Goddard Mansion

Goddard Mansion was an ideal respite. I would call it quaint, but it has 18 rooms and regally sits on top of a hill commanding awe.

When I entered the town of Claremont, NH, I began to feel a bit disappointed. The route I took led me by glorious old houses and buildings no longer in their prime. It did not bode well for the attitude of the community because these historical giants weren't being honored through renovation. Taking winding roads deeper into a bedroom community, I was wondering what I would face. Suddenly, an open expanse to my left revealed an huge unobstructed lawn that gently climbed a hill. Balanced in a perfectly symmetrical location at the peak was a monster of a house. Quite impressive to the naked eye. In glancing back to my GPS to find the next turn, I instantly realized that the mansion majestically occupying the green hill was the Goddard Mansion. Really? That is where I am staying?

As the Prius climbed Hillstead Road, I located a hidden drive that opened to a park like setting and what seemed like miles of house. Upon entering the house, I was engulfed in subtle classical music. Instantly, I felt my body decompress. Scott casually greeted me and showed me the facilities. The library with dark paneling was set up with a computer for guests. The sitting room displayed a wonderful bay window with a seat and a baby grand with ivories waiting to be tickled. Too bad I had not brought my music. I'll need to start memorizing some pieces for just such occasions. The dining room was centered on a massive fireplace and could hold 15 people for a meal. I was then directed to the TV room and the butler's pantry. The pantry was amazingly warm and inviting. With ceilings 12 feet tall, two walls were covered with dark mahogany floor to ceiling built-ins filled with perfectly placed glassware. Snacks, coffee and tea were always at my disposal. There was not one detail missed by the hosts. I am sorry that I did not take a picture of my room, but I did photograph the original light switches and intercom system. The room to room phone no longer works, but the bell system does.
The final thing that really endeared me to the boys and their home was the willingness to allow me to be a part of the family. At night, I could sit in the TV room and talk to Keith and pet Shadow. During breakfast, Scott was more than willing to converse about the story of the house and town and ask about my day. In fact, last night I was pleasantly surprised by Shadow's, the black lab of the house, greeting when I returned from Canterbury, NH. Usually shy, she approached me and begged to be rubbed. As I prepared tea, set up my computer in the dining room and worked on my blog, she kept me company. It was a real home away from home and I did not have to cook or clean.

http://www.goddardmansion.com/

Above is their website. All of the photographs have been taken by Scott. He is a graphic artist by trade.