I had previously driven through Pittsfield, MA on my way to a fife and drum event, but I had never stopped there. After doing a little visit there today, I can honestly say that I have been missing out on some beautiful sites and many things to do.
While creating the bucket list, I had listed a visit to the Hancock Shaker Village located on the border of Pittsfield, MA and Hancock, MA. After doing a lot of research, I had decided that taking the boys during the baby animal season may be the best idea; and then at least they would have something to do if they did not want to tour the buildings. I cannot speak for what the HSV has in mind for the rest of the year, but today was the perfect time to go. The weather was a balmy 72 degrees, sun was shining, and we arrived as the school trips were leaving.
Once we found the entrance, and walked into the village, all of us had this overwhelming sense of calm and peacefulness. You have these amazing farmlands surrounded by the most beautiful backdrop of mountains. As you continue to walk towards the buildings, you are surrounded by herb gardens that are just starting to bloom, and have a very peculiar yet pleasant aroma. Immediately in front of you is the round barn; this is where the baby animals were. Of course Pierce and Carter took off running towards the barn once they heard the cow moo, and the set up was amazing. For starters, you are allowed IN WITH the animals. Yes, you can climb over the walls of the stalls that are not roped off, and can hang out with the baby animal of your choice. My guys were in love with the goats, and after a bit of warming up, the cow (Carter didn't like how loud they were). Pierce actually was laying on a calf and a lamb, and Carter was having a blast feeling the goat's fuzzy ears. Outside of the barn was more to discover, with the chicken coop and even a turkey roaming around.
Next to the barn is the discovery room. It was the interaction in this room that made it for Pierce the rest of the trip. He was able to dress like a farmer and pretend to milk a fake cow. I did attempt for Carter to dress up, but he wanted nothing to do with it. There was an incubator in there where both boys were able to pet a chick. Then there was the weaving loom where the volunteer had an endless amount of patience as both boys tried so desperately to reach the pedals and continue on with the design. There were also books, puzzles, farm toys, and a bee house in here. It was awesome - and in every building we went to, the staff was amazing.
After Pierce had enough discovering in here, he wanted to discover the other buildings. We never made it to them all, but he had a blast at the wood working shop, where he was able to use a shaving lathe and help make a wooden nail. Both boys also had a blast in the kitchen of the boarding house, and loved seeing the natural cold cellar and the stoves that were different from ours. Again, the staff in this building was amazing answering his questions of where did the people eat, and how did the food get upstairs. I was also able to learn a few things, and nobody seemed to mind the toddler that kept running away from me in the buildings. In fact, a few of them said to not worry about the noise since he is probably learning by running.
We spent about 3 hours here, and we never even had the chance to walk the farm trail; Carter just had enough, and I braved the place without a stroller since I was not sure how stroller friendly it was (by the way the answer to that is extremely stroller friendly). However, about 4 miles down the road was Pittsfield State Forest, and we had a blast exploring a few of the short hiking trails. Some parts are still washed away due to the various storms we have had in the last 6 months...and they did have signs up warning you to beware of the condition of the trails. Pierce had fun being the photographer while hiking, and Carter had fun picking at the moss.
The last stop we made was at the Farmington River where Tolland State Forest overlaps in Sandisfield, MA. The boys were awake for the whole trip home, and while they are FANTASTIC car travelers, I knew they would appreciate a break. We just had a blast throwing rocks into the water and seeing who could make a bigger splash. I had fun seeing if I could hit the target across the river.
All in all, this was a great day. My last few suggestions on HSV from the various staff I work with. If possible, come on a weekday afternoon. Nobody is really there, which gives you the chance to interact and ask questions. Weekends can be VERY hectic, as are mornings with the school field trips. Picnics are welcome, but obviously do not feed the animals. My suggestion for the forest and river; bring bug spray. Both places we were swarmed by the annoying gnats, but that is no fault to either place. It is just the time of year. Enjoy your time there! We obviously did. :)
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