New England & Eastern Canada, By Heather Davis
New England beckons visitors back again and again to experience
its charming patriotic towns, history, and spectacular seaside
landscapes. And with the fiery blaze of fall foliage just around
the corner, it is the perfect time to start planning an autumn
excursion. Here is what is new throughout the region, as well as
some of the best historic sites that celebrate African-American
Heritage.
Connecticut
Mystic maritime museum, Mystic Seaport, has a variety of great
upcoming events. On Sept 26, By Land and By Sea: Antique
Vehicles ends the day with a parade. A Columbus Day weekend
favorite, Chowderfest runs Oct 9-11 and serves up splendid fall
colors, waterfront views, and fresh, hot chowda. Holiday
visitors enjoy sleigh rides, caroling, and a 19th-century style
tavern during Lantern Light Tours, Dec 2-19. 888-9SEAPORT
Launched in New Haven in 2000, the Freedom Schooner Amistad
carries the story of the Amistad Incident of 1839 to harbors
across America. Through late summer and fall, the schooner will
make appearances throughout the state. Visitors are invited to
tour the vessel and set sail with the crew. 203-495-1839,
www.amistadamerica.org
Center Church, founded in 1639, played an important role in
gathering support for the captives of the Amistad Incident. Now
recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the grounds feature
stunning architecture and a 17th century cemetery. 203-735-1908.
The Amistad Memorial stands before New Havens City Hall, on the
former jail site where the captives were held. The 14 foot
bronze statue honors Sengbe Pieh, leader of the Amistad revolt.
203-387-0370.
A journey along the Connecticut Freedom Trail reveals historic
sites associated with the fight for African American freedom.
Along the way, visitors encounter key gravesites, monuments,
homes, and Underground Railroad stations
Maine
Celebrating Maine Native American heritage and culture, the Abbe
Museum now has an additional facility in downtown Bar Harbor.
The new museum boasts spacious galleries, a hands on learning
lab, live demonstrations, and interactive workshops. New
exhibits include The Frank T. Siebert Native American Collection
and My Grandmothers Baskets. 207-288-3519
The Downeast Heritage Center in Calais opened in May and
highlights over 12,000 years of regional culture and natural
history. In addition to interactive exhibits, cultural
presentations take place regularly in the theater. 877-454-2500,
www.downeastheritage.org
The National Park Service opened an interpretive trail at the
International Historic Site at St. Croix Island last October.
Bronze sculptures of 17th-century French and Passamaquoddy
historical figures carry out the theme Meeting of Two Worlds.
207-288-3338.
The 14th Annual Great Falls Balloon Festival in Lewiston Auburn
will have visitors flying high Aug 20-22, when hot air creations
of all colors, shapes, and sizes take to the sky. The festival
features live entertainment, a carnival, food, crafts, games and
activities, and a fireworks show. 207-782-2637
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