History Unfurled: The Legend of Betsy Ross and the First Flag
Betsy Ross has long been credited with creating America’s first flag. Her story, however, is far more fiction than fact.
Writer, editor, content marketer, and researcher
As a writer and editor for over 30 years, I specialize in blogs, content marketing, creative writing, and in-depth articles.
My Latest Work
From Colly Birds to Calling Birds: A History of "The 12 Days of Christmas"
Invented as a children’s memory game, the 12 Days of Christmas is now one of the most parodied Christmas carols of all time.
One If by Land; Two If by Sea: The Real Story of Paul Revere’s Ride
Midnight Ride of Paul Revere: What Really Happened?
Many people know the 1860 poem “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem describes the heroic and harrowing ride of Paul Revere, who warned colonists of the approaching British forces.
Less known is that Revere was not the lone rider on this quest or that Longfellow took some liberties with the facts in his poetic retelling of the story.
In 1863, Longfellow published his book Tales of Wayside Inn, which conta
Many people know the 1860 poem “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem describes the heroic and harrowing ride of Paul Revere, who warned colonists of the approaching British forces.
Less known is that Revere was not the lone rider on this quest or that Longfellow took some liberties with the facts in his poetic retelling of the story.
In 1863, Longfellow published his book Tales of Wayside Inn, which conta
Danger From the Sky: Japanese Balloon Bombs of World War 2
When a group on a church picnic in Oregon discovered a strange object in the woods in May of 1945, they had no idea they would become the only World War II casualties on the U.S. mainland.
Con Job: How Scammers Are Using Job Boards to Take Advantage of Employment Seekers
Scammers are not just using phone calls and emails to con people. Now they are using job boards.
John Hancock: Founding Father, Revolutionary, and the Most Famous Signature in the World
When examining the Declaration of Independence, observers often notice the size of one signature compared to the rest at the bottom of the document. John Hancock is certainly famous for his elaborate penmanship—but there is much more to this founding father than a signature on a famous document.
The Bellamy Salute: How Americans Used to Salute the Flag
It is common today to place one’s hand over their heart while reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. At one time, however, the pledge was accompanied by a much different gesture.
Planning for a Successful Second Act
For the millions of Baby Boomers reaching retirement age, enjoying the “golden years” does not mean relaxing on the front porch. For others who have reached the pinnacle of their careers, feel dissatisfied with their current employment, or have lost their jobs during the pandemic, a foray into a second career may be in order.
Edith Galt Wilson: America’s First “Female President”
The United States has yet to elect a woman as president. However, a woman essentially ran the country while caring for her husband after a debilitating stroke.
Edith Galt Wilson, the wife of Woodrow Wilson, was by all accounts a socialite with little interest in or knowledge of politics. She was also highly protective of her husband, essentially shielding the country from news of his massive stroke and aiding him in legislative and policy decisions.
Born in 1872 in West Virginia, Edith Bolling
Edith Galt Wilson, the wife of Woodrow Wilson, was by all accounts a socialite with little interest in or knowledge of politics. She was also highly protective of her husband, essentially shielding the country from news of his massive stroke and aiding him in legislative and policy decisions.
Born in 1872 in West Virginia, Edith Bolling
The Story of Squanto: Guide, Interpreter, and Protector of the Pilgrims
When the Pilgrims established their settlement at Plymouth, the last thing they expected was a strange man in native clothing stepping out of the woods and greeting them in English—but that is precisely what happened the first time they met Squanto, the native that would save their early settlement.
Born somewhere near Plymouth, Massachusetts, little is known of his earl
Born somewhere near Plymouth, Massachusetts, little is known of his earl
What's Left Behind
In August of 2010, we went as a family to a local animal shelter. We came home with an 8-week-old brown puppy we named Chloe.
On June 16, 2023, just four days after her 13th birthday, we went with her to the
vet one last time to say our goodbyes.
She was more than a dog to us. She was our protector. Our travel companion. Our constant shadow. Our floor cleaner. The greeter when we walked in the door. And a friend who knew exactly when you needed a cuddle, an encouraging lick, or a ball droppe
On June 16, 2023, just four days after her 13th birthday, we went with her to the
vet one last time to say our goodbyes.
She was more than a dog to us. She was our protector. Our travel companion. Our constant shadow. Our floor cleaner. The greeter when we walked in the door. And a friend who knew exactly when you needed a cuddle, an encouraging lick, or a ball droppe
When “Blue” States Were “Red” and “Red” States Were “Blue”
It is a well-known fact in American history that Republican President Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves to save the United States of America from destroying itself over the issue of slavery. What is not a well-known fact, however, is that the Republican Party Lincoln represented—as well as the Democratic Party of that era —bear little resemblance to the political parties we know today.
How to Volunteer During This Challenging Time
With many common volunteer opportunities put on hold because of the coronavirus outbreak, many people are searching for ways to make a difference while stuck at home. Whether you are looking for opportunities from a business or a personal perspective, here are some ways you can make a difference in this challenging time.
Hoaxing Hitler: How Operation Bodyguard and the Ghost Army Helped Win World War II
During WWII, many specialized divisions existed for combat or engineering. One special division, however, existed for the sole purpose of fooling Adolph Hitler and the Nazis.
9 Trends We Saw in Los Angeles Real Estate in 2019
The Los Angeles area has historically been one of the best long-term real estate investments in the United States over the last ten years. This trend continued through 2019, aided by a growing economy, a high demand for homes in the area, and strong ties to the highly-profitable entertainment industry.
Nine Trends We Saw in Los Angeles Real Estate in 2019
According to FortuneBuilders, the Los Angeles real estate market set a record for median home values in 2019. Due to increasing demand and l
Nine Trends We Saw in Los Angeles Real Estate in 2019
According to FortuneBuilders, the Los Angeles real estate market set a record for median home values in 2019. Due to increasing demand and l
A “Spook-tacular” Time of Year: The History of Halloween in the U.S.
October is traditionally a time to celebrate a successful harvest and prepare for the coming winter. These traditions gave rise to the celebration we know today as Halloween
Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic celebration of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) that began nearly 2,000 years ago,
Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic celebration of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) that began nearly 2,000 years ago,
13 Things to Know About the California Real Estate Market in 2019
California has a reputation for being one of the strongest real estate markets in the country over the last decade, and that trend continued in 2019. Due to housing demands outpacing home availability and a strong economy aided by the popular entertainment industry, California real estate remains one of the hottest markets in the country.
1. Rent Control Laws Are Now in Effect
As of January 1, 2019, California now has a statewide rent control law in effect. For the first time, the state has pl
1. Rent Control Laws Are Now in Effect
As of January 1, 2019, California now has a statewide rent control law in effect. For the first time, the state has pl
The History of Christmas Traditions: Stockings by the Fireplace
Stockings hanging in front of a fireplace are one of the most popular symbols of Christmas. This holiday tradition began with legends attributed to a famous saint who later became known as "Jolly Old St. Nick."
The Nobleman and His Daughters
The custom of hanging Christmas stockings is based on legends that have been handed down for generations. According to the article "Why Do We Hang Stockings for Christmas" on Livescience.com, the tradition originated with a story about a nobleman with thre
The Nobleman and His Daughters
The custom of hanging Christmas stockings is based on legends that have been handed down for generations. According to the article "Why Do We Hang Stockings for Christmas" on Livescience.com, the tradition originated with a story about a nobleman with thre
Changes in Seasons
I usually look forward to autumn. I love the colors, the cool crisp air, and the sights and smells of this amazing season.
She was recently diagnosed with an aggressive and rapidly-spreading form of melanoma. Although her blood work is excellent, X-rays reveal the cancer may already be in her lungs. The vet cannot say for sure, but she very likely only has months to live.
Her time all depends on how long it takes the cancer to spread. It could only be a matter of weeks. Or she can hold on for
She was recently diagnosed with an aggressive and rapidly-spreading form of melanoma. Although her blood work is excellent, X-rays reveal the cancer may already be in her lungs. The vet cannot say for sure, but she very likely only has months to live.
Her time all depends on how long it takes the cancer to spread. It could only be a matter of weeks. Or she can hold on for
Pumpkin Spice Me
Indulging in the special scents, flavors and sites of autumn before they disappear with the season.
Here in the Midwest it finally feels like the autumn. The leaves - delayed by hot, dry weather - have finally turned. The warm days give way to cool nights. And the pumpkin spice products are everywhere.
Coffee shop windows declare that the pumpkin spice lattes and cappuccinos are now available. Burt's Bees has come out with a pumpkin spice lip balm. And grocery stores advertise pumpkin spice-ev
Here in the Midwest it finally feels like the autumn. The leaves - delayed by hot, dry weather - have finally turned. The warm days give way to cool nights. And the pumpkin spice products are everywhere.
Coffee shop windows declare that the pumpkin spice lattes and cappuccinos are now available. Burt's Bees has come out with a pumpkin spice lip balm. And grocery stores advertise pumpkin spice-ev
The Rosewood Massacre: Hidden History of the U.S.
In 1923, an alleged assault of a White woman led to the deaths of residents and the destruction of an entire Black community. It would take more than 70 years for the survivors and descendants of Rosewood, FL to receive not only restitution but also recognition of a riot and massacre that destroyed lives and shattered families.
View Park Real Estate: 12 Things Every Buyer and Seller Should Know
California is well-known for its beautiful outdoor spaces, amazing ocean views, favorable climate, and thriving economy. View Park real estate offers all of these amazing amenities and is a wonderful area to put down roots, with its cultural attractions, spectacular natural wonders, and strong community ties.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell real estate in the View Park area, there are certain points you should keep in mind about the Los Angeles housing market that will help you better un
Whether you are looking to buy or sell real estate in the View Park area, there are certain points you should keep in mind about the Los Angeles housing market that will help you better un
Hidden History of the US: When the Weather Was a Weapon
Most of us are familiar with efforts to harness certain aspects of nature to use as weapons of destruction—such as using the element hydrogen to make the hydrogen bomb. Very few, however, are aware that the United States once attempted to use the weather as a weapon of war.
Anne Hutchison: Pioneer, Preacher, and Early Advocate for Women
Throughout history, women who dared to defy conventions and speak their minds were often punished and ostracized by society. By today’s standards, however, these brave females are seen as courageous and as advocates for women. One such woman is Anne Hutchinson.
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