Monday, December 22, 2014

Illuminating Historic Boxford


Every year Boxford residents gather at the town’s Holiday Tree to commence a procession called the “Grand Illumination” throughout the community’s historic East Village where houses built in the 1700’s and after still stand. The long lasting tradition, which was Sunday evening, featured a festive crowd of people who carol from door to door asking residents of the community to “light up their lights”.

The evening concluded at the Holyoke French House, which was originally built in 1704 and then rebuilt in 1760, where people gathered for cookies and cider. It was a beautiful night with great people, fantastic singing, and wonderful conversations. The Christmas spirit was on full display, and I look forward to joining again next year for the festivities.

Every year the Boxford Historic Society does a great job coordinating this event. Earlier in the day the Council on Aging hosted a craft fair at the Community Center, and then the bonfire tradition was brought back with the help of the Boxford Fire Department and the Boxford Library.

The photo above is of some of the carolers singing on the stairs at the Holyoke French House.