When the railroad was constructed, the landholders along the line received cash payments for the railroad right of way. These land sales were four rods in width, and the land prices varied from about $35 to $60 per acre for the farmland taken in the vicinity of East Neck Road, Vannah Road, and Route 1.

Not only did we gain man’s and (woman’s) best friend in our household, but we gained a goose and turkey chaser. The previous owners brought Baxter to our house on Sunday and he immediately became a part of our household. Just don’t ask our cat, Bennie, what he thinks – he is still under the bed.

This will be my last tale. I have been writing Newcastle History for more than 25 years and it is time I retired. This will be a personal story.

In the richness of this seemingly fallow season, life and creativity are perking at Along the Way. A line up of summer events are being discussed and finalized. It is shaping up to be a season with something for everyone. Music events, art installations, respite offerings, writing workshops, and bird walks, to name a few.

Pasta is one of those comfort foods that is equally at home on our cold winter days and easily transforms itself into a refreshing light meal in the summer. Its origins go back 3,500 years in China and the ancient Etruscan civilization, current Italy. Marco Polo did not bring pasta to Italy from China; it originated in both locations probably because it tasted so good, was easy to cook and was amenable to many added flavors.

I was about to head out to the horse barn when I heard some of the old ladies gossiping.

Let me tell you about my grand dog Alexica, a chocolate Lab who has brought unconditional love to our home for nearly 11 years.

Sweet potatoes are delicious all year long, but during the winter season, they are a pantry staple for many, including me.

The icicles from my roof keep growing at such alarming rate these days that I’m willing to take seriously the recent prognostications of that sleepy marmot in Pennsylvania. Even the meteorologists have jumped on the bandwagon with their predictions of continued Arctic blast. For the home cook it is a clear signal to retrieve recipes for favorite warming soups.