The story of Lovell in the 20th century cannot be told without a considerable amount of attention paid to Severance Lodge. Located on the eastern shore of Kezar Lake's Middle Bay, Severance Lodge has majestic views up and down the lake as well as the White Mountains to the west. Over the decades, Severance Lodge served as an introduction to the region for many guests with some deciding to have a primary or second home in Lovell.
Carol Severance Taylor's new book, Woodsmoke, The Story of Severance Lodge, tells the historic development of the Lodge with wonderful pictures and stories from her father, Harold. Looking at a Rate Schedule from the 1950's, you have to wonder how the family was able to treat the guests with such luxury on a daily rate of $13-16 per person!
My father-in-law, Al Stearns, worked as a waiter in his teen years and his favorite Severance story is about the time he received a canvas canoe as a tip rather than cash from a Lodge customer. He didn't appreciate it then but he now treasures the canoe. Severance Lodge served as an employment center for many of the local youth. By no means was it cushy job. Harold Severance and his management team had high expectations and you didn't last long if you didn't perform. Strong life lessons!
Carol grew up in Lovell at the Lodge and attended the Fryeburg Academy. She and her husband Hal still have a home in Lovell and are active members of the community. This book is a perfect addition to your library. In addition, Carol is donating proceeds to Camp Susan Curtis in Stoneham.
Woodsmoke is available for purchase for $20 at the Lovell Historical Society, the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Kezar Realty, Bridgton Books and White Birch Bookstore. Or contact Carol at halandsev@aol.com.