2011-10-30: Great Day In Maine

Went out roaming around in Maine yesterday. Stopped at an Alpaca farm, went to a Wine tasting at Winterport Winery, ate at a great pub in Belfast called Rollies, but the best part of the day was going to a Stove Shop in Thorndike. "A stove shop?", you say. "Have you lost your mind?". No I haven't and yes you heard me right. Bryants Stove Shop is a most interesting place. The owner, Joe Bryant, has spent years creating an amazing museum. Mr. Bryant has a toy room where he has rube goldberged many motors and bicycle parts, and gadgets and gizmos to animate the toys. Amazing. He had a music room where there were many player pianos and calliopes and other amazing things from the early 1900's. He gave us the grand tour and encouraged us to try out everything. Wow! A museum where you can touch the displays! And he had antique cars and of course antique stoves. (And refurbished Wood stoves-hence the name of the place). We had smiles on our faces for the entire visit and felt like little kids looking with wonder at everything. And 'Old Joe', as he called himself, had a smile on his face the entire time as he loved to show his hobby. It helped that his wife was a big inspiration is his hobby. They are a lovely pair of people.
Here's a shot of some player piano rolls from Ol' Joe's museum.

If you are ever up in the area, check it out. It will make you smile.
See you tomorrow.
Em