Ep 11. The Seacoast

Weekends with Yankee season 3 episode 11 titled "The Seacoast" takes us on a journey along the stunning and rugged coastline of Maine and New Hampshire. From charming harbor towns to bustling fishing villages, the episode showcases the beauty of this region's coastal living.

The episode starts in the quaint town of York, Maine, where the hosts, Richard Wiese and Amy Traverso, visit the famous Cape Neddick lighthouse, a historic landmark that has been guiding sailors safely since 1879. The view of the lighthouse perched dramatically atop a rocky outcropping with waves crashing all around is breathtaking, and the hosts get a chance to see how the lighthouse has been maintained and restored over the years.

Next up is Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a town that combines the charm of a small-scale New England village with the amenities of a modern city. The hosts get a guided tour of the city with local historian, Richard Candee, who gives us an insight into the history of the city, its architecture, and its cultural significance. They also explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, an open-air museum that showcases the town's history through its homes and gardens.

The episode then takes us to the town of Hampton, New Hampshire, known for its long and lively beach. Here, the hosts have an opportunity to meet with a local fisherman, Peter Kendall, who takes them out on his boat to show them how he catches lobsters, Atlantic herring, and a variety of other seafood. Kendall shares his expertise on the challenges of this profession, including the impact of climate change on the fishing industry.

The seacoast tour continues with a visit to Rye, New Hampshire, where the hosts get an opportunity to explore the Odiorne Point State Park, a sprawling recreation area that offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Here, we see tide pools, salt marshes, and woodlands, and learn about the diverse ecosystem that exists in this region. We also hear from park rangers about the history of the area, including its use during World War II as a military defense site.

Finally, the hosts visit the town of Portland, Maine, where they learn about the thriving craft beer industry that has grown in recent years. They go on a tour of Allagash Brewery, one of the most popular breweries in the region, and get a chance to sample some of their unique brews.

Overall, "The Seacoast" is an episode that celebrates the beauty, culture and natural wonders of the northeast. From colorful fishing boats to historic lighthouses, from secluded coves to bustling urban centers, the episode offers a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant world of New England's seacoast.