Nine members of the South Mystery Group visited the Old Colony History Museum in Taunton, MA. Thanks to Saria Sweeney for arranging the "Museum without Walls" presentation that displayed the tour of the second floor exhibits led by Bronson Michaud. Some of the group followed along with Bronson upstairs while others sat in comfort and watched on a drop-down screen.
We saw artifacts from King Philip's War and the Revolutionary-era cannon given to Toby Gilmore, a local slave. On display were some of the first stoves ever made, manufactured by Glenwood and the Taunton Stove Company. A fashion display of period bridal gowns and a new display of recipes and cookbooks from that era were interesting.
There is so much to learn about the history of the original Old Colony that reached from Rehoboth to Provincetown and from Scituate to Dartmouth. The land today encompasses Plymouth, Bristol, and Barnstable counties. Our interest lasted much longer than the time I allowed for the event. Perhaps we can do it again and include a 1-mile walking tour of historic downtown Taunton.
Please visit their website: oldcolonyhistorymuseum.org for more detailed information.
Lunch at the nearby Liberty and Union Alehouse was equally enjoyable.
Barbara H
