TheGrandDesign – Page 2 – The Grand Design

Boston: The Hub of the Universe – Unraveling Its Legacy

Nestled in the heart of New England, Boston is a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation. Often referred to as “The Hub of the Universe,” this nickname encapsulates the city’s prominent role in shaping American history and culture. In this post, we will explore why Boston has earned the moniker “The Hub of the Universe” and delve into the rich tapestry of its legacy.

A Beacon of Education

One of the primary reasons Boston is hailed as the hub of the universe is its remarkable concentration of prestigious educational institutions. The city boasts world-renowned universities such as Harvard, MIT, Boston University, and more. With these academic powerhouses, Boston has become a global center for innovation and knowledge, attracting students and scholars from all corners of the globe.

Historical Significance

Boston played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, with iconic events like the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill taking place within its borders. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through the city, is a living museum of American history, showcasing historic sites that transport visitors back to the birth of the nation. These events and landmarks have solidified Boston’s status as a historical cornerstone of the United States.

Cultural Mecca

The city’s vibrant cultural scene further enhances its reputation. Boston is a hub for art, music, theater, and literature. Museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum house priceless collections, while Boston Symphony Orchestra and the city’s many theaters enrich the cultural tapestry. Writers like Edgar Allan Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Sylvia Plath have found inspiration in Boston, contributing to its literary legacy.

Innovation and Industry

Boston has been at the forefront of technological innovation and industry. From its early role in the textile and manufacturing sectors to today’s thriving biotechnology and healthcare industries, Boston continues to lead the way. The city’s thriving startup ecosystem, fueled by the presence of institutions like MIT, ensures that it remains at the cutting edge of innovation.

Culinary Delights

The city’s culinary scene has also contributed to its reputation. Known for its seafood, Boston offers a delectable array of clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fresh catches from the Atlantic. The diverse range of international cuisine, from Italian eateries in the North End to vibrant Chinatown, adds a culinary dimension to the city’s vibrant tapestry.

Conclusion

Boston’s legacy as “The Hub of the Universe” is a testament to its multifaceted significance. Its educational institutions, historical prominence, cultural richness, innovative spirit, and culinary delights collectively make Boston a city that stands at the crossroads of the world. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, a cultural enthusiast, or an entrepreneur, Boston welcomes all to experience its unique charm and to uncover the secrets of why it is celebrated as the hub of the universe.

The Donald Macleod Bagpipes

In this heartwarming post of friendship and the preservation of history, let me introduce you to Derek Picard and Sam Manley, two individuals whose paths crossed, igniting a bond that transcends time. Sam, a dedicated firefighter who once held the position of Deputy Fire Chief at the Westport Fire Department, met Derek while working on a very interesting project.

Derek was tasked with developing the first website for the Westport Fire Department back in 2014, a project that would delve into the annals of history, chronicling the department’s past through a vast trove of photographs and documents. The laborious effort of scanning, categorizing, and organizing this historical wealth was a testament to dedication and attention to detail. Over time, this shared endeavor forged a deep and lasting friendship between Derek and Sam.

Fast forward to the present, Sam has retired from his firefighting career, and the website project has been built upon. Yet, the enduring friendship between Derek and Sam remains as strong as ever. Sam’s passion for nostalgia and history is not confined to his professional life. His home is a testament to his appreciation for antiquities and fine craftsmanship, adorned with treasures from around the world. Among these treasures is a full-sized antique fire engine, a serendipitous find that further enriched his collection.

However, one gem in Sam’s collection that truly captivated Derek was a set of vintage bagpipes. Pristine and enchanting, these bagpipes have a remarkable story that dates back to a craftsman named Donald Macleod, renowned for making bagpipes before transitioning to crafting fine violins. Sam’s set of bagpipes is believed to be the last of its kind in existence globally, making it a truly priceless artifact.

Derek’s appreciation for these bagpipes was deeply rooted in his personal history. He reminisced about his Uncle Jim, whose bagpipe band, “The Highland Light,” had left an indelible mark on Derek during his childhood. These early experiences kindled a profound understanding and love for the unique music produced by bagpipes, rich in history and culture.

Recognizing the importance of preserving this one-of-a-kind instrument, Derek and Sam embarked on a mission to digitally capture the essence of these vintage bagpipes. Derek is planning to conduct additional recording sessions in the future, with the ultimate goal of transforming the original instrument into a timeless virtual creation. This project stands as a testament to the power of friendship, the appreciation of history, and the desire to ensure that the sound and heritage of these vintage bagpipes continue to resonate across time.

The Commemorative Albums Are Available Now!

After months of hard work, The Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Album is now publicly available. Everything from the detailed artwork to the diverse selection of fine classical music has been carefully crafted into a tangible piece of Fall River’s long and rich history. This project was specifically intended to digitally recreate an instrument that was not replaceable, and then create something with the results. Whatever the future holds for the Saint Anne’s Church building, all of the distinct sounds from its beloved 2793 Casavant Pipe Organ will now virtually live forever! A perfectly tuned and complete digital recreation of the original instrument.

Each album comes with a resealable protective wrapper and certificate of authenticity. The resealable protective wrappers were instituted to ensure a drier and cleaner storage solution while the album is not in use.

Saint Anne's Organ Certificate — Each album comes with a certificate and unique number.

The certificate of authenticity has a unique number that corresponds with the album it came with. The same number can be found on both the certificate and the inside panel of the album. These unique numbers are instantly assigned to a specific person at the time that person successfully completes the registration process. It’s quick and easy to register!

In many instances, these albums are purchased with the intent to be given as gifts to family members and/or close friends. Under these circumstances, there is an option for the person who received the album as a gift to manually register by following the instructions on the certificate that came with the album. At the time of completing the manual registration, the new registrar’s name is recorded under the original name assigned to that album’s unique number.

The purpose of this registration system is to develop a database. This database will include only the name and unique number that corresponds to the respective album. The database information is to be updated and shared with the Bishop’s Office at The Diocese of Fall River. It’s with great hope that this information will help future researchers on their quest to discover some of the people who were inspired by the memorable and historic Saint Anne’s Church.

The Album Rear Artwork — The album’s back cover artwork showing the tracklist.

The Tracklist

1. Ave Maria

2. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

3. Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

4. Standchen

5. As Lately We Watched

6. Hark, A Herald Voice Is Calling

7. Siciliano

8. J’irai La Voir Un Jour

9. Marche Aux Flambeaux

10. Praeambulum Primi toni a 5

11. Offertoire sur deux Noels

12. String Quintet in E major, Op. 11 No. 5 (G 275)

New England’s Hidden Treasures: Rare Antiques That Tell Tales

New England is a region steeped in history, and its rich past is reflected in the antique treasures that have been preserved over the centuries. From colonial times to the present day, New England has been a treasure trove of rare and valuable antiques. In this blog post, we will delve into some of the rare antiques from New England that have captured the imaginations of collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Colonial Elegance: Antique Furniture

New England is renowned for its colonial heritage, and the antique furniture from this era is a testament to the region’s craftsmanship. Pieces like Chippendale and Queen Anne style chairs, highboys, and lowboys, crafted by skilled artisans, showcase the elegance and fine woodworking traditions of the 18th century. These pieces often bear the patina of time and have become prized collectibles.

Nautical Nostalgia: Ship Models

With a long history of maritime trade and shipbuilding, New England has produced an abundance of exquisite ship models. These intricate, handcrafted representations of sailing vessels, from whaling ships to clipper ships, offer a glimpse into the region’s seafaring history. Ship models often feature remarkable attention to detail, with tiny rigging and miniature sailors, making them highly sought-after antiques.

Early American Stoneware: Pottery and Crocks

New England has a rich tradition of pottery and stoneware production dating back to the 18th century. Antique stoneware pieces, including crocks, jugs, and pitchers, bear the marks of local pottery workshops and tell the story of utilitarian craftsmanship. These pieces are often adorned with cobalt blue decorations, and rare examples can command high prices at auctions.

Textiles and Quilts: Colonial Comfort

Quilting and textile work have long been an integral part of New England’s heritage. Antique quilts and textiles from the region showcase exquisite needlework and design, often reflecting the changing tastes and styles of the times. These pieces are not only beautiful but also provide insight into the lives of the women who created them.

Collector’s Coins: Massachusetts Silver

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Massachusetts produced its own coinage, known as “pine tree shillings” and “oak tree shillings.” These rare and historic coins are highly collectible. Each coin bears unique designs, and their scarcity makes them prized possessions for numismatists and history buffs.

Conclusion

New England’s rare antiques are more than just valuable collectibles; they are windows into the past, offering a glimpse of the region’s history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re an antique enthusiast, a history lover, or a collector, exploring the antique treasures of New England is a journey back in time, where you can touch, feel, and even own a piece of history. These hidden treasures tell tales of a region rich in tradition and craftsmanship, and they continue to captivate the hearts of those who appreciate their historical significance and enduring beauty.

Pipes of Saint Anne’s

The Saint Anne’s Church Organ… This beautiful (Casavant Opus 2793) pipe organ is certainly a well crafted instrument that has always produced memorable music throughout the years. It’s played the music for countless weddings, funerals, baptisms and regular mass for its church’s parishioners in the city of Fall River, Massachusetts for more than half a century. The distinct sounds created by this magnificent instrument has undoubtedly been the soundtrack to countless memories in many people’s lives (including my own). Once I learned of the plans to permanently close Saint Anne’s Church, I set a personal goal of preserving the sounds of this organ. I explained to the Diocese of Fall River what I wanted to do and was granted the necessary permission to get to work.

Each and every single one of the notes on the organ (4,518 Pipes) have been recorded using several high quality microphones and state of the art recording hardware. The meticulous placement of the microphones were crucial as it was not only important to record the unique sound of this organ but to also capture the natural acoustics of the spacious and beautiful building (acoustic resonance). All samples were recorded at 48kHz and a bit depth of 32.

Sampling A Vintage Pipe Organ — All of the samples were recorded using state of the art hardware.

Each and every key on all stops were recorded individually in order to successfully record all unique sound samples.

Every possible sound from this organ was recorded and saved. Once the recording process was completed, the tedious task of cutting and cleaning all of the samples began. This process took many, many days and nights to complete. This involved cutting all of the samples into individual files, renaming the samples to the correct key and categorizing each group under the proper stop. All of the samples were “cleaned” by removing unnecessary noise and hum.

All of the samples were also tuned so they could all be played in perfect pitch with other instruments (more on this later).

Throughout the process of recording, there were notes that were nonfunctional (either the pipe was broken, or there was insufficient air flow within the organ to produce any sound from that particular pipe). I will refer to the nonfunctional notes as “Dead Notes”. These “Dead Notes” created a gap of silence in an otherwise perfect musical scale. These lost notes were digitally recreated from the algorithm of the note before it or after it in the scale, depending on the circumstances. This process of recreating “Dead Notes” allowed me to complete the musical scale with no gaps and a seamless playback.

Any song from the past or future will now play completely with all notes because this correction is in place. This means that the sounds from the Saint Anne’s Church Organ can virtually play any song forever in a perfectly tuned and functional state!

Other sound libraries can now be used in conjunction with the Saint Anne’s Church Organ. These other sound libraries can include orchestral, choir, percussion, etc. The final goal was to create a commemorative album that will contain classical works of music played by the samples I have of this beautiful organ. In other words, I will have the Saint Anne’s Church Organ play timeless classics with a full blown virtual orchestral and choral accompaniment!

Much more than what can be explained in this blog post has brought this project to where it is now. A copy of all of the raw samples were given to the Bishop’s Office at The Diocese of Fall River. The commemorative album is nearly completed and will be out for duplication and then distribution in the coming weeks!

I invite you to watch this video. It runs approximately 27 minutes and explains all of the steps taken to complete this project.

Saint Anne's Kontakt Instrument — The Virtual Saint Anne’s Church Organ Video.

Deborah Allard of The Fall River Herald News took the time to write a great story about this project. The story made the front page on Sunday, January 13, 2019.

Commemorating History: Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Albums and Coffee Mugs Now Shipping!

Saint Anne's Church Collector's Items — The Commemorative Album and Special Gift (coffee mug).

In the heart of Southern Massachusetts, a musical history gem has been preserved, and it’s now on its way to those who supported a recently successful online fundraising campaign. The Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Albums and Coffee Mugs are more than just mementos; they’re a celebration of a cherished piece of history. In this post, we’ll dive into the significance of these items and what lies ahead for sharing this musical treasure with the public.

Preserving Musical History

Saint Anne’s Church, with its rich history and musical heritage, is a beloved landmark in Southern Massachusetts. The majestic organ that graced the church has not only filled the space with glorious music but also holds a special place in the hearts of the community. When the decision was made to bid farewell to this iconic organ, it was clear that its memory should be celebrated and preserved.

The Commemorative Album

The Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Album is a tangible piece of history, meticulously crafted to encapsulate the essence of this remarkable musical instrument. It’s more than just a collection of photographs and descriptions; it’s a journey through time, offering insights into the organ’s construction, its importance to the church, and the emotions it stirred in those who experienced its music.

The album is a labor of love, created to ensure that the legacy of the organ lives on. As you flip through its pages, you’ll find the beauty of Saint Anne’s Church captured in vivid detail. It’s a testament to the devotion of the community, as well as the artists and artisans who contributed to its creation and maintenance over the years.

Coffee Mugs with a Musical Twist

Accompanying the Commemorative Album are Saint Anne’s Church Organ-themed coffee mugs. These mugs are more than just vessels for your favorite brew; they’re a daily reminder of the rich musical history that echoes through the halls of the church. Each sip from these mugs is a connection to the past, a nod to the beautiful melodies that once resonated through the grand organ’s pipes.

Shipping to Generous Supporters

The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived! The packages containing these cherished items are currently in the process of being shipped to the generous individuals who made donations to the successful online fundraising campaign. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring that the Saint Anne’s Church Organ is not forgotten but remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

Future Plans

But the story doesn’t end here. There are exciting plans for making the Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Albums available to the wider public. The intention is to share this piece of history with anyone who appreciates the beauty of music and the significance of preserving our heritage. To stay updated and learn more about how you can acquire your own Commemorative Album, visit www.dvpdesign.com.

A Heartfelt Thank You

In closing, a sincere thank you goes out to everyone who supported the Saint Anne’s Church Organ Commemorative Album project. Your generosity and passion for preserving history are the driving forces behind this initiative. We look forward to sharing this piece of Southern Massachusetts musical history with the world, one Commemorative Album at a time. Together, we ensure that the beauty and significance of the Saint Anne’s Church Organ live on for generations to come.

The Francis Bacon Player Piano: A Musical Marvel Ahead of Its Time

In the world of musical instruments, the piano is a timeless classic. But imagine a piano that could play itself, replicating complex compositions with remarkable precision. That’s the magic of the Francis Bacon Player Piano, a revolutionary invention that paved the way for modern-day automated music. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating history and mechanics of the Francis Bacon Player Piano.

The Inventive Genius of Francis Bacon

The Francis Bacon Player Piano was not the creation of the renowned English philosopher and statesman Sir Francis Bacon. Instead, it was named after its inventor, Francis Hopkinson Smith Bacon, an American engineer and inventor born in 1857. Bacon’s fascination with music and machinery led to the development of this groundbreaking instrument.

A Mechanical Symphony

At the heart of the Francis Bacon Player Piano’s innovation was its ability to play complex compositions without human intervention. This was made possible through a series of intricate mechanisms, allowing the piano to reproduce sheet music through a roll of perforated paper. When a roll was fed into the piano, the holes on the paper triggered a series of levers, air pumps, and valves, which, in turn, struck the corresponding piano keys.

Versatility and Precision

What set the Francis Bacon Player Piano apart from earlier self-playing instruments was its ability to replicate not only melodies but also dynamics, tempo, and even nuances of expression. The perforated rolls could capture the subtleties of a pianist’s touch, making it possible to recreate virtuoso performances faithfully. This level of precision was a testament to Bacon’s engineering genius.

Musical Libraries

In addition to its incredible precision, the Francis Bacon Player Piano offered a wide range of musical rolls. From classical masterpieces to popular songs of the time, the instrument allowed music enthusiasts to experience a vast repertoire of compositions in the comfort of their own homes. This accessibility and variety made it a popular form of entertainment in the early 20th century.

Legacy and Influence

The Francis Bacon Player Piano’s legacy is profound. Its innovative technology laid the groundwork for the development of modern player pianos and, indirectly, for electronic keyboards and synthesizers. Today’s self-playing instruments owe a debt to Bacon’s pioneering work, which transformed the way we interact with music.

Conclusion

The Francis Bacon Player Piano, a marvel of engineering and musical ingenuity, is a testament to human innovation and our unceasing desire to blend technology and art. While the world has moved on to more advanced musical instruments, the legacy of the Francis Bacon Player Piano lives on, serving as a reminder of how a single inventor’s vision can revolutionize the world of music.

The Last Mass At Saint Anne’s Church

Saint Anne's Church in the 1900s — Saint Anne’s Church in the 1900s

Saint Anne’s Church is by far one of the most iconic landmarks of Southeastern Massachusetts. It’s towering steeples can be seen for miles around. I can still remember the masses being crowded with people, but that was years ago when I was a child. Since then, the attendance of parishioners has considerably declined. Unfortunately, the beautiful building itself has also been deteriorating. The Diocese of Fall River publically announced that the Church building would permanently close on November 25, 2018.

Saint Anne's Church on November 25, 2018 — Saint Anne’s Church on November 25, 2018

Located in the lower part of the building was a shrine. The shrine was still active with parishioners until the final mass.

November 25, 2018 - The last Mass at Saint Anne's Church — The last Mass at Saint Anne’s Church (Held In The Shrine)

Scott Larriviere Directing The Music & Choir At The Last Mass — The Music & Choir At The Last Mass

The upper (main) part of the building was closed back in 2015 when pieces of plaster fell from above causing safety concerns. The future of this magnificent piece of architecture and history is still unknown…

Pipes of Belcourt

The Magnificent Pipe Organ of Belcourt Castle, Newport, Rhode Island

Belcourt Castle, located in the charming coastal city of Newport, Rhode Island, is renowned for its opulent architecture, rich history, and exceptional collections. Among the many treasures held within this Gilded Age mansion, one of the most striking is its remarkable pipe organ. In this post, we will explore the history and significance of the pipe organ at Belcourt Castle.

The History of Belcourt Castle

Before delving into the pipe organ itself, it’s essential to understand the context in which it resides. Belcourt Castle was designed by the famed American architect Richard Morris Hunt in 1891 for Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont, a wealthy American socialite and sportsman. The castle, designed in the style of a French chateau, served as a summer residence for the Belmont family and became a symbol of the Gilded Age’s extravagance and opulence.

The Pipe Organ at Belcourt Castle

The pipe organ at Belcourt Castle is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and sound. It was added to the mansion in the early 20th century, further enhancing the castle’s grandeur. The organ features intricate woodwork and beautifully designed pipes, making it a visual marvel as well as an auditory delight.

Specifications of the Pipe Organ

The organ was built by the prominent organ manufacturer Ernest M. Skinner, who was renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship.
It boasts an impressive number of pipes, ranging in size and producing a wide range of tones and timbres.
The organ is known for its beautiful casework, blending seamlessly with the castle’s interior decor, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail prevalent during the Gilded Age.

Musical Significance

The pipe organ at Belcourt Castle has played a vital role in various events and occasions held at the mansion. It has been the centerpiece of countless concerts and recitals, creating a captivating musical atmosphere that adds to the castle’s charm. The organ’s rich and resonant tones can fill the castle’s ornate rooms, making it an ideal venue for musical performances.

Preservation and Restoration

Preserving and maintaining such a historic and intricate instrument is no small task. The castle’s caretakers have dedicated significant efforts to ensure the organ’s continued functionality. Periodic restoration work has been carried out to keep the organ in its original, pristine condition.

Conclusion

The pipe organ at Belcourt Castle in Newport, Rhode Island, stands as a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age and the commitment to preserving history. Its magnificent design and resonant tones continue to captivate visitors and provide a glimpse into the past. Belcourt Castle remains a living testament to an era of extravagance, and its pipe organ plays an integral role in that narrative.

Visiting Belcourt Castle and experiencing the grandeur of its pipe organ is a unique and enriching opportunity for history and music enthusiasts alike. This remarkable instrument, surrounded by the castle’s architectural splendor, creates an unforgettable experience that lingers in the hearts of those who have the privilege to witness it.

The Mysterious Mirror from the Lizzie Borden House: The History and Restoration

The Lizzie Borden murders have captured the imagination of people for over a century, and the house where they occurred stands as an eerie monument to a dark past. In the midst of this chilling history, a mysterious mirror found its way out of the Borden house and into the possession of the author’s family. This blog post will delve into the intriguing story of how this mirror came into the author’s family, the journey to restore it, and the captivating history behind it.

The story begins with the Alfred Picard, a Fall River police officer assigned to a detail on Second Street in Fall River, Massachusetts. His duty was to direct the traffic and guide pedestrians that use the street in front of the infamous Borden house. The Borden house was once the scene of a famous and gruesome double murder of Lizzie Borden’s parents, Andrew and Abby Borden. With the old Fall River bus terminal situated across the street from the house, the area was often bustling with activity.

The reconstruction of the Borden house included an addition that was being built which later became known as Leary Press. During Alfred Picard’s detail, an intriguing turn of events unfolded… The construction crew was tasked with cleaning out the house and making necessary additions to the structure. In the process, they uncovered various items in the basement, including a large dresser with a mirror on top. It was this mirror that would eventually become the center of our story.

Alfred Picard, ever the vigilant police officer, couldn’t help but notice the crew removing items from the basement. His curiosity was piqued when he saw the mirror. He inquired about the mirror’s fate, and the construction crew informed him that all these old items were slated for disposal. Seizing the opportunity, the officer asked if he could return after his shift to claim the mirror, to which the crew readily agreed. The mirror and dresser were set aside for him to pick up later.

After his shift ended, Picard returned to the house to retrieve the mirror, which was only a short distance of four blocks away. Upon closer inspection, he found the dresser to be damaged, with water and rot affecting the wood. However, the mirror itself remained in good condition. He decided to take only the mirror, leaving the deteriorating wooden frame behind. The mirror, blackened and tarnished due to its age, possessed an eerie and haunting quality that would continue to captivate those who encountered it.

The mirror found a place in the Picard’s basement, where it remained for decades. It was a story passed down through the family, eventually reaching his grandson, Derek Picard. Their deep interest in history and the mysteries of the past inspired them to take on the task of restoring the mirror, all while preserving its aged and unsettling charm.

Derek’s quest to uncover the origins of the mirror led him to reach out to the historical society and former owners of the Borden house. Unfortunately, no one could definitively identify where in the house the mirror had once been placed. This presented a challenge in tracing the mirror’s history.

Undeterred, the Derek embarked on a journey to find clues about the mirror’s past. The mirror’s distinct shape led him to a company based in New York that was crafting a similar style mirror during the same time period of the 1870s. Through this discovery, Derek managed to date the mirror, suggesting that it had been purchased by the Borden family years before the tragic murders occurred.

As the restoration efforts continued, Derek couldn’t help but wonder about the mirror’s unique history. What secrets might it hold? If only this mysterious mirror could speak, the stories it could tell about life inside the Borden house and the events leading up to the infamous murders.

The tale of the mirror from the Lizzie Borden house is one of mystery, curiosity, and historical intrigue. It serves as a tangible link to a gruesome chapter in history, and its eerie charm continues to captivate those who encounter it. While the mirror itself may remain silent, its story speaks volumes about the enduring fascination with the Lizzie Borden murders and the people who were drawn into it’s dark orbit.