Living in “a most nationally significant structure in the city” of Chicopee, had naturally raised probing questions to an author. Known as an arms producer to various countries, among other things, the Ames Manufacturing Company has also harbored a little known aspect of its creative genius, until now.
That was their creation of the first bronze foundry in America where top sculptures, and those from around the world, could go and have their work cast into bronze.
Thomas Ball, Henry Kirke Brown, Cyrus E. Dallin, Alexander Doyle, Daniel Chester French, Karl Gerhardt, Richard Saltonstall Greenough, and a host of others sought what Ames had to offer.
A chance to have Ames Foundry produce, on American soil, their artworks, instead of going to a foreign country. Many are surprised to learn those famous bronze statues were produced in the tiny town of Chicopee.
The Ames Foundry and their Bronze Sculptures
Offered at $25.00 regular editions
$35.00 full color, numbered & signed edition
Plus postage
Long before my veil of historical darkness was lifted, a fascination with the large white structure atop Mt. Holyoke caught my eye. Reflecting a bright halo of sunshine from a
brilliant spring day, I directed my very first visit to its summit, in mid-1980. Curiosity pushed me up that winding mountain road, carrying all those unanswered questions.
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After expending nearly four years on this question answering journey, nearly all of my inquiries found satisfactory ending.
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Nearly all! Some were destined to remain in darkness while many were displayed with brilliant illumination. Those still hiding in darkened corners are never forgotten.
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Discovering my satisfaction at lifting an historical veil with the publication of “Mt. Holyoke - An Enduring Prospect”, it remains
a New England pioneer on many fronts. First shelter for early visitors wishing to see the view from its summit in 1822. First Mountain Top Resort comforting those desiring a longer relaxed visit. First inclined railway excitedly carrying many to the top.
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Now, 295 years later, the Summit House, visible from Interstate 91, shines anew after several renovations. The story of this historic site is written for the very first time in its entirety. From early beginnings and competition with rival mountain houses, to its long and continuing use, that story is now told.
The view is still available for everyone to enjoy!
Mt. Holyoke
An Enduring Prospect
First Edition, Published in 1985 - Stiff covers,
105 pages, plus Index.
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Illustrated with 50 pictures & maps. The untold story of the First Mountain Top Resort in New England is finally revealed!
Offered at $12.95 plus postage
Same price as in 1985
Steven B. Leder was a collector of Antique American
Stoneware, and published the “Stoneware Collector’s Journal” for five years back in the mid 1980’s. He also co-authored “The Birds of Bennington”, describing stoneware from the Norton Family kilns of Bennington, VT.” A wonderful book.
When writing a critique of this book Steven cited the
numerous details he found within its covers, calling it a
“valuable addition to the library of anyone interested in
antique American stoneware and in 19th century Americana.”
The shapes, colors, decorations and identification of so many bottles listed on its pages contribute much to its merit. All were hand made, over a hundred years old, and made in America, which added so much interest to the intrinsic value offered to the reader. Maybe you will also agree!
American Stoneware Bottles
Paper covers, printed in 1995, 107 pages with numerous color photos and black & white drawings.
Offered at $24.95 plus postage