I planned on attending the “Together Again” Celebration at the Enfield Shaker Museum this afternoon so it kind of interfered with my normal Thursday Happy Hour at Jesse's. Ending my work day at 1530, I managed to squeeze in one drink with Bruce, Denis and Ed before leaving (1630) for Enfield. I parked at the old La Salette Shrine and walked across NH-4A to the main buildings of the Shaker property. They were opened for tours to the attendees on this day but I first headed to the location where there were supposed to be hors de oeuvres and speeches. After I got inside (1700), I spent the evening reveling with other supporters of the recent successful capital campaign (coordinated by the Enfield Shaker Museum) to buy the La Salette Shrine when it closed on September 30. Somehow, 400ish donors raised over $2M and reunited Shaker property with more of their land that the Museum already owned. Most everyone agreed to support the initiative because they wanted to retain the scenic and historic nature of the area on the south side of Lake Mascoma. For my part, I also wanted to preserve the pretty hillside above the lake that has a rather arduous Stations of the Cross and statues of the Apparition of Our Lady of La Salette. Both are quiet places of reflection that would likely have been replaced by housing development. In addition to some food, celebratory drinks (prosecco) and a discussion about future fundraising, I was given a chance to look around in the building. I saw some good examples of furniture made by the sect and learned a little about their religious practices. Before leaving, I talked to staff and other donors. Finished at 1825, I left Enfield (via NH-4A and US-4) and drove home (arrived at 1845). Enjoyable evening!
