Keene's Culinary Experience...

The New Haven Connecticut Register just wrote an article about the varied and delicious culinary scene in Keene.  The Innkeepers who live here in the Monadnock region know we have great dining options for our guests, its nice when other people not from this area recognize it as well.

Click here to read the whole article.

Keene Sentinel: MonIFF Int'l Film Festival III a BIG success

MonIFF, the Monadnock International Film Festival just wrapped up its third season and it is being touted as a big success. Check out this article in the Keene Sentinel for all the details.

Colonial Theater in Keene: MonIFF 

Washington Post: New Hampshire #1 for Libraries

Of course this OpEd in the Washington Post refers to libraries in the entire state of New Hampshire.  However, the library in Peterborough received a special mention because it is the first tax supported library...in the world!!!

Old postcard image of Peterborough, NH Town Library

"One-Woman Bean-to-Bar Operation in Peterborough"

The Monadnock Region in the news...

The Boston Globe recently wrote an article featuring Neely Cohen and her recently opened chocolate shop named Vicuna Chocolate Factory.

Neely has a fascinating story of a journey that started in Peterborough and led her to New York, Israel, Chicago and South America before back home to Peterborough and her attention getting chocolate factory.  Read her story in the link provided above...or even better...make a trip to Peterborough and taste her fabulous chocolates and teas.

Spring Vacation: Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Some schools in the region have their spring break next week. What will you do with the kids? Here’s an idea: Become a tourist in your own hometown, commonly known as a "stay-cation"! After all, how many times have you said you’ve wanted to climb Mt. Monadnock, visit a local museum or even stay at a local B&B?

Here are some tips to making your hometown “stay-cation” a success:

1. 
Visit to your local Chamber of Commerce for guides and maps. You may think you know your town, but you'd be surprised by all that is new to see and explore.


2. Go to the local library. Libraries often have special discounted rates and good resources for children about your hometown
3. Go to a restaurant you've never tried.


4. Sign up for a tour – such as a walking tour, museum tour or historical tour.


5. Park the car and walk! It's amazing how different your familiar surrounding looks on foot.
6. Book a night at your local hotel or B&B. You can't imagine how thrilling it is for kids to spend the night just minutes from home but still a sleepaway
7. Take pictures, have your kids send postcards to their neighbors and friends. They may think you're a little crazy, but you'll have fun!

Greater Monadnock Earth Days 2013

In the Monadnock Region, Earth Day doesn’t just come and go on April 22. Thanks to the efforts of Antioch University New England’s Environmental Studies Department, the Greater Monadnock Earth Days Festival spans a full two weeks – packed with workshops, seminars, community service projects and more to celebrate the region’s commitment to a healthy community and planet.

The fun (okay, work, but it’s fun if you do it with your neighbors and friends!) begins on Saturday, April 13 with a litter pick-up event, Green Up Keene.  The next week includes the Monadnock Earth Day Festival on April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting with another clean-up event at the Ashuelot Trail in Keene, followed by an expo, sustainable skills workshop and more.

Earth Days continue the following week on college campuses throughout the region, such as at Keene State College’s earth week events, Marlboro College’s “Wild and Scenic Films Festival”, Franklin Pierce University’s Earth Day Fair on April 22nd and Campus Garden Building Party, a garden blessing and more.

The Earth Days conclude at Keene State College on April 27 with the Campus Ecology Solar Fest.

For more information, visit Greater Monadnock Earth Days 2013 Facebook page.

Bookstore Tourism in the Monadnock Region

Travelers who are bibliophiles can’t help but wander into local bookstores when visiting a new place. Visiting an independent, used, or antiquarian bookstore is an exciting adventure for book lovers … the thrill of the “local authors” section, the delight in finding a rare book, and then there’s the relaxation of sitting down and reading the first page of a coveted hardcover.

According to Larry Portzline, the author of “Bookstore Tourism: The Book Addict's Guide to Planning & Promoting Bookstore Road Trips for Bibliophiles & Other Bookshop Junkies”, bookstore tourism is a growing grassroots travel niche that encourages book lovers to plan group trips to cities and towns with interesting, fun and unique independent bookshops.  “It taps into this thirst for literary adventure,” he writes. Portzline suggests combine your bookstore trip with other literary attractions, such as writing retreat centers, sites of well-known books and tours of famous authors’ homes.

Here are some bookstores along the way if you plan a literary adventure in the Monadnock Region. Asterisked (*) booksellers are open by appointment or by chance only, so make sure you call ahead. And don’t miss the upcoming “Round the Mountain Book Sale” on April 11-14, 2013. For more information about this sale and participating bookstores visit:

Aard Books*
31 Russell Ave., Troy NH
603-242-3638.

Bequaert Old Books*
37 Rt 119 W, Fitzwilliam, NH
603-585-3448

Callahan & Company Booksellers*
Rte. 123, Sharon, NH
603-924-3726

Eagle Books*
19 West St., Right off Central Square in Keene, NH

603-357-8721 


Homestead Books
221 East Main St. (Rt 101), Marlborough, NH

603-876-4213


Hurley Books, Inc.*

1752 Rte. 12, Westmoreland, NH 03467
603-399-4342 


Ray Boas, Bookseller*

On the Common, 44 Elm St., Walpole, NH 03608

603-756-9900


Ted Cole Books*
7 West Street, Antrim, NH 03440

Books also for sale at New Hampshire Antique Coop in Milford, NH
603-588-3145


The Book Preserve*
33 North Main St., Antrim, NH
603-588-4020


Toadstool Bookshops
3 Locations:
  12 Depot Sq., Peterborough, NH
  222 West St., Keene, NH
  586 Nashua St., Milford, NH


Wearing Plaid for a Cause

You could say that wearing plaid is reserved for Scots … or New England hunters.

But here in the Monadnock Region we’re asking everyone to don their plaid shirts, skirts, coats and even socks and hats.

It’s just for one day, we promise. And it’s for a good cause.

Plaid Friday, which this year falls on November 23, 2013, is a nationwide effort to promote local, independent businesses in one of the most busiest shopping days of the year, “Black Friday,” where shoppers usually crowd into big box stores to get holiday deals. On this day, citizens are instead encouraged to wear plaid clothing – and shop locally -- to show support for locally owned and operated businesses.

Plaid Friday is part of a larger effort of a national “Shift Your Shopping” campaign to buy more local products and services. Locally, Monadnock Buy Local is championing the Plaid Friday effort.

“The New England economy could use a boost,” says Jen Risley, Monadnock Buy Local’s program manager. “That’s why we’re asking everyone to shift their holiday shopping to locally owned and independent businesses, local artists and craftspeople.  Doing so will stimulate the local economy and help support job growth in our community.”

To join the fun, make sure you visit one of the Monadnock Region’s Plaid Friday Hubs on November 23 … owners will take a picture of you decked out in your finest plaid, and answer questions you may have about how you can support the “buy local” movement.

Buy Local Hubs:

Howard’s Leather in Spofford
Inn at Valley Farms in Walpole
Life is Sweet Candy Store in Keene
MindFull Books & Ephemera in Jaffrey
One Stop Country Pet Supply in Keene
Pocketful of Rye in Keene
Prime Roast Coffee Roasters in Keene
Toadstool Bookshop in Keene
Walpole Valley Farms in Walpole

Monadnock Region’s Public Forests

Many of us who live in the Monadnock Region have a deep connection with the surrounding forests – perhaps it’s because wherever you are in the area you’re never very far away from trees – lots of them.

New Hampshire, in fact, is the second most forested state in the nation (number one is Maine); forests are spread over 4.8 million acres – that’s 84 percent of the entire state.

Seems like an incredible statistic when you consider that deforestation on a global level is at an all time high (about 32 million acres of forest worldwide are destroyed every year – equal roughly in size to New York State) and that only 27 percent of the entire U.S. is forested land.

When staying at a Monadnock Region inn or B&B put on your hiking shoes and explore some of our beautiful and protected forest locations. It’s a perfect way to go “leaf peeping” during the fall season.

Fox State Forest * Hillsborough * 1,445 acres
This forest has been a State of New Hampshire research station since 1933. Open daily with more than 20 miles of trails for hiking and cross country skiing. The forest has an education center and farmhouse/office.

Shieling State Forest * Peterborough * 45 acres
Enjoy more than 2 miles of self-guided foot trails through valleys, tree-covered ridges and even a wildflower preserve. There is also a learning center with an exhibit area. Located ¼ mile south of the Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough. For more information call 603-271-2214.

Gap Mountain * Jaffrey/Troy * 1,100 acres
A fascinating 1.5 mile to the top that includes old cellar holes, apple trees, stone walls, meadows, and an old unfinished ski tow. At the top, enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Monadnock and enjoy picking wild blueberries in the summer.

Heald Tract * Wilton * 975 acres
This forest provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, birding, nature walks and picnicking. And, there’s plenty of wildlife to watch: moose, beaver, otter, hares, blue heron, fox and deer.

Madame Sherri Forest * West Chesterfield * 513 acres
The forest was named for an eccentric wealthy woman, Madame Antoinette Sherri, who worked as a costume designer for the Ziegfeld Follies in the 1920s and built her “castle” in the woods in West Chesterfield. The castle was destroyed by fire in 1962, but the foundation and grand stone staircase remain with the forest grown up all around it.

McCabe Forest * Antrim * 192 acres
This forest was once in danger of being developed into a golf course and/or a housing complex with river views. Instead, owner Dorothy McCabe deeded the land (and her home) in 1982 to the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests to manage and protect. Today, you can walk along 2 mile loop of diverse and lovely trails through meadows and forests along the Contoocook River.

Monson Village * Wilton (but must be accessed through Hollis) * 215 acres
A 3-mile trail that is steeped in history: You’ll find a restored Colonial-era house, old cellar holes and stonewalls. Monson Village was New Hampshire’s first inland pioneer settlement.

And the list of Monadnock Region forests goes on!

Here are a few more forests you may want to explore if you happen to be staying in one of these Monadnock Region towns.  Make sure you ask your Monadnock Region inn or B&B host for more information and directions:

Alison Nims Piper Memorial Forest * Sullivan * 199 acres
Blaine Forest * Jaffrey * 167 acres
Olson Family Forest * Sullivan * 775 acres
Parker Hill Forest * Roxbury * 89 acres
Rumrill Family Forest * Stoddard * 89 acres
Stearns-Lamot Forest * Rindge * 123 acres
Stephens Forest * Wilton * 120 acres
Taves Forest * Roxbury/Marlborough * 175 acres
Thurston V. Williams Family Forest * Stoddard * 379 acres
Welch Family Farm Forest * Hancock * 120 acres

En Plein Air: Art in the Great Outdoors

“En plein air” is a French term that translates to “in the open air.” In the art world, the expression is used to describe artists who take their canvases, brushes, paints and create their art outside, in the natural light.

Much like creating art “en plein air” is an exceptional way to capture nature’s beauty on canvas, viewing art in the great outdoors – in the natural light -- is quite a different experience than viewing artwork in an indoor gallery.

In the Monadnock Region, the biggest outdoor art exhibit is “Art in the Park,” which takes place at the Ashuelot Park on West Street in Keene every Labor Day weekend. This year’s 54th Annual Art in the Park, which is run by the Monadnock Area Artists Association falls on September 1-2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

More than 80 artists from around New England are represented and will exhibit and sell their work; there is also an area for students from the region’s two high schools to exhibit their artwork. There is also a raffle to fund art scholarships.

For more information visit Monadnock Area Artists for more information.

Once Art in the Park is over you can get your local artist fix in a few more weekends of art events this fall.

These two events are studio tours that take you right into an artists’ working environment:

September 15-16: The 7th Annual Hillsborough Open Studio Tour. This take you to artists’ studios within a 20 mile radius of downtown Hillsborough.

October 6-7 (Columbus Day Weekend):

17th Annual Monadnock Open Studio Art Tour: This tour travels through the towns surrounding Mt. Monadnock: Chesham, Dublin, Hancock, Harrisville, Jaffrey, Marlborough, Peterborough and Sharon.

Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour: Another wonderful tour that takes you through the Monadnock region including the towns of New Ipswich, Rindge, Swanzey, Spofford, Keene, Nelson, Stoddard and Antrim.

28th Annual NH Wool Arts Tour: The tour features fiber artists who work in wool from local sheep and alpacas, and farms that sell yarn and wool.  This event is fun for the whole family and is great for people who enjoy the fiber arts or would simply like to meet the animals, enjoy the fall colors and visit some farms.

November 3 & 4:

Keene Art Tour. A self-guided art studio tour featuring 19 artists in 13 studios in Keene, New Hampshire.  Featuring painting, pottery, furniture, jewelry, drawing, sculpture and more.  Free and open to the public. Pick up your brochure and map at our headquarters, Creative Encounters at 18 Main Street in Keene.

Pitcher Mountain: Easy Climb, Great Views and Wild Blueberries

Pitcher Mountain in Stoddard, N.H. is 2,153 feet tall but it will perhaps be the easiest New Hampshire mountain you will ever climb -- and it comes with all the “great view” perks of a tougher climb.

The hike to the top (300 vertical feet from the trailhead) is less than ½ mile (0.4 miles to be exact); the main trail (the one to the right of the parking lot and blazed with white triangles) is a well-traveled wide fire road through what is known as Andorra Forest, owned and managed by the Faulkner family for more than 70 years.

The hike gets those who are even just moderately fit up to the summit in about 20 minutes with barely breaking a sweat (there is another rocky/bolder trail option to the left of the parking lot, blazed with blue if you’d like more of a challenge). The easy-peasy path will reward you along the way with bucolic views of the 200-acre Pitcher Mountain Farm, which raises Scottish Highland beef cattle.

Once at the top you can see, on a clear day, the southern portion of Vermont’s Green Mountains, most of the Monadnock Region (including Mt. Monadnock) and even the White Mountains (Mt. Lafayette) if the sky is really clear. The 50-foot fire tower at the top can be climbed to get an even better 360 degree view.

View of mountains from fire tower

 If you happen to climb Pitcher Mountain in mid- to late-August, be sure to bring along a coffee can, basket or bucket to collect the mountain’s wealth of wild high-bush blueberries (the small, dark and incredibly sweet kind) – there’s 50 acres of these berry bushes at or near the summit. Payment is by honor system at the trailhead in the parking lot – give an honest estimate of how much you picked – and drop a dollar or two per pint on your way out.

Easy climb. Great views. And sweet blueberries to pick in August. You can’t ask more of a mountain hike. Plus the drive to Pitcher Mountain on Route 123 is a scenic pleasure.

A Sanctuary Among the Pine Trees

Even if you are not particularly spiritually or religiously inclined, a visit to the Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge will soothe your soul.

This nondenominational open air cathedral sits on a restful hilltop with a splendid view of Mt. Monadnock in the distance. While the pine trees that make up the seating area in the cathedral were hit hard in a 2008 ice storm, there are enough trees still standing to give an “enclosed” feel to the outdoor chapel.

Outdoor cathedral with views of Mt Monadnock

The Cathedral of the Pines was created by Sibyl and Douglas Sloan III to honor those who sacrificed their lives in World War II, including their son Lt. Sanderson (“Sandy”) Sloan, a pilot who purchased the land in Rindge in hopes of building a home for him and his bride when he returned from the war.

But the young B-17 pilot’s life was cut short when he was shot down over Germany; he died and never returned to build his home. His parents created Cathedral of the Pines on the property he purchased as an interfaith shrine to Sandy and a national memorial to those who have served their country.

Cathedral Tower

The Cathedral’s website notes: “It was their hope that interfaith understanding would help bring world peace.”

Today, the Cathedral of the Pines, a nonprofit organization that is supported 100 percent by private donations, is the site of many weddings, ceremonies, church services and events. The Cathedral of the Pines, which encompasses 236 acres – some of which are beautifully landscaped with flowers and pathways – is open free to the public daily from May through October. The site welcomes visitors to participate in events, mediate in the outdoor chapels and learn about its history in the small museum on the grounds.  There is also a small gift shop on the premises.

So, if you are visiting the Monadnock Region, stop by the Cathedral of the Pines for an hour or two of respite from the world. Bring your lunch (there are picnic tables), walk the grounds, stay a while to gaze at the splendid view … and prepared to be rejuvenated.

The Cathedral of the Pines is located off Rte. 119, a few miles east of Rte. 202. 
Follow the signs upon entering Rindge, NH.

Become a Localvore

It’s easy – not to mention healthy -- to eat local food in the height of the summer season in New England. In New Hampshire, we celebrate Eat Local Month the entire month of August (August 5-11 is NH Farmers’ Market Week.

How can you learn about the art of preserving, growing and even foraging for your own food?  The Monadnock Localvores have workshops almost year-round on just how to do that. These workshops are run by knowledgeable farmers and backyard enthusiasts who will expertly guide you through the art of gathering your own mushrooms, cooking with your CSA bounty, baking bread, making cheese and even brewing your own beer or local apple wine.

Visit the Monadnock Region, the unspoiled Southwest corner of New Hampshire, and take advantage of the opportunity to "eat local" at one of our charming B&Bs or Inns serving the most scrumptious breakfasts you will find anywhere.

Here are some upcoming workshops (click through to link to find out pricing and remaining slots available):

• August 16, 2012 (10 a.m.-12 p.m.) Wild Mushroom Foray 
• September 6, 2012 (6-8 p.m.) Brewing a Local Beer
• October 14, 2012 (2-4 p.m.) Apple Wine Making
• October 21, 2012 (1-3 p.m.) Beginner Beekeeping

I Scream, You Scream...

It was 1984 when President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month. He also proclaimed the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day, where all people of this great nation should observe the day with “appropriate ceremonies and activities.”

Ice cream lovers in the U.S. will forevermore tip their cones to the 40th president of the United States for this awesome proclamation. We can eat our favorite dessert with abandon throughout the hottest month of the year – and relish some sweet celebrations held everywhere on the third Sunday – this year held on July 15 – that’s right, this Sunday!

Before digging into those cones and dishes laden with frozen desserts, here are some fun facts courtesy of the International Ice Cream Association) about ice cream:

• America is the ice cream capital of the world – it produces 1.5 million gallons per year; each American consumes an average of 22 quarts per year.
• Not surprisingly, vanilla is the most popular flavor in the U.S. (it comprises about 20 to 29 percent of all ice cream sales); chocolate is a distant second and garners about 10 percent of the market.
• One out of every five ice cream eaters admit to binging on ice cream in the middle of the night; this study discovered that men binge in the middle of the night more than women.
• About 9 percent of all the milk produced in the U.S. is used for ice cream.

In the Monadnock Region we are fortunate to have our own share of locally-made, high quality (okay, its amazing!) ice cream.  Below is a list of some of your local innkeepers favorite ice cream places.

• The best known in the area may be Walpole Creamery, which not only sells out of its Scoop Shop in Walpole, but is available in many retail locations in the region.  Their ice cream is of the highest quality and some of the tastiest around!
• Kimball Farm in Jaffrey is known for its huge portions, extensive variety of flavors, and great quality.  It is more than just an ice cream stand, it's more like a clam shack that's not on the beach since they serve plenty of lobster rolls, fried clams, burgers, fish and chips and chicken finger baskets.
• Connolly Brothers Farm in Temple is a true farm experience.  You drive up the dirt entrance road till you reach the dairy barn...cows on the right and dairy store on the left.  If you drive up on the right day you can walk in on them (the owners...not the cows) actually making and packing the ice cream.  This is not a scoop shop, their delicious home made ice cream is available in cups or pints or as cookie sandwiches and chocolate covered pops.  Don't forget to thank the cows on your way out :)
• Step back in time at the Central Square Ice Cream Shop in Hillsborough, an old fashioned soda-shop and parlor reminiscent of a bygone era.  The ice cream is homemade and worthy of a stop!

The latest local entry into the frozen dessert business is Stonewall Farm, a non-profit educational farm in Keene that is now producing ice cream from certified organic milk from its own cows.To commemorate the day with a celebration Reagan would have most certainly approved of, visit Stonewall Farm this Sunday where the farm will be celebrating National Ice Cream Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you get there early (at 9 a.m.) you’ll catch the “Bikes for Bovines” fundraiser race.

It Takes a Village … to Hold a Music Festival

Actually it takes many villages – more than a dozen -- in the Monadnock Region to host the annual summer Monadnock Music Festival. The village concert festival – now in its 46th year -- is a series of free classical music concerts set in intimate New England venues – from town halls to churches to historic meeting houses.

“What has always made Monadnock Music special is the intimacy of our venues and the quality and range of offerings across a spectrum of periods, styles and genres,” says William Chapman, executive director of Monadnock Music.

The 2012 summer festival season – July 6-August 11 -- brings some rising stars and renowned artists; selections include a season-long examination of the works of Virgil Thomson, the return of opera, Sanford Sylvan and Appalachian Spring. At the helm of the season is Monadnock Music’s new artistic director, Gil Rose, the former artistic director of Boston Modern Orchestra Project and Opera Boston, and a three-time Grammy Award nominee.

The concert series is a perfect excuse to catch a world-class concert, and explore some old New England villages in the Monadnock Region such Peterborough, Harrisville, Wilton, Francestown, Walpole, Jaffrey and Dublin.  It is also a way to get to know village residents, who come out in droves to support the concert series; the goal of the concert series, after all, say organizers, is to make classical music accessible to people in rural areas.

So, this summer, spend a day (or night) in some of the Monadnock Region’s most picturesque towns – and listen to some beautiful music.   Complete your evening of classical music with an overnight stay at one of our many wonderful local B&Bs or inns.

Here’s the lineup:

Note: Village Concerts are free, other concerts require ticket purchase; visit Monadnock Music  for details and reservations.

Friday, July 6, 7:30 pm – Peterborough Town House
Town House Concert (tickets required)
OPENING NIGHT

Monadnock Sinfonietta performs music commissioned by Martha Graham

Sunday, July 8, 3:00 pm – Harrisville Community Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players

Wednesday, July 11, 7:30 pm – Deering Community Church
Village Concert (free)
Guest Artists: Irina Muresanu (violin), Rob Auler (piano)

Friday, July 13, 7:30 pm – Peterborough Town House
Town House Concert (tickets required)
Guest Artist: Claremont Trio

Sunday, July 15, 3:00pm – Wilton Center Unitarian Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players

Wednesday, July 18, 7:30 pm – Keene Ahavas Achim Synagogue
Village Concert (free)
Guest Artists: Hirsch-Pinkas Duo (pianos), 
Jonathan Hess, Robert Schulz (percussion)

Friday, July 20, 7:30 pm – Peterborough Town House
Town House Concert (tickets required)
Guest artist: Alan Feinberg (piano)

Sunday, July 22, 3:00 pm – Francestown Old Meeting House
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players

Wednesday, July 25, 7:30 pm – Temple Community Church
Village Concert (free)
Guest artists: Terry Everson (trumpet), Scott Jarett (organ)

Thursday, July 26, 7:30 pm – Sullivan Congregational Church
Village Concert (free)
Guest Artists: F. A. E. Duo, Nicholas DiEugenio (violin), Chi-Chen Wu (fortepiano)

Sunday July 29, 3:00 pm – Keene Colonial Theatre
Opera Celebration (tickets required)
Guest Artists: Heather Buck (soprano), James Maddalena (baritone), Frank Kelley (tenor), Aaron Engebreth (baritone); directed and conducted by Gil Rose

Wednesday, August 1, 7:30 pm – Hancock Congregational Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players with Krista River

Thursday, August 2, 7:30 pm – Washington Congregational Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players

Saturday, August 4, 7:30 pm – Peterborough Town House
Town House Concert (tickets required)
Guest Artists: Sanford Sylvan (baritone), David Breitman (fortepiano)

Sunday, August 5, 3:00 pm – Walpole Unitarian Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Players

Wednesday August 8, 7:30 pm – Jaffrey Center
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Quartet

Friday, August 10, 7:30 pm – Peterborough All Saints’ Church
Village Concert (free)
Guest Artists: Lorelei Ensemble

Saturday, August 11, 3:00pm – Dublin Emmanuel Church
Village Concert (free)
Monadnock Quartet

Gilsum Rocks!

Forty eight years ago a Gilsum, N.H. postmaster and barber (and apparently an avid rock hound and collector) had an idea to start a “rock swap” in his hometown. The idea was not so far fetched in this tiny town about 10 miles north of Keene, since it was home to many commercial mines that operated until the 1940s that produced feldspar, mica and beryl.

While those mines have long been closed down (although one, the Beauregard Mine is available to mineral clubs by reservation only) the tradition of rocks and minerals lives on with the annual Gilsum Rock Swap & Mineral Show.

In late June this otherwise sleepy town of 807 residents comes alive (yup, it rocks!) when 6,000 to 8,000 people from all over the country roll in to attend the show. The show features about 60 dealers, swappers, collectors and distributors who buy, sell or even swap (which was the original intent of the show 48 years ago) rocks and minerals of all stripes including beryl, quartz crystals, semi-precious stones and more. The displays include not only rough cuts of these rocks, but also fossils, prized collections and semi-precious stones fashioned into beautiful jewelry.

The weekend activities include educational presentations on how semi-precious gemstones are extracted and made into jewelry and how to begin prospecting for minerals yourself. You can also crack a geode, pan for minerals and try your luck at the diamond dig site.

The town of Gilsum opens it arms to visitors for the weekend and features other events all weekend long including a daily pancake brunch, bake sale, book sale, chicken barbeque dinner and a traditional Saturday night New England ham and bean supper with all-you-can-eat homemade pies.  For overnight accommodations, contact one of the local B&Bs, Inns or Cottages.

The Gilsum Rock Swap & Mineral Show takes place this year on June 23 and 24, 2012 at the Gilsum Elementary School fields, Route 10 in Gilsum, just north of Keene, N.H. (about a 2-hour drive from Boston). Show hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Admission to the event is free, although donations are appreciated; the proceeds from contributions are earmarked for the town’s youth recreation and community programs.

And this year, as a special tribute to the originator of the event, Francis “Bunk” Malony’s entire rock collection will be on display on Saturday at the Gilsum Historical Society from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

If you love rocks and minerals – or you just love a great community event -- this is a show that you cannot miss! For more information visit Gilsum Rocks!

Secret Gardens

For a gardener, there is something enticing about a “secret garden” … those home gardens that you might catch a small but inviting glimpse of an arbor, the turn of stone path, a flower bed alive with color.   For us avid gardeners, it takes every ounce of restraint not to edge in and take a closer peek.

The best way to indulge the voyeuristic gardener in us – and to get new ideas for your own garden – is to go on a garden tour. The most popular garden tour in the Monadnock Region is the annual Secret Gardens of Keene.

The Secret Gardens of Keene tour, hosted by the Cheshire Housing Trust, is held this year (rain or shine) on June 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tour is actually a successful fundraiser for the nonprofit organization to support its mission to provide affordable housing for moderate- to low-income families (the Cheshire Housing Trust runs 63 affordable apartments or rooms in Keene, Marlborough and Hinsdale).

Each year the tour features new gardens throughout Keene – from traditional landscapes to more eclectic gardening styles. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $12 each at various locations throughout the region, or purchased at the day of the tour for $15 at Ashuelot River Park (273 West Street in Keene).

Once the Secret Gardens of Keene tour day is over, make sure you mark your calendar for The Garden Conservancy’s “Open Days” which will be held twice this year in the Monadnock Region.

The Garden Conservancy’s Monadnock Region Open Days:

• June 30, 2012, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A tour of four exquisite private family gardens in Peterborough, Harrisville and Nelson. 
• July 1, 2012, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tour includes gardens in Walpole, Alstead Center and nearby Wilmington, Vt.

Here are some tips for attending a garden tour:

• Stay on the paths. Don’t ever wander into a garden bed.
• Never take any seeds, seedlings or plants without permission.
• Don’t stop in the middle of the pathway – if you want to linger to admire a plant or take photographs let other visitors pass you.
• Don’t go into any roped off areas for any reason.
• Carpool to each location with friends in order to reduce traffic and pollution.
• Thank the host at each stop – it is a lot of work getting a garden ready to be viewed by the general public.

The best way to enjoy a garden tour is with your family or a group of friends. If you are from outside the Monadnock Region, book an overnight stay at a B&B or inn to get an early jump on the tour; and take a break during the middle of the day with lunch at one of the many Monadnock Region’s restaurants.

Mt. Monadnock: The Mountain that Stands Alone

Our region is defined by Mt. Monadnock, an Abenaki word that means “mountain that stands alone.” Mt. Monadnock, a stately mountain that rises to 3,165 feet at the summit, can be seen from just about every corner of the region and with its bald top has panoramic views of six New England states.

While its certainly not as tall as Mt. Fuji – the most climbed mountain in the world – Mt. Monadnock still ranks #2 in the world for the most climbers (about 120,000 hikers reach its summit every year). It is a favorite among hikers for several reasons according to the “Monadnock Guide,” the little booklet first published in 1970 by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests:

• It has a bare summit area; you can see as you climb. Most of the trails are open to views 2/3 of the way. And the view from the top is spectacular; on a clear day you can see the Boston skyline.
• It has variety – in landscape, flora and its many routes to the top: Mt Monadnock Hiking Trails Printable Map (pdf)
• It has historic interest. It has been climbed by people for centuries and has been the subject of poems, essays and paintings – from the transcendental writings of Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson to the iconic paintings of Abbot Handerson Thayer.  According to the site MonadnockMountain.com, there are even operas, symphonies, waltzes and Morris dances written about it.
• It’s easy to get to from major metropolitan areas in the Northeast.

So when visiting the Monadnock Region, don’t forget to pack your hiking boots for a trip to the summit of Mt. Monadnock.

But before you go, here are some tips to make your hike fun and safe:

1. Don’t expect a walk in the park. While climbing Mt. Monadnock doesn’t require sophisticated hiking gear, expect to break a sweat while climbing over bus-sized boulders to make it to the top. Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
2. Allow 4-5 hours for the round-trip hike. Make sure you arrive early enough so that you are not caught descending the mountain at nightfall.
3. Bring food and water. And remember that Monadnock State Park is a carry in/carry out park – you’ll need to take out all your trash.
4. Leave your dog at home. As much as you’d like to take your pooch along, there are not pets allowed in the park.
5. Know the routes. The easiest route to the top is the White Cross Trail (serious hikers may want to try the White Dot Trail, which is a better challenge).
6. Bring money for the admission fee. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-11. Free admission for children ages 5 and under and N.H. residents age 65 or over.

The Monadnock State Park is located off Route 124 near Jaffrey, N.H. and is open year round. The best times to climb are late spring through fall season. For more information visit the New Hampshire State Parks website.

Your local innkeeper should have plenty information about climbing Mt Monadnock and other great hikes around the area.

Keepin’ Food Local

Love eating local food? If you are committed to eating local, fresh food wherever you happen to be traveling, then your visit to the Monadnock Region can be a localvore heaven, particularly in the summer months.

The Monadnock Region is known as a “hotbed” of New Hampshire’s local food activity, with good reason. Local fare is offered to guests at many area inns, B&Bs and restaurants (for restaurants offering local foods, visit Monadnock Menus.

Plus, during the summer you can find a farmers’ market happening in the region every day of the week -- even in the winter there’s a farmers’ market to be found most weekends.

So, don’t forget pack along your cloth bags when visiting. And head on over to one of the many vibrant farmers’ markets in the region – one is sure to be found near your B&B or inn.

Here’s a complete list (list courtesy of Monadnock Table magazine:

Monday
Peterborough (May-Oct., 11-4 p.m.)
Monadnock Community Hospital, northeast parking lot
"Fresh Chicks" Facebook page

Tuesday
Keene (May-Oct., 9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Behind The Colonial Theatre on Main Street
Keene Farmers Market

Wednesday
Peterborough (May-Oct., 3-6 p.m.)
Depot Square
Peterborough Farmers Market

Thursday
Keene (June-Oct., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene, rear employee entrance.

Rindge (June-Oct., 3-6 p.m.)
West Rindge Common Park at the corner of Route 202 and Bradford Street.

Friday
Harrisville/Nelson (June-Oct., 5-7 p.m.)
Harrisville Store or Nelson Village Green. Market begins June 8 in Harrisville and alternates with Nelson every other week.

Walpole (May-Oct., 4-7 p.m.)
Town Common
Walpole Farmers Market

Saturday
Gilsum (May-Oct., 8 a.m.-noon)
Gilsum Village Market, Main Street

Hancock (May-Oct., 9 a.m.-noon)
Horse sheds behind First Congregational Church, Main Street.

Hillsborough (July-Sept., 9 a.m.-noon)
Butler Park, corner of Central and Main Streets
Hillsborough Pride Farmers Market

Jaffrey (June-Sept., 9 a.m.-noon)
Coll’s Market and Deli parking lot, Old Sharon Road.

Keene (May-Oct. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Behind The Colonial Theatre, Main Street
Keene Farmers Market 

Sunday
Temple (May-Dec., 11 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Temple Town Common, Route 45.