The history of covered bridges in North America and the United States is a fascinating one. The bridges that remain are quite beloved and mostly protected. Here is the history of covered bridges in...
Category - American History
The Rise of Iconic U.S. Lighthouses
Lighthouses are an iconic part of Americana that have a rich history stemming back to ancient Egypt. Let me show you some of the history behind them!
Corning Glass and Your Family
Most of us know of Corning Glass as the makers of PYREX and CorningWare. However, Corning has a long, fascinating history of technological innovation.
Your Rebel Ancestors, Part Two: The Women
Just like the Puritan magistrates and ministers were against men wearing their hair long, they were also against the women wearing their hair elaborately. Anything other than a plain bun covered by a...
Were Your Ancestors Social Rebels?
Were your ancestor’s social rebels against societal convention? There was a time in early New England that the leaders did not want men wearing their hair long. They said it was ungodly. Plenty of...
History’s Mysteries: The Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House in California is said to be haunted, and built by a madwoman. But, is this really the truth of the story? Everyone loves a good ghost story and a haunted house brings...
What is the History of Daylight Savings Time, and Why Do We Have It?
Daylight Savings Time is an idea that has been around for more than 100 years, and was implemented nationwide in Germany a little over a century ago. Here is its history, and how (and why) it is used...
How Riverboats and Steamers Shaped American History
Before trains and automobiles, it was riverboats that connected America. You can learn more about the rich American tradition of steamships here.
Celebrating Our National Heritage: A History of the 4th of July
You know we celebrate our nation’s independence on the 4th of July. But, do you know how this holiday came to be? When was it first celebrated? What is its true meaning? Let me share with you this...
The Iconic Packard Automobiles and America’s Packard Museum
Packard cars were among the most iconic American automobiles ever made—and there’s a beautiful Dayton museum devoted to them. Learn more about it here!
The History of Father’s Day
Father’s Day actually has roots going back to the early Middle ages, just after the fall of the Roman Empire in Europe. Churches celebrated a version of it for centuries, and the Catholic Church...
The History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of May and is meant to celebrate and honor those who fell during service with the U.S. military. The point of the holiday is clear, but its origins are...
A Great American Tradition: The Summer Camps of Our Youth
Summer camps are a slice of Americana that comes with more than 100 years of rich history. Learn more about how camps originated here!
The Ohio State Reformatory
From Civil War camps to modern filmmaking, the Ohio State Reformatory has a long, rich history. You can learn all about this Ohio historical landmark here!
The Origin of Mother’s Day
Are you curious as to how Mother's Day got started? The story is an interesting one. This is how the United States started officially honoring its mothers.
The History Behind the Dixie Terminal
The Dixie Terminal is one of Cincinnati’s best-kept secrets. Learn all about this landmark here — the architecture, the artwork, and of course, the history.
The History of Presidents’ Day
Presidents' Day is a holiday that is celebrated in February, and usually means a day off work or school for many people. It is also highly associated with retail sales, as many businesses hold a...
The Washington Monument: America’s Obelisk
The Washington Monument is a highly recognizable building that is practically synonymous with Washington, D.C. It is also a popular tourist attraction for those who are visiting the city. Here are...
The Empire State Building: A History
The Empire State Building is an iconic American building with enduring and enormous popularity. Built in the 1930s, it was the world’s tallest building for decades and is still a must-see NYC tourist...
Union Terminal in Cincinnati Ohio
Union Terminal in Cincinnati, Ohio is a famous Art Deco building that has been used as a train station to varying amounts since the 1930’s. It is, perhaps, more famous for the museum that now takes...
Thanksgiving and Our Ancestors
What is the real story behind Thanksgiving and how did your ancestors celebrate it? Read on to discover the answer.
Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
If you are looking for something historic, educational, and just plain fun for the whole family, consider a day out at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park. This park is centered around the historic...
A Closer Look at Prickett’s Fort State Park
Prickett’s Fort State Park is a wonderful historical resource to the state of West Virginia. It not only shows how life was like for English settlers on the West Virginian frontier in the 1700’s, it...
Dolly Parton: The Definitive Guide
Dolly Parton is one of the best-known country music entertainers of our time. However, she is much more than just a country music singer. From her humble beginnings, she has become a singer...
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is a beautifully restored and maintained house museum dedicated to celebrating the 23rd US President. There is much to enjoy at this 1870’s-era home. Join me...
The History of the Merry-Go-Round Museum
Have you heard of the Merry-Go-Round Museum? Located in Sandusky, Ohio, this unique museum is the only place in the world known to solely celebrate the art and history of the merry-go-round. Here is...
The History of the Quakers, and How to Find Your Quaker Ancestors
Do you have Quaker ancestors? If so, your genealogical research will be much easier. Here is the story of the origins of the Quaker religion, as well as how to research your early Quaker ancestors.
The “Ghost” State of Jefferson: All You Need to Know About the State You Didn’t Know About
There is a hidden state between California and Oregon called Jefferson. Here's what you need to know about it.
Union Terminal in Cincinnati, Ohio
Union Terminal in Cincinnati, Ohio is a famous Art Deco building that has been used as a train station to varying amounts since the 1930’s. It is, perhaps, more famous for the museum that now takes...
The Louisiana Purchase Controversy
The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States, & caused a lot of controversy for President Thomas Jefferson. Here's why it was controversial.