By Emma Barhydt
Massachusetts, often celebrated for its pivotal role in American history and its vibrant cultural tapestry, offered me an immersive three-day journey that brought the idea of community into sharp focus. From historical insights to culinary delights, each stop was a reminder of the spirit that touches every part of the heart of this state.
The journey began with our first stop at the American Heritage Museum. “We want to engage people in understanding what it means to go to war and what the costs of it are,” said Hunter Chaney, Director of Marketing and Communications. The museum presented an impeccably curated walk through America’s military past, displaying tanks that had seen real battle, complete with battle scars.
If just seeing isn’t enough, the American Heritage Museum also offers real tank driving—restored right in their on-site garage. Of particular note is that all volunteers and docents are veterans. “What we try and do is create an experience, some kind of interaction with history not only as a means to better understand it,” noted Chaney.
Next, we visited the Framingham History Center where Executive Director Anna Tucker introduced us to “Framingham’s Collective Journeys: Stories of Immigration, 1960 – Present.” “What we really focus on here is all about creating a gathering space and a sense of community,” remarked Tucker.
This interactive, multilingual exhibit celebrated the diverse threads that weave the community’s rich tapestry. Tucker’s passion for bringing history to life was evident as she led us through the stories that shaped Framingham, she has truly brought the history and heritage of Framingham to life with this new exhibit. “This was a way for us to build something with the community,” said Tucker.
Lunch at Jack’s Abby offered a delightful break, featuring locally brewed craft beers and hearty meals. It was recommended to a few of us by Anna Tucker after our tour of the History Center. The food and brews were both fantastic, I had mac and cheese and a sour beer– they hit the spot on the chilly day. The hearty lunch set the stage for our afternoon at the Danforth Art Museum.
Here, Laura Gayton, the Membership Coordinator, highlighted the Spring Exhibitions which skillfully blended historical narratives with contemporary art, creating a dialogue between the past and present. “We have about 3,700 pieces in our collection and we get out about 50 ish on average,” Gayton mentioned.
The Danforth is not just an art museum, it’s also a school. They have a range of art classes for everyone from children to adults. “Our philosophy about education is that it’s a really comprehensive experience of actively doing the art downstairs and then actively responding to it in the art school.”
The day concluded with a welcome reception at Aloft Framingham, spotlighting local breweries and businesses, followed by a positively sumptuous dinner at Doragon Ramen. The thoughtful preparation and innovative menu preview showcased the Doragon Ramen’s culinary creativity. The ramen and fries I had were spectacular and I’m definitely looking forward to eating there again next time I’m in the area.
The following morning took us to the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston. This “living museum” was a visual feast of meticulously designed gardens and conservatories, reflecting the Worcester County Horticultural Society’s commitment to community and horticulture since 1842.
While we went in early March so the gardens were still waking up, they had a magical orchid exhibit in their greenhouses. It was like stepping into another world. Not only were their greenhouses filled to the brim with orchids, there was also an art installation from a local artist inspired by the orchids.
Our afternoon was spent at the Icon Museum in Clinton, which began as a private passion project and evolved into a public treasury of sacred art. According to the museum’s website, the Icon Museum, “was the brainchild of industrialist and collector Gordon B. Lankton.” Lankton collected icons over twenty years during his business trips to Russia before donating “his entire collection to establish the Museum of Russian Icons,” noted the website.
This was an incredible stop. The museum not only took us on a tour of their collections open to the public but also gave us a sneak peak into some of the items that they are still deciphering such as a goat skin icon from ethiopia.
Lunch at Black Diamond Restaurant offered mountain views and a perfect burger before heading to the Fitchburg Art Museum. Even though the Fitchburg Art Museum is, well, an art museum they have some of New England’s foremost ancient Egyptian artifacts. At the time, they also had a special showing on vices to bring some of their collection’s more disparate items together in one gallery space.
Dinner at Havana Nights transported us from a chilly New England evening to the vibrant streets of Miami. The food was explosive and interesting. I didn’t expect any combo that came out of the kitchen and I’ve never been happier about it.
One of the absolute standout dishes was the table salad. It’s a salad that has a little bit of everything, and instead of small individual salads when not everyone might eat salad or some people might want more, it’s for everyone to share. I thought the idea was revolutionary, it’s definitely becoming a dinner party staple.
The day ended at the Beechwood Hotel, where the elegance and comfort of the accommodations were wonderful. I felt like a princess. The rooms were so charming and elegant but incredibly cozy. There was a beautiful fireplace, a full kitchenette including a coffee maker, and a stunning bathroom. The bed was so soft and cozy and I felt very safe in the hotel.
Our final day centered around Worcester. The Worcester Art Museum’s commitment to cultural preservation and education was palpable. They house a davinci and the United state’s more extensive collection of medieval armor. They have several permanent galleries including some of the oldest portraits painted in the usa and several ancient greek mosaics.
The trip concluded at Old Sturbridge Village, where the living history museum vividly reenacted rural New England life from the 1830s. Despite the chill, the warmth of the village was infectious, with each cabin and shop brimming with stories and demonstrations that spoke of a simpler, yet deeply connected community life.
Throughout this three-day excursion, the theme of community wove itself through every experience. From the passionate individuals who preserve and share their heritage, to the natural beauty cultivated for public enjoyment, and the innovative culinary scenes that delight in surprise, Massachusetts proved that its heart is not just a place, but a vibrant, living community.
