When Edith Wharton lived in Lenox in the early 20th century, the town was known as the "inland Newport." Unlike the famous Rhode Island resort with its Cliff Walk that allows visitors to oogle a 3.5 mile long strip of mansions, Lenox's connection to the Gilded Age is less conspicuous (and its vestiges are mostly "hidden" away at places like Canyon Ranch and Stonover Farm.) Even the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Museum of the Gilded Age—a formidable 19th century brick pile that is being renovated slowly but meticulously—is tucked away near the center of town, behind some banal late 20th century houses on Walker Street.
But this weekend, Lenox celebrates its history as a refuge for the rich and famous with A Weekend of the Gilded Age and a full program of events. One of the (free) highlights of the weekend is the annual "Lenox Tub Parade" at 1 PM on Saturday, which features a parade of horse drawn carriages (aka "tubs") with passengers wearing period costumes. Weekend of the Gilded Age September 12 -14 Lenox, MA 413.637.3646 or 413.637.3206
