History   

On a 140-acre tract of woodland on Big Bear Mountain in Brookline, NH, sits the internationally-known and honored Andres Institute of Art, devoted to the development of sculpture and sculptors. More than 100 works of sculpture are scattered along walking trails throughout this unique nature-preserve "museum." Participants may choose EITHER a 1 1/2 hour hike in the woods at a relaxed pace to encounter the sculptures traversing some invigorating grades on uneven paths (the best views) OR a car ride up the mountain viewing those sculptures near the road and on the summit. Thus, wear comfortable shoes, bring a walking stick, a bottle of water, insect repellent (if needed) and an enthusiasm to engage with true artistic expression in the natural surroundings.

Manchester’s “Petit Canada” — Little Canada — once housed immigrants from the Québécois countryside who came here to work mainly in the textile mills, shoe shops, and other industries. Walk along the streets, some bearing French names, once lined with homes, institutions, and businesses where French was the main spoken language. Hear stories about the founders of parishes with bilingual schools, a hospital, an orphanage, a home for the elderly, and the first credit union in the United States. Suggested reading: “Franco-American Life and Culture in Manchester, New Hampshire: Vivre la Différence” by Robert B. Perreault, ISBN# 978-1-59629-897-2. [Note: Participants will meet in front of Ste. Marie Church, 376 Notre Dame Avenue, Manchester. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the day’s weather.]