#104-year-old log cabin

[fieriframes]

[Now, there's a lot of history and a lot of characters in this town, and the next joint we're gonna visit has both. We're talking about a super-eclectic menu served out of a 104-year-old log cabin.]

#s21e02 seriously saucy #guy fieri #guyfieri #diners drive-ins and dives #104-year-old log cabin #next joint #super-eclectic menu #lot #history #characters #town

[alfclaw]

My Bucket List 2017

I purchased a book called My Ultimate Bucket List and checked off the activities that I wanted to put on my own list.  The ones after #300 are ones I came up with myself.

#5 Learn to Play an Instrument (keyboard). #6 Learn a New Language (Russian). #7 Start a New Tradition (monthly fancy bath)? #10 Reach My Goal Weight (120 lb). #11 Write a Song. #12 Design a Family Tree That Traces My Lineage. #16 Relive a Childhood Memory (Xmas). #22 Take a Day Trip to a Wildlife Reserve. #25 Join a Club. #27 Attend a Séance. #30 Attend a Protest. #32 Learn to Say Hello in 10 Languages (Svensk, Norsk, Finnish, Danish, Icelandic, Russki, German, Dutch, Japanese, Korean) #33 Attend a Drive-In Movie. #34 Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (10/31 to 11/2). #35 Make a Time Capsule and Bury It. #37 Start a Blog and Keep It Going for a Year. #38 Have a Pen Pal in Another Country. #44 Change My Hairstyle. #45 Learn CPR. #52 Complete New Year's Resolution. #53 Start a Weekly Game with Friends. #55 Drink Directly from a Coconut. #56 Throw Myself a Birthday Party. #59 Visit the Local SPCA or Humane Society and Play with the Animals. #60 See the Northern Lights. #71 Jump in a Bouncy Castle as an Adult. #72 Dress Up in Disguise for a Day. #73 Go to a Luau. #79 Post Something to Youtube. #81 Go to a Floating Lantern Festival. #86 Write and Publish an eBook. #87 Donate Money to a Worthy Cause (ASPCA). #89 Kiss Under a Mistletoe. #92 Go on a Spiritual Retreat. #96 Try Yoga. #99 Go on a Journey of Self-Discovery. #102 Witness a Geyser Erupting. #103 Find a Four-Leaf Clover. #104 Name a Star. #107 Create Your Own Card Game. #108 Attend a Toga Party. #109 Fly a Kite. #110 Learn to Write Calligraphy. #112 Read Over 100 Books in One Year. #114 Sleep in a Hammock. #115 Visit an Island (Mackinaw). #119 Make Someone's Wish Come True. #122 Enter a Contest. #129 Take My Dream Vacation (Russia)? #131 Go to a Nude Beach. #132 Go Camping. #133 Create a Children's Book. #136 Dye My Hair. #137 Give Blood. #143 Visit a Ghost Town. #147 Learn Self-Defense. #149 Try to get a Celebrity to Tweet Me or Retweet a Post I Made. #153 Give Up 5 Bad Habits for at Least a Year (Oversleeping, Greasy Food, Pop). #154 Learn a Magic Trick. #156 Make a Difference in Somebody's Life. #157 Have a Summer Romance (with Aaron). #158 Canoe Down a River. #159 Buy Myself an Entire New Wardrobe. #160 Visit 5 National Parks. #161 Explore a Cave. #163 Visit a Castle. #165 Go Skinny-Dipping in a Lake. #169 Have a Candle Light Dinner. #171 Walk on Stilts. #174 Visit the Birthplace of My Ancestors (Sweden, Mexico). #176 Create a New Recipe. #179 Visit the Grand Canyon. #180 Learn to Juggle. #181 Visit Stonehenge. #184 See a Lunar Eclipse. #186 Make an Investment in Something. #188 Pay it Forward Every Day for a Week. #191 Take a Life Drawing Class. #199 Renovate an Old Piece of Furniture. #200 See a Shooting Star. #203 Stay in a Log Cabin. #204 Create a Playlist for Someone. #206 Solve a Rubik's Cube. #211 Roast Marshmallows at a Campfire. #214 Master My Physical Fitness Level. #218 Learn Survival Skills. #221 Jump on a Pogo Stick. #222 Tour a Ruin. #224 Build an Igloo. #237 Make a Bucket List. #239 Write a Letter to Myself and Open it in 10 Years. #242 Cash in a Winning Lottery Ticket or Scratch Off. #245 Get a License of Something Other Than Driving. #246 Learn How to Surf and Go Surfing. #252 Target Practice and Hit the Bull's-Eye. #253 Find My Way Out of a Maze. #255 Live in Another Country. #257 Start a Collection of Something. #258 Play Charades at a Party. #259 Enjoy and Document a Year's Worth of Exploration. #261 Kiss Someone at Midnight on New Year's Eve. #262 Climb a Tree. #264 Learn to Ice Skate. #266 Get a Book Autographed by Its Author. #271 Visit a Wax Museum. #272 Take an Online Course to Better Myself. #281 Try to Beat a Guinness World Record. #283 Build a Snowman. #284 Have a Spa Day. #290 Do a Road Trip Across the USA. #293 Sing at a Karaoke Club. #294 Ride a Train. #296 Collect Honey from a Beehive. #299 Play a Round of Golf (mini). #300 Write a Mission Statement. #301 Get a Driver's License. #302 Have Low Vision for a Day (like my dad). #303 Write My Last Will and Testament. #304 Learn to Cook (World of Warcraft cookbook). #305 Donate My Old Clothes. #306 Get My Jaw Fixed. #307 Learn to Draw. #308 Learn to Sing (properly). #309 Watch 100 Movies in a Year. #310 Brush a Pig. #311 Make a Private Bucket List. #312 Participate in National Novel Writing Month. #313 Play 100 Video Games in a Year. #314 Make My Own Religion. #315 Watch the Sunrise with Someone. #316 Watch the Sunset with Someone. #317 Make a Stuffed Animal. #318 Make a Wand.   #319 See a Solar Eclipse.   #320 Invent a Holiday and Celebrate It. #321 Complete a Pen and Paper Campaign. #322 Live in a Two Bedroom Home.

#bucketlist

[radandhungry]

Two Tickets to Paradise – Summerville, GA, a RAH Mini-Adventure

I’m not exactly a country girl, so I was as surprised as anyone that a pilgrimage to paradise meant trekking to rural Georgia. The chance to visit a Baptist preacher-turned-outsider artist’s kitschy studio? Too unique to pass up, so we set off for Summerville, GA.

I didn’t anticipate feeling so connected to Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden or so welcomed by some of the locals. That feeling of being shaken out of your comfort zone? It’s one of the best parts of travel, especially in your own country.

Whether you’re looking for art, grub, or inspiration, our guide to Summerville and the surrounding area has you covered. This trip is deep-fried, small town Americana with a side of funky fixin’s.

After arriving in town, we let the locals be our guide – even when they threw in a detour to Alabama! You’ll start at the roadside diner where locals line up at 5:30 a.m. and end on top of a waterfall. A set of wheels is a must for this classic Southern road trip.

oxxo, Jessica

a RAD AND HUNGRY Mini-Adventure Two Tickets to Paradise – Summerville, GA

sleep in an ARTIST COTTAGE at Paradise Garden

Start your journey in Atlanta and take I-75 N to GA-140 W. Then, take US-27 N to N. Lewis St. Plan on two hours but traffic and time of day may make for a longer journey.

Get the full-on Paradise Garden experience by spending the night in the Artist in Residence Cottage. It’s burstin’ with artwork and vintage touches. Who needs rock star parking when you’re steps away from the entrance to Howard Finster's Paradise Garden! Reservations include unlimited access including after hours entry. Check out all the awesome by moonlight and let the magic wash over you. Availability is limited so book ahead.

eat BARBECUE at Henry’s BBQ

A pork plate for breakfast? Trust. The locals be up before dawn to start their day with Henry’s grubbin’ BBQ. Load up on Southern favorites like biscuits kissed with sunny dots of butter, grits, and the house-smoked sausage or bacon. The staff is the epitome of Southern hospitality. Tell Caitlan we sent you!

On your way back to Paradise Gardens, look out for Ye Olde Trade Grounds (US-27 and Smith Rd.). People flock from all over Chattooga County every Tuesday and Saturday for the Trade Day flea market at this parking lot. Browse everything from vintage jewelry to hunting knives, but the best deal is just gabbin’ with locals.

get INSPIRED at Paradise Garden

Paradise Garden was built by retired preacher Howard Finster when a vision told him to paint sacred art in 1976. He spent the rest of his life spreading his message by creating folk art and expanding his garden. The grounds are a wonderland of weird, featuring everyday bric-a-brac turned awesomeness. Watch your reflection multiply in the glittering Mirror House, try to count hubcaps amassed into a 20-foot-tall tower, and enjoy the gentle stream running through this outsider playground. If Finster’s work seems familiar you may have seen the album covers he created for R.E.M. and the Talking Heads. Protip – watch the short video shown in the visitor center for a glimpse of Finster serenading Johnny Carson by banjo.

shop the CRAFTS at Log Cabin Craft Village

Alabama? Hey, we go where the locals tell us. Drive NW for roughly 30 minutes from Summerville to Mentone on GA-48 W then AL-117 N.

This tiny mountain town is home to a surprisingly eclectic collection of artisans, craftspeople, and souvenir stores. Look for the group of log cabins that’s been converted to shops. The biggest surprise? A Dutch woman who moved from Seattle to Alabama and spends half the year sourcing goods for her shop in Ecuador and Peru!

go HIKING at Desoto Falls

A quick 10 minute drive and you’ll be lookin’ out at Alabama’s highest waterfall! Head west on AL-117 N and turn left onto Co Rd 613 until it dead ends at the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area.

An easy two-mile hike will take you through the lush Chattahoochee National Forest and back. Or just sit and admire the powerful 104-foot falls as they dive into the gorge below. Soak in the natural wonder before hitting the road back to Atlanta.

#mini-adventure #Summerville #Georgia #Mentone #Alabama

[ladyofthecampfires]

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALL THE QUESTIONS!!!

1. If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?I would read a bunch more.2. What is your favorite piece of clothing you own / owned?I like my plaid shirts that I stole from my brother3. What hobby would you pick up if time & money weren’t an issue?I would take piano lessons and art lessons4. What does your perfect room look like?A small room in a log cabin with a big bed and a bunch of fluffy blankets and floor rugs with Zapotec patterns.5. How often do you play sports?Pretty much never6. What fictional place would you like to visit?The Shire. Very much the Shire.7. What job would you be terrible at?Motivational speaker or counselor 8. When was the last time you climbed a tree?I don’t know9. If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance of winning a medal for?I really don’t know. I’m not super talented at much.10. What is the most annoying habit that you or other people have?Speaking over others. Other people do that, I don’t :p11. What job do you think you’d be really good at?Proofreader 12. What skill would you like to master?Learning to draw would be cool13. What would be the most amazing adventure to go on?A camping adventure! In some mountains somewhere14. If you had unlimited funds to build a house to live on for the rest of your life, what would the finished house look like?A nice cozy log cabin15. What’s your favorite drink?Depends on my mood. I do like Dr Pepper though :p16. What state or country do you never want to go back to?Don’t think I’ve been anywhere I hated17. What songs do you have completely memorized?Way too many to list18. What game or movie universe would you like to live in?Tolkien universe would be incredible19. What do you consider to be your best find?My brother found a homemade wand in the middle of the woods. I didn’t find it but it’s mine now.20. Are you usually early or late?Almost always early. I’m scared of being late.21. What pets did you have when you were growing up?Cats, dogs and I had a hamster for a while22. When people come to you for help, what do they usually need help with?Proofreading something haha 23. What takes up too much of your time?Worrying about things I can’t control 24. What do you wish you knew more about?Literally everything. Religion and mythology? 25. What would be your first question after waking up from being frozen for 100 years?Can I go back to sleep?26. What are some small things that make your day better?Talking to friends, coffee, my pets27. Who’s your go-to band or artist when you don’t know who or what to listen to?Frank Turner or the Hamilton soundtrack 28. What’s the best way to start the day?
The way I started it yesterday morning actually. A cup of coffee, donuts and the comics page of the newspaper 29. What TV shows do you like?Currently American Gods, Preacher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine 30. What TV channel doesn’t exist but really should?One that runs Harry Potter and LotR marathons just 24/7 31. Who has impressed you most with what they’ve accomplished?I’m sure there are people but I can’t think of any right now 32. What age do you wish you could stay at permanently?
I feel like 10 was good 33. What TV show or movie do you refuse to watch?13 Reasons Why 34. What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend?It depends on my mood I guess. A nice balance of going out and staying in. Yeah that’s vague but I’m too lazy to think about it. 35. What is something that is considered a luxury, but you don’t think you could live without?Sanitary products, according to the government 36. What is your claim to fame?I won a battle of the bands contest once? 37. What is something you enjoy doing the old-fashioned way?I dunno38. What’s your favorite book or movie genre?Fantasy I think 39. How often do you people-watch?Sometimes 40. What have you only recently formed an opinion about?I didn’t really think about politics much until I got to college 41. What’s the best day of the year?I don’t think there is one 42. What subject interests you that not many people have heard of?Paleography!! 43. How do you relax after a long day of work?Browse tumblr 44. What’s the best book series or TV series you’ve ever read or watched?Hannibal? Maybe? 45. Where is the farthest you’ve ever been from home?Went to Rome last year 46. What’s the most heartwarming thing you’ve ever seen?Once when it snowed at school I was watching from my dorm window at like midnight when several kids came outside and started making snow angels on the lawn. It was just really serene47. What is the most annoying question people ask you?Why are you so quiet? 48. What could you give a 40-minute presentation on with no preparation?Roman stuff probably if I didn’t die of a panic attack first49. If you were the dictator on a small island nation, what crazy dictator stuff would you do?I would resign immediately and put someone better in charge 50. What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?Get to know someone completely different from them 51. Would you rather go hand gliding or whitewater rafting?Rafting! 52. What’s your dream car?Something reliable with good mileage 53. What’s worth spending more on to get the best?Food, relationships 54. What is something a ton of people are obsessed with, but you just don’t get?Sex 55. What are you most looking forward to in the next 10 years?Being settled and hopefully happy with where I am 56. Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?Rome! 57. What’s something you’ve been meaning to try but haven’t gotten around to it?Dunno 58. What is the best thing that happened to you last week?I graduated lol 59. What piece of entertainment do you wish you could erase from your mind, only to experience it for the first time again?Hannibal 60. If all jobs had the same pay rate and hours, what job would you want to have?Musician61. What amazing thing have you done that no one was around to see?No idea 62. How different was your life 1 year ago?I was still in college 63. What quirks do you have?I’m sure I have some but I can’t think of any 64. What would you rate 10/10?Sleeping 65. What fad or trend do you think should come back?Dunno66. What is the most interesting piece of art you’ve seen?the Bernini statues in Rome were beautiful67. What kind of art do you enjoy most?Dunno, not that into art68. What do you hope never changes?I don’t know69. What city would you most like to live in?Don’t like cities that much70. What movie title best describes your life?I can’t think of any71. Why did you decide to do the work you are doing now?I’m not doing anything right now72. What’s the best way a person can spend their time?Making someone else smile73. If you suddenly became a master at woodworking, what would you make?Art74. Where is the most relaxing place you’ve ever been?Cloudcroft New Mexico!75. What’s the luckiest thing that has ever happened to you?Don’t know76. Where would you rather be from?Northern California sounds nice, up in the mountains77. What are some things you’ve had to unlearn?Bodyshaming, misogyny, junk like that78. What do you look forward to in the next 6 months?No idea79. What website do you visit most often?Tumblr80. What one thing do you really want but can’t afford?Lasik surgery81. Where do you usually go when you have free time?My room I guess82. Where would you spend all your time if you could?In some mountains somewhere83. What’s special about the place you grew up?Six Flags?84. What age do you want to live to?Dunno85. What are you most likely to become famous for?Nothing86. What are you absolutely determined to do?Keep being a good person87. What is the most impressive thing you know how to do?Play bass? I guess?88. What do you wish you knew more about?A lot of stuff89. What question would you most like to know the answer to?Not sure90. What question can you ask to find out the most about a person?I don’t know91. When was the last time you changed your opinion or belief about something major?Eh I don’t know92. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?Someone told me I had a cute nose once93. As the only human left on earth, what would you do?Do something like try to scale Mt. Everest and probably die there94. Who inspires you to be better?No one I can think of95. What do you want your epitaph to be?Dunno96. What haven’t you grown out of?I like playing in mud/sand. Is that weird? I don’t do it unless I’m at the beach or something though97. In what situation or place would you feel most out of place in?Pretty much everywhere98. What’s the dumbest thing you’ve done that actually turned out pretty well?Not sure99. If someone wrote a book on an event in your life, what would the book be about?It would be a pretty boring book, don’t know100. What’s something you will never do again?Plenty of things101. How do you hope you’ll change as a person in the future?Hope I can be a better and kinder person102. What keeps you up at night?Depends103. What’s the most surprising self-realization you’ve had?You like girls, it’s fine104. What is the most illegal thing you’ve ever done?I smoked weed once :o105. How do you get in the way of your own success?Second-guessing myself106. What are you afraid people see when they look at you?Nothing107. What is your biggest regret?There’s plenty108. What do you look down on people for?Being willfully ignorant109. What bridges do you not regret burning?With an ex110. What lie do you tell most often?Not sure111. What would be your spirit animal?Dunno112. What is the best & worst thing about getting older?Freedom/responsibility113. What are you most likely very wrong about?How to fix a car114. If you had a personal flag, what would be on it?Dunno115. What’s happened that changed your view on the world?The election116. What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?Can’t pick117. What is the most immature thing you do?I dunno, I’m pretty mature I think118. What are you famous for among your friends & family?Nothing119. If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?Dirt120. What one responsibility do you wish you didn’t have?Having to work121. What are 3 things you want to accomplish before you die?Find something I like to do, find someone I want to share my life with, travel somewhere cool122. What do you want to tell your 10-year-old self?Try not to worry so much but also don’t trust people123. What’s the best thing you got from your parents?My sense of humor124. What’s the best thing about you?I care a lot?125. What blows your mind?Space126. Have you ever saved someone’s life?No127. What are you really good at but embarrassed to be good at?Don’t know128. What would a mirror opposite of you look like?Elegant129. What are 3 interesting facts about you?I can’t think of anything right now130. Which of your scars has the best story behind it?I have one on my stomach from surgery when I was a baby?131. What’s the title of the current chapter in your life?Aimless132. What were some of the biggest turning points in your life?Going to college133. What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned?You can’t always make things go the way you want134. What do people think is weird about you?I’m not very talkative135. What mistake do you keep making?I dunno136. What have you created that you’re most proud of?Dunno137. What do you doubt?My judgment138. What are some of your morals?Be a good person139. What do you want to be remembered for?No idea140. What do you regret not doing in your childhood years?Learning a second language141. What is your favorite fragrance?Pine trees!142. What do you think your last words will be?No idea143. Who or what do you take for granted?Dunno144. Why would you be annoying as a roommate?I feel like I’m a pretty good roommate. Maybe I’m around too much.145. What is something you’re insecure about?Literally everything146. What’s the best & worst piece of advice you’ve received?Dunno147. What irrational fears do you have?Emetophobia, also don’t love heights148. What makes a good life?Helping others149. What’s the last adventure you went on?Went to a concert on Saturday? Is that an adventure?150. What is the most memorable gift you’ve received?I can’t think of anything right now

#campfire talks

[tinaparkerusa]

25 Houses Under $50,000: September 2017 Edition

by Elizabeth Finkelstein (Image courtesy of Keller Williams Town & Country Realty)

Happy September! Enjoy the latest round-up of gorgeous homes for sale for under $50,000 – plus a bonus video of the CIRCA team discussing a beautiful $67,900 dollar home (and it’s $8,300 next-door neighbor!)   (If you come across any beautiful old houses for sale for under $50,000, send them along to us at [email protected])   (Psst… We don’t personally represent any of these homes. We’ve provided a link back to the original listing in the description for each home. Click through if you’re looking for more information!).    

1  146 State St, Elkhart, IN   Source: Trulia (for sale by owner)   $29,900   No property description given.  

    2  159 S Mcintosh St, Elberton, GA   Source: Coldwell Banker Fort Realty $41,900 (foreclosure)   Two-story brick home built in 1915 with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths on a corner .27 acre lot in the city of Elberton. The main level has a separate living room with fireplace, dining room, office/sitting room, kitchen, butler’s pantry, bedroom with fireplace that has a freestanding gas log heater, and a full bath. The master bedroom, with woodburning fireplace, and bath is located upstairs along with 3 more bedrooms and another bath. Laundry hookups are located in the kitchen. There is a root cellar, a small brick storage building, and a private backyard. This home is in need of total restoration. Freddie Mac First Look through July 1, 2017. Seller will pay up to $500 for home warranty if owner occupied – must be specified in initial offer. Proof of funds or prequal letter required with offers. Seller addenda apply upon acceptance of offer. Earnest money must be certified check to listing broker or seller’s attorney : Ellis Painter Ratterree & Bart LLP. Sold As Is.  

        3  806 River Rd, Fort Plain, NY   Source: Homes.com, courtesy of USRealty.com LLC   $27,900   Massive 7 bed, 2 bath Fort Plain, NY home for sale. This property is 4,000+ sq ft and sits on 1.9 acres. What a wonderful investment property for a large family! Rooms and interior are spacious. Updating and some work are necessary before move in ready.  

        4  1212 N Main St, Evansville, IN   Source: ERA First Advantage Realty, Inc.   $40,500 (foreclosure)   This 3 bedroom, 1 bath home has character throughout! There is a covered front porch and spacious yard. Tall windows throughout the home allow for a lot of natural light. The street and sidewalks have recently been redone in front of the home. You are not far from schools, shopping, and restaurants. This is a Fannie Mae HomePath property.  

        5  20 Sherman St, Bradford, PA   Source: Howard Hanna Professionals   $44,900   “HOME HAPPENS HERE”Spacious 4 bedroom home situated on corner lot on quiet city street. Modern eat-in kitchen with glass doors leading to deck, formal dining area, large living area with fireplace and grand entrance all offered on the first level of this home. Second level boasts 4 bedrooms with plenty of storage and full bath.A must see home!  

        6  732 Belgrade Rd, Mount Vernon, ME   Source: Estately, courtesy of Brookewood Realty   $49,900   Mount Vernon – New Listing – Country location !! Old Cape home!! Needs repairs, being sold as is!! House with attached shed!  

        7  51 Covington St, Perry, NY   Source: Realtor, courtesy of USRealty.com, LLP   $34,900   4 bed, 2 bath Perry, NY Home for sale. This home has great potential. There is beautiful wood working throughout the property. Some work and repairs maybe necessary before move in ready. Very spacious home. Beautiful characteristics here and great potential!  

        8  138 W Orleans St, Paxton, IL   Source: RE/MAX Realty Associates   $19,900   HISTORICAL CLASSIC HOME! THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD IN AN “AS-IS” CONDITION. THIS PROPERTY WILL NOT QUALIFY FOR A TYPICAL MORTGAGE. SELLER WILL ONLY CONSIDER A CASH BUYER.  

        9  168 S Mcgriff St, Whigham, GA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of KELLER WILLIAMS Town & Country Realty   $49,900   No property description given.  

        10  207 E 2nd St, Wyanet, IL   Source: Trulia, courtesy of Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC   $24,900   The grandiose features of this fabulous home make it worth the love needed! Amazing woodwork including original hardwood floors, two stairways, cast iron fireplace, detailed wainscoting, built in floor to ceiling mirror and built in entryway benches are all the touches that you just can’t find in a newer home. New roof in 2012 on both home and garage, 95% efficient furnace and air conditioning in approximately 2013, and new windows on the main floor (excluding leaded glass) in 2005. Wrap around porch overlooks the huge yard! Most personal property in home will stay with new owner and property is being sold as-is, where is.  

        11  104 Somerset St, Rumford, ME   Source: Hebert Realty Group   $50,000   Unique opportunity to own a home of this style. House has a distinct architectural appearance from the road. Large living room, 2 baths, 4 bedrooms & new furnace. House is waiting for your finishing touches to make it stand out! Manageable yard.  

        12  1003 Edgington Ave, Eldora, IA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Leonard Realty   $46,500 (offer pending)   Large 4-bedroom historical home close to downtown has charm galore! Original woodwork and two sets of stair to second floor are unique features. This has the potential to be a unique bed and breakfast property.  

        13  517 Park Ave, Johnstown, PA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Speicher Select Properties   $19,900   An unique opportunity! This stately Victorian on tree-lined Park Avenue in historic Moxham is ready for an owner who will restore it to its past glory. It is sold in AS-IS condition. After restoration you can enjoy spacious living surrounded by original hardwood floors and woodwork, with plenty of room for all your needs. Close to Central Avenue and Ohio Street, giving easy access to Conemaugh Hospital, schools, shopping, and transportation. Call today to discuss the options available for this property!  

        14  413 S Archer St, Henrietta, TX   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Hirschi Realtors Inc   $39,000   Lots of potential in this historic home. 3 bedrooms with tons of charm and architectural details. Has a 2 car detached garage with an apartment above it and sits on a corner lot. Needs someone to come in and finish this 100 year old charmer.  

        15  305 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Washington Square Realtors   $49,900 (foreclosure)   Beautiful stained glass windows, 2 kitchens, 4 large bedrooms, and 2 full baths. Second kitchen has many possible uses. Covered porches on the front as well as the side of this stately home. Detached 3 car garage provides additional storage. Elegant winding staircase, and 2 sets of French doors add character to all this home has to offer.  

        16  105 Oakwood Rd, Charleston, WV   Source: Old Colony Company   $50,000   Own your very own rustic log cabin in South Hills! 1 bedroom, 1 bath log home with hardwoods on a .21 acre lot.  

        17  113 N Broad St, Orient, IA   Source: Creston Realty   $38,000   Old Masonic Lodge built in 1925 with original millwork, 5 panel solid wood doors, hardwood floors and period-style pendant chandeliers. Both main floor and lower level have large open spaces – suitable for any large gatherings. Kitchen has two serving windows and built-in pantry. Many many possibilities…. community fitness center, music hall or dance studio, art gallery, retail, church, destination restaurant … be creative! Could also be turned into a large residential home or bed & breakfast. Some options may require zoning change.  

        18  304 Cross St, Newcomerstown, OH   Source: Ron Hickman Grapevine Real Estate   $39,900   Bring this Queen Anne home with tower back to its original glory! *3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 bathrooms, attached garage* *beautiful woodwork, most hard wood floors, large rooms, pocket doors* *Nice neighborhood, priced right at $49,900 to add your personal touch & make it a beauty*  

        19  411 N Hickory St, Joliet, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of EXIT Realty Redefined   $49,000   Diamond in the Rough – This historical home is in need of complete rehab. Gorgeous Wood Work including Grand Entrance… Four Bedroom Home, Two and Half Car Garage. Sold As-Is…  

      20  441 S Highland Ct, Montgomery, AL   Source: CENTURY 21 Brandt Wright Realty, Inc.   $45,000   No property description given.  

      21  651 N Main St, Kenton, OH   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Royer Realty LLC   $49,900 (offer pending)   Vintage character! This Victorian home built in 1870 has great potential! Large rooms, high ceilings, hardwood floors, decorative wood moldings, fireplace, big windows, covered front porch, fenced back yard, one car detached garage plus an updated kitchen! 9 rooms, 5 bedrooms with one on main level, full bath and large walk-in closet upstairs and main level laundry in kitchen. Call today to see this spacious home! Lots of potential! Cash, conventional or rehab loans only.  

        22  749 N 31st St, Milwaukee, WI   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Jason Scott Realty & Management, LLC   $12,000 (pinch me!)   Be prepared to own a little piece of city of Milwaukee history. This home built in the late 1800’s has tons of potential to offer! This is strictly for an owner occupant buyer. Beautiful old world charm & natural lighting throughout the entire property.O/O A historic Preservation easement will be required and buyer must complete a reduced unit permit application and pay associated fees. These can be obtained through the City. Please see http://city.milwaukee.gov/HistoricHouses for more information.  

        23  848 Vine St, Poplar Bluff, MO   Source: Mossy Oak Properties Mozark Realty   $44,900   Known as the “Castle on Vine”, this one-of-a kind Victorian style home is rich in Poplar Bluff history and is a clean slate to add your own personalization. Channel your inner Chip and Joanna to make this a great Bed & Breakfast, Boutique, Museum or venue. The electric has been updated on the main level. This home is part of the Missouri Preservation Society and can be tax deductible to restore.  

        24  2101 Christine Ave, Anniston, AL   Source: ERA King Real Estate   $34,900   Own a Piece of Anniston’s History. 2101 Christine Avenue is listed as a contributing resource in the National Register nomination for the East Anniston Historic District. This house is one of the few surviving resources in the city associated with the Noble family. Samuel Noble and Daniel Tyler founded the Woodstock Iron Company in 1872 and built what would become the City of Anniston (incorporated in 1879). The house is also one of the few houses in the city to be constructed before 1890. A lot of history lives here and is worth the viewing and use your imagination on restoring a piece of history. Call today for your private tour of this great opportunity. Seeing is Believing!!!  

        25  6026 Lookout St, Saint Joseph, MO   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stein & Summers Real Estate   $35,000   This grand, 1912 home is begging for your personal touch. This little area is a wonderful hidden gem in town! Great views and almost a half acre lot. Sitting up high on the appropriately named Lookout Street, the home is livable at the moment and utilities are on and are working! Yes it’s a fixer upper, but you can move in this one and work on it. Oh the potential! Pocket doors and hardwood floors. Robust fireplace mantle. Let the amazing craftsman details all over the home be a reminder of the rich past that St. Joseph boasts.  

        Watch!  217 S Boush St, Roper, North Carolina   Sources: CIRCA Old Houses and Zillow, courtesy of Riverfront Realty of Eastern NC, LLC   $67,900   Beautiful elegance describes this stately home built in 1918 in downtown Roper. Large windows, graceful mantels, high ceilings, solid wood doors, brass chandeliers, beautiful woodwork and stained glass are just a few of the features of this home. Located on a large lot with mature trees and landscaping the setting provides a great backdrop for this property. The home is being sold as is and does need some work but the bones are great and the potential is unlimited.  

.  

        Love cheap, beautiful old houses?

  Follow CIRCA’s Instagram feed at @CheapOldHouses, on which we showcase only gorgeous historical homes for sale for under $100,000.

      AUTHOR ELIZABETH FINKELSTEIN

Elizabeth is the founder of CIRCA and a practicing writer, architectural historian and preservation consultant living in Nyack, NY. Elizabeth has loved historic houses for as long as she can remember, having grown up in an 1850’s Greek Revival gem that was lovingly restored by her parents. Elizabeth, her husband Ethan and their beagle Banjo remain on a relentless hunt for their perfect “Thanksgiving house.”        

from House Retoration Tips http://circaoldhouses.com/houses-under-50000-september-2017-edition/

[cristinkgarzaky]

25 Houses Under $50,000: September 2017 Edition

by Elizabeth Finkelstein (Image courtesy of Keller Williams Town & Country Realty)

Happy September! Enjoy the latest round-up of gorgeous homes for sale for under $50,000 – plus a bonus video of the CIRCA team discussing a beautiful $67,900 dollar home (and it’s $8,300 next-door neighbor!)   (If you come across any beautiful old houses for sale for under $50,000, send them along to us at [email protected])   (Psst… We don’t personally represent any of these homes. We’ve provided a link back to the original listing in the description for each home. Click through if you’re looking for more information!).    

1  146 State St, Elkhart, IN   Source: Trulia (for sale by owner)   $29,900   No property description given.  

    2  159 S Mcintosh St, Elberton, GA   Source: Coldwell Banker Fort Realty $41,900 (foreclosure)   Two-story brick home built in 1915 with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths on a corner .27 acre lot in the city of Elberton. The main level has a separate living room with fireplace, dining room, office/sitting room, kitchen, butler’s pantry, bedroom with fireplace that has a freestanding gas log heater, and a full bath. The master bedroom, with woodburning fireplace, and bath is located upstairs along with 3 more bedrooms and another bath. Laundry hookups are located in the kitchen. There is a root cellar, a small brick storage building, and a private backyard. This home is in need of total restoration. Freddie Mac First Look through July 1, 2017. Seller will pay up to $500 for home warranty if owner occupied – must be specified in initial offer. Proof of funds or prequal letter required with offers. Seller addenda apply upon acceptance of offer. Earnest money must be certified check to listing broker or seller’s attorney : Ellis Painter Ratterree & Bart LLP. Sold As Is.  

        3  806 River Rd, Fort Plain, NY   Source: Homes.com, courtesy of USRealty.com LLC   $27,900   Massive 7 bed, 2 bath Fort Plain, NY home for sale. This property is 4,000+ sq ft and sits on 1.9 acres. What a wonderful investment property for a large family! Rooms and interior are spacious. Updating and some work are necessary before move in ready.  

        4  1212 N Main St, Evansville, IN   Source: ERA First Advantage Realty, Inc.   $40,500 (foreclosure)   This 3 bedroom, 1 bath home has character throughout! There is a covered front porch and spacious yard. Tall windows throughout the home allow for a lot of natural light. The street and sidewalks have recently been redone in front of the home. You are not far from schools, shopping, and restaurants. This is a Fannie Mae HomePath property.  

        5  20 Sherman St, Bradford, PA   Source: Howard Hanna Professionals   $44,900   “HOME HAPPENS HERE”Spacious 4 bedroom home situated on corner lot on quiet city street. Modern eat-in kitchen with glass doors leading to deck, formal dining area, large living area with fireplace and grand entrance all offered on the first level of this home. Second level boasts 4 bedrooms with plenty of storage and full bath.A must see home!  

        6  732 Belgrade Rd, Mount Vernon, ME   Source: Estately, courtesy of Brookewood Realty   $49,900   Mount Vernon – New Listing – Country location !! Old Cape home!! Needs repairs, being sold as is!! House with attached shed!  

        7  51 Covington St, Perry, NY   Source: Realtor, courtesy of USRealty.com, LLP   $34,900   4 bed, 2 bath Perry, NY Home for sale. This home has great potential. There is beautiful wood working throughout the property. Some work and repairs maybe necessary before move in ready. Very spacious home. Beautiful characteristics here and great potential!  

        8  138 W Orleans St, Paxton, IL   Source: RE/MAX Realty Associates   $19,900   HISTORICAL CLASSIC HOME! THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD IN AN “AS-IS” CONDITION. THIS PROPERTY WILL NOT QUALIFY FOR A TYPICAL MORTGAGE. SELLER WILL ONLY CONSIDER A CASH BUYER.  

        9  168 S Mcgriff St, Whigham, GA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of KELLER WILLIAMS Town & Country Realty   $49,900   No property description given.  

        10  207 E 2nd St, Wyanet, IL   Source: Trulia, courtesy of Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC   $24,900   The grandiose features of this fabulous home make it worth the love needed! Amazing woodwork including original hardwood floors, two stairways, cast iron fireplace, detailed wainscoting, built in floor to ceiling mirror and built in entryway benches are all the touches that you just can’t find in a newer home. New roof in 2012 on both home and garage, 95% efficient furnace and air conditioning in approximately 2013, and new windows on the main floor (excluding leaded glass) in 2005. Wrap around porch overlooks the huge yard! Most personal property in home will stay with new owner and property is being sold as-is, where is.  

        11  104 Somerset St, Rumford, ME   Source: Hebert Realty Group   $50,000   Unique opportunity to own a home of this style. House has a distinct architectural appearance from the road. Large living room, 2 baths, 4 bedrooms & new furnace. House is waiting for your finishing touches to make it stand out! Manageable yard.  

        12  1003 Edgington Ave, Eldora, IA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Leonard Realty   $46,500 (offer pending)   Large 4-bedroom historical home close to downtown has charm galore! Original woodwork and two sets of stair to second floor are unique features. This has the potential to be a unique bed and breakfast property.  

        13  517 Park Ave, Johnstown, PA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Speicher Select Properties   $19,900   An unique opportunity! This stately Victorian on tree-lined Park Avenue in historic Moxham is ready for an owner who will restore it to its past glory. It is sold in AS-IS condition. After restoration you can enjoy spacious living surrounded by original hardwood floors and woodwork, with plenty of room for all your needs. Close to Central Avenue and Ohio Street, giving easy access to Conemaugh Hospital, schools, shopping, and transportation. Call today to discuss the options available for this property!  

        14  413 S Archer St, Henrietta, TX   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Hirschi Realtors Inc   $39,000   Lots of potential in this historic home. 3 bedrooms with tons of charm and architectural details. Has a 2 car detached garage with an apartment above it and sits on a corner lot. Needs someone to come in and finish this 100 year old charmer.  

        15  305 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Washington Square Realtors   $49,900 (foreclosure)   Beautiful stained glass windows, 2 kitchens, 4 large bedrooms, and 2 full baths. Second kitchen has many possible uses. Covered porches on the front as well as the side of this stately home. Detached 3 car garage provides additional storage. Elegant winding staircase, and 2 sets of French doors add character to all this home has to offer.  

        16  105 Oakwood Rd, Charleston, WV   Source: Old Colony Company   $50,000   Own your very own rustic log cabin in South Hills! 1 bedroom, 1 bath log home with hardwoods on a .21 acre lot.  

        17  113 N Broad St, Orient, IA   Source: Creston Realty   $38,000   Old Masonic Lodge built in 1925 with original millwork, 5 panel solid wood doors, hardwood floors and period-style pendant chandeliers. Both main floor and lower level have large open spaces – suitable for any large gatherings. Kitchen has two serving windows and built-in pantry. Many many possibilities…. community fitness center, music hall or dance studio, art gallery, retail, church, destination restaurant … be creative! Could also be turned into a large residential home or bed & breakfast. Some options may require zoning change.  

        18  304 Cross St, Newcomerstown, OH   Source: Ron Hickman Grapevine Real Estate   $39,900   Bring this Queen Anne home with tower back to its original glory! *3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 bathrooms, attached garage* *beautiful woodwork, most hard wood floors, large rooms, pocket doors* *Nice neighborhood, priced right at $49,900 to add your personal touch & make it a beauty*  

        19  411 N Hickory St, Joliet, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of EXIT Realty Redefined   $49,000   Diamond in the Rough – This historical home is in need of complete rehab. Gorgeous Wood Work including Grand Entrance… Four Bedroom Home, Two and Half Car Garage. Sold As-Is…  

      20  441 S Highland Ct, Montgomery, AL   Source: CENTURY 21 Brandt Wright Realty, Inc.   $45,000   No property description given.  

      21  651 N Main St, Kenton, OH   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Royer Realty LLC   $49,900 (offer pending)   Vintage character! This Victorian home built in 1870 has great potential! Large rooms, high ceilings, hardwood floors, decorative wood moldings, fireplace, big windows, covered front porch, fenced back yard, one car detached garage plus an updated kitchen! 9 rooms, 5 bedrooms with one on main level, full bath and large walk-in closet upstairs and main level laundry in kitchen. Call today to see this spacious home! Lots of potential! Cash, conventional or rehab loans only.  

        22  749 N 31st St, Milwaukee, WI   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Jason Scott Realty & Management, LLC   $12,000 (pinch me!)   Be prepared to own a little piece of city of Milwaukee history. This home built in the late 1800’s has tons of potential to offer! This is strictly for an owner occupant buyer. Beautiful old world charm & natural lighting throughout the entire property.O/O A historic Preservation easement will be required and buyer must complete a reduced unit permit application and pay associated fees. These can be obtained through the City. Please see http://city.milwaukee.gov/HistoricHouses for more information.  

        23  848 Vine St, Poplar Bluff, MO   Source: Mossy Oak Properties Mozark Realty   $44,900   Known as the “Castle on Vine”, this one-of-a kind Victorian style home is rich in Poplar Bluff history and is a clean slate to add your own personalization. Channel your inner Chip and Joanna to make this a great Bed & Breakfast, Boutique, Museum or venue. The electric has been updated on the main level. This home is part of the Missouri Preservation Society and can be tax deductible to restore.  

        24  2101 Christine Ave, Anniston, AL   Source: ERA King Real Estate   $34,900   Own a Piece of Anniston’s History. 2101 Christine Avenue is listed as a contributing resource in the National Register nomination for the East Anniston Historic District. This house is one of the few surviving resources in the city associated with the Noble family. Samuel Noble and Daniel Tyler founded the Woodstock Iron Company in 1872 and built what would become the City of Anniston (incorporated in 1879). The house is also one of the few houses in the city to be constructed before 1890. A lot of history lives here and is worth the viewing and use your imagination on restoring a piece of history. Call today for your private tour of this great opportunity. Seeing is Believing!!!  

        25  6026 Lookout St, Saint Joseph, MO   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stein & Summers Real Estate   $35,000   This grand, 1912 home is begging for your personal touch. This little area is a wonderful hidden gem in town! Great views and almost a half acre lot. Sitting up high on the appropriately named Lookout Street, the home is livable at the moment and utilities are on and are working! Yes it’s a fixer upper, but you can move in this one and work on it. Oh the potential! Pocket doors and hardwood floors. Robust fireplace mantle. Let the amazing craftsman details all over the home be a reminder of the rich past that St. Joseph boasts.  

        Watch!  217 S Boush St, Roper, North Carolina   Sources: CIRCA Old Houses and Zillow, courtesy of Riverfront Realty of Eastern NC, LLC   $67,900   Beautiful elegance describes this stately home built in 1918 in downtown Roper. Large windows, graceful mantels, high ceilings, solid wood doors, brass chandeliers, beautiful woodwork and stained glass are just a few of the features of this home. Located on a large lot with mature trees and landscaping the setting provides a great backdrop for this property. The home is being sold as is and does need some work but the bones are great and the potential is unlimited.  

.  

        Love cheap, beautiful old houses?

  Follow CIRCA’s Instagram feed at @CheapOldHouses, on which we showcase only gorgeous historical homes for sale for under $100,000.

      AUTHOR ELIZABETH FINKELSTEIN

Elizabeth is the founder of CIRCA and a practicing writer, architectural historian and preservation consultant living in Nyack, NY. Elizabeth has loved historic houses for as long as she can remember, having grown up in an 1850’s Greek Revival gem that was lovingly restored by her parents. Elizabeth, her husband Ethan and their beagle Banjo remain on a relentless hunt for their perfect “Thanksgiving house.”        

from House Retoration Tips http://circaoldhouses.com/houses-under-50000-september-2017-edition/

[juliasmathewus]

25 Houses Under $50,000: September 2017 Edition

by Elizabeth Finkelstein (Image courtesy of Keller Williams Town & Country Realty)

Happy September! Enjoy the latest round-up of gorgeous homes for sale for under $50,000 – plus a bonus video of the CIRCA team discussing a beautiful $67,900 dollar home (and it’s $8,300 next-door neighbor!)   (If you come across any beautiful old houses for sale for under $50,000, send them along to us at [email protected])   (Psst… We don’t personally represent any of these homes. We’ve provided a link back to the original listing in the description for each home. Click through if you’re looking for more information!).    

1  146 State St, Elkhart, IN   Source: Trulia (for sale by owner)   $29,900   No property description given.  

    2  159 S Mcintosh St, Elberton, GA   Source: Coldwell Banker Fort Realty $41,900 (foreclosure)   Two-story brick home built in 1915 with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths on a corner .27 acre lot in the city of Elberton. The main level has a separate living room with fireplace, dining room, office/sitting room, kitchen, butler’s pantry, bedroom with fireplace that has a freestanding gas log heater, and a full bath. The master bedroom, with woodburning fireplace, and bath is located upstairs along with 3 more bedrooms and another bath. Laundry hookups are located in the kitchen. There is a root cellar, a small brick storage building, and a private backyard. This home is in need of total restoration. Freddie Mac First Look through July 1, 2017. Seller will pay up to $500 for home warranty if owner occupied – must be specified in initial offer. Proof of funds or prequal letter required with offers. Seller addenda apply upon acceptance of offer. Earnest money must be certified check to listing broker or seller’s attorney : Ellis Painter Ratterree & Bart LLP. Sold As Is.  

        3  806 River Rd, Fort Plain, NY   Source: Homes.com, courtesy of USRealty.com LLC   $27,900   Massive 7 bed, 2 bath Fort Plain, NY home for sale. This property is 4,000+ sq ft and sits on 1.9 acres. What a wonderful investment property for a large family! Rooms and interior are spacious. Updating and some work are necessary before move in ready.  

        4  1212 N Main St, Evansville, IN   Source: ERA First Advantage Realty, Inc.   $40,500 (foreclosure)   This 3 bedroom, 1 bath home has character throughout! There is a covered front porch and spacious yard. Tall windows throughout the home allow for a lot of natural light. The street and sidewalks have recently been redone in front of the home. You are not far from schools, shopping, and restaurants. This is a Fannie Mae HomePath property.  

        5  20 Sherman St, Bradford, PA   Source: Howard Hanna Professionals   $44,900   “HOME HAPPENS HERE”Spacious 4 bedroom home situated on corner lot on quiet city street. Modern eat-in kitchen with glass doors leading to deck, formal dining area, large living area with fireplace and grand entrance all offered on the first level of this home. Second level boasts 4 bedrooms with plenty of storage and full bath.A must see home!  

        6  732 Belgrade Rd, Mount Vernon, ME   Source: Estately, courtesy of Brookewood Realty   $49,900   Mount Vernon – New Listing – Country location !! Old Cape home!! Needs repairs, being sold as is!! House with attached shed!  

        7  51 Covington St, Perry, NY   Source: Realtor, courtesy of USRealty.com, LLP   $34,900   4 bed, 2 bath Perry, NY Home for sale. This home has great potential. There is beautiful wood working throughout the property. Some work and repairs maybe necessary before move in ready. Very spacious home. Beautiful characteristics here and great potential!  

        8  138 W Orleans St, Paxton, IL   Source: RE/MAX Realty Associates   $19,900   HISTORICAL CLASSIC HOME! THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD IN AN “AS-IS” CONDITION. THIS PROPERTY WILL NOT QUALIFY FOR A TYPICAL MORTGAGE. SELLER WILL ONLY CONSIDER A CASH BUYER.  

        9  168 S Mcgriff St, Whigham, GA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of KELLER WILLIAMS Town & Country Realty   $49,900   No property description given.  

        10  207 E 2nd St, Wyanet, IL   Source: Trulia, courtesy of Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC   $24,900   The grandiose features of this fabulous home make it worth the love needed! Amazing woodwork including original hardwood floors, two stairways, cast iron fireplace, detailed wainscoting, built in floor to ceiling mirror and built in entryway benches are all the touches that you just can’t find in a newer home. New roof in 2012 on both home and garage, 95% efficient furnace and air conditioning in approximately 2013, and new windows on the main floor (excluding leaded glass) in 2005. Wrap around porch overlooks the huge yard! Most personal property in home will stay with new owner and property is being sold as-is, where is.  

        11  104 Somerset St, Rumford, ME   Source: Hebert Realty Group   $50,000   Unique opportunity to own a home of this style. House has a distinct architectural appearance from the road. Large living room, 2 baths, 4 bedrooms & new furnace. House is waiting for your finishing touches to make it stand out! Manageable yard.  

        12  1003 Edgington Ave, Eldora, IA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Leonard Realty   $46,500 (offer pending)   Large 4-bedroom historical home close to downtown has charm galore! Original woodwork and two sets of stair to second floor are unique features. This has the potential to be a unique bed and breakfast property.  

        13  517 Park Ave, Johnstown, PA   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Speicher Select Properties   $19,900   An unique opportunity! This stately Victorian on tree-lined Park Avenue in historic Moxham is ready for an owner who will restore it to its past glory. It is sold in AS-IS condition. After restoration you can enjoy spacious living surrounded by original hardwood floors and woodwork, with plenty of room for all your needs. Close to Central Avenue and Ohio Street, giving easy access to Conemaugh Hospital, schools, shopping, and transportation. Call today to discuss the options available for this property!  

        14  413 S Archer St, Henrietta, TX   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Hirschi Realtors Inc   $39,000   Lots of potential in this historic home. 3 bedrooms with tons of charm and architectural details. Has a 2 car detached garage with an apartment above it and sits on a corner lot. Needs someone to come in and finish this 100 year old charmer.  

        15  305 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Washington Square Realtors   $49,900 (foreclosure)   Beautiful stained glass windows, 2 kitchens, 4 large bedrooms, and 2 full baths. Second kitchen has many possible uses. Covered porches on the front as well as the side of this stately home. Detached 3 car garage provides additional storage. Elegant winding staircase, and 2 sets of French doors add character to all this home has to offer.  

        16  105 Oakwood Rd, Charleston, WV   Source: Old Colony Company   $50,000   Own your very own rustic log cabin in South Hills! 1 bedroom, 1 bath log home with hardwoods on a .21 acre lot.  

        17  113 N Broad St, Orient, IA   Source: Creston Realty   $38,000   Old Masonic Lodge built in 1925 with original millwork, 5 panel solid wood doors, hardwood floors and period-style pendant chandeliers. Both main floor and lower level have large open spaces – suitable for any large gatherings. Kitchen has two serving windows and built-in pantry. Many many possibilities…. community fitness center, music hall or dance studio, art gallery, retail, church, destination restaurant … be creative! Could also be turned into a large residential home or bed & breakfast. Some options may require zoning change.  

        18  304 Cross St, Newcomerstown, OH   Source: Ron Hickman Grapevine Real Estate   $39,900   Bring this Queen Anne home with tower back to its original glory! *3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 bathrooms, attached garage* *beautiful woodwork, most hard wood floors, large rooms, pocket doors* *Nice neighborhood, priced right at $49,900 to add your personal touch & make it a beauty*  

        19  411 N Hickory St, Joliet, IL   Source: Realtor, courtesy of EXIT Realty Redefined   $49,000   Diamond in the Rough – This historical home is in need of complete rehab. Gorgeous Wood Work including Grand Entrance… Four Bedroom Home, Two and Half Car Garage. Sold As-Is…  

      20  441 S Highland Ct, Montgomery, AL   Source: CENTURY 21 Brandt Wright Realty, Inc.   $45,000   No property description given.  

      21  651 N Main St, Kenton, OH   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Royer Realty LLC   $49,900 (offer pending)   Vintage character! This Victorian home built in 1870 has great potential! Large rooms, high ceilings, hardwood floors, decorative wood moldings, fireplace, big windows, covered front porch, fenced back yard, one car detached garage plus an updated kitchen! 9 rooms, 5 bedrooms with one on main level, full bath and large walk-in closet upstairs and main level laundry in kitchen. Call today to see this spacious home! Lots of potential! Cash, conventional or rehab loans only.  

        22  749 N 31st St, Milwaukee, WI   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Jason Scott Realty & Management, LLC   $12,000 (pinch me!)   Be prepared to own a little piece of city of Milwaukee history. This home built in the late 1800’s has tons of potential to offer! This is strictly for an owner occupant buyer. Beautiful old world charm & natural lighting throughout the entire property.O/O A historic Preservation easement will be required and buyer must complete a reduced unit permit application and pay associated fees. These can be obtained through the City. Please see http://city.milwaukee.gov/HistoricHouses for more information.  

        23  848 Vine St, Poplar Bluff, MO   Source: Mossy Oak Properties Mozark Realty   $44,900   Known as the “Castle on Vine”, this one-of-a kind Victorian style home is rich in Poplar Bluff history and is a clean slate to add your own personalization. Channel your inner Chip and Joanna to make this a great Bed & Breakfast, Boutique, Museum or venue. The electric has been updated on the main level. This home is part of the Missouri Preservation Society and can be tax deductible to restore.  

        24  2101 Christine Ave, Anniston, AL   Source: ERA King Real Estate   $34,900   Own a Piece of Anniston’s History. 2101 Christine Avenue is listed as a contributing resource in the National Register nomination for the East Anniston Historic District. This house is one of the few surviving resources in the city associated with the Noble family. Samuel Noble and Daniel Tyler founded the Woodstock Iron Company in 1872 and built what would become the City of Anniston (incorporated in 1879). The house is also one of the few houses in the city to be constructed before 1890. A lot of history lives here and is worth the viewing and use your imagination on restoring a piece of history. Call today for your private tour of this great opportunity. Seeing is Believing!!!  

        25  6026 Lookout St, Saint Joseph, MO   Source: Realtor, courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stein & Summers Real Estate   $35,000   This grand, 1912 home is begging for your personal touch. This little area is a wonderful hidden gem in town! Great views and almost a half acre lot. Sitting up high on the appropriately named Lookout Street, the home is livable at the moment and utilities are on and are working! Yes it’s a fixer upper, but you can move in this one and work on it. Oh the potential! Pocket doors and hardwood floors. Robust fireplace mantle. Let the amazing craftsman details all over the home be a reminder of the rich past that St. Joseph boasts.  

        Watch!  217 S Boush St, Roper, North Carolina   Sources: CIRCA Old Houses and Zillow, courtesy of Riverfront Realty of Eastern NC, LLC   $67,900   Beautiful elegance describes this stately home built in 1918 in downtown Roper. Large windows, graceful mantels, high ceilings, solid wood doors, brass chandeliers, beautiful woodwork and stained glass are just a few of the features of this home. Located on a large lot with mature trees and landscaping the setting provides a great backdrop for this property. The home is being sold as is and does need some work but the bones are great and the potential is unlimited.  

.  

        Love cheap, beautiful old houses?

  Follow CIRCA’s Instagram feed at @CheapOldHouses, on which we showcase only gorgeous historical homes for sale for under $100,000.

      AUTHOR ELIZABETH FINKELSTEIN

Elizabeth is the founder of CIRCA and a practicing writer, architectural historian and preservation consultant living in Nyack, NY. Elizabeth has loved historic houses for as long as she can remember, having grown up in an 1850’s Greek Revival gem that was lovingly restored by her parents. Elizabeth, her husband Ethan and their beagle Banjo remain on a relentless hunt for their perfect “Thanksgiving house.”        

from Home Decoration Ideas http://circaoldhouses.com/houses-under-50000-september-2017-edition/

[throwadart]

Roadtrip to the Mitten

We had quite the trip home ahead of us: work meetings, house hunting, two baby showers and a trip up north to Boyne. All in two weeks time. We decided to drive, knowing that we would be tooling around town and likely hauling gifts home - and then to top it off, Jeff’s sister Stephanie decided to ride home with us!

We left on a Wednesday afternoon with the goal of getting to Lincoln, Nebraska. That would get us a good dent on Wednesday, with the majority of our drive happening on Thursday. It was so blasted hot going through eastern Colorado and Nebraska - our car was showing 104, but we made it to Lincoln and called it a night.

We tried to wake up early and get on the road at 7:00, but it was more like 8:30. We had about 12 hours ahead of us, with an hour time change not in favor. 

Our final destination was Detroit to stay with Jeff’s sister, as I had a long day of meetings downtown at the bakery. And we finally rolled in around 9:00pm.

Our first shower was on Saturday, hosted by my Mom at a restaurant in Monroe. There were about 30-35 people coming and it turned out to be a smashing success. The guests were so generous, getting us many things that I’m still learning I need, and it was nice seeing friends and family again.

One of the fun things we did at the shower was have our guests decorate wooden blocks. People wrote their names, letters and drew pictures, which will be so fun to play with once the baby is old enough.

We unloaded all of our goodies back at my Mom’s house before heading to Jeff’s parents to spend a few nights with them.

Sunday was house hunting day. Well, more like neighborhood hunting. We decided that we will be moving back to Michigan by the end of the year after the baby is here, but now we needed to find where to call home. We lined up a few houses to look at in Ann Arbor with a realtor just to get a feel for the area and our price range and spent about 5 or 6 hours riding around there, Dexter, Saline, and the lake towns just north. To say we were disappointed is an understatement. The outskirt towns were not what we remembered and didn’t fit our vibe anymore. And Ann Arbor has gotten so pricey. Sighhhh...the search continues.

Monday we were back in the car for a drive up north. My family rented a condo for the week in Boyne and everyone was amped for vacation!

Except the first night we were there turned into a bad dream...just as I was pulling the sheets down to our bed, Jeff called me from downstairs and said he just saw a mouse in the house! We were both so freaked out, we woke up my parents to see if my Dad had any ideas on how to kill it. No such luck, he’d set traps in the morning, my mom would write the owner, and so Jeff and I snuck into the kids room instead of our open loft room and slept with towels under the door. Eeeek!

Tuesday we decided to make a beach day. Jeff and I had a little bit of work to do in the morning, so we met everyone down at Deer Lake beach once we got our morning walk in after work. My Dad and Jake had taken off in the other direction to buy mouse traps. Time to have some (virgin) daiquiris to take our mind off the rodent(s).

After a long day of swimming, stand up paddle boarding and canoeing, my Mom and I took Avarie and Easton back to the condo to nap, while the others had a tee time. We kept busy during the kids nap with a visit from the exterminator - but then we headed to the lodge for some crafts and chair lift rides.

We all met back at Deer Lake for dinner and a sunset.

After finding a lot of ticks in the house when we arrived home, Jeff and I had had it. I didn’t want to stay in a mouse house or risk getting a tick bite with potential lyme disease at 7 months pregnant. We went to the lodge with intentions on renting a room for the night - and potential rest of the week - but no such luck as there was an unfortunate incompetent worker that couldn’t get the system to accept our money. Back to the condo we went after trying to sleep in the car for five minutes.

Wednesday Jeff woke up to a dead mouse. He kindly disposed of it before any of us woke up. We were done. And the discussion in the morning turned into what are we going to do - stay or go as a family. We weighed lots of options - maybe relocate to a different condo, Traverse City, Crystal Mountain or see if our cousins John & Denise would let us stay at their place a few nights in Manistee. Turns out Manistee was the winner, but before we left, the kids wanted to spend time at Avalanche Bay - so we went to watch them.

We drove about 2 hours southwest to Manistee, getting in just at sunset. Lake Michigan was so beautiful and so was our new living situation.

Thursday we made another swimming day, both at the beach and the outdoor community pool. We packed some snacks and headed to the lake with some beach toys for the kids to play with - except it turned out my brother was getting the most use out of the toys. The worlds greatest sand castle was under construction and we would each have a hand in creating it.

The water was freezing, but that was no match for the kids.

Just around lunch time, we headed back to the condo to make something quick and then next to the pool to swim a little more. Bryan and Danielle had made dinner plans to celebrate their anniversary, so while they were out, Jeff and I went for a walk into downtown Manistee, while my parents ordered pizza for the kids.

When everyone was back home, it was ice cream time. Jeff, myself and my dad stayed back to not have to take two cars there and then met everyone at the beach for our last sunset together (and some ice cream smiles).

There was a pretty awesome playground that the kids took over, while the adults took in the last of the sunset.

We got the kids to pose for sunset pics and then found someone to take a big family one for us.

Friday we woke up with loads of laundry to do before we left. Our next destination in this traveling circus was the lake. Me, Jeff and my parents were going to stay the night there and the rest of the group was going to play for the day before heading home.

Farmer Den was in his glory, as we pulled up to a peach tree completely overloaded. He picked a bunch to take home and give away to friends...and probably make a cobbler or two.

More swimming and boat riding was in our future before grilling burgers and shucking some corn on the cob for dinner. We then went around the table to talk about our favorite parts of the trip. Thankfully, no one said anything about our mouse friend!

Saturday morning, we woke up to a calm lake. It had been really windy the day before. Jeff and I went for a long walk and then took one last pontoon ride with my parents before heading home.

Sweet Avarie left a note in our car for us the day before...

Sunday was our second shower hosted by Jeff’s Mom and Sister in Monroe. Another 30 or so people would be coming to this one, which was a nice sized crowd to make for a fast shower. We mostly received gift cards, so that worked out well for traveling back home. It was such a cute theme with the mountains and wilderness. We had everyone decorate a wooden log that builds a log cabin - can’t wait to put this together!

We took some of the gifts back to my parents house so everything would just be in one spot and said our goodbyes to them, as they would be heading to Ohio for a golf tournament by the time we took off for Colorado.

Back to Jeff’s folks house to chat for a while and go through some gifts, then we headed back downtown Detroit to stay with Steph, as I had more bakery meetings on Monday.

So nice to wake up for a walk in Detroit again. We hit the Dequindre Cut, which was our old stomping grounds before I headed into work. We even located our brick we donated to the Riverwalk!

After work, we met with our friends Neil and Virginia and their kids for a nature walk they so wanted to take us on. I’ve never been to the marsh over in Waltz and it was really nice.

Tuesday we worked from home in the morning. I had Jeff drop me off in Detroit as he made his way to a doctor appointment and he’d pick me up later in Birmingham after an afternoon meeting I had. Then we finally headed back to his parents to relax a bit before our roadtrip tomorrow home.

Wednesday, me, Jeff and Steph left around 12:00. We were taking a different route home than we did back to Michigan so Steph could see St. Louis and go through Kansas City.

We stayed the night in Boonville, Missouri, which was everything it sounds like it would be. We couldn’t get home fast enough but had to pit stop to take a pic at the Welcome to Colorful Colorado sign! So close to home...

We pulled in around 9:00pm and were almost too tired to go to bed if that makes sense. But it was oh so nice to finally sleep in my own bed after two weeks without it. Happy to be home!

[joesbrownusa]

Houses For Sale in Crofton, NE

897 Road Elkhorn Ridge Ests, Crofton, NE

Price: $1800000

Very unique property located on Lewis and Clark Lake just north of Crofton, NE. This picturesque valley has been the home to elk, buffalo and a sheep herd for several years. A large portion of this parcel has been enclosed with a twelve foot high fence to keep the herd contained. When you drive through the valley you will see all the animals mentioned along with several longhorn cattle. Property has two large metal maintenance buildings that are cemented, insulated and heated. One building is 50×104 and the other is 30×40. Property also includes Mobile Home Park with twelve units rented by the year. Land also has four ponds that are supplied with a free flowing artesian well. These ponds have been stocked with trout, bass, bluegills and coy fish. Parcel also has fifteen plotted lots with rural water. Two of these lots overlook Lewis and Clark Lake and have been priced at $95,000.00. The other thirteen lots overlook the valley and all of the wildlife. Lots are a hop-skip and jump from the state boat landing. The Crofton-Yankton area is a tourist paradise with several famous restaurants along with great fishing, boating and sightseeing on Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River. There is also available, on a separate listing, the owners ten year old 4300 sq. ft. log home which also overlooks the lake. All parcel numbers and legals are available at listing office.

54939 897 Rd, Crofton, NE

Price: $695000

Fantastic log home just fingertips away from beautiful Lewis and Clark Lake. This home sets on one of the highest shoreline points on the lake. Magnificent location with breath taking views in all directions. A massive kitchen with alder cabinets and two eating bars with granite counter tops. The master bedroom faces the lake with large deck, huge master bath and a 5×11 walk-in closet. Home has three fireplaces, one on every level, and huge wrap around covered deck for summer entertainment. Lower level is walkout with a 18×30 family room plus a 24×24 recreational room with pool table. T his lodge is perfect for a corporate getaway.

Lot 56 Autumn Oaks #56, Crofton, NE

Price: $99000

2.2+ Acres, 3 lots with Lake View! Enjoy your privacy with a great location for your new home with a beautiful view of Lewis and Clark Lake, located in Autumn Oaks development.

Lot 31 Hideaway Acres #31, Crofton, NE

Price: $39500

Great building site for your new lake home. Close to lake, beach & marina!

Hillcrest Mischke Deep Water, Crofton, NE

Price: $52500

Unique opportunity to own desirable lot in popular Mischke Hillcrest Deepwater area. Take the short walk to Lewis & Clark lake or load your boat at nearby Wiegand Marina. Only minutes from CJ’s At the Lake, Lewis & Clark Dam and Crofton Golf Course. Hunting, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and 4 wheeling just out your door. Rural water and electric available. Lot taxes for 2015 $102.

Tbd, Crofton, NE

Price: $85000

Best of both worlds. Fantastic views with woods, ravines and atmosphere of the Black Hills. Combine that with paved road access, water and Bloomfield rec area only ½ mile away. You’ve got the makings of heaven on earth.

55482 Oak St, Crofton, NE

Price: $359000

Located 1.3 miles off Hwy 81 on Hwy 121 and in the Crofton School District. This house is a high-quality, custom-built home. It is great for entertaining and is in a peaceful neighborhood. It overlooks open country and features a covered front porch, large back deck, sprinklers, landscaping, swing set, garden area,1,270 sq. feet garage with work bench, heater, floor drain, mop sink, hot/cold water, hook up for extra stove and permanent shelving, 400 amp service, rural water, septic tank, gas furnace, electric water heater, footings, flatwork and underground plumbing for a 2,000 sq. feet accessory building, 9’ ceilings on main floor and basement, 300 sq. feet storage with permanent shelving in basement, 1,600 sq. feet unfinished basement that will host 3 additional bedrooms and full bath along with a large living area, main floor laundry, cabinets and vanities all done by “Custom Wood Products” with soft-close drawers, slate GE appliances, stainless-steal farm sink in kitchen, oversized kitchen island that seats 6, walk-in master closet, all closets have custom shelving, custom blindes, LED bulbs used inside and outside, exterior can lights and outlets for christmas lights on timers controlled in basement, shiplap accent wall in living room, pallet wood ceiling in bedroom/office and sliding barndoors.

77 78 Cedar Ln, Crofton, NE

Price: $199000

Beautiful two story house tucked away in the woods of Hideaway Acres. This three bedrooms, one bath with an unfinished basement to make your own would be a ideal summer or an easy access year round home. A large 15×15 screened in porch off the open concept living area. The top deck is the same size but open to the view of the lake and sunsets every evening. This home comes with two lots #77 and #78, the extra lot included is flat and plenty of room for parking, garage, or green space. The extra lot also has RV electrical hook ups. Newer roof, siding, water heater, boat slip with lift!, and fully furnished including: 4 beds, two futons, couch, table, fridge, oven. Don’t miss out on becoming part of this amazing community.

209 W Luella St, Crofton, NE

Price: $174900

Space for family or looking towards retirement, enjoy ease of living in this ranch style home featuring 4 bedrooms/2 bath plus additional nonconforming bedroom to use as you desire. Updated kitchen and living room area. Granite style countertops. Added desired features include laundry on main, huge master bedroom with walk in closet, attached insulated garage with lots of attic space, hot tub on patio, and nice landscaping with underground sprinkler system. Easy access to park, pool, downtown and Hwy 121.

37 Timberline Trl, Crofton, NE

Price: $259900

You won’t want to miss this beautiful lake home that sits on a large mostly wooded lot with a panoramic view of Lewis & Clark Lake, and a lovely 4 bedroom 2 ½ bath one owner home built in 2004. This fabulous home features an open concept kitchen, dining & living room with Pella windows, a gas fireplace, main floor laundry, large office, walkout basement and custom kitchen & bathroom cabinets. New roof and engineered wood flooring in the great room was just installed in 2015! PRICED TO SELL! Don’t miss out on this dream! Adjacent lot also available!

1309 W 4th St, Crofton, NE

Price: $60000

MOTIVATED SELLER! Steel siding and concrete block creates great insulation in this 2 bedroom 1 bath. 2 car detached garage, fenced in back yard, updated windows, oak flooring in bedrooms, new laminate in dining room. Some new kitchen cabinets & counter tops. Lots of built in cupboards throughout. Super cute home with a great back yard. Close to both elementary schools.

211 W Kansas St, Crofton, NE

Price: $299000

Inn for Sale: The Historic Argo Hotel. Beautiful historic hotel, Steakhouse and Lounge situated in charming Crofton, Nebraska. Just minutes from Beautiful Lewis & Clark Lake!

1 Merchant Valley Rd, Crofton, NE

Price: $173900

This 1200 sq. ft. cabin is located in Walker Valley area with beach access and boat launch just 10 cabins away. 2 bedroom, full bath, main floor laundry and a large open kitchen/ living room. There are hickory cabinets, large breakfast bar and Ceramic tile floors in this spacious open great room. Vaulted pine ceilings, sliding doors to the covered 30×10 covered deck and over 1 acre of land . Move in ready. Watch the deer, wild turkeys, hummingbirds and more from your living room. There is even a fire pit in the wooded yard for friends and family to enjoy after a day on the lake.

Tbd Bloomfield Area At Lewis, Crofton, NE

Price: $170000

This wonderful lot is located on the road to the Bloomfield Area on Lewis and Clark Lake. Water and electric are at the site! Plenty of room to roam with 6 acres. Lot Specifics Size: 6 acres Dimensions: Irregular Rural Water on Site: Yes Lake View: Yes Wooded Lot: Yes Development Covenants: None noted

413 Cloverdale Cir, Crofton, NE

Price: $120000

If a quiet, secluded location is your dream, you need to check out this home located in the Devil’s Nest! Sit by 1 of the 2 fireplaces and enjoy the beautiful wooded views and wildlife – everywhere you look. Newer siding, roof, wiring are just the beginning with 2016 flooring/lighting updates. 2 bedrooms plus 2 non conforming, 2 baths. Open layout with family room, pool table and walkout lower level. This is also turn key – all furnishings are included!

202 W Luella St, Crofton, NE

Price: $9500

Corner lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

211 W Sharon St, Crofton, NE

Price: $9500

Nice level lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

from Houses For Sale – The OC Home Search http://www.theochomesearch.com/houses-for-sale-in-crofton-ne/ from OC Home Search https://theochomesearch.tumblr.com/post/158128407055

[newstwitter-blog]

New Post has been published on News Twitter

New Post has been published on http://www.news-twitter.com/2017/02/01/la-times-tufted-puffins-black-bears-and-you-the-small-cruise-ship-experience-in-canadas-haida-gwaii-17/

La Times: Tufted puffins, black bears and you: The small-cruise-ship experience in Canada's Haida Gwaii

The aroma of coffee drifted into my cabin along with the distant squawking of seagulls, but it was a gentle swaying that reminded me I was waking on a boat.

I leaped from my bunk, the first passenger to reach the sunny salon for a steaming mug, and curled up on an upper-deck sofa. There I watched seals pop up from the mirror-smooth waters, sending ripples across a pristine bay toward the mist-veiled rainforest slope.

I love cruising remote wilderness on small, working boats, and British Columbia has a roll call of them puttering along its coast and islands.

When Vancouver, Canada-based Maple Leaf Adventures in 2015 launched cruises aboard a converted 1912 tugboat, I signed up for a seven-night adventure exploring the nooks and crannies of the mystical Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands.

The blade-shaped archipelago of more than 400 islands is off British Columbia’s north coast. They are home to the Haida, a First Nations people known for their rich culture and craftsmanship. 

During my July trip, I wanted to walk wild beaches, hike in some of the continent’s most verdant rainforest, whale- and wildlife-watch and, I hoped, spot the elusive migratory tufted puffin in a region nicknamed “Canada’s Galápagos.”

And to putter about on a tugboat called the Swell.

There is a cheerful cuteness to the Swell that reminds me of the “Theodore Tugboat” kids’ series I watched with my nephew in the ’90s. But the Swell is the real deal, a grown-up, 88-foot powerhouse that worked hard for decades along British Columbia’s coast.

Now, after a $4-million refit, it’s plying those waters to the delight of a maximum of 12 guests in six elegant, wood-paneled, en-suite cabins.

Exploring Graham Island

My trip began with a flight from Vancouver to Masset, a no-frills fishing town on the top of Graham Island, the bigger of the two main Haida Gwaii (which translates as “Islands of the Gwaii people”).

Our group of 10 was met by Cody Waller, a local Haida Gwaii guide who led us to Old Massett, one of just two remaining Haida villages on the island.

“There were once over 500 Haida communities in the islands, with a population of over 7,000,” he said. In the late 1800s smallpox epidemics reduced their numbers to fewer than 700.

Haida culture, once almost lost, has revived in the last 50 years, evident by the smell of fresh cedar shavings scattered around a totem pole being created by master carver and Old Massett Mayor Jim Hart.

At Sarah’s Haida Arts & Jewelry, in a stylized longhouse in Old Massett, we browsed the works of dozens of local painters, printmakers, sculptors and other artists.

We saw three sandhill cranes and a bear on the way to a picnic on pebbly Agate Beach in Naikoon Provincial Park. We picked wild thimble and salmonberries, and hiked into forests of giant Sitka spruce and cedars where cashmere moss blanketed fallen logs and fence posts.

We spent our first night ashore at the native-owned seaside Haida House near the village of Tllel. We dined on local razor clams, Dungeness crab, salmon, halibut and other local goodies.

“We have a saying here,” our waitress said. “‘When the tide is out, the table is set.’”

The next morning we drove to Skidegate, the second Haida community on Graham Island, where, in 2008, the $26-million Haida Heritage Centre opened with a museum, amphitheater, aboriginal cafe and canoe/totem carving shed.

The complex, in a contemporary series of longhouses, lies along a crescent-shaped beach. Six totems erected in front were created by local carvers such as Bill Reid, whose monumental works are showcased throughout Vancouver and at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

By early afternoon we were chugging on a 20-minute ferry from Graham to Moresby, the second-biggest island.

After an hour on a bumpy forest logging road, we reached our launching point, where a Zodiac waited to take us to the Swell, anchored just offshore, for the wild part of our adventure.

Riding the Swell

Stepping aboard the 104-year-old Swell was a trip back in maritime history. It has also been a fishing boat, a private yacht and a live-aboard scuba boat.

After warm muffins and a warmer welcome, we pulled up two traps and counted 151 fresh spot prawns destined for dinner.

We set sail southward for a cluster of about 150 small islands accessible only by float plane and boat, most of them part of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, jointly managed by Parks Canada and the Council of the Haida Nation.

We sailed past ruins of old salmon canneries and logging operations that once clear-cut these lush rainforests.

That evening we anchored at Ikeda Cove on Moresby Island, where, in the morning, we hiked amid the mossy remnants of an early 1900s copper mine complete with rails from a horse-drawn tramway.

I kayaked every morning after breakfast, spotting sea otters, raccoons, oystercatchers, countless bald eagles, and small herds of Sitka deer munching on sea asparagus at low tide.

One day we bobbed for an hour watching a black bear — Haida Gwaii has one of North America’s biggest black bear populations — browse the shoreline.

Every afternoon after our shore expedition I settled into the hot tub on the upper deck with a glass of beer and listened to the gentle chug of the tug.

On our second day on the Swell a very excited Jane Taylor from Boston snagged a 15-pound lingcod that became part of that evening’s Thai chowder, along with salmon and halibut caught by a guest on the previous trip.

“The halibut weighed 60 pounds and the girl who caught it was only 10!” chef Oliver Burke said.

In front of two longhouses on Windy Bay on Lyell Island, part of Gwaii Haanas National Park, we met Vince Collison, our first Haida Watchmen. The Watchmen spend their summers protecting their heritage and guiding at Haida sites in the park.

Collison explained that in August 2013, Haida and Parks Canada staff raised the Legacy Pole at Windy Bay.

“It was the first monumental pole raised in Gwaii Haanas in 130 years,” he said. It represents 20 years of the groups working together to preserve the Gwaii Haanas region. 

We visited the remains of the villages of Skedans on Louise Island and Tanu on Tanu Island, where massive, fallen roof beams and poles made distinct mossy bulges on the forest floor.  And we heard about the mass graves of villagers who died of smallpox.

At the abandoned Rose Harbour whaling station on Kunghit Island, where a pair of giant metal rendering drums rust on the beach, we met Götz Hanisch, who runs a guesthouse on-site and is one of only three island residents.

“In the early 20th century,” he said, showing off a fin whale jawbone, baleen and flipper bones, “4,000 whales were processed here, their meat and bones reduced to fertilizer.”

The highlight of the trip was the village of Ninstints on the tiny island of SGang Gwaay at the archipelago’s southernmost tip.

As I walked on a mossy boardwalk through the earthy, pungent rainforest I glimpsed eyes and great, gaping mouths through the trees ahead.

Goosebumps rose on the back of my neck. One weathered totem pole after another appeared, a stacked cedar menagerie of killer whales, ravens, beavers and bears, until there was a grove of ancient columns, tilted and vulnerable. The sacred Haida site was named to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1981.

It was hard to imagine the trip could get better. But then, as the Zodiac was taking us back to the Swell, Capt. Dave Holliss pointed.

An ungainly flock of birds had lifted off the waves, displaying chunky orange beaks and bright yellow Mohawks flapping in the wind.

“Tufted puffins!” we all shouted.

[email protected]

If you go

THE BEST WAY TO HAIDA GWAII, CANADA

From LAX to Vancouver, Canada, Alaska, Air Canada, American, Delta, United and WestJet offer nonstop service, and Delta, Alaska, United, Air Canada and WestJet offer connecting service (change of planes). Restricted round-trip fares begin at $277, including taxes and fees. From Vancouver, Pacific Coastal Airlines flies nonstop to Masset. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $400. The flights are not included in the cruise fare.

Pacific Coastal AirlinesAir Canada

Maple Leaf Adventures, [phone]. Seven-night/eight-day excursions on the Swell to Haida Gwaii from May 23 through July 13. From $5,000 per person, double occupancy. Includes tours and one night on Graham Island as well as all meals and wine with dinner, guided activities, shore trips, permits, fees and transfers. 

Maple Leaf Adventures also offers Haida Gwaii trips on a 92-foot schooner, the Maple Leaf.

TO LEARN MORE

Destination British Columbia

Northern BC Tourism

Haida Gwaii Tourism

Gwaii Haanas National Park

This post has been harvested from the source link, and News-Twitter has no responsibility on its content. Source link

[joesbrownusa]

Houses For Sale in Crofton, NE

897 Road Elkhorn Ridge Ests, Crofton, NE

Price: $1800000

Very unique property located on Lewis and Clark Lake just north of Crofton, NE. This picturesque valley has been the home to elk, buffalo and a sheep herd for several years. A large portion of this parcel has been enclosed with a twelve foot high fence to keep the herd contained. When you drive through the valley you will see all the animals mentioned along with several longhorn cattle. Property has two large metal maintenance buildings that are cemented, insulated and heated. One building is 50×104 and the other is 30×40. Property also includes Mobile Home Park with twelve units rented by the year. Land also has four ponds that are supplied with a free flowing artesian well. These ponds have been stocked with trout, bass, bluegills and coy fish. Parcel also has fifteen plotted lots with rural water. Two of these lots overlook Lewis and Clark Lake and have been priced at $95,000.00. The other thirteen lots overlook the valley and all of the wildlife. Lots are a hop-skip and jump from the state boat landing. The Crofton-Yankton area is a tourist paradise with several famous restaurants along with great fishing, boating and sightseeing on Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River. There is also available, on a separate listing, the owners ten year old 4300 sq. ft. log home which also overlooks the lake. All parcel numbers and legals are available at listing office.

54939 897 Rd, Crofton, NE

Price: $695000

Fantastic log home just fingertips away from beautiful Lewis and Clark Lake. This home sets on one of the highest shoreline points on the lake. Magnificent location with breath taking views in all directions. A massive kitchen with alder cabinets and two eating bars with granite counter tops. The master bedroom faces the lake with large deck, huge master bath and a 5×11 walk-in closet. Home has three fireplaces, one on every level, and huge wrap around covered deck for summer entertainment. Lower level is walkout with a 18×30 family room plus a 24×24 recreational room with pool table. T his lodge is perfect for a corporate getaway.

Lot 56 Autumn Oaks #56, Crofton, NE

Price: $99000

2.2+ Acres, 3 lots with Lake View! Enjoy your privacy with a great location for your new home with a beautiful view of Lewis and Clark Lake, located in Autumn Oaks development.

Lot 31 Hideaway Acres #31, Crofton, NE

Price: $39500

Great building site for your new lake home. Close to lake, beach & marina!

Hillcrest Mischke Deep Water, Crofton, NE

Price: $52500

Unique opportunity to own desirable lot in popular Mischke Hillcrest Deepwater area. Take the short walk to Lewis & Clark lake or load your boat at nearby Wiegand Marina. Only minutes from CJ’s At the Lake, Lewis & Clark Dam and Crofton Golf Course. Hunting, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and 4 wheeling just out your door. Rural water and electric available. Lot taxes for 2015 $102.

Tbd, Crofton, NE

Price: $85000

Best of both worlds. Fantastic views with woods, ravines and atmosphere of the Black Hills. Combine that with paved road access, water and Bloomfield rec area only ½ mile away. You’ve got the makings of heaven on earth.

55482 Oak St, Crofton, NE

Price: $359000

Located 1.3 miles off Hwy 81 on Hwy 121 and in the Crofton School District. This house is a high-quality, custom-built home. It is great for entertaining and is in a peaceful neighborhood. It overlooks open country and features a covered front porch, large back deck, sprinklers, landscaping, swing set, garden area,1,270 sq. feet garage with work bench, heater, floor drain, mop sink, hot/cold water, hook up for extra stove and permanent shelving, 400 amp service, rural water, septic tank, gas furnace, electric water heater, footings, flatwork and underground plumbing for a 2,000 sq. feet accessory building, 9’ ceilings on main floor and basement, 300 sq. feet storage with permanent shelving in basement, 1,600 sq. feet unfinished basement that will host 3 additional bedrooms and full bath along with a large living area, main floor laundry, cabinets and vanities all done by “Custom Wood Products” with soft-close drawers, slate GE appliances, stainless-steal farm sink in kitchen, oversized kitchen island that seats 6, walk-in master closet, all closets have custom shelving, custom blindes, LED bulbs used inside and outside, exterior can lights and outlets for christmas lights on timers controlled in basement, shiplap accent wall in living room, pallet wood ceiling in bedroom/office and sliding barndoors.

77 78 Cedar Ln, Crofton, NE

Price: $199000

Beautiful two story house tucked away in the woods of Hideaway Acres. This three bedrooms, one bath with an unfinished basement to make your own would be a ideal summer or an easy access year round home. A large 15×15 screened in porch off the open concept living area. The top deck is the same size but open to the view of the lake and sunsets every evening. This home comes with two lots #77 and #78, the extra lot included is flat and plenty of room for parking, garage, or green space. The extra lot also has RV electrical hook ups. Newer roof, siding, water heater, boat slip with lift!, and fully furnished including: 4 beds, two futons, couch, table, fridge, oven. Don’t miss out on becoming part of this amazing community.

209 W Luella St, Crofton, NE

Price: $174900

Space for family or looking towards retirement, enjoy ease of living in this ranch style home featuring 4 bedrooms/2 bath plus additional nonconforming bedroom to use as you desire. Updated kitchen and living room area. Granite style countertops. Added desired features include laundry on main, huge master bedroom with walk in closet, attached insulated garage with lots of attic space, hot tub on patio, and nice landscaping with underground sprinkler system. Easy access to park, pool, downtown and Hwy 121.

37 Timberline Trl, Crofton, NE

Price: $259900

You won’t want to miss this beautiful lake home that sits on a large mostly wooded lot with a panoramic view of Lewis & Clark Lake, and a lovely 4 bedroom 2 ½ bath one owner home built in 2004. This fabulous home features an open concept kitchen, dining & living room with Pella windows, a gas fireplace, main floor laundry, large office, walkout basement and custom kitchen & bathroom cabinets. New roof and engineered wood flooring in the great room was just installed in 2015! PRICED TO SELL! Don’t miss out on this dream! Adjacent lot also available!

1309 W 4th St, Crofton, NE

Price: $60000

MOTIVATED SELLER! Steel siding and concrete block creates great insulation in this 2 bedroom 1 bath. 2 car detached garage, fenced in back yard, updated windows, oak flooring in bedrooms, new laminate in dining room. Some new kitchen cabinets & counter tops. Lots of built in cupboards throughout. Super cute home with a great back yard. Close to both elementary schools.

211 W Kansas St, Crofton, NE

Price: $299000

Inn for Sale: The Historic Argo Hotel. Beautiful historic hotel, Steakhouse and Lounge situated in charming Crofton, Nebraska. Just minutes from Beautiful Lewis & Clark Lake!

1 Merchant Valley Rd, Crofton, NE

Price: $173900

This 1200 sq. ft. cabin is located in Walker Valley area with beach access and boat launch just 10 cabins away. 2 bedroom, full bath, main floor laundry and a large open kitchen/ living room. There are hickory cabinets, large breakfast bar and Ceramic tile floors in this spacious open great room. Vaulted pine ceilings, sliding doors to the covered 30×10 covered deck and over 1 acre of land . Move in ready. Watch the deer, wild turkeys, hummingbirds and more from your living room. There is even a fire pit in the wooded yard for friends and family to enjoy after a day on the lake.

Tbd Bloomfield Area At Lewis, Crofton, NE

Price: $170000

This wonderful lot is located on the road to the Bloomfield Area on Lewis and Clark Lake. Water and electric are at the site! Plenty of room to roam with 6 acres. Lot Specifics Size: 6 acres Dimensions: Irregular Rural Water on Site: Yes Lake View: Yes Wooded Lot: Yes Development Covenants: None noted

413 Cloverdale Cir, Crofton, NE

Price: $120000

If a quiet, secluded location is your dream, you need to check out this home located in the Devil’s Nest! Sit by 1 of the 2 fireplaces and enjoy the beautiful wooded views and wildlife – everywhere you look. Newer siding, roof, wiring are just the beginning with 2016 flooring/lighting updates. 2 bedrooms plus 2 non conforming, 2 baths. Open layout with family room, pool table and walkout lower level. This is also turn key – all furnishings are included!

202 W Luella St, Crofton, NE

Price: $9500

Corner lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

211 W Sharon St, Crofton, NE

Price: $9500

Nice level lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

from Houses For Sale – The OC Home Search http://www.theochomesearch.com/houses-for-sale-in-crofton-ne/ from OC Home Search https://theochomesearch.tumblr.com/post/158091264100

[joesbrownusa]

Houses For Sale in Crofton, NE

897 Road Elkhorn Ridge Ests

Price: $1800000

Very unique property located on Lewis and Clark Lake just north of Crofton, NE. This picturesque valley has been the home to elk, buffalo and a sheep herd for several years. A large portion of this parcel has been enclosed with a twelve foot high fence to keep the herd contained. When you drive through the valley you will see all the animals mentioned along with several longhorn cattle. Property has two large metal maintenance buildings that are cemented, insulated and heated. One building is 50×104 and the other is 30×40. Property also includes Mobile Home Park with twelve units rented by the year. Land also has four ponds that are supplied with a free flowing artesian well. These ponds have been stocked with trout, bass, bluegills and coy fish. Parcel also has fifteen plotted lots with rural water. Two of these lots overlook Lewis and Clark Lake and have been priced at $95,000.00. The other thirteen lots overlook the valley and all of the wildlife. Lots are a hop-skip and jump from the state boat landing. The Crofton-Yankton area is a tourist paradise with several famous restaurants along with great fishing, boating and sightseeing on Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River. There is also available, on a separate listing, the owners ten year old 4300 sq. ft. log home which also overlooks the lake. All parcel numbers and legals are available at listing office.

54939 897 Rd

Price: $695000

Fantastic log home just fingertips away from beautiful Lewis and Clark Lake. This home sets on one of the highest shoreline points on the lake. Magnificent location with breath taking views in all directions. A massive kitchen with alder cabinets and two eating bars with granite counter tops. The master bedroom faces the lake with large deck, huge master bath and a 5×11 walk-in closet. Home has three fireplaces, one on every level, and huge wrap around covered deck for summer entertainment. Lower level is walkout with a 18×30 family room plus a 24×24 recreational room with pool table. T his lodge is perfect for a corporate getaway.

Lot 56 Autumn Oaks #56

Price: $99000

2.2+ Acres, 3 lots with Lake View! Enjoy your privacy with a great location for your new home with a beautiful view of Lewis and Clark Lake, located in Autumn Oaks development.

Lot 31 Hideaway Acres #31

Price: $39500

Great building site for your new lake home. Close to lake, beach & marina!

Hillcrest Mischke Deep Water

Price: $52500

Unique opportunity to own desirable lot in popular Mischke Hillcrest Deepwater area. Take the short walk to Lewis & Clark lake or load your boat at nearby Wiegand Marina. Only minutes from CJ’s At the Lake, Lewis & Clark Dam and Crofton Golf Course. Hunting, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and 4 wheeling just out your door. Rural water and electric available. Lot taxes for 2015 $102.

Tbd

Price: $85000

Best of both worlds. Fantastic views with woods, ravines and atmosphere of the Black Hills. Combine that with paved road access, water and Bloomfield rec area only ½ mile away. You’ve got the makings of heaven on earth.

55482 Oak St

Price: $359000

Located 1.3 miles off Hwy 81 on Hwy 121 and in the Crofton School District. This house is a high-quality, custom-built home. It is great for entertaining and is in a peaceful neighborhood. It overlooks open country and features a covered front porch, large back deck, sprinklers, landscaping, swing set, garden area,1,270 sq. feet garage with work bench, heater, floor drain, mop sink, hot/cold water, hook up for extra stove and permanent shelving, 400 amp service, rural water, septic tank, gas furnace, electric water heater, footings, flatwork and underground plumbing for a 2,000 sq. feet accessory building, 9’ ceilings on main floor and basement, 300 sq. feet storage with permanent shelving in basement, 1,600 sq. feet unfinished basement that will host 3 additional bedrooms and full bath along with a large living area, main floor laundry, cabinets and vanities all done by “Custom Wood Products” with soft-close drawers, slate GE appliances, stainless-steal farm sink in kitchen, oversized kitchen island that seats 6, walk-in master closet, all closets have custom shelving, custom blindes, LED bulbs used inside and outside, exterior can lights and outlets for christmas lights on timers controlled in basement, shiplap accent wall in living room, pallet wood ceiling in bedroom/office and sliding barndoors.

77 78 Cedar Ln

Price: $199000

Beautiful two story house tucked away in the woods of Hideaway Acres. This three bedrooms, one bath with an unfinished basement to make your own would be a ideal summer or an easy access year round home. A large 15×15 screened in porch off the open concept living area. The top deck is the same size but open to the view of the lake and sunsets every evening. This home comes with two lots #77 and #78, the extra lot included is flat and plenty of room for parking, garage, or green space. The extra lot also has RV electrical hook ups. Newer roof, siding, water heater, boat slip with lift!, and fully furnished including: 4 beds, two futons, couch, table, fridge, oven. Don’t miss out on becoming part of this amazing community.

209 W Luella St

Price: $174900

Space for family or looking towards retirement, enjoy ease of living in this ranch style home featuring 4 bedrooms/2 bath plus additional nonconforming bedroom to use as you desire. Updated kitchen and living room area. Granite style countertops. Added desired features include laundry on main, huge master bedroom with walk in closet, attached insulated garage with lots of attic space, hot tub on patio, and nice landscaping with underground sprinkler system. Easy access to park, pool, downtown and Hwy 121.

37 Timberline Trl

Price: $259900

You won’t want to miss this beautiful lake home that sits on a large mostly wooded lot with a panoramic view of Lewis & Clark Lake, and a lovely 4 bedroom 2 ½ bath one owner home built in 2004. This fabulous home features an open concept kitchen, dining & living room with Pella windows, a gas fireplace, main floor laundry, large office, walkout basement and custom kitchen & bathroom cabinets. New roof and engineered wood flooring in the great room was just installed in 2015! PRICED TO SELL! Don’t miss out on this dream! Adjacent lot also available!

1309 W 4th St

Price: $60000

MOTIVATED SELLER! Steel siding and concrete block creates great insulation in this 2 bedroom 1 bath. 2 car detached garage, fenced in back yard, updated windows, oak flooring in bedrooms, new laminate in dining room. Some new kitchen cabinets & counter tops. Lots of built in cupboards throughout. Super cute home with a great back yard. Close to both elementary schools.

211 W Kansas St

Price: $299000

Inn for Sale: The Historic Argo Hotel. Beautiful historic hotel, Steakhouse and Lounge situated in charming Crofton, Nebraska. Just minutes from Beautiful Lewis & Clark Lake!

1 Merchant Valley Rd

Price: $173900

This 1200 sq. ft. cabin is located in Walker Valley area with beach access and boat launch just 10 cabins away. 2 bedroom, full bath, main floor laundry and a large open kitchen/ living room. There are hickory cabinets, large breakfast bar and Ceramic tile floors in this spacious open great room. Vaulted pine ceilings, sliding doors to the covered 30×10 covered deck and over 1 acre of land . Move in ready. Watch the deer, wild turkeys, hummingbirds and more from your living room. There is even a fire pit in the wooded yard for friends and family to enjoy after a day on the lake.

Tbd Bloomfield Area At Lewis

Price: $170000

This wonderful lot is located on the road to the Bloomfield Area on Lewis and Clark Lake. Water and electric are at the site! Plenty of room to roam with 6 acres. Lot Specifics Size: 6 acres Dimensions: Irregular Rural Water on Site: Yes Lake View: Yes Wooded Lot: Yes Development Covenants: None noted

413 Cloverdale Cir

Price: $120000

If a quiet, secluded location is your dream, you need to check out this home located in the Devil’s Nest! Sit by 1 of the 2 fireplaces and enjoy the beautiful wooded views and wildlife – everywhere you look. Newer siding, roof, wiring are just the beginning with 2016 flooring/lighting updates. 2 bedrooms plus 2 non conforming, 2 baths. Open layout with family room, pool table and walkout lower level. This is also turn key – all furnishings are included!

202 W Luella St

Price: $9500

Corner lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

211 W Sharon St

Price: $9500

Nice level lot in North area of Crofton – quiet street with easy access to North Park, downtown and Hwy 121. Water, sewer, electric and natural gas at the site. Lot outline is approximated

from Houses For Sale – The OC Home Search http://www.theochomesearch.com/houses-for-sale-in-crofton-ne/ from OC Home Search https://theochomesearch.tumblr.com/post/157954435555

[newstwitter-blog]

New Post has been published on News Twitter

New Post has been published on http://www.news-twitter.com/2017/02/01/la-times-tufted-puffins-black-bears-and-you-the-small-cruise-ship-experience-in-canadas-haida-gwaii-16/

La Times: Tufted puffins, black bears and you: The small-cruise-ship experience in Canada's Haida Gwaii

The aroma of coffee drifted into my cabin along with the distant squawking of seagulls, but it was a gentle swaying that reminded me I was waking on a boat.

I leaped from my bunk, the first passenger to reach the sunny salon for a steaming mug, and curled up on an upper-deck sofa. There I watched seals pop up from the mirror-smooth waters, sending ripples across a pristine bay toward the mist-veiled rainforest slope.

I love cruising remote wilderness on small, working boats, and British Columbia has a roll call of them puttering along its coast and islands.

When Vancouver, Canada-based Maple Leaf Adventures in 2015 launched cruises aboard a converted 1912 tugboat, I signed up for a seven-night adventure exploring the nooks and crannies of the mystical Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands.

The blade-shaped archipelago of more than 400 islands is off British Columbia’s north coast. They are home to the Haida, a First Nations people known for their rich culture and craftsmanship. 

During my July trip, I wanted to walk wild beaches, hike in some of the continent’s most verdant rainforest, whale- and wildlife-watch and, I hoped, spot the elusive migratory tufted puffin in a region nicknamed “Canada’s Galápagos.”

And to putter about on a tugboat called the Swell.

There is a cheerful cuteness to the Swell that reminds me of the “Theodore Tugboat” kids’ series I watched with my nephew in the ’90s. But the Swell is the real deal, a grown-up, 88-foot powerhouse that worked hard for decades along British Columbia’s coast.

Now, after a $4-million refit, it’s plying those waters to the delight of a maximum of 12 guests in six elegant, wood-paneled, en-suite cabins.

Exploring Graham Island

My trip began with a flight from Vancouver to Masset, a no-frills fishing town on the top of Graham Island, the bigger of the two main Haida Gwaii (which translates as “Islands of the Gwaii people”).

Our group of 10 was met by Cody Waller, a local Haida Gwaii guide who led us to Old Massett, one of just two remaining Haida villages on the island.

“There were once over 500 Haida communities in the islands, with a population of over 7,000,” he said. In the late 1800s smallpox epidemics reduced their numbers to fewer than 700.

Haida culture, once almost lost, has revived in the last 50 years, evident by the smell of fresh cedar shavings scattered around a totem pole being created by master carver and Old Massett Mayor Jim Hart.

At Sarah’s Haida Arts & Jewelry, in a stylized longhouse in Old Massett, we browsed the works of dozens of local painters, printmakers, sculptors and other artists.

We saw three sandhill cranes and a bear on the way to a picnic on pebbly Agate Beach in Naikoon Provincial Park. We picked wild thimble and salmonberries, and hiked into forests of giant Sitka spruce and cedars where cashmere moss blanketed fallen logs and fence posts.

We spent our first night ashore at the native-owned seaside Haida House near the village of Tllel. We dined on local razor clams, Dungeness crab, salmon, halibut and other local goodies.

“We have a saying here,” our waitress said. “‘When the tide is out, the table is set.’”

The next morning we drove to Skidegate, the second Haida community on Graham Island, where, in 2008, the $26-million Haida Heritage Centre opened with a museum, amphitheater, aboriginal cafe and canoe/totem carving shed.

The complex, in a contemporary series of longhouses, lies along a crescent-shaped beach. Six totems erected in front were created by local carvers such as Bill Reid, whose monumental works are showcased throughout Vancouver and at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

By early afternoon we were chugging on a 20-minute ferry from Graham to Moresby, the second-biggest island.

After an hour on a bumpy forest logging road, we reached our launching point, where a Zodiac waited to take us to the Swell, anchored just offshore, for the wild part of our adventure.

Riding the Swell

Stepping aboard the 104-year-old Swell was a trip back in maritime history. It has also been a fishing boat, a private yacht and a live-aboard scuba boat.

After warm muffins and a warmer welcome, we pulled up two traps and counted 151 fresh spot prawns destined for dinner.

We set sail southward for a cluster of about 150 small islands accessible only by float plane and boat, most of them part of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, jointly managed by Parks Canada and the Council of the Haida Nation.

We sailed past ruins of old salmon canneries and logging operations that once clear-cut these lush rainforests.

That evening we anchored at Ikeda Cove on Moresby Island, where, in the morning, we hiked amid the mossy remnants of an early 1900s copper mine complete with rails from a horse-drawn tramway.

I kayaked every morning after breakfast, spotting sea otters, raccoons, oystercatchers, countless bald eagles, and small herds of Sitka deer munching on sea asparagus at low tide.

One day we bobbed for an hour watching a black bear — Haida Gwaii has one of North America’s biggest black bear populations — browse the shoreline.

Every afternoon after our shore expedition I settled into the hot tub on the upper deck with a glass of beer and listened to the gentle chug of the tug.

On our second day on the Swell a very excited Jane Taylor from Boston snagged a 15-pound lingcod that became part of that evening’s Thai chowder, along with salmon and halibut caught by a guest on the previous trip.

“The halibut weighed 60 pounds and the girl who caught it was only 10!” chef Oliver Burke said.

In front of two longhouses on Windy Bay on Lyell Island, part of Gwaii Haanas National Park, we met Vince Collison, our first Haida Watchmen. The Watchmen spend their summers protecting their heritage and guiding at Haida sites in the park.

Collison explained that in August 2013, Haida and Parks Canada staff raised the Legacy Pole at Windy Bay.

“It was the first monumental pole raised in Gwaii Haanas in 130 years,” he said. It represents 20 years of the groups working together to preserve the Gwaii Haanas region. 

We visited the remains of the villages of Skedans on Louise Island and Tanu on Tanu Island, where massive, fallen roof beams and poles made distinct mossy bulges on the forest floor.  And we heard about the mass graves of villagers who died of smallpox.

At the abandoned Rose Harbour whaling station on Kunghit Island, where a pair of giant metal rendering drums rust on the beach, we met Götz Hanisch, who runs a guesthouse on-site and is one of only three island residents.

“In the early 20th century,” he said, showing off a fin whale jawbone, baleen and flipper bones, “4,000 whales were processed here, their meat and bones reduced to fertilizer.”

The highlight of the trip was the village of Ninstints on the tiny island of SGang Gwaay at the archipelago’s southernmost tip.

As I walked on a mossy boardwalk through the earthy, pungent rainforest I glimpsed eyes and great, gaping mouths through the trees ahead.

Goosebumps rose on the back of my neck. One weathered totem pole after another appeared, a stacked cedar menagerie of killer whales, ravens, beavers and bears, until there was a grove of ancient columns, tilted and vulnerable. The sacred Haida site was named to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1981.

It was hard to imagine the trip could get better. But then, as the Zodiac was taking us back to the Swell, Capt. Dave Holliss pointed.

An ungainly flock of birds had lifted off the waves, displaying chunky orange beaks and bright yellow Mohawks flapping in the wind.

“Tufted puffins!” we all shouted.

[email protected]

If you go

THE BEST WAY TO HAIDA GWAII, CANADA

From LAX to Vancouver, Canada, Alaska, Air Canada, American, Delta, United and WestJet offer nonstop service, and Delta, Alaska, United, Air Canada and WestJet offer connecting service (change of planes). Restricted round-trip fares begin at $277, including taxes and fees. From Vancouver, Pacific Coastal Airlines flies nonstop to Masset. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $400. The flights are not included in the cruise fare.

Pacific Coastal AirlinesAir Canada

Maple Leaf Adventures, [phone]. Seven-night/eight-day excursions on the Swell to Haida Gwaii from May 23 through July 13. From $5,000 per person, double occupancy. Includes tours and one night on Graham Island as well as all meals and wine with dinner, guided activities, shore trips, permits, fees and transfers. 

Maple Leaf Adventures also offers Haida Gwaii trips on a 92-foot schooner, the Maple Leaf.

TO LEARN MORE

Destination British Columbia

Northern BC Tourism

Haida Gwaii Tourism

Gwaii Haanas National Park

This post has been harvested from the source link, and News-Twitter has no responsibility on its content. Source link

[newstwitter-blog]

New Post has been published on News Twitter

New Post has been published on http://www.news-twitter.com/2017/02/01/la-times-tufted-puffins-black-bears-and-you-the-small-cruise-ship-experience-in-canadas-haida-gwaii-15/

La Times: Tufted puffins, black bears and you: The small-cruise-ship experience in Canada's Haida Gwaii

The aroma of coffee drifted into my cabin along with the distant squawking of seagulls, but it was a gentle swaying that reminded me I was waking on a boat.

I leaped from my bunk, the first passenger to reach the sunny salon for a steaming mug, and curled up on an upper-deck sofa. There I watched seals pop up from the mirror-smooth waters, sending ripples across a pristine bay toward the mist-veiled rainforest slope.

I love cruising remote wilderness on small, working boats, and British Columbia has a roll call of them puttering along its coast and islands.

When Vancouver, Canada-based Maple Leaf Adventures in 2015 launched cruises aboard a converted 1912 tugboat, I signed up for a seven-night adventure exploring the nooks and crannies of the mystical Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands.

The blade-shaped archipelago of more than 400 islands is off British Columbia’s north coast. They are home to the Haida, a First Nations people known for their rich culture and craftsmanship. 

During my July trip, I wanted to walk wild beaches, hike in some of the continent’s most verdant rainforest, whale- and wildlife-watch and, I hoped, spot the elusive migratory tufted puffin in a region nicknamed “Canada’s Galápagos.”

And to putter about on a tugboat called the Swell.

There is a cheerful cuteness to the Swell that reminds me of the “Theodore Tugboat” kids’ series I watched with my nephew in the ’90s. But the Swell is the real deal, a grown-up, 88-foot powerhouse that worked hard for decades along British Columbia’s coast.

Now, after a $4-million refit, it’s plying those waters to the delight of a maximum of 12 guests in six elegant, wood-paneled, en-suite cabins.

Exploring Graham Island

My trip began with a flight from Vancouver to Masset, a no-frills fishing town on the top of Graham Island, the bigger of the two main Haida Gwaii (which translates as “Islands of the Gwaii people”).

Our group of 10 was met by Cody Waller, a local Haida Gwaii guide who led us to Old Massett, one of just two remaining Haida villages on the island.

“There were once over 500 Haida communities in the islands, with a population of over 7,000,” he said. In the late 1800s smallpox epidemics reduced their numbers to fewer than 700.

Haida culture, once almost lost, has revived in the last 50 years, evident by the smell of fresh cedar shavings scattered around a totem pole being created by master carver and Old Massett Mayor Jim Hart.

At Sarah’s Haida Arts & Jewelry, in a stylized longhouse in Old Massett, we browsed the works of dozens of local painters, printmakers, sculptors and other artists.

We saw three sandhill cranes and a bear on the way to a picnic on pebbly Agate Beach in Naikoon Provincial Park. We picked wild thimble and salmonberries, and hiked into forests of giant Sitka spruce and cedars where cashmere moss blanketed fallen logs and fence posts.

We spent our first night ashore at the native-owned seaside Haida House near the village of Tllel. We dined on local razor clams, Dungeness crab, salmon, halibut and other local goodies.

“We have a saying here,” our waitress said. “‘When the tide is out, the table is set.’”

The next morning we drove to Skidegate, the second Haida community on Graham Island, where, in 2008, the $26-million Haida Heritage Centre opened with a museum, amphitheater, aboriginal cafe and canoe/totem carving shed.

The complex, in a contemporary series of longhouses, lies along a crescent-shaped beach. Six totems erected in front were created by local carvers such as Bill Reid, whose monumental works are showcased throughout Vancouver and at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

By early afternoon we were chugging on a 20-minute ferry from Graham to Moresby, the second-biggest island.

After an hour on a bumpy forest logging road, we reached our launching point, where a Zodiac waited to take us to the Swell, anchored just offshore, for the wild part of our adventure.

Riding the Swell

Stepping aboard the 104-year-old Swell was a trip back in maritime history. It has also been a fishing boat, a private yacht and a live-aboard scuba boat.

After warm muffins and a warmer welcome, we pulled up two traps and counted 151 fresh spot prawns destined for dinner.

We set sail southward for a cluster of about 150 small islands accessible only by float plane and boat, most of them part of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, jointly managed by Parks Canada and the Council of the Haida Nation.

We sailed past ruins of old salmon canneries and logging operations that once clear-cut these lush rainforests.

That evening we anchored at Ikeda Cove on Moresby Island, where, in the morning, we hiked amid the mossy remnants of an early 1900s copper mine complete with rails from a horse-drawn tramway.

I kayaked every morning after breakfast, spotting sea otters, raccoons, oystercatchers, countless bald eagles, and small herds of Sitka deer munching on sea asparagus at low tide.

One day we bobbed for an hour watching a black bear — Haida Gwaii has one of North America’s biggest black bear populations — browse the shoreline.

Every afternoon after our shore expedition I settled into the hot tub on the upper deck with a glass of beer and listened to the gentle chug of the tug.

On our second day on the Swell a very excited Jane Taylor from Boston snagged a 15-pound lingcod that became part of that evening’s Thai chowder, along with salmon and halibut caught by a guest on the previous trip.

“The halibut weighed 60 pounds and the girl who caught it was only 10!” chef Oliver Burke said.

In front of two longhouses on Windy Bay on Lyell Island, part of Gwaii Haanas National Park, we met Vince Collison, our first Haida Watchmen. The Watchmen spend their summers protecting their heritage and guiding at Haida sites in the park.

Collison explained that in August 2013, Haida and Parks Canada staff raised the Legacy Pole at Windy Bay.

“It was the first monumental pole raised in Gwaii Haanas in 130 years,” he said. It represents 20 years of the groups working together to preserve the Gwaii Haanas region. 

We visited the remains of the villages of Skedans on Louise Island and Tanu on Tanu Island, where massive, fallen roof beams and poles made distinct mossy bulges on the forest floor.  And we heard about the mass graves of villagers who died of smallpox.

At the abandoned Rose Harbour whaling station on Kunghit Island, where a pair of giant metal rendering drums rust on the beach, we met Götz Hanisch, who runs a guesthouse on-site and is one of only three island residents.

“In the early 20th century,” he said, showing off a fin whale jawbone, baleen and flipper bones, “4,000 whales were processed here, their meat and bones reduced to fertilizer.”

The highlight of the trip was the village of Ninstints on the tiny island of SGang Gwaay at the archipelago’s southernmost tip.

As I walked on a mossy boardwalk through the earthy, pungent rainforest I glimpsed eyes and great, gaping mouths through the trees ahead.

Goosebumps rose on the back of my neck. One weathered totem pole after another appeared, a stacked cedar menagerie of killer whales, ravens, beavers and bears, until there was a grove of ancient columns, tilted and vulnerable. The sacred Haida site was named to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1981.

It was hard to imagine the trip could get better. But then, as the Zodiac was taking us back to the Swell, Capt. Dave Holliss pointed.

An ungainly flock of birds had lifted off the waves, displaying chunky orange beaks and bright yellow Mohawks flapping in the wind.

“Tufted puffins!” we all shouted.

[email protected]

If you go

THE BEST WAY TO HAIDA GWAII, CANADA

From LAX to Vancouver, Canada, Alaska, Air Canada, American, Delta, United and WestJet offer nonstop service, and Delta, Alaska, United, Air Canada and WestJet offer connecting service (change of planes). Restricted round-trip fares begin at $277, including taxes and fees. From Vancouver, Pacific Coastal Airlines flies nonstop to Masset. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $400. The flights are not included in the cruise fare.

Pacific Coastal AirlinesAir Canada

Maple Leaf Adventures, [phone]. Seven-night/eight-day excursions on the Swell to Haida Gwaii from May 23 through July 13. From $5,000 per person, double occupancy. Includes tours and one night on Graham Island as well as all meals and wine with dinner, guided activities, shore trips, permits, fees and transfers. 

Maple Leaf Adventures also offers Haida Gwaii trips on a 92-foot schooner, the Maple Leaf.

TO LEARN MORE

Destination British Columbia

Northern BC Tourism

Haida Gwaii Tourism

Gwaii Haanas National Park

This post has been harvested from the source link, and News-Twitter has no responsibility on its content. Source link