All The Boxes

Linda Burton posting from Augusta, Maine – If I could buy a state, I think I’d pick Maine. Now don’t get me wrong, I love all the states; some of them for their mountains, some for their shorelines, and some because they grow the food that feeds us. Some states are interesting because of their history; some are pleasant because of a great climate. Recreational opportunities, cultural activities, community spirit – all these things factor into how much we appreciate a place. And it seems to me that Maine ticks all the boxes. I’ve spent the afternoon poring over literature about Augusta so I could tell you what makes this capital city special. One thing is Fort Western, the oldest wooden fort in New England; it dates back to 1754. I can’t wait to spend an afternoon there. And I look forward to my visit to the Maine State House – the cornerstone was laid in 1829 and the original designer was Charles Bulfinch, one of the most well-known architects of his time. The Blaine House is another beautiful historic building; it is now the Governor’s Mansion but was built as a family home by a ship’s captain in 1833 and donated to the state in 1919; there are gardens to tour as well. The Lithgow Library opened its doors to the community in 1894 and is considered one of the most beautiful interior spaces in the state. I’m intrigued by the Holocaust and Human Rights Center in Augusta; it’s part of the University of Maine campus. It opened in 2007 and attracts national and international speakers; the University now offers a Minor in Holocaust, Genocide, and Human Rights Studies – the only program of its kind in the United States. But the most special thing about Augusta is simply that it’s in Maine. » read more