Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Fall into the Berkshires


This weekend and next are going to be peak season for fall foliage leaf peeping in the Berkshires.



Go for a fall foliage drive up to the summit of Mt Greylock and check out the most beautiful views from this 3,491-foot mountain, or take a hike and check out the trails. Mt Greylock is a great place for birdwatching as well. Mt Greylock is less then 1/2 an hour from the 1896 House Inn. 

Driving map with vantage points

Summit Hikes (check out the foliage for miles and miles around!!!)

Full Mt, Map

Mount Greylock was the first state reservation in Massachusetts, established in1898. It contains over 68 miles of hiking trails, including 13 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Birding: The boreal zone (especially 3,000 feet and above) contains what may be the state's only breeding Blackpoll Warbler. Swainson's Thrushes also nest in the damp coniferous forest, as do White-throated Sparrows and Dark-eyed Juncoes. Mourning Warblers still nest in cutover, regenerating areas. The Yellow-bellied Flycatcher is a strongly suspected nester, and the Olive-sided Flycatcher nested regularly in an area that has now grown up to tall spruces. Historically, a small population of Bicknell's Thrushes nested near the summit. (from http://www.massaudubon.org/Birds_and_Birding/IBAs/site_summary.php?getsite=6)

Birds of Mount Greylock
INFORMATION GUIDE & SIGHTING LIST

Thursday, September 27, 2012

2012 Fall Foliage Festival Continues this weekend and more!


Photo courtesy of PatriciaEGreen

Less then 15 minutes from the 1896 Inn, The North Adams Fall Foliage Festival is a fun time for the whole family.

SATURDAY, September 29
Farmer's Market - 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM - in the St. Elizabeth's of Hungary Municipal Parking Lot across from MASS MoCA, the market is in operation with harvest season fruit, vegetables and other produce and home-made goods for sale.

3rd Annual Dog Day of Fall Parade - 8:30 - 10:00 AM - Downtown North Adams.  All dogs are encouraged to participate.  Owners are encouraged to make costumes and enter their dogs into this parade.  This year's parade theme is "Toys on Parade."  Categories are: Funniest, Best Duo (owner and dog), Best Group (dogs), Best Small Dog, Best Medium-sized Dog, and Best Large Dog.  Prizes will be awarded following the parade and ribbons will be given to all participants.  Dog parade winners will be invited to participate in the Fall Foliage Parade on Sunday, September 30.

Dog Day of Fall Pet Psychic - 10:00 - 11:30 AM - North Adams Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.  Following the dog parade, bring your pets to the North Adams Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for a free pet psychic reading.  Regionally-known pet psychic Bonnie Strange, will provide the free readings.  Dogs, cats, and any other pets are welcome.  Parking will be reserved in the Wells Ave. parking lot.  Enter through the Wells Ave. entrance.  Light refreshments, including pet treats, will be provided.

FREE Family Concert at The Range - 11:00 AM - The Range, Curran Highway, North Adams.  Bring the family to The Range for a concert with Terry a la Berry.  This is a free concert, sponsored by the Adams Community Bank, and fun for the whole family.  The Bounti Fare will be on site selling lunch items.  Call 413-663-3030 for more information.
Benefit for the Mohawk Theater: Spirit of Johnny Cash - 8:00 PM - Mohawk Theater.  Supported by MCLA and presented by the city of North Adams with help from MASS MoCA, the celebrated Mohawk Theater opens for one night only with Harold Ford as Johnny Cash and Laura Lucy as June Carter Cash plus a full compliment of musicians forming the Cash Band.  In what is sure to become a historic Berkshire event, Johnny and June's greatest hits illuminate the downtown scene that will benefit the Mohawk Theater Restoration Fund and the Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation.  The music and spirit of Johnny Cash will return to Main Street after almost 25 years in a concert to raise funds for the reopening of the theater.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.massmoca.org or click here.

Fall Foliage Dance - 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM - Fraternal Order of the Eagles, 515 Curran Highway.  Enjoy 2 live bands: Phil 'n Blanks reunion and Static performing.  $5 cover at the door.  Call 413-664-9043 for more information.

SUNDAY, September 30
Barbecue Grilling - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM - BBQ offerings at the entrance of the Walmart parking lot (parade staging area).  Hot dogs, hamburgers, and cold drinks.  Proceeds benefit the Rotary children's Christmas party.

Parade-side BBQ - 12:00 PM - Fraternal Order of the Eagles, 515 Curran Highway.  Call 413-664-9043 for more information.

Annual 5k Road Race - 12:30 PM.

57th Annual Fall Foliage Parade – 1:00 PM – Celebrate the advent of the fall foliage season with a parade highlighting the beautiful foliage.

Information courtesy of http://fallfoliageparade.com, please check out the link for more information.

Also happening this coming weekend is the Berkshires Arts Festival Lenox
September 28, 29, & 30, 2012

The Inaugural Berkshires Art Festival Lenox to benefit Shakespeare & Company programs and services will be held September 28-30. More than 6,000 art lovers from the U.S., Canada and Europe are expected to descend on the Berkshires community for the event. Seventy-two artists from across the U.S. will be displaying works in categories including ceramics, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, wood, decorative and wearable fiber, and others.




Tuesday, September 18, 2012

2012 Fall Specials Valid Mid-Week 9/24-10/25


Custom Hancock Shaker Village Tour Special
Stay 3 mid-week nights and receive 2 passes for a customized Hancock Shaker Village Adventure Tour,
and one $25 Gift Card to the popular '6 House Pub! Click here:, http://hancockshakervillage.org/programs-events/choose-shaker-adventure/ to select your tour.  Call us at 1-888-999-1896, book 3 nights in any room or Luxury Suite, & we'll schedule the tour for you!
Your Hancock Shaker Village pass buys the tour & admission for 2 people to the entire Hancock Shaker Village.


Farm Foods & Finds Special
Stay 3 midweek nights and receive five free $10 Gift Certificates ($50) to spend at our local farm produce & gift shops, and one $25 Gift Card to the popular '6 House Pub!  Your farm adventure will take you to 3 active working farms:

Ioka Valley Farmhttp://iokavalleyfarm.com/
Cricket Creek Farmhttp://cricketcreekfarm.com/

Here you will witness live animals and the products derived from them, fresh foods grown, and shops where you may purchase locally grown apples, pumpkins, maple products, artisanal cheeses, breads & baked goods, dairy products, honey, alpaca clothing & products, and many other items.  Then come back and enjoy a wonderful meal at the ‘6 House Pub & Tavern!


Autumn Fun & Spa Special
Stay 2 nights in any room or Luxury Suite.  Hike to your heart's content in our colorful hiking wonderland.  Or shop till you drop at our antique shops, farm stores, & villages.  Then have a rejuvenating massage at our local "spa like no other", followed by a cozy 3-course dinner at our popular ‘6 House Pub & Tavern! We'll supply hiking info & foliage driving tour maps!  Includes tips for massages and dinner.
Add $119 per person OVER Room or Suite rate


Fall Art, Nature, & Libations Special
Stay 3 mid-week nights in any room or suite and we'll pay the admission for 2 people to the Clark Art Institute. Visit their current exhibitions, http://www.clarkart.edu/museum/exhibitions-current.cfm, and the
the Stone Hill Center set up a nature path amidst gorgeous woodlands and meadows. You will be in the midst of color, art, & beauty. The admission pass will also get you into all of the galleries. After your museum tour, rest your legs, stop by the '6 House Pub, and we'll treat each of you a fall libation! Spend the rest of your time enjoying the beautiful Berkshire Hill villages, shops, & galleries in their fall splendor.  Special includes admission for 2 to the Clark, and 2 complimentary drinks.


Please CLICK HERE to check out the rest of our packages!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

A little more about our Barnside Luxury Suites, Suite 202


Suite 202, Turn of the Century Suite 1896-1910

The Smallest & Coziest Suite with Oak Antiques. Romantic King Canopy Bed, Whirlpool Bath for Two, Huge Shower, Gas Fireplace, 27" Cable TV, CD/DVD, Dressing Room, Queen Sofabed, 2-line phone, WIFI, iron/board. Full candlelight breakfast. 

As you're floating in the heated pool staring at the pine trees, you are trying to figure out which was more comfortable, your king size pillow topped mattress last night, or this? You are so happy you'll have another night in that cocoon-like romantic space with the wedding white bed canopy and linens, flowered carpeting, and soothing flecked jade green wallpaper so reminiscent of the early 1900's.

You remember Grandma's quarter-sawn oak furniture pieces just like these, and the damask cinnabar sofa was so comfortable yesterday as you watched your favorite DVD. Then you both really enjoyed those fabulous Crab Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce, and the Fettuccini Alfredo with grilled mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes, followed by that Warm Brownie Sundae!

This was part of your "Sweetheart Package". You decided to move the "rest" of your package, a bottle of champagne, fresh flower bouquet, and chocolate truffles from your living area to the bathroom, while you soaked by candlelight in that great dual whirlpool. You know this was the perfect treat for yourself and your wonderful husband. Then, a brilliant ideas...! You decide to buy a surprise Gift Certificate to The 1896 House for Mom & Dad's anniversary.

A full country candlelight breakfast is provided. With advance notice, we are happy to accommodate special dietary restrictions such as "low carb", "low fat", vegetarian", etc. and of course any food allergies.


        Make a reservation! Or check our some our other Barnside Suites at 

1896 House Inn & Country Lodgings
Bed and Breakfast  ~ Country Inn ~ Country Motels
Route 7 ~ 910 Cold Spring Road, Williamstown, Massachusetts  (MA) 01267
Telephone: 413-458-1896   ~   Toll Free:  888-999-1896
Lodging Website:  www.1896house.com  ~   '6 House Pub Website  www.6housepub.com

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Fall is the perfect time to go trail riding in the Berkshires


Image courtesy of duboix

DeMayos’ Bonnie Lea Farm is located in scenic Williamstown, just 5 minutes away from the 1896 House Inn.

During the late spring, summer and fall, trail riding is available at Bonnie Lea Farm. Trail rides are led either by Lisa DeMayo or by another qualified guide, and can vary in length according to the riders’ abilities. 

Riders must be a minimum of 13 years old and have the proper attire (long pants, shirts) and footwear, preferably something with a heel.

Their extensive trail systems stretch across beautiful fields, over gentle streams, through shady groves of famous Berkshire foliage, and even off-property for more experienced riders. It is a relaxing way to enjoy horses and the natural beauty of the Berkshires. All of our mounts are carefully matched with their rider to ensure the safety and happiness of both.

Trail Rides:
45 minutes – $50 per rider
1 1/2 hour – $75 per rider
Please note, they do not accept credit cards but do accept personal checks. Groups of 4 or more must send a deposit. Please call or email to schedule your trail ride!

Bonnie Lea Farm
511 North Street
Williamstown, MA 01267
413-441-6349

Check out their website at: http://bonnielea.com/wordpress/?page_id=2


From the South: Take Route 7N into the center of Williamstown, MA (intersection of Routes 2 and 7 at the Village Green), continue on 7N toward Pownal/Bennington VT for one mile measuring from the split of Route 2East. Bonnie Lea Farm is located at the foot of the bridge, on the left side, the second driveway past the Hemlock Brook Condominiums. Continue through the gates toward the barn parking lot.
From the North: Take Route 7S into Williamstown, MA, one and a half miles from the Vermont Line. Proceed over large bridge slowly as the driveway is at the base of the bridge on the right. Continue through the gates toward the barn parking lot.


Don't forget

Last Minute September Special
Stay 2 nights on September  7th & 8th or 14th  & 15th only and get a $50 Gift Card
to the popular 6 House Pub!

Valid on reservations made after 9/4/2012 only.


Wednesday, August 29, 2012

A little about our Barnside Luxury Suites, Suite 201

Our elegant and romantic "Barnside" Luxury Suites never fail to elicit a "WOW!" response! They were created to anticipate your every need and to provide a unique and exceptional lodging option in Williamstown. Quite grand and appointed in six unique period styles, the refined fabrics & the individually chosen appointments will pamper your desire for something extraordinary and unique.

A full country candlelight breakfast is provided, and complimentary wireless internet is available in each guest room, on the porch, and in the breakfast room. The "Barnside" Luxury Inn is a 3-Diamond AAA rated property!

All six suites have a ground floor entrance from an exterior wicker-filled country porch. They each provide one grand room, (many with 10 foot ceilings, 48 feet deep), with a king size bed, dining area, large living area, and a mantled gas fireplace. The romantic beds are all pillow topped, and most have canopies or 4 posts. There is a large dressing room that opens up to a spacious bathroom complete with showers and dual whirlpool tubs.

Each luxury suite has a different "period" personality and is furnished with many hand chosen antiques. All suites are equipped with 27" cable TV's and DVD/CD players, 2-line telephones with data ports, coffee makers, irons and boards, terry robes, triple sheeted pressed white bed linens, and fine bathing amenities.

We have a solution for special circumstances: Suite 201 offers a kitchenette. Although all of the suites accommodate 2 persons, Suites 202 and 205 are equipped with a queen sofa bed which may, at additional rate, sleep up to 4 persons of the same family over the age of fourteen.

A full country candlelight breakfast is provided. With advance notice, we are happy to accommodate special dietary restrictions such as "low carb", "low fat", vegetarian", etc. and of course any food allergies.

Suite 201, Early American Suite 1600-1775


Formal & Handsome. Colonial Antiques & Decor. Draped King Canopy Bed, Whirlpool Bath for 2, Gas Fireplace in BR, 2 TV's, Dressing Room, Equipped Kitchenette, Dining Table, Living Area. DVD/CD, 2-line phone, WIFI, iron/board. Full candlelight breakfast.


You've just checked in. You are impressed by all the theatres, museums, and cultural activities there are in the area. As you walk over the flower-laden footbridge to your suite, you notice a couple enjoying a picnic by the brook shore. Upon entering your suite, you just know you've entered another era.

The oversize wing chairs, the camelback loveseat, the draped tester king bed, the crewel-like spread and handmade patchwork quilt take you back to our earliest Colonial period. Oriental carpets and Asian porcelain pieces suggest the influence of the export trade of that time. The elongated room seems to extend forever, and then turns to display your dressing room and bath.

Not only is there a television in the living area, the armoire in the bedroom opens to reveal a second television and DVD/CD player. Instead of unpacking, your wife is already nestled in a bedside wing chair, flipping through her favorite periodical by the fireplace! She mentions that in the coming days with this convenient kitchenette and so many things to see, it may save time to have lunch right here in our very own private dining space. You sense that she has really settled in and has planned a packed itinerary. You decide to extend your stay!



Don't Forget! August Special:
Summer Weekends Last Hurrah!

20% off all room rates Labor Day Weekend 
(Friday, Saturday & Sunday).
Must mention this special.  Not applicable to current reservations, and not valid with other offers.
Call 888-999-1896, or mention online when booking!

1896 House Inn & Country Lodgings
Bed and Breakfast  ~ Country Inn ~ Country Motels
Route 7 ~ 910 Cold Spring Road, Williamstown, Massachusetts  (MA) 01267
Telephone: 413-458-1896   ~   Toll Free:  888-999-1896
Lodging Website:  www.1896house.com  ~   '6 House Pub Website  www.6housepub.com

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Crane and Company Old Stone Mill Rag Room



A great place to take a midweek tour into a slice (or a page) right out of history.

The Papermaking Museum at Crane's Old Stone Mill
40 Pioneer Street, Dalton, Massachusetts (about 1/2 hour for the 1896 House)
(413) 684-7780

This structure represents the oldest paper factory (c. 1844) in continuous operation at one site, and outstandingly documents the early development of the American paper industry through the 19th and into the 20th century.

The museum, first opened in the autumn of 1930, it is on the National Register of Historic Places, National Register Number: 83004376. The one-story building is situated on the banks of the Housatonic River, which supplied the water to wash the rags and drive the machinery of the early Crane mills.

The museum is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m., free of charge, from early June through mid-October. 

Some interesting facts about Crane & Co.
Crane and Co. has been making fine paper for over 200 years and is now in its seventh generation of being owned and operated by the Crane family.

Papers made by Stephen Crane were used to print patriotic newspapers and broadsides leading up to and during the war, and were even engraved for Colonial Currency by Paul Revere. Revere even pastured his horses at the Liberty Paper Mill, just in case he needed to make a midnight ride…

Franklin and Eleanor conducted the affairs of a nation on Crane paper.

The Queen Mum announced the celebration of her 100th birthday on Crane paper.

Paul Revere engraved banknotes for the Colony of Massachusetts Bay on Crane paper to help finance the American Revolution.

As early as 1806, local and regional banks began printing currency on Zenas Crane's fine cotton papers. This was quickly followed by official government proclamations, permanent public records and stocks and bonds.

In the mid 1800s. Crane’s began making 100% cotton stationary. Soon after that, it was discovered that trees could be made into paper. Crane stayed with what they thought and currently still use what they think the best material to make paper out of; cotton.