Libraries, Bookstores, & More: Amherst, MA
Emily Dickinson Museum
Amherst: A Place of Possibility
Known for its illustrious beauty and towering elm trees, sits the beautiful town of Amherst, Massachusetts. Situated in the Pioneer Valley, the town, with its beautiful shops and mature trees, sits as a backdrop for some of the most distinguished colleges and universities in New England.
Like many New England townships, Amherst was first inhabited by the Algonquian Native Americans—an Eastern Woodland tribe that populated much of the North Atlantic. Although purchase of the land occurred in December 1658 between the Algonquian-Nolwotogg natives and John Pychon, the area wasn’t settled by Europeans until 1727; and only became a township in 1775.
Although Amherst initially prospered due to agriculture, with the development of Amherst College in 1821, The University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1863, and the coming of Hampshire College in 1970, it is currently recognized as an educational centre. While the town is peaceful and quaint, the liveliness of college students, and its bookish and artsy elements, lends an ambiance that is both tranquil and inviting. With an atmosphere like this, there’s no wonder that Amherst has been the home of some of the most prolific American poets and authors; as well as the institutions and museums who celebrate them.
“I dwell in possibility”- Emily Dickinson
In a grand yellow house with green shutters, at the top of a hill in downtown Amherst, lived a family who dwelled in possibility. It is also the home that housed the renowned, as well as notorious, Emily Dickinson. The granddaughter of Amherst College founder, Samuel Dickinson, Ms. Dickinson lived her life in the security of her family’s Amherst home with relative ease, and later, seclusion. And although she was relatively unknown for her work during her lifetime, Emily Dickinson has become one of the most admired and recognized poets in American history.
The Museum
Like many living museums, stepping into the home of Ms. Dickinson and her family is like being transported in time—in an instant, visitors are encompassed in a moment, where time has stood still with the intricacies of Victorian-Era New England. In taking a tour of her home, we were able to not only get a sense of Dickinson’s life, but also the lives of the men and women who made up Amherst’s academia and high society. The exploration of her home, told of Dickinson’s works, loss, triumphs, and…scandal. You read that right. When I say scandal, I do mean SCANDAL. I would spill, but you’ll have to make a visit to find out more.
If you’re interested in items and books centered on Emily Dickinson’s work, the museum offers a shop filled with trinkets and volumes of her poetry. Although the selection is small, there are a variety of pieces that would interest even the pickiest bibliophile.
For The Kids
As with many home-style living museums, the Emily Dickinson Museum isn’t particularly great for young children. The home, outfitted in old relics and delicate items from Dickinson’s era, isn’t suitable for young hands. Like my previous review of the Mark Twain House and Museum, I recommend this museum for those around 13 and up—this is especially so for young ones who have a love for Emily Dickinson’s poetry and have a better understanding of interpersonal relationships. So, what can you do with children in the Amherst area? Keep reading to find out.
“Simplify, slow down, be kind. And don’t forget to have art in your life—music, paintings, theater, dance, and sunsets.” – Eric Carle
Just a short trip from the Emily Dickinson Museum, you’ll find the charming museum based on the life and works of the American children’s book author and illustrator, Eric Carle. When you enter the museum, you are greeted with an open gallery filled with hands-on exhibitions suited for young hands and art. If you follow the gallery’s halls, you are taken on a journey through Carle’s work and life, and into the museum’s different expositions.
In the art gallery, you’ll find many of Carle’s prints, as well as the art of other children’s story book authors and illustrators, that speak to the nostalgia of our childhood. And while adults can peruse the art-induced memories that line the walls, children can utilize the hands-on exhibits to make art of their own.
Picture book art isn’t the only thing you can find at the museum—as an art centered institution, there is an art studio within its walls for all to use and enjoy. Outside of your ability to make illustrations of your own, the museum is also a place where you can enjoy a book or more, at their charming library. Your kiddos have a need to blow off steam? Then take a walk around Bobbie’s Meadow—the museum’s 100-year-old apple orchard.
At the end of your trip, don’t forget to take a walk through The Carle Bookshop. It has a wonderful selection of children’s books, toys, knick-knacks, and stationary. Don’t worry—it also has a few things for us adults too.
“Books are a portable homeland”- Aaron Lansky, founder of The Yiddish Book Center
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art isn’t the only place for children to enjoy. Founded by Aaron Lansky, The Yiddish Book Center has become one of the largest institutions of Yiddish literature. With over a million volumes recovered, entering the center allows visitors to grasp history and culture at their fingertips, through the books and exhibits that are housed in the facility. At The Yiddish Book Center, you will find a place where children can engross themselves in books centered on Jewish life, while you can immerse yourself in the life, history, and literature of the “people of the book.” Also, whatever you do, don’t miss the video about the center; and if you’re a sap like me, have some tissues handy, if you decide to watch it.
Play, Eat, & Stay
Although Amherst is known in part for its academic identity, you don’t have to go far for bibliophiles and travel companions, to find a place to go and let loose. A nice stroll around UMass Amherst could take you to the UMass Art Museum; while a scenic walk around Amherst College, can lead you to the Beneski Museum of Natural History. Or, you can simply catch a glimpse of the beautiful murals downtown.
In the mood for something a bit more exciting? Then take a short drive to Hampshire Mall, where you can expend some energy playing laser tag at Laser Blast Ancient Adventure. If you’re in the mood for a little exercise, try your hand at roller-skating at InterSkate91 or Fun Hub Action Park. If these don’t tickle your fancy, then you can spend your time having a drink and smashing some pins at Pinz bowling alley.
Eat
Hungry? Then check out Downtown Amherst, where you’ll have a myriad of eateries at your disposal. Although there are many to choose from, we are partial to Mexcalito’s Taco Bar, IYA Sushi and Noodle, and Lili’s. If you can, don’t forget to try a slice of pizza from Amherst’s resident and college student’s favorite pizzeria, Antonio’s.
If you’re someone who enjoys a nice cocktail or two, take a visit to Amherst’s best kept secret, The Archives speakeasy. There you can enjoy a wonderful atmosphere of drinks, light bites, and music. But please, don’t leave without a taste of their crème brûlée.
However, if you’re in need of a place for a caffeine pick me up and a cocktail, then check-out Amherst Coffee + Bar. I wonderful place, with an eclectic charm; where you will find some of the best bar keeps and baristas.
Stay
Although there are many options in respect to staying in Amherst, given the town’s history and feel as a small college township, a stay at the Inn on Boltwood or the Amherst Inn, would allow you to absorb yourself with everything the area has to offer. So, visit Amherst. After all, the world is filled with nothing but possibilities, and you never know what scandalous adventures you may come across.
