"The Bay State"

Welcome to Massachusetts

Masachusetts/Rhode Island border on MA-24/RI 24
August 7, 2009

One of four commonwealths in the U.S., Massachusetts is at the heart of New England. The Bay State is adjacent to all other states in the region (just barely missing Maine), and has played a critical role in our nation's history. Massachusetts dates back to the establishment of Plymouth by the Pilgrims back in 1620, and has seen New England grow up around it over nearly four centuries. The location still is impressive as it must have been in the 17th century, as Cape Cod is arguably one of the finest seashores in the country. And you can't mention Massachusetts without Boston, as its largest city not only boasts being the capital of the commonwealth, but is also a major cultural, historical and research centers of the U.S.

The location of this sign might seem a bit unusual, as it isn't located along a major thoroughfare as I tend to prefer for pictures. But this location proved to be ideal as the road wasn't very busy (hard to find in the greater Boston area) and was the same as other signs I passed along interstates later in my trip. In fact, I crossed into Massachusetts two more times on the same trip and one of the times the sign was even less detailed than this one. As for the sign itself, something about the turkey cracks me up. I know they are trying to make a reference to the Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving, but it seems comical rather than respectful. The rest of the sign is forgettable and seemingly not worthy of Massachusetts.

Welcome to Boston

October 14, 2008

It's no surprise that the nickname for the city of Boston is "The Hub," as it is clearly the de facto capital of New England. It is one of the few cities in the U.S. that has a distinct historical feel to it, as it is nearly impossible to go somewhere without running into a memorial site, museum or plaque that points out some famous event in our nation's history. It's also interesting to see how the city has had to adjust to preserving its past while embracing change for the future. For example, across the street from the Old North Church is a kitschy souvenir shop. Residents of Beantown are definitely some of the most passionate citizens in the country, as they don't hesitate to tell you Boston is the greatest city in the world and when traveling, become enthralled when they run into a fellow Bostonian.

The Massachusetts State House is an impressive structure, as it has one of the best locations in the city of Boston. Perched atop Beacon Hill overlooking Boston Common, it can be seen across most of the Back Bay region of the city. The golden dome certainly helps in that respect, as it always seems to catch the light, even on cloudy days. The rest of the building seems fairly ordinary, with bricks and columns featuring prominently throughout the edifice. It seems rather small, compared to its larger-than-life portrayal in the movie, "The Departed." I would like to point out that there is no traffic passing in front of the State House in my picture, as it took quite a bit of patience to wait for traffic to clear on Beacon Street.

Miscellaneous Massachusetts Symbols

State Route Sign

License Plate

Seal

Quarter