Photo of the Day: Daybreak, Chautauqua Lake

One advantage of the inn where I stayed on vacation this week at Chautauqua Institution in southwestern New York is that it’s a short talk to Chautauqua Lake. I was so eager to be up and enjoy the sight each day that I continually forgot to bring my camera. 

This morning, on my last day this year at this favorite vacation spot of mine, I made sure I didn’t. I hope someone out there reading this will be inspired to discover both this picturesque body of water and the community that borders it.

Photo of the Day: Old Glory, at Chautauqua, NY

I came across this huge flag yesterday on the grounds at Chautauqua Institution in southwestern New York. It was one of only many points commemorating Independence Day and honoring American heroes up here while I’ve been on vacation.

Yesterday afternoon, I attended a lecture by Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer David Blight on Frederick Douglass’ once-controversial, now-celebrated Fourth of July address. 

The day was capped by a “pops” concert in the famed amphitheater, as guest conductor Stuart Chafetz led the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra (and the terrific baritone Michael Preacely) through a sprightly confection of pop, film, Broadway, and patriotic tunes. The night ended with towns along Chautauqua setting off complementary fireworks.

Photo of the Day: Chautauqua (NY) Community Band, 4th of July

Shortly after noon today, in Bestor Plaza, vacationers like me gathered to listen to patriotic tunes like “God Bless America” and “Stars and Stripes Forever” at Chautauqua Institution. The conductor of this spirited and festive music was Jason Weintraub.

This has been a longtime vacation site for me, but I had not visited this picturesque lakeside Victorian-era community during this particular week until now.

Several American Presidents have come to this National Historic Site, most notably Franklin Roosevelt (who delivered his “I hate war” speech here at the Amphitheater) and his cousin Theodore, a four-time visitor who said Chautauqua was the most American thing in America.