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Category: gloucester
THE UNLIKELY STORY OF THE FOLLY COVE GUILD
Led by beloved children’s author Virginia Lee Burton, this group of mostly untrained women created immortal designs.
Atlas Obscura
By Cara Giaimo
One by one, the prints unfold before you. One shows sheep leaping in the grass, another, children on a tree-hung swing, the moon shifting above them. All are charming, sophisticated, and unbelievably detailed. They take the essence of everyday objects and activities, and unspool them into mesmerizing patterns. No matter how much you may want them, though, you can’t get these prints on Etsy. In fact, you can’t get them anywhere.
They live mere miles from where they were produced, at the Cape Ann Museum in Gloucester—the last bastion of the nearly forgotten Folly Cove Designers. Helmed by a children’s book illustrator and comprised of her previously untrained friends and neighbors, the Folly Cove Designers were hardworking, tight-knit, and sincere—so sincere, they eventually voted themselves into obscurity.
To children worldwide, Virginia Lee Burton is the beloved hand behind half a dozen classics, including Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Katy and the Big Snow, and The Little House, intricately illustrated tales of close-knit communities. But to her neighbors at Folly Cove, on the north shore of Massachusetts, she was Jinnee Demetrios. Jinnee and her husband, the sculptor George Demetrios, moved to the area in 1932 with their one-year-old son Aristides, who was soon followed by Mike. The couple quickly became community pillars, making art all day, and spending evenings gathering their friends and neighbors for raucous sheep roasts.
“Folly Cove gets its name because it would be folly to bring a ship in and turn it around,” says Christine Lundberg, producer of the film Virginia Lee Burton: A Sense of Place, as well as the upcoming Beautiful and Useful: The Art of the Folly Cove Designers. This ethos carried over into the rough-and-ready town life. “You couldn’t get pretty little things,” says Lundberg. “If you wanted them, you had to make them.” An artist through and through, Jinnee surrounded herself with homemade treasures, including, as the story goes, a particularly nice set of block-printed curtains. One of her neighbors, Aino Clarke, admired the curtains so much she wanted to make her own. Jinnee and Aino struck a deal: Jinnee would give Aino top-to-bottom design lessons if Aino, a member of the local orchestra, would teach Jinnee’s sons the violin. (A less legendary, but perhaps more truthful, version of this tale holds that Aino suggested Jinnee give design lessons to her neighbors in exchange for money to buy the necessary paper to illustrate her first book.)
Regardless of exactly how the two came together, Jinnee’s flint struck on Aino’s iron sparked an artistic movement. Within its rock-hard exterior, Folly Cove harbored a vein of artistic impulse that dated all the way back to the 1800s, when painters had flocked there to take advantage of the seashore’s distinct sunlight. (“If you spend time lying on the granite around here, you get creative powers,” one resident told Lundberg). As Jinnee and Aino dove into the lessons, other members of the community began joining them.
Thus began the Folly Cove Designers (FCD), a ragtag group of locals united by their desire to fill their lives and their minds with a particular form of well-thought-out beauty. Many members were, like Aino Clarke, the children of Finnish immigrants, and sought to combat the economic and emotional hardships of the Great Depression. Others were so-called “Yankees,” who had moved permanently to Folly Cove after vacationing there as children, and who wanted something new to do. Eino Natti, one of the group’s few male members, was an Army veteran and former quarryman—experiences he drew on for prints such as Polyphemus, of a granite-carting train, and PT, which shows near-identical soldiers in mid-squat. Elizabeth Holloran, the local children’s librarian, printed young people skiing and sugaring. “A majority of them were never artists,” says Cara White, director of the Cape Ann Museum’s Folly Cove gallery. “They were editors, architects, housewives, accountants.”
The Folly Cove Designers “diploma,” presented to each member by Jinnee upon their entrance to the guild. Cape Ann Museum.
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WEST PARSIH SCHOOL PRESENTS: 101 DALMATIANS THE PLAY!
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FV MY GRACE HEADING HOME FOGGY AFTERNOON
FV My Grace, Gloucester
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HOW CAN THE BEATING WINGS OF A SNOWY OWL BE QUIETER THAN A BUTTERFLY’S WING BEATS? – By Kim Smith
Snowy Owl Hedwig Preparing for Take-off
Several times Hedwig has flown so close that I can feel the swooshing wind around her, but I wondered, why her wingbeats are virtually soundless. I have audio recordings of comparatively tiny Monarchs, whose wingbeats are a thousand times louder than that of Hedwig’s wingbeats.
Snowy Owls, like all owls, have evolved with specially designed wings that enable them to fly soundlessly, a necessary feature for stealth hunting of small mammals such as mice, lemmings, voles, shrews, and rats. Their wings are disproportionately large to their body mass, which allows for slow flying, as slowly as two miles per hour, a sort of glide-flying, with very little flapping needed.
Additionally, comb-like serrations on the leading edge of an owl’s wingtips break up the air that typically makes a swooshing sound, creating a silencer effect. And, too, the streams of air are softened by a velvety texture unique to owl’s wings and because of the feathery combs of the wing’s trailing edge (see illustration below).
Close-up images of a Great Horned Owl’s wing. On the left, you can see the leading-edge comb; it’s this width that Le Piane measured for her study. On the right, the trailing-edge fringe. Diagram: Krista Le Piane.
Image of a Great Horned Owl’s wings from Mass Audbon. READ MORE HERE.
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BEAUTIFUL FISH: ATLANTIC HALIBUT -By Al Bezanson
Halibut caught in shallow water are very active, usually starting off at great speed when they are hauled up from the bottom, often spinning the dory around in their attempts to escape. (Goode and Collins, 1887) The offshore fishery for halibut began about 1830, when cod fishermen brought word to Gloucester of a great abundance of them on Georges Bank,[61] and they were caught there for a few years thereafter in numbers that seem almost unbelievable today. Thus we read of 250 caught in three hours; of vessels loaded in a couple of days; and of a single smack landing 20,000 pounds in a day.
From Fishes of the Gulf of Maine by Bigelow and Schoeder, 1953
GLOUCESTER — On March 7, 1935, two men trawling for halibut from a Gloucester schooner off Newfoundland disappeared from their overturned dory and were presumed drowned. The deaths of Charles Daley and Stephen Olsson were unremarkable, except that they were among the last of their kind. Their families mourned and then turned to the task of surviving without them. Within a few years, dory fishing was no longer. (From a review of Alone at Sea by John N Morris, 2010)
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Repairs Gone Wrong – botched cleaning on City Hall Honor Roll plaques require corrective restoration
And the qualified help that’s needed is underway!
What do you do when your home repair goes very wrong? Upon evaluation, sometimes you just have to hire a new contractor to remedy mistakes. In the fall of 2014 memorial honor roll plaques in City Hall received some cleaning. The monuments were due some attention. Over time the names were no longer legible and the surfaces were grimy defeating their noble purpose. Gloucester’s outstanding City Archives and the Cape Ann Office of Veterans Services were and are able to help with research for those who can’t come in person or see them clearly.
photo caption: BEFORE photograph of one of four WW1 honor rolls in the rotunda City Hall, ca.2014
The 2014 project was not handled by the city nor administered through its committee for the arts, of which I am a member. Funds were raised privately to work on the plaques. Though well intentioned, those restoration efforts were botched (and costly at the time, so I’m told.) The names were made more visible, but the plaques were damaged and results are scratched, streaked and blotchy.
A small annual budget (FY2018 $4000) that’s set aside for care of City arts and culture and monuments as part of its mission must now be redirected to fix the fix. Yes, “Sometimes you have to hire a new contractor to remedy mistakes,” frustrating, but necessary.
Throughout 2018, you may see specialists from Skylight Studios repairing plaques within City Hall through the Committee for the Arts on behalf of the City. (Gloucester residents may recall that Skylight Studios was hired by the Commonwealth to restore the bronze doors of the Abram Piat Andrew Bridge; the doors were temporarily displayed at Cape Ann Museum before being reinstalled.)
The detailed work on the City Hall plaques will be completed in brief, focused intervals. One plaque in the rotunda will be restored last, because it’s a great opportunity to show before and after examples of contemporary restoration projects- the good, the bad and the quality. As the plaques are repaired, the detail of the raised carving and borders and most importantly the names of so many veterans will become easier and easier to read and remember.
Gloucester Ma Veterans Honor Rolls and Monuments
*author note- this post is listing interior Honor Rolls within City Hall; it’s not a complete list for all tributes in Gloucester
GROUND FLOOR, CITY HALL
Spanish American War- “Men of Gloucester who served in the War with Spain volunteers all 1898-1902. Gloucester ‘s men, serving on land and sea won for their city the honor of giving to her country the largest per capita of men in this war. Erected by the City of Gloucester 1930.”
World War I Honor Rolls (rotunda and upstairs)
World Ward II Honor Roll (outside clerk’s office)
Korean Honor Roll (outside clerk’s office)
Vietnam Honor Roll (outside clerk’s office; Brian Hamilton 1980 painting of fisherman)
just outside Kyrouz Auditorium, FIRST FLOOR, CITY HALL
“Civil War (1861 1865)This tablet records the service of Company G 8th Regiment MVM in the Civil War; and War with Spain (1898 1899) occupation of Cuba; and World War 1917 1919″ Corrective repairs are underway on this trio Honor Roll. Waxy build up added in 2014 is being removed all over, and names in a small lower right corner have been attended.
The multi story memorial to Gloucester fishermen lost at sea was a major public art project led, designed and hand painted by Norma Cuneo, with Irma Wheeler and Ellen Ferrin in 1978, a beautiful shrine lighted by day by two tall windows. Mark Newton, then city clerk-historian, and Jerry Cook were lead researchers; the team eventually compiled a card index that could be accessed by the public along with checking this massive lost at sea mural. Research incorporated historic materials like The Fishermen’s Memorial and Record Book, by George H. Procter, published by Procter Bros. in 1873, printed matter, family archives, and newspapers. Volunteers and historians amend the sources and statistics over time. The sense of the power of a name and life is inspiring. The response and need to a tangible, accessible record was tremendous. Their work was the basis for the cenotaph installed in 2000 by the Fisherman at the Wheel memorial on Stacy Boulevard, a sacred place and pilgrimage site accessible day and night.
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Orville Giddings & Mark Earley join Dave Sag’s Blues Party @ The Rhumb Line Tonight! 8:30pm 2.22.2018
Thursday at the Rheum Line: direct from the land of honky jive, it’s Orville Giddings and his 20 mule team of belabored sidemen! Good old OG will thrill you with his musical potpourri of inflammatory blues ,heartfelt originals and side-splitting guffaws. We got Mark “Chicken Wing” Earley on the Sax, Johnny Loud on the drums, Bill Cunniff on rhythm gootar and myself on base. What could be mo’ better?
The Rhumb Line
40 Railroad Avenue
Gloucester, MA 01930
(978) 283-9732
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DAVID CALVO CARVING AND CRAFT WORKSHOPS
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Wednesdays with Fly Amero ~ Tonights special guest: John Rockwell 7pm 2.21.2018
Dinner Specials Each Week!
Wednesday, February 21st – 7pm
My Musical Guest: JOHN ROCKWELL!
Apologies for previous misinformation with upcoming guests.
This week we have the ever popular John Rockwell gracing
our presence (Liz Frame will be with us in March). Among so
many other wonderful selections, John will be performing his
great rendition of “Bartender’s Blues” in honor of Michael’s
ensuing retirement. ~ Fly
FOR THOSE WHO MISSED IT: After 38 incredible years, our
beloved bartender, Micheal Gallagher has decided to retire. His
final shift will be Wednesday, February 28. We have a very special
night of music in store for him which you won’t want to miss!
Dinner with great music!
*Each week features a special, invited musical guest
The Rhumb Line Kitchen……now features Janet Brown with some new and healthy ideas!
Plus a fine, affordable wine menu!
Upcoming…
2/28 – Michael Gallagher’s Final Shift!
3/7 – Toni Ann
3/14 – Ron Schrank
3/21 – Liz Frame
3/28 – J.B. & Dave Brown
Visit: http://www.therhumbline.com/
Looking forward……to seeing you there 🙂
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IMPORTANT Safety Notice in Response to Parkland Florida Incident
Gloucester Public Schools
Our mission is for all students to be successful, engaged, lifelong learners
Richard Safier, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Phone: (978) 281-9800/Fax: (978) 281-9899
Email: rsafier@gloucesterschools.com
Dear Parents/Guardians and Colleagues,
On Wednesday, we all learned of a massive shooting at a Florida high school. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families, school staff and the communities affected by this unthinkable tragedy. While reports continue to unfold the circumstances, we know that an incident of this magnitude is troubling to adults and children alike as we struggle to understand why tragedies such as this occur. Please know that the safety of our students, staff and faculty is our number one priority in the Gloucester Public Schools. Our schools continue to work hard at maintaining and refining our building emergency preparedness plans. Our plans have been developed in coordination with local police (I last met with a member of the police department on Monday on just this issue) and the fire and emergency management departments of the City of Gloucester. Their extensive training and guidance has been at the forefront of our plans. We have, in turn, trained our school staffs and regularly practice scenario-based drills at every school. Please be assured that preparedness for emergencies has been and continues to be a top priority in your schools.
Currently, students are safely attending our schools, and may or may not be aware of the most recent incident which occurred just two days ago. As we enter the vacation week, however, this incident will no doubt be discussed among families and throughout the nation for days to come. For your immediate reference, here are some suggestions to help make your children feel safe:
- Turn off or monitor the television. Endless news programs are likely to heighten anxiety, and young children cannot distinguish between images on television and their personal reality;
- Maintain a normal routine;
- Stick to facts. Answer questions factually. “Yes, there was a very sad incident in Florida yesterday, but your teacher and principal are working very hard to keep you safe;”
- Remain calm and reassuring; children take their cues from their parents, teachers and adults;
- Be optimistic;
- Be a good listener and observer; pay attention to changes in behavior;
- Take care of yourself; you are better able to help your students if you are coping well.
If you are anxious or upset, your students are more likely to be so as well. Our schools are ready with counseling support for those children who might need additional reassurance. Please let your school principal or counselor know if you have specific concerns about your student/s. We are in the process of organizing and scheduling our training sessions and drills for the spring (these vary in execution at the different levels–high school, middle school, and elementary school due to the age and developmental stages of the children). For more information, please refer to the National Association of School Psychologists, Talking_To_Children_About_Violence.pdf.
The painful reality is that no school district or public place can ever be completely immune from such senseless violence. We recognize, however, that safety and security does not rest with an individual, a facility, or the district alone, but rather that safety is everybody’s responsibility. We all play a vital role in staying vigilant, aware, and in reporting any concerns.
We are asking all staff and parents to remain engaged with our schools and to know that our safety and security measures are in place. We want our schools to remain welcome and inviting places for all students and families, but please understand that some of our safety and security measures must continue to be a priority regardless of inconvenience. We know that you share in our concern and our focus on safety and security.
Thank you for your support. Please contact your principal with any questions or concerns.
Respectfully,
Richard Safier
FOR SPANISH, ITALIAN, AND PORTUGUESE TRANSLATIONS READ MORE HERE
For Espanol, Italiano, and Português Translations READ MORE HERE
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HUGE NEWS FOR FELLOW LOVERS OF CREME BRULEE!
I know there are more than a few of you out there. Just saying–DUCKWORTH’S BISTROT is now serving crème brûlée!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nicole’s Blood Orange Crème Brûlée is beyond fantastic. My darling husband took me to our fabulous neighborhood French bistrot, and favorite hangout, for a divine Valentine’s dinner. Tom had his very favorite, the chicken schnitzel and I ordered two half-portion dinners–the always to-die-for lobster and vegetable risotto, and steak with an exquisite Bernaise sauce. Of course it was one dinner too many, with their very generous portions, and the lobster made for the greatest lunch the following day. Michelle, and all the staff at Duckworth’s, make every dining experience there a wonderful treat, with their warm, welcoming ways. Thank you Nicole and Ken Duckworth for the best Valentine’s dinner date ever!
Only a cell phone photo, next time bringing my good camera!
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BELL HOUSE EASTERN POINT
Beautiful evocative fog shrouded sunset tonight.
Bell House, Eastern Point
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COLLEEN’S ARTS AND CRAFTS FOR LITTLE ONES ON DISPLAY AT THE CAPE ANN MUSEUM!
My friend Colleen teaches the sweetest and most fun art class for local youngsters, ages three to seven. Inspired by nature, the projects Colleen leads the children in creating are always wonderfully whimsical. Currently, at the children’s activities room at the Cape Ann Museum, you can see a display of work by her young artists.
Stop in and see-I think you will be utterly charmed, as was I! 
* * *
The Cape Ann Museum has several excellent children’s programs scheduled for February vacation.
Wednesday, February 21Play creative movement games with Sarah Slifer Swift of MAGMA studio and create art that moves!
Thursday, February 22
What’s art got to do with basketball? Shoot hoops at the YMCA, then come to the Museum and sculpt basketball players inspired by those of sculptor Walker Hancock.
Ages 6-12. CAM Members $30/day; non-members $45. Additional children receive discounted rate. To register, please contact Education Coordinator Kirsten Vega at kirstenvega@capeannmuseum.org or (978) 283-0455 x16
Image: Walker Hancock (1901–1998), Basketball Players (c. 1961–1977). Bronze. Museum purchase with funds generously provided by Evelyn Bartlett, 1982 [Acc. #2576].
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Beautiful Fish: Common Mummichog
Killifish; Salt-water minnow; Chub; Mummy… So closely do they hug the shore that a line drawn 100 yards from land would probably enclose all the mummichogs in the Gulf of Maine… Seldom more than 4 inches long. Abound in the tidal creeks that cut our salt marshes, in muddy pools, in ditches. Shoals of “mummies” may often be seen moving in with the flood tide. Often trapped in little pools until the next tide arrives.
From Fishes of the Gulf of Maine by Bigelow and Schroeder, 1953
-Al Bezanson
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Music Around Town ~ February 19-25, 2018
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SNOWY DAY MORNING VIOLET SKIES TO BLUE -By Kim Smith
As the snow storm departed the early morning skies shifted from hues of violet gray to brilliant blue. 
Ten Pound Island Lighthouse
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TOTAL TEAR DOWN
Brace Cove
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NILES BEACH SUNSET PANORAMA
Niles Beach
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BRACE ROCK IN THE PINK
Cotton candy pink sunset colors –
Brace Cove Sunset
And further up the coast it was just as pretty.
Good Morning Gloucester 