The Arkell

Herkimer, NY
NoLL

On Wednesday, we had a great time in Canajoharie. The last time we were there, in 2007, they were recovering from the disastrous flood of 2006, so there was much we didn't see. I'm glad we returned.

In case you don't know, Canajoharie is a company time. Beech Nut Packing Company, the one that makes chewing gum, and lifesavers and baby food, is the dominant industry in town. It's founder and president, Mr. Arkell, was a community booster and an industrialist who believed in the welfare of his employees.

The Arkell Museum documents the history of Beech Nut. It also houses a wonderful art collection, most of which came from the Arkells. Among the collection are 21 paintings by Winslow Homer. Libby has fond memories from her youth, of a huge copy of Homer's The Helping Hand hanging in her parent's home.

Not surprisingly, the Arkells owned a magnificent mansion that overlooks the town. It looks great even today. In quality, if not size, it rivals the Vanderbilt mansion in Shelburne Vermont. We understand that in the 1990s, the Arkells donated the mansion to be used as a home for Beech Nut retirees. Lucky retirees.

Canajoharie, is in the middle of the rust belt. The city, like many other nearby cities, has been living in hard times. The downtown is but a shadow of its former glory. However, there are many fine homes and impressive architecture in other buildings that remain to make this place very impressive. I recommend a visit if you are passing by.

Tonight we plan to stay in Utica.