Our War

The Civil War from a New Hampshire perspective.

Monday 11 December 2013 was a wet, cold, snowy evening in Amherst Village, but 50 citizens ignored the elements, journeyed to the Congregational Church and were rewarded with a unique view of our own Civil War. Neal Benner arranged to have Concord Monitor, editor emeritus, author and historian Mike Pride address the society. The Concord resident and former Nieman Fellow at Harvard University, has authored five books concerning this significant era. 

"No historian has been more imaginative than Mike Pride in weaving together the intricate relationships between home front and the army. Beautifully written and brilliantly researched, compelling and important"    

                                                                                                                                                                          

                           PETER CARMICHAEL,  Director,Civil War Institute, Gettysburg College

(Click on pictures to enlarge)

Sue Clark, Linda Peck, Carolyn Quinn and Helen Rowe gather at the hospitality table. Thank-you to the bakers and the Quinn's for their generous support and providing us with refreshments. 

Four of Mike Prides books that were available to purchase at the meeting.

Mike Pride, far right, speaking with society members before the meeting was underway.

Historical Society of Amherst's president, Dave Clark addresses the very large gathering of members to inform them of our current status and future plans. His primary goal is to educate townspeople of the importance of the Historical Society and it's benefits to attract new members. To learn more or to acquire a membership form, please click over to our website. Also, if you aren't a member and would like to attend a meeting/presentation, please drop in; everyone is welcome. Our next meeting will be at the Congregational Church at 7:30 p.m on Monday, February 10, 2014.

           Dave Clark standing center. Mike Pride and Neil Benner standing on the far side

Former Concord Monitor editor and established author Mike Pride speaks of his latest book OUR WAR, that weaves a moving story using soldiers letters, diaries and contemporary newspaper accounts to personalize Americas bloodiest war. Members learned of Amherst resident, Sergeant Charles Phelps who died from wounds received at Gettysburg on 3 July 1863 at the young age of 21. In all, our small town sent 25 young men, many of whom are buried at Meadowview Cemetery, to fight in the Civil War. 

Mike Pride holding his latest book with Society VP and Program Chair Neil Benner. Neil has done a wonderful job providing members with new and interesting speakers. Tonight was an excellent example as 50 members and a few new faces (hopefully future members) disregarded snow, sleet and cold temperatures to listen to Mike's presentation.

Erected in 1871 and dedicated in 1890 to honor 25 Amherst soldiers who died in the Civil War, this monument stands in the center of Amherst Village.

Civil War re-enactors, Amherst July 4th parade, 2013

Would you like to learn more about the Civil War? We can and don't even need to leave Amherst to do it. Click over to the Amherst Library website to learn of their Programming series starting on January 5th and continuing through January 28 that features noted speakers concerning the Civil War.

A little about Sergeant Charles Phelps from Amherst, NH.

5th NH volunteers, India Company.

The Farmers Cabinet, Amherst, NH 16 July 1863.

Upon notification of his death, Horace Phelps, the Sergeants father, sent a "hired man" with a wagon to Gettysburg, PA to retrieve his son's body for burial. His funeral was held at the Congregational Church in Amherst, built as the Second Meetinghouse in 1774.

Sergeant Phelps grave marker at Meadowview Cemetery, Amherst, NH. Around the periphery are the engagements in which the Sergeant fought with the Gettysburg campaign listed at the bottom. A note of thanks to our own Marie Grella and friends who decorate veterans graves with wreaths and flags during the holidays. She and member Jackie Marshall also supply and place veterans markers, two of which are seen here by the wreaths. For more information about these historic markers scroll down five posts.

A close up, a little easier to read of  Sergeant Phelps stone.

Our next meeting will be at the Congregational Church at 7:30 p.m on Monday, February 10, 2014.

News from Mont Vernon

On Tuesday December 3rd 2013 Micheal Warren will speak at the Mont Vernon Fire Department at 7:30 PM. His topic is HISTORY IN YOUR HANDS. To learn more, please read the letter posted above, received from the Mont Vernon Historical Society. 

Now, contrary to popular opinion, you do not need a passport to venture north into Mont Vernon! I know, I lived there very happily for 28 years.

A few announcements from other organizations.

We receive much information from other organizations. Here's a partial list that may interest you. Follow the Links.

Nashua Historical Society

Colonial Art Classes: Learn to make colonial fabric Christmas ornaments taught by members of the NHS. Two Thursday evenings sessions November 14 and 21. $20 per person, prepaid. Call them at 603.883.0015 if this is of interest.

TREASURES IN YOUR HOME by Charlie Wibel has been rescheduled for November 19, 2013 at 7:30 pm.

New Hampshire Preservation Alliance

New London, NH House Tour: Saturday & Sunday December 7&8.  www.thefells.org

Christmas at Canterbury: December 7 & 14, 3-8 pm. wwwshakers.org

Strawberry Banke Candlelight Stroll: December 7/8, 14/15, 21/22

Reading Your Old House: Historic New England, January 16,  617.227.3956

Old House and Barn Expo: March 15&16, Center of NH

Are you Looking For Interesting Reading?
Then try this from the New Hampshire Preservation Trust.
NH Preservation 

Old Sturbridge Village

The Oliver Wight House, 1783

Old Sturbridge Village is one of 11 museums participating in FOUR CENTURIES OF MASSACHUSETTS FURNITURE. The exhibit will display here from October 19, 2013 until May 4, 2014 until it moves on to its next location. Furniture from 1620 until present day will be featured. Click HERE to see furniture highlights. OSV is more than just a living museum and offers, lectures, special exhibits and special events to capture the interest of the most dedicated antiquarian. 

Historic New England

Still looking for more to do this winter? Check out the EVENT page at Historic New England for a huge variety of stimulating presentations ranging from a tour of Chestnut Street in Salem, Mass to a lecture concerning the 75th anniversary of the 1938 hurricane. Historic New England has 36 properties, open and available to the public.   

Historic Deerfield Village

September 1956, Magazine Antiques

Historic Deerfield Village in Deerfield, Mass is another great destination with homes to visit, lectures to attend and special exhibits to capture your imagination. Click on their OVERVIEW page where you'll learn a lot. Be prepared to stay a while though!

And don't forget about our next meeting on December 9th, at 7:30 pm at the Congregational Church, where guest speaker Mike Pride will speak about, 

Our War: A new look at New Hampshire in the Civil War.

Bring a guest!

HALLOWEEN AT THE WIGWAM

By 6 pm, darkness had descended upon the village as ghouls, ghosts, goblins and yes, a few princesses, a couple of baseball players, ninjas, Superman and even a miniature Tom Brady, wandered about in a heavy mist in search of candy. Under the watchful eye of members of our police force, fire department and many parents, a safe, festive atmosphere unfolded for our younger, smaller citizens. 

The Wigwam, built in 1839 as a Methodist Chapel. 

As is the tradition, the Historical Society of Amherst opened its Wigwam Museum to visitors and trick or treaters to mix a little history with the forage for sugar. Snickers and M&M's may be sweet, but after all, what's sweeter than the history of Souhegan West from 1733?

Wigwam curator Chris Marshall met our tiny guests in the foyer, passed out candy and directed them into the museum. Chris thinks that although the weather was mild, the light rain reduced the guest count to 500 or so, from what normally reaches 800.

Evan Superman "dropped in" for a visit.

Our resident ghoul who told kids that the "Society lets him out once a year to greet visitors," comforts Jackie Marshall as the entourage of enthusiastic kids began. 

Several Princesses and a Civil War veteran (we like this kid, maybe he'll speak at our next meeting that concerns Amherst's role in the Civil War) proceed by the Concord Coach after bravely passing our ghoul.

The Concord Coach, built in Concord, NH in 1849 

Just one day after winning their third World Series in a decade and their first at home in fabled Fenway Park, one of the bearded players joined us in Amherst for our festivities. He told us that Fenway, the oldest major league baseball stadium in use, opened on April 20, 1912 just five days after the RMS Titanic sank near Newfoundland. 

All the youngsters and their parents enjoyed their journey through the Wigwam. We hope that this spark ignites a moment of curiosity and that many will choose to investigate the Historical Society of Amherst and learn of their hometowns rich history. To discover more about your town, click here to peruse the Society's website. 

Thanks to all who came out tonight to visit the Wigwam, those who donated candy and to members Rob Maxfield, Katrina Holman, Rommy Krush, Judith Jones, and Chris, Jackie and Nathalie Marshall who manned the post. And don't forget about our next meeting on December 9th, at 7:30 pm at the Congregational Church, where guest speaker Mike Pride will speak about, 

Our War: A new look at New Hampshire in the Civil War.

Bring a guest!

Do you have something to share? Send it to randpeck@gmail.com

Our Museums

are located on Middle Street in Amherst Village and are full of interesting artifacts, pictures, paintings and other pertinent historical items. Stop in for a visit and learn a little about your town. This may inspire you to return to learn a lot!

Both museums, located within walking distance of one another, are open on the Second Saturday of each month from May through October from 1 to 4 pm. They're also open  and accommodate large groups of citizens during the July 4th celebration and during Antiques on the Green in September.  

What's that you say? You're not available during those times? No problem, curators Susan Fischer and Chris Marshall, with some advanced notice, can arrange for your group to step back in time and and learn of your past when it is convenient. 

The Chapel Museum, built in 1858, is located at the corner of Middle and Church Streets in Amherst Village. It's primary function was to serve the Congregational Church during the winter months, but as well has seen duty as a school room as late as the 1950's while the Clark School was being built. 

Curator Susan Fischer and friends repairing the dehumidifier that helps protect the collections.

For those of us who are fortunate enough to be an alumni of a one or two room schoolhouse, you'll feel right at home as you enter the Chapel Museum. The high ceilings, creaking floors, tall windows and even the familiar, musty aroma will return you to an earlier time. 

Maps, photography, paintings, scrap books, post cards, written records and Civil War artifacts can be found here. You've heard of Amherst's buggy whip factory? With a staff of 18 in 1832, they were among the towns largest employers and you can see one of their whips here. 

Curator Chris Marshall, at the entrance to the Wigwam Museum on Middle Street. Chris is preparing for the nearly one thousand trick-or-treaters that will visit during Halloween. But why do they call it the Wigwam? A new, much steeper roof line was created during the renovation of 1879, causing local citizens to designate it as "The Wigwam." Of course!

Taken at the same spot where Chris is standing above, you can see in this 1920 photo that they even painted a sign identifying it as the Wigwam.

A little larger look at the museum that was constructed in 1839 as the Methodist Church.

Our Concord Coach and Abbot-Downing of Concord, New Hampshire have fascinating histories. Some of those facts concerning our coach are listed below. But the best way to learn about this unique treasure is to stop by the Wigwam for a visit.

Built in 1849 and acquired by the Historical Society of Amherst, NH 119 years later in 1968.

From the AMHERST CITIZEN.

Jackie Marshall holding The Boston Post Cane, another example of a Wigwam treasure.

In 1909, Boston Post editor Edwin Grozier, dispatched 700 ebony and gold capped canes to the selectman of 700 towns in New England. They were to be issued to that towns oldest male citizen. Women were included by the mid 1930's though. The cane, that came to be known as THE BOSTON POST CANE, would be passed on to the next oldest citizen upon the previous holders death. Many towns still engage in this tradition, but numerous canes have been lost, stolen or destroyed. Interesting stories exist though about canes lost for decades that have re-surfaced in attics or returned by a purchaser, found at a flea market. Ours still exists, is on display at the Wigwam Museum and last issued to long time resident Gladys Pestana.

Made by J.F. Fradley and Co of New York, they were constructed of African ebony and a 14-carat gold, engraved cap. Barbara Staples from Mass has written several books about the Boston Post Cane clearing up much misinformation. 

In fact, here's one of her books. She's written another concerning Massachusetts and plans two more about Maine and Rhode Island. I have a particular interest in this relic as a former owner of our home, Charles "Tink" Pherson (1860-1951); blacksmith, wheelwright, coach maker and lumberman possessed it for many years.

You may remember a previous post concerning gravestones in New Hampshire. This is a photo of Moses Nichols gravestone (1790) located behind the town-hall. Moses was a veteran of the Revolutionary War and his site is marked with a veterans marker indicating this. Our own Marie Grella has gone to great lengths to mark these graves during certain holidays. These markers, purchased new from a Pennsylvania company, are paid for through private philanthropy but that pool of donors Marie advised, is diminishing. If you'd like to lend a hand, contributions can be sent to PO Box 86, Amherst, NH 03031. (My check is in the mail Marie...really!)

These are two of the many different veterans grave markers that have been used over the years. Not long ago Jackie Marshall and Marie Grella found a large cache of these markers in a town building, obscured deep beneath years of accumulation. They pulled on rubber gloves, dug them out and cleaned them before displaying them at the Wigwam. Reusing these antiques by placing them on local graves was considered, but pilferage of vintage items like these quickly dissuaded them. 

Taken in front of the Brick School c1912. Elna, row 2, 3rd from left. Allen row 3, 1st from left.

Another interesting site is the Archives room at the Amherst Town Library that's abundant with reference material. Of particular interest are the oral histories with prominent citizens that are available on CD's and tape. 

I recently listened to Elna (1902-1995) and Allen Howard (1902-1986) speak of village life before electricity and plumbing found their way to Amherst. We live in their home and have read and heard much about this colorful local couple, but could now put a voice with their pictures. Can anyone shed light as to the other class members in this photograph?

Just one of the many resources in the library's archives room maintained by the the Historical Society.

Would you like to join the Historical Society of Amherst, NH?
It's simple. Click HERE to find our Home page and then click on MEMBERSHIP in the far left column.

We look forward to seeing you at a meeting.

Do you have something that you'd like to share on this blogsite?
Contact me at
randpeck@gmail.com

Author and historian Glenn Knoblock spoke to the members of the Historical Society of Amherst, NH on the evening of 7 October 2013, as the remnants of tropical storm Karen swept northward through the village.

Guest speaker Glenn Knoblock and the Historical Society's Neil Benner in the Johnson Room at the Amherst town library.

Glenn is a native Ohioan who migrated to New Hampshire in 1984. Armed with a BA in history from Bowling Green State University, he's a prolific author concentrating on New Hampshire history and military veterans who have received little or no recognition. 

Tonight though, his topic was NH Cemeteries and Gravestones and spoke of the history that these "deeply personal works of art and the craftsman who created them represent." Each "stone page" tells a story and gives insight into the genealogical book of New Hampshire. Through a slide presentation he told of how gravestones came about, spoke of their creators, the artwork, their locations and how they "move about" within a cemetery. As most things in life it's all about economics as to who could afford a $9 headstone in 1776 and that persons standing in the community as to where the gravesite was located with reference to the church building.

Glenn leading a tour and discussion in Hampton, NH. 3 October 2000.

Photo: Steve Jusseaume, Hampton Union.

One of many in Glenn's collection, this is a rubbing of a stone belonging to Major Edward Oakes who died on 12 March 1812, aged - 39 years in Grafton, NH.  Note that this is a large stone for its time and the artwork is elaborate. It's unclear though as to whether "Major" is his first name or an Army rank. 

The Old Burying Ground, which dates from 1735 from behind the Amherst Town Hall, or third Hillsborough County Courthouse built in 1823. 

If you find that Glenn's presentation has spurred an interest in cemeteries and gravestones, you need not travel any further than our own village burial sites which have wonderful examples of the stones that he spoke of. If you walk the graveyards, you'll notice flags and markers identifying veterans and the wars in which they fought. These are there through the efforts of Marie Grella and students from Souhegan High School who volunteered to step up.

Glenn's presentation was made possible through a grant from the New Hampshire  Humanities Council. Would you like to know more about Glenn and the books that he's written? Then click over to Amazon to learn of his vast interests and books that he has written.

JUST A REMINDER

Our next meeting will take place at the Congregational Church on 9 December 2013 at 7:30 pm, where speaker Mike Pride will talk about "Our War, a new look at New Hampshire in the Civil War." These presentations are open to the public... we just hope that you join and support the society!

To contribute material for this site, please email Rand Peck at
randpeck@gmail.com

Amherst, New Hampshire

Antiques on the Green

After several days of inclement weather, Saturday, 14 September 2013 dawned clear and cool for our 18th Annual Antiques on the Green event. As the day progressed though clouds moved in and the temperature dropped a few degrees; but none of the nearly 700 who visited lacked enthusiasm for a wonderful gathering of antiques in this very historic setting.

Vendors on the east end of the Common by the Town Hall or the third Hillsborough County Courthouse built in 1825. Behind this building is New Hampshire's oldest public cemetery established in 1735. Just to the right out of view is the Means Mansion, where  Franklin Pierce (14th President of the US) married Jane Appleton Means in 1834.

Any successful antique show must attract an oriental or Persian rug vendor and we enjoyed a peddler with an interesting display. To be an antique a Persian rug must be 80 years old and there were several of those on hand last Saturday.

The Congregational Church entrance was manned by Don and Carol Holden.

Just a few of the enthusiastic crowd who found great buys and old friends among the dealers.

Music was provided on the Common by COW HAMPSHIRE FOLK, playing as they say, "old time, new time and good-time acoustic folk music." Their band members hail from Amherst, Milford, Bedford and Merrimack. The band is standing near the spot where Sheriff Moses Kelly, on 18 July 1776, stood and read aloud to the citizens of Amherst, The Declaration of Independence authored by Virginia delegate Thomas Jefferson.

John Cochran and crew from the AMHERST GARDEN CENTER AND FLOWER SHOP created a beautiful display with pumpkins, apples, annuals and other produce. Visit their website to see all of the services that they provide at their store on Route 101 in Amherst.

The pumpkins were for sale.... but not the baby!

Thirty-five antique dealers from around New England enjoyed very good sales at our 18th Annual Show. Here are just a few of those who displayed a fine variety of antiques on the north side of the Common before the Second Meetinghouse built in 1774 by Ephraim Baker.

Jason Hackler from the NH ANTIQUE CO-OP and antique watch specialist David Searles were on hand to solve mysteries concerning your antiques. From "what is it?" to "how much is this worth?" they were able to help out a long line of folks with questions.

Just some of the Historical Society members on hand today to help out and insure that all went smoothly. L to R Tracy and Bill Veillette, Bill Wichman, past president Janice McDermott, Rick Cricenti and current president Dave Clark, manning the Society's tent, selling books, t-shirts and other items of interest that help fund the organization. 

Located just a little west of the Common and past the Soldiers Monument is the Congregational Chapel built in 1858. The Congregational church was unheated but the chapel was and served the congregation during the cold winter months. Its also seen duty serving the Amherst School System as temporary space while new schools were under construction. Today it serves as one of two Society museums, the other known as the Wigwam is located on Middle Street as well. Both museums are open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from May through October and house interesting and valuable items concerning our history. 

Thanks very much for taking the time to read about the Amherst NH Historical Society's ANTIQUES ON THE GREEN. A lot of work is required by a lot of people to make this the successful, southern New Hampshire antique show of the fall season. Not only is this a major fund raising event for the society, but also its greatest opportunity to fund its annual Marion Young Memorial Scholarship. To learn more about our scholarship, click on the document above.

This is the list of antique dealers who helped make our 18th Annual Event such a big success. It's a little difficult to read, but if you click it on it will become considerably larger and easier to read.

Also, take a moment to visit our sponsors

New Hampshire Antique CO-OP

Amherst Garden Center & Flower Shop

Visual Persuasion LLC

Would you like to learn more about Amherst, NH, whose history dates to 1760?

Then here's a great way to start. Both of these books, and others, are available at the Amherst Historical Society. The Walking Tours of Amherst Village is an 88 page paperback that tells you everything you ever wanted to know about Amherst Village and all of her structures. Amherst Historical Moments, written by Amherst residents Bob Rowe and Bill Veillette, is a 148 page hardback that covers the history of the entire town. Both will make a great addition to your library. To purchase these titles or learn how to join the historical society, visit the Amherst Historical Society website.

Did you know that the entire Amherst Village Historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places Inventory? Click on the REGISTER to learn more about this, but be prepared, it's a large file that downloads quickly but scrolls slowly.

Do you have pertinent information that you'd like to share with other members? Send Rand Peck an email, with photos, if you have them to

randpeck@gmail.com

He'll create a blog post, similar to this one, and get the information out.