New England Discoveries

Tour Descriptions

American Painters, Their Teachers & Collectors on Boston's No. Shore

Discover the painters, teachers and institutional art collectors from Boston's North Shore. Visit local institutions dedicated to education and the arts, including the Peabody Essex Museum, the Cape Ann Historical Museum, the Heard House and others, all of which house significant collections by American artists who painted between 1850 and 1950. Learn about the impact that local artists and teachers like Frank Benson, Will Barnet and Charles Woodbury had on generations of American students. Influenced by their New England surroundings, these painters depicted the region's shores, dunes, boats, villages and harbors in each other's studios and homes. See their work and hear their stories amid the coastal towns where they lived and painted. (Salem, MA)

Dates: TBD
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Art & Artists of Cape Ann: Rockport and Gloucester

Beginning in 1870 a steady stream of American artists, including Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, Childe Hassam and Maurice Prendergast, began migrating to Cape Ann to paint. Drawn by the region's rugged shoreline and dazzling sunlight, beautiful architecture and its colorful fishing and granite industries, they collectively left behind an extraordinary visual record of Gloucester and Rockport. Illustrated lectures by a local historian chronicle the development of the turn-of-the-century Cape Ann art scene and are augmented by trips to the legendary Rocky Neck art colony and other locales where artists painted and lived. Experience the artists' work in the Cape Ann Historical Museum and the Rockport and North Shore Art Associations. (Rockport, MA)

Dates: Jul 20 - 25, 2008
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Boston's North Shore Fall Birding Extravaganza

Join Mass Audubon naturalists in this exciting program to explore world-famous birding locations on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Seasoned birders and enthusiastic newcomers will see a large variety of migrating and resident birds. Visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Halibut Point State Park and the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary -all Important Birding Areas. Visit Eastern Point, the Gloucester waterfront and other prominent birding locations. Search for seabirds migrating off the coast including King Eider, Northern Gannets, all three species of scoter ducks, Red-Throated and Common Loons, Red-Necked Grebe, Iceland Gull, Black-Legged Kittiwake, Black Guilemot, and a variety of hawks, waterfowl and land birds. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: Nov 10 - 14, 2008
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Cape Ann's Coastal Beauty

Take a journey with an art historian, professional photographer, and entertaining story teller to discover the most scenic, picturesque, photogenic corners of this rugged New England coast. Beginning in 1870 a steady stream of American artists, including Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, Childe Hassam and Maurice Prendergast, began migrating to Cape Ann. Drawn by the region's rugged shoreline and dazzling sunlight, beautiful architecture and colorful fishing villages, they left behind an extraordinary visual record of the Cape Ann coast. Visit the same scenes these artists painted, and see their work in the Cape Ann Historical Museum. Amateur and professional photographers will delight in experiencing the unique beauty of this area. (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: Jun 8 - 11, 2008
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Coastal New England's Holiday Traditions

Join the holiday celebrations of two New England towns. Participate in the special holiday festivities of Newburyport, MA and Strawbery Banke's Candlelight Stroll in Portsmouth, NH. Learn how holiday traditions developed through the years, and how they were brought to this country. Visit period houses decorated to reflect their time in history. Capture the spirit of the holidays through lectures, field trips and activities featuring holiday crafts, foods, music, ethnic customs and traveling to beautifully decorated and lighted displays along the spectacular seacoast. (Portsmouth, NH)

Dates: Dec 4 - 7, 2008
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Conversation Cafe: The Most Difficult Questions of the 21st Century

Join an interactive discussion about life's most challenging questions, led by a minister with a Ph.D. in education and an award-winning author and environmental consultant for NOVA, both of whom have spent years studying deep spiritual and environmental subjects. Rev. Dr. Rebecca Brown and Bill Sargent lead an intellectual inquiry into topics like religious fundamentalism vs. liberalism; the religious implications of war and peace; global warming's enormous impact on the future of human life; and the political, historical and philosophical issues surrounding the perceived incompatibility of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Along the way, enjoy the great natural and cultural resources found in historic Ipswich and on Boston's North Shore. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: Sep 21 - 24, 2008
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Cycling Along Massachusetts' North Shore

Based in historic Ipswich, this program offers beautiful challenging cycling along the rocky shores, estuaries, old stone-walled roads and deep woods of the North Shore region of Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The rides are up to 45 miles, with shorter loops and van support available. Explore the Parker River Wildlife Sanctuary, the Essex County Greenbelt, Plum Island, The Ipswich River Sanctuary and Trustees of Reservations lands. The rural setting provides for exceptional river and ocean views. Evening lectures by a naturalist and consultant for the NOVA Science series will recap that day's adventures. A great get-away for cyclists. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: Jun 15 - 20, 2008 / Aug 24 - 29, 2008
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Discovering Salem & Marblehead

Discover the historical, architectural, and cultural heritage of two of America's oldest seaport communities. Through lectures and short walks along picturesque 18th century streets, learn about the country's earliest maritime history, the infamous Salem witch trials, local citizens such as Nathaniel Hawthorne, Elizabeth Peabody, Alexander Graham Bell and Elbridge Gerry. See how Salem's wealth from the sea created stately mansions and architectural splendor, while beautiful Marblehead evolved from a sleepy fishing village into New England's yachting capital of the rich and famous. Spend a day at the newly transformed world class Peabody Essex Museum, including an authentic two story Chinese House reassembled inside the museum. (Salem, MA)

Dates: TBD
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Exploring Boston's North Shore

Explore the great maritime traditions of Salem, Marblehead, Beverly, and Newburyport and the colorful colonial coastal towns of Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Magnolia. Discover the region's many famous citizens, their spirit of independence and their role in the colonization of America, the Revolutionary War, immigration and the Industrial Revolution. Visit sites related to the infamous 1692 witch trials in Old Salem Village. Explore the Peabody Essex Museum (1799) with its world renowned maritime collections and art from Asia and the Pacific Islands. Participate in lively lectures and daily field trips. (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: TBD
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The Famous Witches of Salem: History, Mystery & More

In 1692, nineteen people were convicted of witchcraft and carted to Gallows Hill near Salem Village and hundreds more faced accusations. Delve into the mysterious world of witches and discover the truth behind the Puritan witch hysteria, today's Wiccan religion, and why people consider this ancient, peaceful faith to be an evil devil worshipping cult. Participate in discussions led by historians and a witch who practices Wicca, a neo-pagan, earth-centered religion. Explore Salem's witch history and look at the lighter side of the witch theme through today's commercialization of Halloween. (Salem, MA)

Dates: Nov 9 - 14, 2008
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From China to Salem: The NEW Peabody Essex Museum

Take an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look into all the galleries of Salem's newly expanded, world-renowned museum, the oldest continuously operating museum in the U.S. Museum educators lead us through four centuries of American decorative arts, Salem's outstanding maritime collection, and art from Native America, China, Japan, Korea, India and the Pacific Islands. Visit Salem's own historic houses and have an insider's tour of the museum's exciting new cornerstone: Yin Yu Tang, an authentic two-story Chinese merchant's house transported from central China and reassembled inside the museum, complete with a 200-year collection of family objects. Lectures, private gallery tours and chats with experts enhance this unique experience. (Salem, MA)

Dates: Feb 24 - 27, 2008
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Gloucester, Salem & Ipswich: A Tale of Three Harbor Towns

Explore the beautiful coastal New England towns of Gloucester, Essex and Ipswich. See where The Perfect Storm was filmed, and learn about Gloucester's turbulent fishing industry from the locals whose life is fishing. Learn about the centuries-old art of shipbuilding in Essex and the proud history of the schooners. Through lectures, field trips and art, follow the history of Cape Ann and Ipswich--a leader in the Puritan plan to settle the New World and for 100 years second only to Boston in importance. With more 17th-century houses than any town in the US, Ipswich is a living heritage museum. Walk through her history, and see her beautiful salt marshes and beaches. Learn how conservationists are fighting to protect this fragile environment. (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: Sep 28 - Oct 3, 2008
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Historic Homes of Boston's North Shore

With more 17th-century houses than anywhere in America, Ipswich and the surrounding towns of Essex County are steeped in colonial history. The coast along the Ipswich Bay boasts a great number of magnificent mansions, dating from the turn of the century. Through field trips to these historic homes, learn how the architecture has changed over 300 years. See how the different styles of each century teach us about daily life and the social history of this region. Peer into the lives of the common Puritan farmer of the 17th century, the wealthy ship captain from the 19th century, and the flamboyant millionaire of the Roaring '20s. Learn how the extraordinarily preserved homes with their priceless antiques illustrate life in a bygone era. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: May 13 - 16, 2008 / Jul 30 - Aug 2, 2008 / Sep 28 - Oct 1, 2008
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Mansions and Gardens of Boston's North Shore

For one hundred years, beginning in the early 19th century, Boston's affluent ventured up to Boston's North Shore to summer. Their mansions are magnificent, with marble fireplaces, hand carved wooden moldings, fountains and sculptures all imported from classical Europe. Their gardens were no less ostentatious, designed by famous landscape architects such as Arthur Shurcliff and planted with rare and beautiful species of plants from around the globe. Join a horticulturist, historians, local experts and docents to learn about this curious period of history. Explore its eccentric rich and colorful characters who left their mansions for us to enjoy, and the skilled architects, craftsmen and gardeners whose masterpieces we can still admire. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: Jun 22 - 27, 2008
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Maritime in New England

Come to Cape Ann, the "Whale Watching Capital of the World" and enjoy a different boating experience each day! Sail on a 90-foot schooner, cruise down the Essex River and view six lighthouses of Cape Ann along the granite coastline. Look for Humpback, Finback and Right whales, dolphins and schools of cod on a whale watch. Learn about this beautiful Atlantic setting with ecologists, naturalists, historians, lobstermen, fishermen and ship builders. This historic and picturesque coast north of Boston is known as America's Oldest Seaport, established in 1623, and has brought artists, fishermen and beach goers to the area for hundreds of years. Enjoy New England's wonderful summer weather on land and sea! (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: Jul 6 - 11, 2008 / Aug 3 - 8, 2008 / Aug 17 - 22, 2008
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New England Architecture & Samuel McIntire

Immerse yourself in the various architectural styles of New England and study the life and achievements of a Salem native son - renowned architect and craftsman Samuel McIntire. In the world-class Peabody Essex Museum, hear a presentation on the self-taught architect before exploring the museum's new exhibit celebrating the 250th birthday of this craftsman to New England's Colonial elite. The exhibit contains more than 200 original architectural drawings, carvings, sculptures and pieces of furniture, as well as related decorative art objects from the period. Enjoy architectural walking tours of Salem, and study the city through the lens of three distinct architectural periods. (Salem, MA)

Dates: TBD
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New England Seafood: Catch It! Cook It! Eat It!

Study New England's most flavorful industry as you help bring the bounty of the cold Atlantic from the sea to the dinner table. Amid Ipswich's 17th-century homes, local professionals show how fish are caught, processed and prepared, and you participate in every step of the process. Go clamming to get your feet wet before diving right in to a deep-sea fishing adventure. Gourmet cooking classes teach the secrets of expert seafood preparation and allow you to savor the results. Go lobstering off the coast of Salem, hear from real fishermen about the conditions they endure to bring their catch to shore, and, most importantly, enjoy the best of New England's freshly caught local seafood! (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: Jul 13 - 18, 2008 / Aug 10 - 15, 2008
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Notable & Notorious Personalities of Boston's North Shore

Boston's North Shore boasts beautiful scenery, a long history, extraordinary culture and architecture- and an amazing number of famous people from all walks of life. This entertaining course examines the area's relationship to writers John Greenleaf Whittier and Nathaniel Hawthorne; inventors Clarence Birdseye and John Hays Hammond; and Elizabeth Peabody, the founder of the American kindergarten. Students will also follow the careers of entrepreneurs Lydia Pinkham of vegetable compound fame and George Parker of the famed Parker Brothers game company. American Impressionist Frank Benson and Gloucester's brilliant marine painter, Fitz Hugh Lane, will represent the arts, Hall of Fame footballer Wayne Millner the world of North Shore sports. (Salem, MA)

Dates: TBD
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Peabody Essex Museum & Salem

Discover the historical, architectural, and cultural heritage of one of America's oldest seaport communities. Through lectures and short walks along picturesque streets, learn about maritime history, the infamous Salem witch trials, and local citizens such as Nathaniel Hawthorne and Alexander Graham Bell. See how Salem's wealth from the sea created stately mansions and architectural splendor. Spend time at the world class Peabody Essex Museum. Visit the museum's historic houses, Maritime and East Asian galleries and enjoy the changing modern art exhibits. (Salem, MA)

Dates: Apr 27 - May 2, 2008 / Aug 24 - 29, 2008 / Nov 16 - 21, 2008
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Retreat & Renew: Bend, Stretch & Nourish Your Body & Mind

After the holidays, come to the charming 17th-century village of Ipswich for some fresh ideas on how to stay fit, recharged and invigorated. Professionals in the fields of health, yoga, massage, cooking and herbology will teach you a diverse set of tools to foster personal health and well-being. Learn how to incorporate herbs into daily meal planning and pick up authentic Japanese dishes you can replicate at home. Learn the latest scientific studies on nutrition, wellness approaches and the mind-body connection while you explore a variety of techniques. Take invigorating winter walks in the woods and along the beach, learn the health benefits of red wine, and luxuriate in two spa sessions with a variety of massage therapies to choose from. (Ipswich, MA)

Dates: TBD
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Salem's Witches: History, Mystery & the Feminine Goddess Theory

Participate in an in-depth study of witches. Discussions are led by historians and a witch who practices Wicca, a neo-pagan, earth-centered religion. Delve into the history of witches from ancient pagan times to today's modern Wicca followers. Study the beliefs of 17th-century Puritans that led to the events of 1692 and the famous Salem witchcraft trials, and relate these events to modern times. Explore Salem's witch history and today's commercialization of the lighter side of the witch theme. (Salem, MA)

Dates: Apr 20 - 23, 2008
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Walks Along Boston's North Shore: Nature & Colonial History

Discover the natural beauty and historic charm of New England towns including Gloucester, Ipswich, Newburyport and Salem. Stroll through 17th- & 18th-century colonial villages and enjoy nature walks with an experienced ecologist. Explore rocky shorelines, sandy dune trails, salt marsh and river landscapes, and an ancient quarry. Walk paths trod by Native Americans 10,000 years ago, by the first white settlers, and America's Impressionist artists who were inspired by the timeless beauty of the coast. (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: May 18 - 23, 2008 / Oct 19 - 24, 2008
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Winter Birding: Massachusetts' North Shore Hot Spots

In winter, Massachusetts' North Shore is a prized pilgrimage for birders. As cold weather creeps in, specialized northern species come south to this area. Visit world-famous birding locations such as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, the Merrimack River estuary and Halibut Point State Park to view a variety of wintering land- and seabirds. Look for the snowy owl, bald eagle, Iceland gull, glaucous gull, harlequin duck, Barrow's goldeneye, horned and red-necked grebe, red-throated and common loons, purple sandpiper, northern shrike, horned larks and many others. Learn about habitat distinctions, diet and winter adaptations with your guide, a professional birder with twenty years of experience as a field naturalist and teacher. (Gloucester, MA)

Dates: TBD
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