Star Island, one of nine islands that form the Isles of Shoals, lies six miles off the coast of its governing township of Rye, New Hampshire. Rich with centuries of human history, the island has hosted religious and educational conferences established by the Unitarians and the Congregationalists since 1897. Thousands of guests have attended conferences and retreats here, and thousands more have come for seasonal work. Families have attended conferences for generations and will continue to enjoy Star Island for years to come, for the island has become their "Spirit's Home." These photographic...

It is hard to believe that just three little words, Isles of Shoals, can evoke as much romanticism as they do. Yet when those words are spoken, remembrances of years long past--of one of New England's earliest and most prosperous fishing communities; of Celia Thaxter and her life well spent surrounded by beautiful flowers, fine art, and
high-society friends; of "Uncle Oscar" Laighton and his ancient but unfailing smile; and of the Victorian grandeur of the expansive Oceanic and Appledore Hotels--bring one back to the glory days of
the Isles of Shoals.