July 1-October 12

History Exhibit: “All Aboard! - Railroads, John Hay, and The Fells”

The John Hay Estate at The Fells is pleased to participate in the region-wide series of exhibits and programs entitled, “All…Aboard! Economic, Social, and Environmental Change During New Hampshire’s Railroad Era.” 

The Fells exhibit tells three stories connected to the railroad era:

First, we explore how John and Clara Hay might have traveled from their home in Washington, D.C. to the Fells on Lake Sunapee. There is no known record of an actual trip but through research, we suggest one likely route based on the railroad and steamer schedules for the year 1902. This door-to-door itinerary highlights some of the servants who lived in the Hay household in Washington, describes the new rail service from Washington to Boston, that made it possible to make that leg of the trip in one day, and finally the train that brings the Hay’s from Concord to Newbury Harbor. 

Second, we tell a few of the stories surrounding President Theodore Roosevelt’s visit to The Fells on August 28, 1902. How did the President travel to see his Secretary of State? What might the Hay’s have served at dinner? What happened when Clarence Hay’s dog was banished from the house, for fear that he would disturb the President’s sleep?

Lastly, we retell the story of John Hay’s death at The Fells on July 1, 1905. His body was carried by wagon to the Newbury Railroad Station, where the town residents gathered to say goodbye to their famous neighbor. The train carried the body and Clara and Clarence to the funeral and burial in Cleveland, Ohio.  

Open during Main House hours and included with regular admission fee.

For more information about area events beyond the Fells, please see www.nhmuse.org.