Wok N Roll with us...Bob and Teri Along with Atlas and Kalani: Augusta, Maine 6/10-12/15

Augusta Maine besides being the capital of Maine is green and so beautiful. Our campsite was along the Dead river and was one of our more beautiful locations to call home. Even Tiger our kitty approved.

We set off to see the Capital, the State museum and also Old Fort Western.

At the Capital we spent some time observing the House of Representatives session. The review of various bills happened quickly. A bell rings the entire time that they are waiting for all of the votes to be cast. The cast votes are tallied on the voting board. The session was especially interesting due to the present controversy going on where the present Governor has vowed to veto any Democratic sponsored bill until income tax is abolished. We watched as various bills were presented, and the only Democratic sponsored bills that were passed were with a minimum 2/3 vote.
Governor Bill Vetos The speed with which they went through the bills was quick and interesting, including the bill being read at the same time as the speaker of the house conducting the voting. They just spoke over one another.

The State Museum was quite interesting. They did an especially good job of presentation in the Natural Life sciences. For us, we enjoyed some of the local fare and we have included an eclectic selection in the pictures within.

The St. Mary ship was built in 1890 and unfortunately met her demise on her maiden voyage just 5 months after her completion. In the State museum we got to walk within her aged hull, viewing up close her construction.

Ever wonder how clap boards were made? Check out the 1880 clapboard saw below that was invented in 1820.

Hunters used to begin hunting season at the state house. Why? To touch the Luck chair of course, believing it would give them a good hunting season.

Years ago, apple cider was made by crushing apples in burlap bags, with the bags used as a sieve to push the apples through.

The wool fabric industry was big here. The fabric weavers were paid quite well, yet worked a lot of hours.

Outside of the State Museum is the statue of Samantha Smith. Her name seems to come up a lot in these parts. She is best described as an American school girl peace activist. Her story is a feel good story of how the smallest voice can be heard and have an impact. Her letter and response can be read at the following link. Samantha_Smith

Next we were off to Old Fort Western that was built in 1754 during the French and Indian War. It is the oldest surviving wooden fort in the United States. From the fort we could see this beautiful church. We just had to drive by and enjoy her architecture so we have included also a a picture of the St. Augustine Church.