Behind the Wall
New Ipswich Historical Society
Roses?
The photo is a bit blurry but appears to be roses planted behind the stone wall of the Newell-Hurd house on Main Street. The building on the left in the photo is the Homestead Inn which burned to the ground.
James Roger diary entry
29th May 1912
Warm and cloudy. David ploughing at Daniel Maynard’s. I trimmed some. Also cut Mrs. Tarbell’s father’s lot, filled the vase on Hubbard lot, put flowers on Leighton lot, washed democrat (Type of carriage) and took chickens out incubator. Got letter from Tina Thompson (Mrs. McGill) and from Salem about Bolton & Taylor lots. This was held at Memorial Day here and year by year the numbers are decreasing and enthusiasm failing. The Ashby band discoursed some music; the Oration by a party from Lawrence. I was busy and did not go to the ceremony at the Cemetery or Hall. Hamish telephoned from Ayer after 9 p.m.
James Roger reports participation waning at Memorial Day ceremonies in his day but he also is too busy to attend them. I wonder how much this all changed when World War I came about.
It was worth the 110 mile drive to New Ipswich to see old friends and pay homage to the veterans. Ollie and I took our friend Lance DePlante to dinner Tues. I knew a Stan Maynard and Ted Leighton in the 50s. James Roger was quite busy so I don't hold it against him.