PLACES--MERIDEN TOWER-CONNECTICUT

                                                  

One of my many favorite spots but not one of my favorite motorcycle rides..The ride up to the tower is a constant exercise in shifting—the trip back down puts your braking skills (and components) to the test..Because of the never ending process of erosion, gravel, sand and debris is often washed onto the road and it is not uncommon to come across wet areas as well..In the fall these threats are covered by leaves adding yet another dimension to an already tense descent. If you are unlucky enough to leave the road there are places where it will be a while before you’re found..One of the very few destinations I would rather visit in a car instead of on a bike.. All that being said, the road to the tower is nestled in absolutely beautiful wilderness..Numerous small ponds and streams wind their way down to the reservoir, rock faces and cliffs abound and several hiking trails are available for the more energetic souls among us..

The view is overwhelming, breath-taking for the first time visitor, inspiring for all..The Meriden YMCA sponsors an annual Easter Sunday Sunrise observance (since 1930) and hundreds see fit to attend..The Castle was dedicated to the city of Meriden in October of 1900 by Walter Hubbard (hence the name-Hubbard Park).. In April of 1986 the tower was rededicated after work was done to repair the effects of neglect..The Meriden Lions Club was responsible for the erection of a ninety foot flag pole, which is lit (along with the castle) by the efforts of the “Light The Flag Committee.” Enough about the here and now—Let’s take a GIANT step back in time..

Two hundred million years ago dinosaurs lumbered through a much different vista..Meriden sat in a sandstone valley that was eventually covered by at least two major lava flows..Each flow cooled into what is called basalt and covered over by sediment from the surrounding hills which, in turn, formed brownstone..After the volcanic activity came to a halt the whole region fractured and tilted westward..The softer sandstone bedrock eroded, leaving behind the much denser volcanic layers which are now the lofty perches from which we may enjoy the present day views..

I do plan to return in the fall when Mother Nature covers the hills with brilliant plumage..At that time I’ll tell you about one of the darker legends that surrounds the area..Until next week—May the most you wish for be the least you receive..

(AS ALWAYS-CLICK ON PHOTOS FOR GREATER DETAIL)





 





 

 

I HAVE SKY DIVED BUT THESE VIEWS

ARE MUCH MORE RELAXING

FLAG POLE ERECTED BY MERIDEN LIONS CLUB

THE EFFECTS OF EROSION CLEARLY VISIBLE

TWO GOOD PEOPLE I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING
AT THE TOWER
JIM (FROM MERIDEN) AND HIS FIANCE-- MEGAN (FROM BERLIN)
BEST OF WISHES AND LUCK FOR A HAPPY FUTURE TOGETHER

TILL NEXT WEEK