Archive for the ‘Demonstrations’ Category

Bewitched in Andover

Thursday, September 27th, 2012

Looking for something spooky to kick off the month of October? Get an early start to your Halloween festivities by attending Bewitched in Andover a series of eerie events at the Andover Historical Society. We promise you’ll have an eerily good time. The fun begins on Wednesday, October 3 with Medicine or Magic? Herbs of the Early Colonists a lecture by Betsy Williams.

The following week, join us for The Witches of Andover: Samuel Wardwell, a lecture by Enders Robinson, October 11th at 7p.m. Enders Robinson is a noted Witch Trials historian, author, and descendent of Samuel Wardwell . An accused witch, Samuel Wardwell was brought to trial in Salem. During his court examination, he confessed to being a witch by submitting a long and detailed story of his indiscretions in order to save his life. His conscience and personal courage led him to recant the story and claim innocence, knowing the risk involved. He was hanged on September 22, 1692.

During the month of October take time to visit one of the remaining sites related to Andover during the Salem Witch Trials. Ghosts of the Past: A Cemetery Tour of First Burial Ground hosted by the North Andover Historical Society will take place on October 21st at 2p.m. in North Andover.

Witchcraft was not just limited to Salem, Massachusetts. In fact, Over 50 of the people arrested were citizens of Andover. One of the leading historians on the witch trials, Dr. Emerson Baker, of Salem State will host a Tavern Night at the Andover Historical Society. Puritan New Englanders viewed taverns as a necessary evil. Travelers needed a place to stay and eat, and sessions of court were sometimes even held in them –including the early hearings in the Salem witch trials. However, they were also places where people could fall for the Devil’s temptations. Taverns provided the setting for drunkenness, lechery, gambling, idleness and even witchcraft. Dr. Baker will discuss the bewitched and debauched Quaker tavern at the center of his book, The Devil of Great Island: Witchcraft and Conflict in Early New England. Trials and Taverns with Dr. Emerson Baker will take place on Friday, October 26 at 7 p.m.

For those youngsters, A Pumpkin Patch Story Hour will take place on October 30th at 10:00 a.m. Wear costumes and attend a special Halloween story hour. Get ready to Monster Mash!

Why wait until Halloween? Participate in all of the Andover Historical Society’s Bewitched in Andover events. It will be an experience you won’t soon forget. Happy Halloween!

To learn more about these programs contact 978-475-2236 or visit our website.

Tags: Andover Historical, Bewitched in Andover, Events, Witch Trials, witchcraft
Posted in All About AHS, Andover History, Community, Demonstrations, Events, Farmers' Market | No Comments »

Registration is Open for Can You Dig It? Andover Archaeology

Tuesday, April 10th, 2012

There is still space available for our Can You Dig It? Andover Archaeology program on April 19th so don’t forget to sign up! This program is a great chance to learn about the archaeological history of Andover including some of the findings from the Native Americans who once called the area around Andover “home.”

Arrowheads and handicrafts that have been found tell us that Native Americans lived along the Merrimack River for thousands of years. Shattuck Farm in West Andover is believed to have been one of the largest Native American villages in the area. Much of the site was damaged, making it difficult for archaeologists to interpret the history. What they found helped them understand the settlement of the area. Some of the items that were found included plant remains, bones, and ceramics. The archaeology program will discuss what archaeologists can learn from these discoveries and how they are excavated from the ground.

Children ages 7-11 are invited to join us for this exciting look at archaeology and artifacts of Andover’s past from 9:30-11:30 on April 19th during school vacation week. The program cost is $10 per child. Space is limited and Reservations are required. Register by phone at 978-457-2236 or at the Andover Historical Society website by April 18th.

Tags: andover, April, archaeology, History, kids, spring break
Posted in Andover History, collections, Demonstrations, Local Events & Activities, Things to do | No Comments »

Are you ready for Spring Break?

Monday, April 9th, 2012

At the Andover Historical Society we have been busy preparing for our newest program “Can You DIg It?: Andover Archaeology.” On April 19th from 9:30-11:30 children ages 7-11 will step into the shoes of an archaeologist and learn about Andover’s history from a new perspective.

Archaeology is a science that allows us to open the doors to the cultures and people of the past. Artifacts that are hidden underground tell unbelievable stories. It is the role of the archaeologist to uncover these treasures and find the meaning in them. Come learn how archaeologists make discoveries and how they interpret the material culture of our predecessors.

Children ages 7-11 are invited to join us for this exciting look at archaeology and artifacts of Andover’s past from 9:30-11:30 on April 19th during school vacation week. The program cost $10 per child. Space is limited and Reservations are required. Register by phone at 978-457-2236 or at the Andover Historical Society website by April 18th.

Can you Dig It?

Tags: Andover Historical Society, archaeology, spring break
Posted in Demonstrations, Events | No Comments »

A Colonial Williamsburg Christmas in Andover

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

Colonial Inspired Wreath Created by Susan DeLarm-Sandman

Pineapples, oranges, apples, and boughs of holly?

While fruits and natural plant life adorn modern day Colonial Williamsburg wreaths, this was not always the case. The tradition of decorating Colonial Williamsburg homes with wreaths, swags, and roping embellished with fruit, vegetables, flowers, and herbs was only recently started in the 20^th century. Although Williamsburg is well-known for its holiday decorations and events, the first year homes were decorated for Christmas in such a splendid fashion was not until 1936.

Holiday Wreath created by Susan DeLarm-Sandman

This year the Andover Historical Society will be celebrating the season with our own event based on the beautiful decorations of Colonial Williamsburg. Join Susan DeLarm Sandman of Andover’s Spade and Trowel Garden Club at the Andover Historical Society for a special wreath making workshop on December 15^th, 2011 at 7:00-9:00 p.m. All wreaths will be decorated with natural materials that would have been available to the colonists, a standard rule for the Williamsburg Wreath contest. The Colonial Williamsburg Wreath Making Workshop will take place at the Andover Historical Society inside the new Christmas tree exhibit with warm drinks and treats as well!

Registrations are required in advance for this event, please call 978-475-2236 or sign-up online.

Tags: Activities, andover, Christmas, Events, Wreath Making
Posted in All About AHS, Andover History, Demonstrations, Events, Local Events & Activities | No Comments »

Join our Team!

Thursday, July 28th, 2011

Would like to support the Andover Farmers’ Market? Join our team as a volunteer! We are looking for volunteers to assist with the market. We have a variety of opportunities, helping with set-up and take down on Saturdays before and after the market, assisting with children’s crafts, vendor placements, and much.

Do you have an interest in sustainable food, or supporting local economies by shopping at Farmers’ Markets? Come help with the weekly production of the Andover Farmers’ Market newsletter The Marketer. We are looking for bloggers and editors that are interested in working with design and computers. Search for recipes or find out what’s happening at the Market. Help with photography or show your musical skills and perform during a market Saturday. If you have an interest in marketing or just want to get involved contact the Andover Historical Society at 978-475-2236 or email farmersmarket@andoverhistorical.org.

Enjoy the Market!

Tags: Andover Farmers' Market, Andover Historical Society, Edit, newsletter, volunteer
Posted in All About AHS, Community, Demonstrations, Events, Exhibits, Farmers' Market, Things to do, vendors | No Comments »

Come down to the Market!

Thursday, July 7th, 2011

It’s Market Season! Come visit us at the Andover Historical Society every Saturday through October 8th to visit the Andover Farmers’ Market.

: A variety of Fresh Seafood from Globe Seafood Co., Photography by Cristen Farrel

The Andover Farmers’ Market located on the property of the Andover Historical society in beautiful downtown Andover brings together the community to support our local farms and artisans. Learn from local health professionals and listen to the soft tunes of area musicians while at the market. This summer musicians from the Andover Community Music School, Summer Theatre Ensemble, and many others will bring vibrant sounds to the Market.

This weekend local artisans and craft vendors will be located inside the exhibit hall of the Andover Historical Society, Kittredge Candles, Habitat Soaps, Maria LaTorre Creations, Caroline’s Clips, Crafty Creations by Teena Atwood, and photographer Kristina Trott will bring their unique products. Every 2nd and 4th Saturday the exhibit hall is opened as an artisans and craft vendors sales area. Enjoy children’s crafts on the porch and check out all the variety of vendors visiting the Andover Farmers’ Market.

Fresh Potted Herbs from Gaouette Farm, Photography by Cristen Farrel

Merrimack Valley Chiropractic will be located in the barn this weekend demonstrating healthy living.

If you would like to participate at the Andover Farmers’ Market or to learn more about volunteering contact us at visit our website or email us at farmersmarket@andoverhistorical.org

To learn more about the photography on this week’s blog posts by Cristen Farrell visit Photography by Cristen Farrell.

Delectable breads and sweets from SwissBakers, Photography by Cristen Farrell

Tags: Andover Historical Society, Farmers' Market
Posted in All About AHS, Demonstrations, Events, Farmers' Market, Local Events & Activities, Things to do, vendors | No Comments »

Tick Tock, Come and Learn about our Clocks!

Wednesday, April 27th, 2011

In Britain, since the reign of King Edward I, hallmarking has been used as a method to identify an item made from genuine metal that has passed a test or assay. An assay ensured that the metal in an item contained a certain percentage of pure silver.

Some objects at the Andover Historical Society contain silver hallmarks such as the small pocket watch seen in the photo below. These small silver marks not only denote the purity of the metal, but also exhibit makers mark or provide information about where or when it was assayed.

If you are interested in history and enjoy learning about interesting traditions, come to Treasures in the Attic: Antique Clocks with Bob Frishman this Thursday, April 28th from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Bob, a clock expert and owner of Bell-Time Clocks in Andover, will lead a tour throughout the Blanchard House to discuss the fascinating history of our tall clocks and conclude his presentation in the exhibit hall where many of our treasured clocks and pocket watches will be on display. Guests are invited to bring their own treasured clock to this event for Bob to view.

This event is free to members of the Andover Historical Society and $5 for non-members. Join us for a fun and entertaining evening!

If you have any questions please call 978-475-2236.

Tags: andover, antiques, Calendar, clocks, event, History
Posted in All About AHS, Andover History, Calendar, collections, Community, Demonstrations, Events, Local Events & Activities, Things to do | No Comments »

Events for all ages!

Friday, April 8th, 2011

Spring is here and the Andover Historical Society has a full calendar of events for everyone. Register in advance and save your place.

April 19th and 20th

Two Day Workshop–Preservation and First Period Architecture

9:30 a.m. -3:30 p.m.

Interested in art, architecture, design, and history? Take part in an informative two-day program during April spring break. Learn about the many styles of architecture in New England and take a walking tour of downtown Andover. Join preservation students, Joshua Miner and Isabella Ciolfi from the North Bennett Street School in Boston to learn about preservation carpentry and build a first period model house. Become an expert on architectural styles, participate in hands-on architecture activities, and learn about tools of the trade. Program for grades 6, 7, 8 ages (11-15) includes snacks, students must bring their own lunches. Fees are $60 members, $75 non-members. All materials provided. Don’t miss out on this opportunity.

April 26th

Afternoon Adventure: School Girl Sampler

3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m.

School Girl Sampler

Make your own stitches in time! Explore traditional Andover samplers and textile treastures from our collection. Learn to sew a sampler like young girls did in the past. Space is limited. For girls ages 7-10, $8 per child. Reservations required.

April 28th

Treasures in the Attic: Historic Clocks with Bob Frishman

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Join clock expert Bob Frishman as he explores the Andover Historical Society’s clock collection.

Bob Frishman, owner of Bell-Time Clocks, has studied, repaired and sold clocks since 1980. He has professionally restored more than 7,000 timekeepers, including the 1400 vintage clocks he has retailed in the past 30 years. A past-president of the New England chapter of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, he has written several clock-related articles for that organization’s magazine and continues to lecture on many aspects of clock history and culture. He grew up in Andover, attended the town’s public schools, and continues to operate his home-based clock business in Shawsheen Village.

Bob has a special interest in Andover-related clocks and was involved in the Historical Society’s obtaining the two old Andover-made longcase clocks on display in the Blanchard House.

Explore the Historical Society collection as he presents the fascinating history of the clocks found throughout the Amos Blanchard House. Free for members, $5 for non-members. Call 978-475-2236 to register.

May 1st

Sunday Strolls: Shawsheen Village with Don Robb

1:00-2:15

Join historian Don Robb for a walking tour of Shawsheen Village. Learn about the life of famous Andover resident William Wood and the history of Shawsheen Village. Have you ever wondered why Shawsheen Village has “White Shawsheen” and “Brick Shawsheen”? Every house has a history, come learn about Andover’s rich past. The tour will meet in the parking lot of the Brickstone building. Meet in the parking lot of the Brickstone Buildings.

Check out our online calendar to sign-up or to learn about more upcoming events at the Andover Historical Society.

Tags: adults, andover, architecture, Calendar, Events, programs, youth
Posted in All About AHS, Andover History, Calendar, collections, Community, Demonstrations, Events, Things to do | No Comments »

What are you doing this Spring Break?

Thursday, March 31st, 2011

The Andover Historical Society in collaboration with students from the North Bennet Street School are hosting a two-day Preservation and First Period Architecture Workshop for youth grades 6-8.

Join Museum Educator Debbie DeSmet and Preservation Carpentry Students Joshua Miner and Isabella Ciolfi for this informative two day program. Learn about the many styles of architecture in New England and take a walking tour of downtown Andover. Build a scale model of a first period house and see demonstrations using antique tools of the trade. Become an expert on architectural styles, participate in hands-on architecture activities, and learn about preservation carpentry.

Students will learn about historic Andover houses such as the Benjamin Abbot house in the photograph above. The Benjamin Abbot homestead, one of the oldest houses in Andover, is located at 9 Andover Street, near the Hartwell Abbot Bridge. It was erected in 1685 by Benjamin Abbot as a home for Sarah Farnum, his bride, and it was to become the home of ten generations of the Abbot family.

Students interested in architecture, preservation, history, or design, will enjoy this one-of-a-kind Andover program.

Registration for this program is required in advance. The program has been developed for Students grades 6, 7, 8 (ages 11-15) includes snacks, but students must bring their own lunches. Fees are $60 members, $75 non-members. All materials provided. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Tags: andover, architecture, spring break, students, youth
Posted in All About AHS, Andover History, Community, Demonstrations, Events, Local Events & Activities, Things to do | No Comments »

Come to the Farmers’ Market!

Thursday, September 23rd, 2010

It’s Andover Day! Main Street is going to be hustling and bustling with people coming to celebrate at the town festival. And the Farmers’ Market will be adding to the festivities.

The Black Dog Howl Band will be performing in the barn from 12:30-3:30

Dave Meldrum will be demonstrating beekeeping on the lawn of the Andover Historical Society.

And if you want to learn about the History of Andover try the Andover Historical Society’s History Hunt letterboxing activity from 12-4 as part of the Trails and Sails: TWO WEEKENDS OF WALKS AND WATER. Stop by the AHS tent or reception desk to pick up a guidebook that will lead you to the many historic site right in downtown Andover.

The Andover Farmers’ Market run until October 9th from 12:30-3:30. For more information call 978-475-2236 or email ddesmet@andoverhistorical.org

Tags: andover, Andover Day, Farmers' Market
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