1930 Exploring Historical Sights From Provincetown to Niagara Falls

Our adventure begins in the charming coastal town of Provincetown, Massachusetts. Known as the first landing place of the Pilgrims in 1620, Provincetown in the 1930s offers a glimpse into America’s colonial past. As we stroll through the quaint streets and along the sandy shores, we pause to reflect on the beginnings of a nation.
Next, we visit the Idle Hour estate—once home to the Vanderbilt family. In the 1930s, its majestic architecture and lush gardens still stand as a testament to an era of American industrial wealth and opulence. Moving forward, we stop by the serene Watermill in the heart of Southampton, where history is preserved through its 17th-century charm, as it stood nearly a century ago.
From there, we take a sharp turn into the bustling energy of 1930s Atlantic City. Known for its iconic boardwalk and vibrant beach scene, this coastal resort city was a popular destination for those seeking both leisure and excitement during the Great Depression.
No trip to the Northeast in the 1930s would be complete without marveling at the natural wonder of Niagara Falls. The thunderous roar of the water cascading down was as awe-inspiring then as it is today. Just as powerful are the stories of the USS Pennsylvania, a mighty battleship that had already begun to establish its place in naval history.
Next, we journey to the eerie and fascinating Old Newgate Prison in Connecticut. In the 1930s, this former copper mine and prison was already a well-known relic of America's early criminal justice system. The tales from this place are as dark as its underground tunnels.
Onward to the Mohawk Trail—a breathtaking scenic route that weaves through the mountains of Massachusetts. This ancient Native American trade route, now a peaceful highway, provided travelers of the 1930s with stunning views and a connection to the region's natural beauty.
We pause for reflection at Mount Auburn Cemetery, the nation’s first rural cemetery, renowned for its tranquil landscape and historical significance. From here, we journey to the Gurney House, a historic home whose stories had already been passed down through generations by the 1930s.
Our voyage continues as we follow the legacy of the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower and uncover the tragic tale of the wreck of the SS Columbia—a somber reminder of the perils faced at sea, even in an era of advancement.