What is so attractive about a small town like Ashfield in the middle of the twentieth century? Its hard to define, because theres no one thing, but lots of little things.
To begin with, theres the town, a post-card picture nestled in the heart of the Berkshires. Its the town hall with its Wrenn-inspired steeple. Its the two churches, still pristine and white, still vibrant and active. Its the hills and valleys, and Ashfield Lake, where we swam and fished.
But its also people who share a genuine concern for one another. Its people who really care and who are unafraid to reach out and help one another. Its old folks sharing values and relevant history. Its Moms and Dads struggling to balance earning a living with caring for youngsters. Its bright-eyed children, full of promise, each one an affirmation of Gods hope for all of us.
Author Bob Bates introduces us to these people in a series of light, lively and often comical vignettes, painting an honest picture of Ashfield in the 1940s and 1950s, when things were simpler but the problems were no less relevant