I pass this Congregational Church in Enfield at least once a week, but I never stopped for a picture.
Spring seems like it has arrived. Either that or March wants to make nice before going out like a lion. As the temperature climbed to 64°f (18°c) I’m getting ready to start working on the projects that were put off until spring, the ones that are normally scheduled for spring and the ones that winter left for me. I did a fair amount of running around, but not in search of doors. Instead, I snapped a few pictures of some doors that I passed along the way.
Some of these have an interesting history, but mainly local stuff. Not the kind of history that people come from out of town to learn about.
These doors are being offered as part of Norm Frampton’s amazing weekly blog-hop called Thursday Doors. Each week, Norm reaches to to door lovers all over the world and invites them to share doors with him and with all of us. If you have doors to share, or if you just like looking at doors, head on up to Norm’s place.
Old Farm School 1796
Unlikely I’ll be touring this place anytime soon.
I drive by this old school and historical society every time I come home from Lowes. It’s closed, but I stopped for a look around.
Back side of Old Farm School
View of the trash-to-energy plant from under the Charter Oak Bridge.
Switchyard (and door) for the trash-to-energy plant.
This is Hartford’s trash-to-energy plant. Or town’s trash is incinerated here.
This once was a fire station in nearby Enfield, CT. Now it’s an American Legion Post.
Front doors, Enfield Congregational Church
I pass this Congregational Church in Enfield at least once a week, but I never stopped for a picture.
Side door (lamp) Enfield Congregational Church
Maddie and I were surprised to see this new gate across the path we walk.
I stopped into a antique / used furniture shop just to look around. They have some doors for sale, and one that has been made into a piece of furniture.
My barber. Tito’s Hair Design, Hartford, CT
the Fannie R. Gabriel History Center. On the property with the Old Farm School.
I love the gable door on the Fannie R. Gabriel History Center.
We used to have antique shop after antique shop here, but now it’s hard to find any – they’ve been mowed down and turned into high-rise condos!! I could spend all day roaming around that shop of yours!
That’s sad, but I guess people aren’t moving to Florida to buy old stuff. They probably sold it before they left. I like shops like this. It’s fun to walk around. We don’t have room for more furniture, but it’s always interesting.
GP, if I moved to Florida, I would miss the antique stores, too. There are many second hand shops that have terrific antiques as well. I think our founders appreciated the good stuff and hung onto it. Yankees don’t throw anything away.
The Congregational Church might want to spend a few dollars on some paint for those side doors to make them noticeable. This church clearly likes shutters, so they know how to make a statement when they want to.
Thanks Ally. I do think a tasteful splash of color would be a good idea. I guess they aren’t worried about the building not being an attraction. It does seem to be well maintained, that’s the important thing, especially that magnificent steeple.
I like the bright white door on the old farm school, and the bell on the roof. The
Congregational Church is interesting….looks like a building right out of Washington!
Why did they put up a gate across the path when it looks like you can walk right through on the right side?
🐾Ginger 🐾
Thanks Ginger. I loved seeing the bell on the old school. The elementary school I started in had a bell that was rung a few minutes before classes started or when recess was about to end.
The path around the ball field is wide enough for vehicles. The Parks and Rec employees use the path for maintenance, but I guess other people were using it for sport. They had to add gates like that on the Windsor Locks Canal Path as well. People and bicycles can wiggle their way through, but quads and larger vehicles can’t (unless the open the gate for emergency vehicles). Another example of why we can’t have nice things :(
I meant to add that Maddie was initially afraid of the gate. She doesn’t like change. I haven’t been taking her around, because it’s been muddy, so this was our first walk around the field since the fall.
Our Public Safety Complex is 40 years old, John and they are going to ask us to support a bond issue to build a new one – twice as big as the existing one – in a few months. It houses Police and our volunteer Fire Department, and they say neither space is big enough.
Ahh volunteer fire department. Talk about undersized. Except in this case it is compensation coupled with oversized expectation. Most communities are having a hard time keeping them staffed. Going to go grab that second cup of coffee and skip the rant.
I too love poking around old antique shops just to see what they have. In my dreams I have a big old farmhouse – or downtown city loft – which I can fill with interesting old pieces. I’m sure unusual doors would fit in there somewhere 😉
I can always tell when spring is in the air because I’m more likely to stop and take a photo of something I’ve passed a zillion times. It seems like you have the same instincts!
I really like the photo from under the bridge. I read your comment to GP about the antique shops in FL. I think you’re right. The ‘true’ antique shops are pretty much gone, replaced by consignment shops or ‘junque’ shops, which are exactly what they are. We have so downsized now….I don’t want anyone else’s junque!
Ha! I love “junque.” That seems so Florida. They’re advertising a huge antique show here. The way they wrote it up “priceless items” “historic significance” “highest quality” “famous vendors” all add up to one conclusion – OVER PRICED!
The farm school is spectacular. You have to stop there when it’s open. That desk attached to the door made me laugh out loud. This looks like a “How can I use this door” kind of project. Whar’s up with that gate across Maddie’s path? Excellent post, Dan
I’ll do my best to get there on a Sunday afternoon, John. I wish that was Wednesdays and Sundays, but…
They door-desk is interesting. I think I’d be shot if I brought that home.
The gate is to stop morons with trucks and on quads from riding through the park at night and messing up the fields. They’ve had to block off the end of the large walking/bike path, too (this path connects to that one). Maddie was upset, but fortunately we can walk around.
The architecture of that Congregational church is magnificent, Dan. There’s just something so stately and orderly about Greek architecture. Those columns look Ionic in style.
I think you’re right, Don. I can’t tell you how many hundreds of time I’ve driven by that church. It’s a one of those intersections you just want to get through, so I’ve never stopped.
Hi Dan, don’t you just love antique shops? My husband and I used to run one and it makes my heart go pitter-patter to remember all the fun we had. The door/decor item in that shop is certainly interesting. Also, love the old school. Thanks for sharing.
I love to poke around antique stores. They are becoming rarer and rarer around here, though. I guess between eBay and younger people not having the interest,space or money, they just can’t make a go. I hope your March stays lamb-like for you.
Pretty buildings, Dan. Both the red school building and the white church! Yeah, my spring project I put off for 30 years or so (downsizing our stuff), and it’s agonizing to finish it, because there’s every time something you find that you don’t actually need:)
This is a lovely springtime stroll, Dan. I love that the old school has a bell! The trash place looks like it was once a beautiful building. I’m glad it’s still in use. Hugs!
Thanks Teagan. I like the bell, too. It reminds me of the school I started in. I’m not sure what the trash plant was, or if it was originally built for trash. It is a wonderful looking building.
What’s with the GATE?!? :O
That old school is fantastic, plus barn, always a pleasant addition.
I may have told you this before, but when we lived in GA there was a place that made dining tables from doors and I wanted one so badly. Fortunately, my parents gave me ye olde butcher block instead. But I do think one day I’ll make it my desk and get me a door table :)
The right old door would make a fantastic table. I like butcher block, too, but that would make a nice desk – sturdy desk – that’s a good thing. I guess I need to make room on a Sunday afternoon, after May and virus, to visit that old school. I love that it still has a bell.
The gate is a reaction to stupid people. The path Maddie and I walk on is an access road for Parks & Rec crews maintaining the ball fields. People were using it to drive quads and other such vehicles into the park, of course, causing damage. File it under “this is why we can’t have nice things.” Fortunately, Maddie and I can walk through the people-part, but it shook her up a bit. She doesn’t react well to change.
Thanks Deborah. My first thought was to save that picture for a post about “things made from doors” but that requires even more organization and I’m getting tired of organizing ;-)
The church and the American Legion are across from one another. There’s another building, the old Town Hall, but I’m saving that for a separate post, since it’s now a museum.
LOL! I understand how you feel about organizing. There are so many ways you can cross organize too! Still, it would be neat to trot out that door again for something else; it’s a neat door repurposed.
I’m looking forward to seeing the Old Town Hall post.
Yeah, I try to stay out of antique shops unless I have several hours to kill because I ALWAYS spend way more time in them :-D
I love the school house and the fancy columns on the church. Nice collection Dan.
I could wander around that antique store for hours! Great gallery! Good to know you are confident getting ready to continue your work outside! That makes me even more confident about opening my gardens. Never have I begun this early. Have you?
I’ve never been able to start outside this early (not that we have gardens) but I’ve only had weekends before this year. In the past, I’d be at work on the 64-degree day and home on the 47-degree day (like we’re supposed ot have tomorrow). I hope you gardens are ready for the big unveiling.
Such beautiful typical New England scenes. Thanks for sharing, Dan. We had spring-like temperatures here today too. I could get used to temperatures in the 70s!
No Facilities 
I love that History speaks to us. Quietly whispering: “We were here”.
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That’s such a pleasant thought, Pam. Thanks for adding it.
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We used to have antique shop after antique shop here, but now it’s hard to find any – they’ve been mowed down and turned into high-rise condos!! I could spend all day roaming around that shop of yours!
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That’s sad, but I guess people aren’t moving to Florida to buy old stuff. They probably sold it before they left. I like shops like this. It’s fun to walk around. We don’t have room for more furniture, but it’s always interesting.
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GP, if I moved to Florida, I would miss the antique stores, too. There are many second hand shops that have terrific antiques as well. I think our founders appreciated the good stuff and hung onto it. Yankees don’t throw anything away.
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Some of the best shops are the little ones scattered all over New England.
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The Congregational Church might want to spend a few dollars on some paint for those side doors to make them noticeable. This church clearly likes shutters, so they know how to make a statement when they want to.
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Thanks Ally. I do think a tasteful splash of color would be a good idea. I guess they aren’t worried about the building not being an attraction. It does seem to be well maintained, that’s the important thing, especially that magnificent steeple.
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I like the bright white door on the old farm school, and the bell on the roof. The
Congregational Church is interesting….looks like a building right out of Washington!
Why did they put up a gate across the path when it looks like you can walk right through on the right side?
🐾Ginger 🐾
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Thanks Ginger. I loved seeing the bell on the old school. The elementary school I started in had a bell that was rung a few minutes before classes started or when recess was about to end.
The path around the ball field is wide enough for vehicles. The Parks and Rec employees use the path for maintenance, but I guess other people were using it for sport. They had to add gates like that on the Windsor Locks Canal Path as well. People and bicycles can wiggle their way through, but quads and larger vehicles can’t (unless the open the gate for emergency vehicles). Another example of why we can’t have nice things :(
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I meant to add that Maddie was initially afraid of the gate. She doesn’t like change. I haven’t been taking her around, because it’s been muddy, so this was our first walk around the field since the fall.
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Surprising how fire stations have their equipment out grow them.
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Our Public Safety Complex is 40 years old, John and they are going to ask us to support a bond issue to build a new one – twice as big as the existing one – in a few months. It houses Police and our volunteer Fire Department, and they say neither space is big enough.
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Ahh volunteer fire department. Talk about undersized. Except in this case it is compensation coupled with oversized expectation. Most communities are having a hard time keeping them staffed. Going to go grab that second cup of coffee and skip the rant.
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We’ve been fortunate to maintain adequate staffing. As long as they still have their summer carnival, I’ll think good thoughts, send positive waves.
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I too love poking around old antique shops just to see what they have. In my dreams I have a big old farmhouse – or downtown city loft – which I can fill with interesting old pieces. I’m sure unusual doors would fit in there somewhere 😉
I can always tell when spring is in the air because I’m more likely to stop and take a photo of something I’ve passed a zillion times. It seems like you have the same instincts!
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I think you’re right. I’ve driven past these things so many times, but it never occurred to me to stop.
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Eclectic collection of doors!
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Thanks!
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I really like the photo from under the bridge. I read your comment to GP about the antique shops in FL. I think you’re right. The ‘true’ antique shops are pretty much gone, replaced by consignment shops or ‘junque’ shops, which are exactly what they are. We have so downsized now….I don’t want anyone else’s junque!
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Ha! I love “junque.” That seems so Florida. They’re advertising a huge antique show here. The way they wrote it up “priceless items” “historic significance” “highest quality” “famous vendors” all add up to one conclusion – OVER PRICED!
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The farm school is spectacular. You have to stop there when it’s open. That desk attached to the door made me laugh out loud. This looks like a “How can I use this door” kind of project. Whar’s up with that gate across Maddie’s path? Excellent post, Dan
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I’ll do my best to get there on a Sunday afternoon, John. I wish that was Wednesdays and Sundays, but…
They door-desk is interesting. I think I’d be shot if I brought that home.
The gate is to stop morons with trucks and on quads from riding through the park at night and messing up the fields. They’ve had to block off the end of the large walking/bike path, too (this path connects to that one). Maddie was upset, but fortunately we can walk around.
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Oh good. Glad you can walk around. That desk is a killer. LOL
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Your Thursday door photos are always fabulous, Dan. Is it a rule that your skies are always a brilliant blue??
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Ha ha. No, in fact our skies are a dreadful dark gray today. I’m glad you like the doors. Thanks.
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The architecture of that Congregational church is magnificent, Dan. There’s just something so stately and orderly about Greek architecture. Those columns look Ionic in style.
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I think you’re right, Don. I can’t tell you how many hundreds of time I’ve driven by that church. It’s a one of those intersections you just want to get through, so I’ve never stopped.
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Hi Dan, don’t you just love antique shops? My husband and I used to run one and it makes my heart go pitter-patter to remember all the fun we had. The door/decor item in that shop is certainly interesting. Also, love the old school. Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks! If I tried to run an antique shop, I fear I’d keep everything. How could you part with the stuff?
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A lot of it is sitting in my home as we speak. 😍
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I feel better.
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More good doors, Dan! I would enjoy poking around in that antique furniture shop.
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It’s a weakness we share, Paul. I have a hard time driving past those stores.
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I love to poke around antique stores. They are becoming rarer and rarer around here, though. I guess between eBay and younger people not having the interest,space or money, they just can’t make a go. I hope your March stays lamb-like for you.
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Thanks Janis. This is one area where I don’t think online sales work as well. There’s something about wandering around an antique store.
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Pretty buildings, Dan. Both the red school building and the white church! Yeah, my spring project I put off for 30 years or so (downsizing our stuff), and it’s agonizing to finish it, because there’s every time something you find that you don’t actually need:)
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Every one of those things brings back a memory.
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Beautiful clear day for pictures, very nice! My old farm school was a small one room building.😄
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That’s cool. I do hope to get inside this one and take a look around.
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This is a lovely springtime stroll, Dan. I love that the old school has a bell! The trash place looks like it was once a beautiful building. I’m glad it’s still in use. Hugs!
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Thanks Teagan. I like the bell, too. It reminds me of the school I started in. I’m not sure what the trash plant was, or if it was originally built for trash. It is a wonderful looking building.
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Our temps are about the same as yours. Love the old Farm School. Probably not a lot to see inside though.
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Thanks. You’re probably right about the building, I think I’ll try to get a look inside at some point.
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Super post, Dan. Love the Enfield Church and the antique shop.
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Thanks Jennie. Sometimes, we have to stop and see the pretty things right around us.
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Yes we do. Keep reminding me of that.
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What’s with the GATE?!? :O
That old school is fantastic, plus barn, always a pleasant addition.
I may have told you this before, but when we lived in GA there was a place that made dining tables from doors and I wanted one so badly. Fortunately, my parents gave me ye olde butcher block instead. But I do think one day I’ll make it my desk and get me a door table :)
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The right old door would make a fantastic table. I like butcher block, too, but that would make a nice desk – sturdy desk – that’s a good thing. I guess I need to make room on a Sunday afternoon, after May and virus, to visit that old school. I love that it still has a bell.
The gate is a reaction to stupid people. The path Maddie and I walk on is an access road for Parks & Rec crews maintaining the ball fields. People were using it to drive quads and other such vehicles into the park, of course, causing damage. File it under “this is why we can’t have nice things.” Fortunately, Maddie and I can walk through the people-part, but it shook her up a bit. She doesn’t react well to change.
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I was afraid of that. That’s a shame. I’m pretty sure NONE of our parks allow motorized vehicles of that sort.
I hope you do get to visit the school :) (Cause I’ll get to see it!)
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The vehicles were never allowed, but…
Of course, if I visit the school, I’ll share 🙂
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That was a neat Doorscursion! I love the schoolhouse, cathedral, and the American Legion buildings.
That entry table made with the door is so neat! Perfect for this post.
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Thanks Deborah. My first thought was to save that picture for a post about “things made from doors” but that requires even more organization and I’m getting tired of organizing ;-)
The church and the American Legion are across from one another. There’s another building, the old Town Hall, but I’m saving that for a separate post, since it’s now a museum.
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LOL! I understand how you feel about organizing. There are so many ways you can cross organize too! Still, it would be neat to trot out that door again for something else; it’s a neat door repurposed.
I’m looking forward to seeing the Old Town Hall post.
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That’s a good idea. I could always get a better picture of it.
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Love the farm doors, and you know I’ll be looking forward to hearing all about the projects.
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Thanks Judy. I’m glad I have DIY fans. It’s getting close to that time.
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Your photos are shouting, “Spring!” I love the blue skies. And 64 probably feels like summer. Have fun with your projects. :-)
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Thanks! 64 is better than summer, at least the part of summer that is 90+ and 98% humidity.
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Yeah, I try to stay out of antique shops unless I have several hours to kill because I ALWAYS spend way more time in them :-D
I love the school house and the fancy columns on the church. Nice collection Dan.
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Thanks Norm. It looks like we suffer from the same affliction. I need time and I need to leave my wallet at home.
I hope I can find a stray Sunday to visit the school when it’s open.
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I could wander around that antique store for hours! Great gallery! Good to know you are confident getting ready to continue your work outside! That makes me even more confident about opening my gardens. Never have I begun this early. Have you?
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I’ve never been able to start outside this early (not that we have gardens) but I’ve only had weekends before this year. In the past, I’d be at work on the 64-degree day and home on the 47-degree day (like we’re supposed ot have tomorrow). I hope you gardens are ready for the big unveiling.
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Now only if the rain will stop …. our grounds are SO wet! I should be in a forest tomorrow. YAYAY!!!!
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Oh, how generous of the weather to provide such a spectacular blue back drop for the white buildings!
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Haha – thanks Maggie. That was a perfect day.
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Such beautiful typical New England scenes. Thanks for sharing, Dan. We had spring-like temperatures here today too. I could get used to temperatures in the 70s!
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Thanks. Even though winter was a bust, I’m ready for spring.
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