Downtown Nashua Scarecrows

Seasonal scarecrows are hanging around downtown Nashua, NH, and they're really hanging since all are suspended from downtown lamp posts. Some are more creative, others not so much. Many of those on display seem rather haphazardly assembled. 

A scarecrow is defined as an object, usually made to resemble a human figure, that's set up put in a field to scare birds away from where crops are growing. It's also described as a very badly dressed person who is odd-looking, thin or frightening, but harmless. Some of this year's displays fit those definitions quite well. 

We notice there were fewer scarecrows than in recent years with a total of 30 this year. There was a definite scarcity of creations from schools, which had previously been active participants. 

The powers-that-be management here at the mill apts opted out this year. In the past 2 years only a handful of residents, myself and Grenville included, volunteered to help with the project, so lack of interest may have been the reason. Perhaps that was the case with other groups too.

These seasonal works of art are crafted by local businesses, organizations, schools and non-profit groups. There's online voting for the top three winners, without any actual prizes just "bragging" rights.

The wood body and burlap head are provided to all participating groups, which then add the creative touches. These two entries has very little embellishments to the wood frame. Oddly, the one on the right below was the entry of a local art group. 

Many scarecrows, like these two feature-less and colorful entries, had no labels to ID the participating groups.

My personal favorite was this pumpkin scarecrow posted on the lamp post near a downtown brewery. While this wasn't a contender, it was the best downtown scarecrow.

Does your town or community have any seasonal decorations?