Wonderful Fall weather greeted a hardy group of 14 Go'ers for a great walk in Boston's Arnold Arboretum.  It seems that Fall is a bit tardy this year, but to our rescue came the unique Schlesengeri Maple whose brilliant red leaves greeted us as we started the hike.  Ed then took the group off the beaten path, where we discovered many botanical jewels hidden in plain sight.  It helped that the Arboretum staff tag all specimens, and that in addition there are numerous stops with QR readouts to enhance the experience.  It was through the QR system that we learned that the Schlesengeri has now become a very desirable maple variety in the nursery trade, thanks to the Arboretum for introducing it into the landscape.  We also discovered the foundations of Mr. Bussey's house, or rather his retreat "farmhouse" right under Bussey Hill.  He was a great beneficiary of the Arboretum, and it was his donation of the land of his farmhouse that makes the bulk of the acreage of the Arboretum.  Mr. Bussey is described as a "gentleman farmer" who made his wealth as a merchant, and built his farmhouse as a botanical and farming retreat.

After the walk, most of the group went over to another Jamaica Plain institution, the Galway House, for much needed food and beer.  This will sound like a cliché, but I do believe that a great time was had by all.

  There are 2 photos in Album (Note: Move mouse pointer over larger pic and click on NEXT for better viewing)