Ep 2. Common Ground

Weekends with Yankee season 5 episode 2, Common Ground, showcases the beauty and history of New England's town commons. Hosted by Richard Wiese and Amy Traverso, the episode takes viewers on a tour of town greens and showcases the diverse activities and events that take place in these spaces.

The episode begins in Exeter, New Hampshire, where Richard and Amy visit the town's historic common. They learn about its history, including the fact that it was originally part of a royal land grant from King George II and was used as a training ground during the Revolutionary War. The hosts also explore the many activities that take place on the common, such as farmers' markets, concerts, and town events.

Next, the episode travels to Hamden, Connecticut, where Richard and Amy visit the town's green. They learn about the role that the green has played in the town's history, including as a meeting place during the American Revolution. The hosts also explore the green's diverse offerings, from a weekly farmer's market to concerts and other community events.

The episode then heads to Hampton, New Hampshire, where Richard and Amy visit the town's picturesque common. They learn about the history of the area, including the fact that it was once a thriving center of commerce and trade. The hosts also explore the many activities that take place on the common, from a weekly farmer's market to concerts, fairs, and festivals.

In Meredith, New Hampshire, the hosts visit the town's scenic common. They learn about the history of the space, which was once used for grazing livestock and as a training ground for soldiers during the Civil War. The hosts also explore the many activities that take place on the common, such as concerts, fairs, and a popular winter carnival.

The episode then heads to Charlemont, Massachusetts, where Richard and Amy visit the town's charming common. They learn about the history of the area, including the fact that it was originally used for military drills and as a gathering place for town meetings. The hosts also explore the many activities that take place on the common, from the town's weekly farmer's market to musical performances and other community events.

The episode concludes in Woodstock, Vermont, where Richard and Amy visit the town's lush green. They learn about the history of the space, which was originally used as a meeting place for the town's farmers and merchants. The hosts also explore the many activities that take place on the green, such as concerts, craft shows, and the town's annual chili cook-off.

Throughout the episode, Richard and Amy showcase the many ways in which New England's town commons serve as vibrant and important community spaces. They highlight the diversity of activities that take place on these greens, from farmers' markets to concerts, fairs, and festivals. Viewers will come away with an appreciation for the rich history and vibrant present of these beloved public spaces.