Moore State Park (Paxton Massachusetts) Entry #2

To find this secret place on the map click here.

This isn't quite so hidden as my former entry but it really needs to be mentioned. You know, there are so many good places that are free to go, places that are free monetarily, but also free from the kind of crappy touristy stuff that normally costs money to see. This park is lovingly taken care of, and I use that word specifically. Just a tiny bit down the blocked off road into the park and you will be able to see what I mean. Also, you should go visit right now. This park, at one point, was owned by one of the first licenced, female landscapers in Massachusetts, and she loved rhododendrons and azaleas. They are in full bloom right now and this park sparkles with their presence.  Let me show you a bit of what I mean.

The park has an interesting history and isn't simply just filled with these enormous flowering bushes...

although they are pretty much everywhere. It's original purpose was that of a series of mills used by the surrounding farmers. The brook hits waterfalls here and gains enough push to power the mills. The stonework and canals are still there to be seen, funneling the brook toward the still-standing mill house. The water cascades over the slate falls and off into the woods. After the mills lost their feasibility in 1930, the property was purchased by as a private property by the Mortons, who were wealthy and owned a store in Worcester. It was Mrs. Morton that began planting the flowers that now define Moore State Park. The property was then sold to the Spauldings who named the house and surrounding lands "Enchanta." They continued the process of planting and finally sold the property to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1956. We should all be glad of this and for the conservatory efforts this state has made to preserve and open these special places to the public.  This is a place to come and stay for a while... let the sounds and beauty wash away the day. At this time of year there are plenty of people there, but the place has a magic that keeps everyone pretty quiet. It is peaceful and inspiring.

Even Henry and Nora are fascinated. There is an open pond and waterfall... Adirondack

     chairs and ample opportunity for exploration. Henry walked the low stone wall bordering

the pond for quite some time looking for Dragonfly nymphs. There is no beach. Dogs are allowed when leashed. (Not the place for Chaucer unfortunately. He would be in that pond in a heartbeat) On researching the park, I found that there are a pretty serious amount of trails winding their way through the park: as there are mapped out here. There is even a bird sanctuary up there... hmmmmm. I think this deserves a return trip. The people of Paxton keep this park as a jewel tucked away and kept special and beautiful. It is a place to spend an afternoon... maybe a picnic... and to enjoy.