offer a stylish, comfortable retreat".

Indianapolis is a great city to visit. We had very little issue driving around to the sites with our own car and enjoyed seeing these three sites all in one day. 

Christchurch Mansion Ipswich, Engand

If you have an interest in history and art, Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich, Suffolk is a lovely place to visit. The exterior of the building is done in an intricate pattern of bricks and has a very attractive roof line. Located on the edge of Christchurch Park, it has been a witness to many historic events and even royal visits.

Christchurch Mansion was built on the site of a former Augustinian Priory which happened quite frequently after the dissolution. It was purchased in 1545 by Paul Withypoll and it was his son Edmund who began building the mansion using stone from the former priory. A deer park was constructed on the grounds and Queen Elizabeth I visited the house twice during her reign.

Gardens east and west of the house were added by the Devereaux family who owned the house in the 17th century. They welcomed King Charles II for a visit in 1668.

In the 18th century, Christchurch was purchased by a wealthy London merchant Claude Fonnereau and it remained in his family until 1892. Land developers purchased the estate, sold off some of the land and presented the mansion to the town of Ipswich. It was used to display art work and archeological displays and as additional classroom space for the Schools of Science and Arts. In 1931, on the 400th anniversary of his death, the Wolsey Gallery was added to the rear of the mansion and named after Cardinal Wolsey.

Today, Christchurch Mansion it is a very interesting place to visit. All of the owners added to the house and it reflects all of these different eras. A generous trust was also bequeathed to the house so that additional art could be purchased and it is displayed in period settings. The original furnishings of the house were sold at auction so while the pieces are period, there are none that are original to the house.

The rooms have displays that include furniture, fine arts, paintings and costumes. Descriptions and explanations of what is on display are provided so it is very interesting to just read about what you are seeing. The Wolsey Gallery has more paintings by Gainsborough and Constable than anyplace outside of London as if you needed more of a reason to visit here.

Parking is available on the street along Christchurch Park.

Christchurch Park, Ipswich, England

Christchurch Park is a pretty park located in the city of Ipswich, England. Ipswich is in the county of Suffolk on the east coast, north of London. It is the oldest park in Ipswich and if the truth be known, it has been a park of some sort for almost a millennium. The official city park was opened in 1895 and has been enjoyed by generations of residents and visitors. The park has a visitor center which usually has exhibits and also toilet facilities. A handicapped parking lot is adjacent to the visitor center. For other visitors, parking can be an issue but with patience, a street spot can be found.

In the center of the park is the Round Pond. With swans swimming in it, it was like a magnet attracting children and adults alike. Even when we were there in January it was worth stopping and taking photos. Paths meander through the towering trees and it is a very lovely, historic and peaceful place. The park has many Grade II listed structures within it confines including the Ice House. It also has modern areas for children and adults to play and enjoy.

Another major attraction in the park itself is the Protestant Martyrs Memorial. It is a monument dedicated to the nine people who were burned at the stake for their beliefs during the reign of Queen Mary, known as "Bloody Mary". It was erected in 1903 in response to newspaper articles that brought the fate of these "martyrs" to the public’s attention.

Christchurch Mansion is located in Christchurch Park. The mansion can be visited on self-guided tours or check their website for the schedule of guided tours.

The park is a major attraction in the city of Ipswich and there are many events that take place here throughout the year including guided nature walks and arts and crafts fairs.

Plan to stay at the charming Granite Inn Rockland, Maine

The Old Granite Inn has an amazing location right on Main Street in Rockland, Maine. For those who want to walk to enjoy what Rockland has to offer, this is the perfect place to stay. The inn is constructed of gray granite which was quarried in St. George located just a few miles southwest of Rockland. It dates from the 1840’s and was built in the Federal Colonial style. Originally, it was a family home and office for at least two local physicians and then an Elks Club for more than 30 years. A fire in the 1940’s devastated the building but like a phoenix, it has risen back even better than before. It became an inn in the 1980’s and now has its third set of innkeepers.

The current innkeepers, Ed and Joan Hantz, have been here since 2006 and among the updates that they have instituted is the front porch which extends the entire length of the building and provides a spot for guest to relax and enjoy the views and a cup of tea or coffee. The building itself may be historic but the amenities and décor are a combination of modern and antiques, tastefully combined. The fact that Joan is an interior designer explains the warm feel that the décor creates at the inn.

All the rooms at the inn have private bathrooms and cable TV with a nice selection of available programming. The two rooms in the front of the house on the second floor are part of the original building and are decorated accordingly. The rooms in the addition are decorated in a more contemporary style. We were given room number 6 which is one of the traditional rooms. It has an iron headboard on the queen bed with an electric fireplace that can also provide heat if you feel the need. The room is furnished with two chairs and a marble top dresser as well as two nightstands. With four windows, this is a very light and bright room.

The Inn overlooks the harbor which is across the street as well as the ferry crossing. If you are sensitive to street noise, the rooms on the front of the house might not be the best choice. We were not bothered at all especially in the overnight when the street is quite quiet but the road did become busy early in the morning and might be an issue for a light sleeper. There are plenty of lovely room and suite options in the addition which would be farther from the street. You will be given two keys, one for your room and one for the front door (all on one key ring).

Our bathroom was spacious with a tub/shower combination. There is lovely artwork throughout the inn and it is either local artist or artists with a Maine connection. You will notice at breakfast that many of the food items are also procured locally such as the eggs.

Breakfast was amazing. The first morning the offerings were blueberry Johnny cakes, blueberry muffins, frittata of bacon, cheese and broccoli and a bowl of fresh fruit. Add to that the locally roasted coffee and you are guaranteed not to leave hungry. The second morning the offerings were stuffed French toast with strawberries and cream cheese, a breakfast egg puff, ginger scone and sausage. Fresh fruit and juice were also offered.

Ed was a very helpful host, welcoming us and giving a tour of the inn and then again welcoming us to breakfast which is served from 8-9 a.m. The menu is usually available in the evening so that if you prefer something else, there are items always available and of course be sure to let them know if you have allergies.

A Keurig coffeemaker is available 24/7 as well as hot tea water. The lounge area offers places to sit and play games or cards or just chill. This is a warm and welcoming bed and breakfast inn and even though the weather was not always cooperating while we were visiting, the atmosphere inside was very comfortable and relaxed. We felt very much at home and would not hesitate to stay here again.

Hotel Review: Samoset Resort Rockport, Maine

Located in what is referred to as the “Jewel of the Maine Coast”, the towns of Camden, Rockport, and Rockland, the Samoset Resort will not disappoint and hasn’t for the last century. The grounds run right up to Penobscot Bay and offer stunning views if you are lucky enough to have an ocean view room. Even if you don’t, it is hard to avoid the crashing waves if you dine at the resort, swim in the outdoor pool, play golf on their championship 18-hole course or walk outdoor just about anywhere. You can even just step out on the lobby observation deck and be treated to the amazing sights and sounds of the ocean. You will notice that there is a breakwater and if you enjoy walking, go out to see the house at the end.



The lobby is an amazing sight on its own; with soaring ceilings and chandeliers which create an open and spacious feeling, it definitely was designed to impress. It offers views of not only Penobscot Bay but the lower level expansion that includes the restaurant, lounge, and spa. The lobby also has a very nice gift shop which is not your typical resort shop. Across from the front desk, you will find cold water with citrus fruits and cookies depending on the time of day.



We had a king ocean view suite and it was stunning. As soon as you open the door to your suite you are greeted by ocean views from a full wall of windows with a slider to your personal deck. The suites are two rooms with a living room with sofa bed, chairs, table, and TV with a separate bedroom. Both rooms have sliders to your private deck with table and chairs. The bedroom is spacious with a king bed, marble top nightstand and dresser, desk, club chair and padded bench at the foot of the bed. Additionally, you have a second TV. A counter with a small sink holds the Keurig coffeemaker and below is the mini-fridge. The bathroom sink is in a niche outside the bathroom.



The bed was massive with a very cushy mattress pad, three pillows, and luxury bedding. It was like sleeping on a cloud. What was not enjoyable was being awoken by the white noise machine on the nightstand making foghorn sounds. It took me a while to figure out where the noise was coming from; obviously, it had been set by the previous guest to go off in the middle of the night because it was not on when I went to sleep. Be sure to check yours to make sure it is off or if you like white noise set it to one of the choices, you can also charge your iPod on it. Free WiFi is available throughout the building so if you must work, it is easily done. But be sure to at least have work in your provided bathrobe.



The resort has two restaurants in the main building, La Bella Vita, and the Enoteca Lounge. There is also room service. We dined in both and enjoyed the stunning view and good food.

The resort is open year round which is not typical in this neck of the woods. A major expansion and upgrade were completed in 2012 which added three guest cottage and the full-service spa.

Since the weather during our visit was frightful on the second day, I used my time judiciously by getting a hot stone massage and a spa pedicure. Prices are what you would expect to pay at a resort and the service providers were both friendly and efficient. It was a lovely and relaxing experience.

On Saturday there was a breakfast buffet, you have the option of having a continental or a full buffet. It was very substantial. At this time the rates are $14 and $17 and include drinks as well. The orange and grapefruit juice is fresh squeezed and the pastries are exceptional. They offer lox for the bagels and a yogurt and granola parfait which looked delicious. The weakness was the watery scrambled eggs. We had the steel cut oatmeal but had to ask for brown sugar as none was out.



There is a waffle maker so you can make your own waffles but while that works at the Fairfield Inn, I found it rather low brow for the Samoset. The fresh fruit offerings were quite impressive. The bacon was thick cut and well-cooked as were the sausages. The breakfast potato serving dish was full and I was not surprised, they were very uninspiring. Cold cereal is also available. The bread choices were good with several flavors of bagels and bread, no cream cheese was out however which was odd. Overall, quite a nice spread that could be improved with some simple changes and attention to detail.



We really enjoyed our stay here and would not hesitate to recommend it to our friends and family or to come here again ourselves. We did not visit the health club or indoor pool nor did we indulge in many of the sports activities and options that are available. Families are also catered to with a large playground area.