Returning to research over a decade old is always a new adventure - changes in methodology, access to information and fresh perspectives brought to the topic by the author's intervening experience in the field- will frequently yield a more thorough study and stronger conclusions.
While in graduate school at Boston University, studying with Professor Mary Beaudry, I worked on a topic which has once again landed on the top of my "to do" list - the Pike Whetstone complex in Pike, NH. Situated along the Oliverian (just a few miles distant from the industrial activities of Haverhill and of General Montgomery in particular, mentioned throughout this blog), Issac Pike began his first venture with production of scythe stones in 1823. He quarried the material for his sharpening stones from local mineral deposits. Much of the late 19th century complex--from the highly visible 30 foot smokestack and outbuildings including worker's housing and even the old quarry remnants-- still survives in Pike and the surrounding area. A decade ago, the sluice gates were still operable and the spillway visible (inspection by the author). Although at least one of the quarries was filled in with water, it was still possible to pull away a piece of the stone and actually use it in its raw form as a knife or tool sharpener.
The focus on this research was and is, the concept of the feature system as applied to the entire complex and its supporting structures, quarries, railroad spurs and even the altered landscape which made way for what was once a bustling site in what is now a quiet town. The opportunities for a cross disciplinary approach to the site are incredibly rich.
More to come....
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