Ever since I moved to Ashland in 1997, I’ve heard complaints that the town needs to be more like this or that town. The problem with other town-envy is that we lose sight of what’s already great about Ashland.
With the collaboration of my fellow residents who contributed their ideas on Facebook, I created a list of must-see and must-do’s in Ashland this fall. Enjoy!
Outdoor Exercise: Hike the three-mile loop with family, friends and pets around the scenic and pristine Ashland State Park. In 1881, 164 acres were flooded to construct the 1800-foot long, 20-foot wide, 60-foot high earthen dam at the north end of the park. An eight-foot lower concrete core holds it in place. Park at the Chestnut Street or South Street Parking lots and do the complete loop. For even more hiking, cross Chestnut street and hike the wide paths crisscrossing the 120-acre Warren Woods.
Hot Toddies: Sip a warm libation in front of the fire at the historic and haunted Stone’s Public House. It was originally a hotel named The Railroad House, constructed in 1832 by John Stone. Several spirits are believed to roam the restaurant, including a man killed, perhaps, over a gambling debt by John Stone during a card game and Mary, a 10-year-old girl, allegedly hit by the train. Passersby have reported seeing the little girl looking out the windows. 179 Main St. (www.haunted-places-to-go.com/haunted-places-in-massachusetts-1.html)
Karaoke: Sing your heart out every fourth Thursday of the month at TJs restaurant on Route 135 with hosts Michelle and Ron. The hosts have a great sound system and an extensive song list. Gorge on TJ’s famous Z-burgers and yummy drinks in between songs. TJ’s is an restaurant icon in Metrowest.
Witches Caves: Hunt along five different trails for several witches’ caves hiding in the Ashland Town Forest. Witches who survived the Salem Witch Trials headed west to Framingham. It is believed that these women and their families first hid in several caves sprinkled throughout the forest. This delightful forest has 550 acres of trails, streams and woods to explore. Park in Winter Street lot.
Thanksgiving Charity Workout: Pump some muscle with Bob Savin for a good cause during the 5th Annual Thanksgiving Morning Workout at Fitness Together. You’ll burn enough calories to justify eating a large holiday meal. Suggested donation is $25. Register for 8 and 9 am workout times at https://fitnesstogether.com/ashland/. 200 Butterfield Dr.
Ocean House. Learn about our local history and admire the extensive Telechron clock collection at the historic Ocean House, 2 Myrtle St. Colonial John Jones built the home in 1748, making it one of Ashland’s oldest buildings. Attend the Ashland Historical Society Nov. 20 Sunday talk entitled, “Early New England Glassmaking. Presented by Kirk Cousins, Director, New Bedford Museum of Glass. (www.ashlandhistsociety.com)
Thanksgiving Market: Stock up with food for Thanksgiving and gifts for the holidays at the Market Day Farmer’s Market on November 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Just when you thought the Fab Farmer’s Market was over for the season, you get one last chance to buy food and wares from your favorite food and artisan vendors. Ashland Middle School, 87 West Union Street (Rt. 135).
Education: Raise money for the Ashland Education Foundation on Friday, Nov. 18 at the third annual casino night! Play various games of chance, including Blackjack, Craps, Texas Hold’em, and Roulette. The event will be held at Hanto, 380 Union Street (Route 135) from 7:30 to 10:30 pm. Purchase your tickets at www.ashlandeducation.org/casino-night.
Civic Duty: Attend and speak up at the fall town meeting on Monday, Nov. 28. This free event is a terrific opportunity to get your brave on and speak up about issues that concern you. Best free speaking opportunity you will ever find. Ashland High School, 65 East Union St. 7 p.m.
Trivia Night: Test your trivia knowledge at the Ashland Lion’s Nov. 19 trivia night. This is a highly competitive, challenging and fun trivia night. If you want to warm up before the big trivia event, check out Hanto Restaurant’s trivia night every Wednesday, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with alternating hosts Zach and Jodi. Lions trivia is at The American Legion, 2 Summer St.
Inspiration: Follow the North Star to Ashland’s newest downtown shop – The Reiki and Wellness Center. This beautifully decorated downtown oasis has lots of inspirational gifts for your holiday shopping. Located in the historic Greenwood Building, one of Ashland’s finest historic “skyscraper” and home to The North Star Lodge, a local organization of FreeMasons. 54 Front St.
Issue Date:
November, 2016
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