History lessons is a grouping of historical stories and tidbits. The topics range from the American Civil War through interesting items from around the world. Please use the comments area to ask questions and make suggestions for future topics.
More than a century ago, the dedication of a firehouse in New Jersey was a major extravaganza, complete with – as a newspaper headlined – “New Fire House, New Fire Engine, New Flag and Big Time.” On the first Saturday in August 1907, the citizens of Slackwood, N.J., gathered to celebrate the completion of the… continue
Travelers who take side roads sometimes find themselves driving back in time to a small town bedecked with American flags, like a movie set for “The Music Man.” Such a town in western New York State bears the celestial name of Angelica. It comes complete with a town square, spired churches, antique stores and plenty… continue
The 14th anniversary of 9/11 and the flags that flew as patriotism rose that day spur a question: What happened on other September 11s when American flags flapped? FOSTERING MUSIC “Oh! Susanna” is probably Stephen Foster’s most famous song, and it was first performed on 9/11 in 1847. But he also wrote the music for… continue
On September 9, 1850 – 165 years ago – California entered the Union after being a republic, not a territory of the United States. It was as if a foreign nation had decided to join the U.S. – and it brought its own state flag along. “On June 14, 1846, a small band of settlers… continue
In the four decades between 1878 and 1918, three major artists in France and America who are marking significant anniversaries deployed their talents to create dozens of striking images of flags. They captured the movement, colors and patriotic echoes of the banners. The list includes Claude Monet, who was born 175 years ago; Vincent van… continue