Massachusetts
Recent Articles
William T. G. Morton and the Ether Mask
This exhibit at the Wellesley Historical Society tells a surprisingly important story in the history of medicine and connects that story directly to Wellesley. Dr. William T. G. Morton was a dentist who became one of the central figures in the introduction of ether anesthesia. Born in 1819, Morton studied dentistry and eventually established a […]
Thoreau’s Night on Mount Greylock
One of the markers on the summit of Mount Greylock preserves the words of Henry David Thoreau, recalling a night he spent here in July 1844. While many visitors come simply to enjoy the view, Thoreau came seeking something more. His journey to Greylock became one of the defining experiences of his early life and […]
Mourning Painting
One of the unexpected discoveries during our visit to the Dedham Museum was this small watercolor known as a mourning painting. At first glance, it appears to be a peaceful landscape—a willow tree shading a funerary urn and memorial tablet. Looking more closely, however, it becomes a deeply personal expression of love and loss. The […]
Bible Box
While touring the Nichols House Museum in Boston, one piece in Dr. Arthur Nichols’ office immediately caught my attention. Resting on its stand was a beautifully carved oak Bible box, a reminder that even a physician’s office could contain objects that reflected an appreciation for history and craftsmanship. Although often called a “Bible box,” this […]
Theobald Mathew Monument
History often reveals itself in unexpected ways. Walking through Salem, I noticed only the base of this monument. The inscription immediately caught my attention: “Erected by the followers of the Very Reverend Theobald Mathew, Apostle of Temperance.“ Until that moment, I knew very little about Father Theobald Mathew or why the people of Salem believed […]
Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Some memorials ask you to stop and reflect. The Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Worcester is one of those places. Unlike many war memorials that focus on statues or monuments, this memorial invites visitors to walk quietly through the landscape. Granite monuments surround a peaceful reflecting pond, each bearing words that tell the story of […]
M42 Jump Jacket
While visiting the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, one exhibit drew my attention because it represented more than a uniform. It represented the courage of the young men who volunteered for one of the most dangerous assignments of World War II. Displayed behind glass is an M42 jump jacket worn by Private Duane Tedrick of […]
A Dress from Paris
One of the exhibits that caught my attention at the Wellesley Historical Society was this elegant green and blue striped dress, a reminder that fashion can tell us as much about history as letters, photographs, or documents. Created by the House of Doeuillet in Paris between 1905 and 1906, the dress was worn by a […]
Shaw Memorial
Every time I visit Boston Common, I find myself stopping to admire this remarkable relief by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Not only is it one of the finest works of public art in America, but it captures its subject with extraordinary power and dignity. Rather than glorifying war, the sculpture honors the courage, sacrifice, and determination of […]
Edward A. Filene Plague
Walking along the fence surrounding the Boston Common, I came across this bronze plaque honoring Edward A. Filene. While many people recognize the Filene name from the famous Boston department store, few realize the tremendous influence he had beyond retail. Filene believed that ordinary working families deserved access to affordable credit and financial opportunity. His […]
Young Johnny Appleseed
While traveling west on Route 2 through central Massachusetts, I made a stop at the Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center in Lancaster. Greeting visitors outside the entrance is this bronze sculpture of a young John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, one of America’s most enduring folk heroes. Although the visitor center is in Lancaster, it celebrates the […]
Electric Permanent Wave Machine
One of the things I enjoy most about local history museums is discovering objects that tell the story of everyday life. This unusual machine immediately caught my attention. At first glance, it looked more like an industrial invention than something you would expect to find in a beauty salon. This is an Electric Permanent Wave […]
