2.46 Learning from Past, Preserving for the Future - Woodstock, CT

A section of the Old Connecticut Path that forms America’s oldest highway is preserved in Woodstock, Connecticut. One part east of Fort Hill has stood the test of time undisturbed over 300 years. The Path west of Fort Hill was “modernized” 30 years ago with a host of unintended consequences.

This video visits the “modernized” Path west of Fort Hill and compares it with the “old” Path to understand some of the unintended consequences of “modernization”.

To view the video, click on the picture or the link below.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbC38No1zoc

For those who travel the Old Connecticut Path, the intelligence of the Native people who laid the trail over centuries becomes apparent. The early settlers recognized the wisdom of the Natives by adapting the Path for their own use. There was debate 30 years ago about the wisdom of modernizing the old Path to meet modern needs. Woodstock resident and landholder Lloyd Williams advocated for preservation of the Path and important historic artifacts. The land owners advocating modernization prevailed. The historic character of the Path was lost. But, the “modernized” road has some gremlins.

If there is a great gathering after life in this world, the beavers and Wabaquassets who lived here first laying the trail, the early settlers who adapted the Path for their needs, and Lloyd Williams and others who sought to preserve the Path must all be having the final cosmic laugh.

BACK TO 2.001 Guide to Crossing the Last Green Valley: West Sutton, MA to Tolland, CT