July 19, 2002 marked the official ground breaking at the Robert Frost Stone House Museum as the back-hoe begins work on the new parking lot. Friends Vice-President, Lea Newman, is being interviewed by New England Cable News for the occasion. She stated, "It's as close to breaking the ground as we will get, and we don't want much ground broken on our beautiful historic Frost farm in Shaftsbury, VT. The utility area will be well away from the Stone House."

In a brief ceremony, Friends President Carole Thompson, gave a short talk about the "road traveled" that has brought about the plans for the new museum. A prayer was said in thanks for all the friends and supporters who made the project possible and for the people who had loved this place and kept it over the years. A blessing was asked on the work and the workers - that they may work in safety and with joy in their labor. And lastly, Thompson asked God, "to bless and keep our budget!"

Two Frost poems were read. Ms. Thompson read "On the Sale of My Farm" and Ms. Newman finished the day with "A Time to Talk." Cold iced tea was then served on the porch. It was an auspicious beginning for sure. The museum is scheduled to be open in September. A date has not been set.

Photo by Tyler Resch