Whenever I’m in New England, my eye is caught by the reds of church doors, barns, old mill factories, covered bridges, colonial homes, and brick-sided buildings.
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, farmers looking to shield their barn’s wood from the elements created a cheap and easy-to-make paint recipe consisting of linseed oil, milk, lime, and red iron oxide that formed a rusty red-colored mixture. It is thought that these same farmers used the leftover red paint on their church doors. Red paint spread in popularity in New England due to its functionality and convenience, becoming an American tradition that continues to this day.
Here are a few Throwback Thursday Doors and historic buildings from my past visits to New England.
Inspiration: Thursday Doors
I love all the red! The axe factory is fabulous!
The axe factory is home to antique shops, artists, and small businesses. Very cool place.
Fun collection of typical New England doors.
Your shot of the Wandering Moose Café begs the question though: what does a moose do when it’s not wandering? 😉
I know I’m not in California when I go back East! Maybe the moose stopped for a cup of coffee? LOL. Have you seen a moose in person? I came across a huge wandering Moose in Maine, and carefully backed away.
That first door and that one with the Queen of Hearts are my favourites.
Farmers used milk as part of the mixture to make paint. Very interesting!
Very creative idea..red doors.
Thanks!