Essex

Hi everyone,

We spent a week in Essex waiting for E winds to pass.  Lots of wind and rain initially then cloudy skies then finally a little sun.  We passed the time exploring Essex, training to Mystic and a day on a tour up the Connecticut River.  Essex is a great place to stop and explore.

Sea Shanties - every Monday night at the Gris

In Essex we visited the Connecticut River Museum.  Well worth a look.  Much more packed into it than the building's size suggests.  Essex was the site of an audacious raid by the British during the war of 1814.  Local legend says the British offered to spare the town while they burned the boats.  The locals accepted and the British had a drink at the Gris before escaping downriver, under fire.

Replica of Adriaan Block's 1614  'Onrust'

Connecticut River Museum

One day we took the bus from Essex to Old Saybrook where we caught a train to Mystic.  We had planned to sail there but the weather didn't stop the trains so we took that mode of transport instead.  In Mystic we explored the famous Seaport Museum and strolled around the pretty town.

New York to Boston Train

Museum Entrance

Amazing glass models of invertebrates

Figureheads

ex-Whaler

Whaler steering gear

Whaler 'tween decks

Visiting replica Viking ship

Cooperage

Printshop

Hooper

Forge

Rope walk

Serious renovations undertaken here

Refreshment

Mystic River Bascule Bridge

Another day we walked to the River Valley Railway and took a steam train and river boat tour up the river.  Twas interesting and fun.

River Valley Railroad

A ticket to ride!

Choo Choo!

All Aboard

Scenic Countryside

River boater

Gillette Castle

Largest Swing Bridge in the World?

Back in Essex the weather improved and we finally had a little sunshine.  On our last night we visited the Gris (yet again) for their Monday night 'Sea Chantey' session.  Twas great.  We had a wonderful stay in Essex.

Historic Essex Buildings from 1770s

Colour Coordination

Even yachties are ladies & gents at the Gris!

Last sunset in Essex

Thanks to OCC Port Officers Bob and Brenda for their hospitality!

Trust all's well where you are.