George Washington's Parting Message: A Commanding Address from September 19, 1796

Our first President's farewell message is full of inspiration and insight to think about. At election time and always!

Nov 04, 2024

Discover Smith's Fort in Surry, Virginia: A Must-Visit for All American History Enthusiasts!

History lovers must visit Smith's Fort in Surry Virginia and check out what Preservation Virginia has done there.

Oct 30, 2024

Celebrating Lafayette While Continuing to Learn More and More about American's Favorite Frenchman

Continuing the celebration of American's favorite Frenchman: Major General and Marquis de Lafayette during the 200th anniversary his Farewell Tour of the United States.

Oct 21, 2024

Reflections, Ideas, and Action Items for Exploring the Tribal Nations of the Eastern Woodlands

I'm exploring the Eastern Woodlands tribes, sharing my ideas and action items related to our shared American history.

Oct 16, 2024

October 13th: Commemorating the United States Navy and More Notable Events in American History

What happened on October 13th in American history? From the Navy's beginnings to William Shatner's historic trip into space, let's take a peek into a fall day in history.

Oct 13, 2024

Mark Couvillon Unveils the Untold Story: Patrick Henry's First Marriage and Sarah Shelton's Struggles

Get a factual history of Patrick Henry's first marriage to Sarah Shelton, whose mental health was agonizing.

Oct 11, 2024

Visiting the Richard M. Bowman Center for Local History on an Impromptu Trip to Charles City

Do you keep a list of places to visit when you're in the mood to learn history? The Bowman Center in Charles City was on mine.

Oct 01, 2024

Meet James Madison: 3 Perfect Insights To Introduce Him on the WAHISA Blog

Our 4th US President, James Madison was as complex as any of our founding fathers. Here are 3 perfect insights to introduce him to history lovers.

Oct 07, 2024

September 27th in American History: A Look Back During Hurricane Helene

While history is happening, I'm taking a look back at what happened on September 27th in American history.

Sep 27, 2024

Revolutionary Perspectives: Discovering the American Revolution Through 18th Century Letters

History is made up of humans. It's why reading 18th century perspectives of the American Revolution is fascinating!

Sep 26, 2024

Learning Native American History from George Washington: the Truth About American Indians

George Washington understood the importance of American Indians to creating a new United States. So should we.

Sep 21, 2024

Embracing Spontaneity in History: Two Unplanned Learning Experiences

You don't always need to have a plan if you want to learn history. Be in the moment and experience history.

Sep 17, 2024

September 16 in American History: The Mayflower's Voyage and Oklahoma's Historic Land Run

The Mayflower set sail for Virginia on September 16th 1620, but landed in New England. What else happened on this day in history?

Sep 16, 2024

My Quest To Find John Randolph’s Residence: Tazewell Hall Brought To Light

In 1775, Virginia's Attorney General, John Randolph left for England- and in 2024 I became determined to find his house.

Sep 10, 2024

Introducing the Mission Statement for My American History Blog

Announcing the mission statement for this What American History Is About blog!

Aug 31, 2024

Exploring Bacon’s Castle: A Journey to America’s Oldest Recorded Brick Dwelling in Surry County Virginia

History lovers need to visit Bacon's Castle, the oldest recorded brick building in North America.

Aug 26, 2024

Creating a Brand and Business Through a History Blog: Inspiration and Commitment to My Readers

My promises to readers who love American history! It's what the brand will be built upon.

Aug 19, 2024

A Perspective of 19th Century America From a Woman Who Bought Her Freedom: My Review of Elizabeth Keckley’s View Behind the Scenes

There are many reasons you should read Elizabeth Keckley's Behind the Scenes or Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House.

Aug 08, 2024

August 3rd in American History: From Governor Amherst to the Macarena

Every day is loaded with history! So what happened in American history on August 3rd? I've got a list for you.

Aug 03, 2024

Seeing History Firsthand: Jefferson and Lafayette's Letters in Special Collections

Sometimes you just want to actually see a letter in person. Especially if it was written by someone like Thomas Jefferson.

Aug 02, 2024

Thomas Jefferson Pursuing Happiness: A Review and A Request

What was Thomas Jefferson thinking as he penned the Declaration of Independence? Colonial Williamsburg may have a performance that offers insight.

Jul 31, 2024

Workcation in Essex County: Finding Historical Sites of Early America

As a history blogger, I can't help but seek out historical sites everywhere, including on my workcation in Essex County Virginia!

Jul 25, 2024

On the Minds of 18th Century Americans July 20th: Direct Quotes from the Washingtons, Jefferson and More.

Cornwallis' retreat was brought to Washington's attention and Jefferson was discussing the value of books. What else was happening on July 20th in American history?

Jul 20, 2024

Primary Sources: July 15th in Daily Life... Early America

Primary sources exist for July 15th and every day! Check out diary entries from George Washington and letters written during the American Revolution- all around July 15th.

Jul 19, 2024

Exploring New Kent County's Historical Society and A Journey to the Grave of First Lady Leticia Christian Tyler

A visit to the New Kent Historical Society helped me find hidden history including one First Lady's church and another's gravesite.

Jul 13, 2024

Have You Read Many Newspapers from Early America? Start Here.

Early American newspapers chronicle America in a unique way- and the Library of Congress gives us all access for free.

Jul 08, 2024

June 29, 1776: The Day Patrick Henry Was Chosen to Be Governor of Virginia

On June 29th 1776, the summer of American Independence, Patrick Henry became the first non-royal governor of Virginia. Read the words he had for those who chose him.

Jun 29, 2024

History is Found Through Objects: Clues About Daily Life in Early America.

Objects definitely give us clues into early America. From wig account books to rebuilding Anderson's Armory, it's all there for us to learn from.

Jun 28, 2024

The Reason for and Results from My Drive West to Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown

A drive to Patrick Henry's Scotchtown in search of a book is inspiring more history for this blog.

Jun 23, 2024

Juneteenth: Honoring the Enslaved and Celebrating the Freedom of All Who Lived in Early America

Juneteenth is a day of celebration. I'm choosing to honor it with a poem from Phyllis Wheatley.

Jun 19, 2024

An 18th Century Mace: the Silversmiths' Project for Celebrating 2026

How are an 18th century mace from South Carolina, silversmithing, and Colonial Williamsburg's 2026 celebration connected?

Jun 18, 2024

June 14th: Happy Birthday to our Army and Other Notes on This Day in American History

On June 19th, 1775 our United States Army was officially born! What else happened on this date in American history?

Jun 14, 2024

I Wish I Could Ask Questions of the People From Early America: Thank Goodness We Have Letters and Diaries!

What better way to learn about people from early American history than to read their own words?

Jun 11, 2024

3 Lessons from the 18th Century Relevant to Earning Income as a History Blogger

Living steps away from the largest living history museum in the world gives me access to the 18th century every day of the year. As a blogger, I've learned many lessons.

Jun 06, 2024

This is the 87th Post on My What American History Is About Blog: Let's Talk 87s.

For my 87th post on this American history blog, let's look at 1687, 1787 and 1987 in American history.

May 31, 2024

Memorial Day: Always Remember the Why

What does Memorial Day signify for you? As a nation, let's remember our why.

May 27, 2024

Organizing History Again: Learning and Evolving as the What American History About Blog Grows.

The categories I've organized on the What American History Is About blog will make you want to dive deeper into learning history!

May 25, 2024

May 20th in American History: 2 Posts Over 2 Days Honoring Random Dates Because Why Not?

King George III responded with Intolerable Acts and other bits of American history that happened on May 20th.

May 20, 2024

May 19th in American History: A Sunday Read to Enjoy Any Day of the Week

What happened in American history on May j19th? Diverse and important events! Births and deaths that impacted our future and our culture.

May 19, 2024

Equine Lessons from the Courthouse Green: Insights on Horses in the American Revolutionary War

The history of horses in American society is long. If you want a glimpse into their existence during the American Revolutionary War, this post is for you.

May 17, 2024

No Matter Where You Go in Our United States of America: Find History Like I Did in Palm Desert. Here's How!

Do you look for history everywhere you go? I do! From historical societies to cemeteries and parks: it's everywhere.

May 11, 2024

History Is About Humans: Dig Deeper Into the 18th Century for a Better Future

We really can learn from history. From words to archaeology, the success of our future lies in the past.

Apr 28, 2024

April 19th in American History: What Happened?

If you're an American history nerd, this post highlighting events from March 29th is for you!

Apr 19, 2024

Advertisements in Virginia Gazettes: Insights from the Capital City of the Largest Colony During the Revolutionary Period

What better way to peek into daily life during the Revolutionary era than seeing what was advertised in Williamsburg's Virginia Gazette?

Apr 17, 2024

The 4th Grade Trip that Kept Silversmithing and Its Role in American History Alive: Remember April 11th by Honoring George Cloyed, Master Silversmith

Master Silversmith George Cloyed is the reason I'm focused on April 11th as an important date in American history.

Apr 10, 2024

History Isn't Always Visible: I Saw Kinheche and Never Will Again.

Have you seen a piece of history before it went into storage for the rest of your life? For me, that's Kinheche.

Apr 07, 2024

Samuel Washington: The Brother Archaeology and DNA Testing May Bring Back Into History Books

George Washington's younger brother is coming into focus, thanks to DNA testing.

Mar 31, 2024

The End of U.S. Involvement in Vietnam’s War and Other Notes About March 29th in American History to Kick Off Spring

If you're an American history nerd, this post highlighting events from March 29th is for you!

Mar 29, 2024

Kicking Off VA 250 Inside Williamsburg's Reconstructed Capitol is History in Itself

The March 2024 event in Colonial Williamsburg that was the ultimate immersion into American history.

Mar 20, 2024

Celebrating the Marquis de Lafayette: 1824 to 2024

If you haven't gotten to know the Marquis de Lafayette, 2024 is the year as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of his 1824 American tour.

Mar 15, 2024

The Final Breakfast: An End to Dunmore and Washington

New research is shining more light onto the friendship between George Washington and Virginia's last Royal Governor.

Mar 11, 2024

Anne Geddy: Wife, Mom, and Businesswoman of the 18th Century

Who was Anne Geddy? A wife of an 18th century tradesman who exemplifies her role in the 18th century.

Mar 03, 2024

Leap Years in American History: What Happened on February 29th?

Leap years don't come every day so why not take a peek into what happened in American history on February 29th? It's fascinating actually.

Feb 29, 2024

Introducing Mrs. Jane Vobe: A True Nation Builder

Mrs. Jane Vobe, tavern owner during the Revolutionary period, is Colonial Williamsburg's newest Nation Builder!

Feb 16, 2024

A Review of "Witness to the Revolution" by Michael Cecere and Jennifer Cecere: Insights from a Blogger

Michael and Jennifer Cecere's Witness to the Revolution is an historical fiction novel you don't want to miss.

Feb 11, 2024

Good Presidential Quotes to Celebrate President's Day 2024

Good presidential quotes are a perfect way to celebrate Presidents Day in the U.S. this year!

Feb 08, 2024

Learning Black History Daily: A February Post About Opportunities Every Day

This year for Black History Month, the blog dives into learning black history every day of the year.

Feb 06, 2024

January 29 in American History

What happened on January 29th in American history? From the Raven to Starkweather's capture, a lot.

Jan 29, 2024

Weekend Reads for American History Lovers

Do you love American history? I have three very different books that make for perfect weekend reading.

Jan 28, 2024

Bricks and 18th Century American History: An Overview from a Blogger's Perspective

Bricks in American history: the fun stuff I learned in Colonial Williamsburg that got me interested in bricks.

Jan 16, 2024

Year 24s of American History: Let's Review 1624, 1724, 1824, and 1924 as 2024 Kicks Off!

As we kick off 2024, the What American History Is About blog reviews the 24th years of the last 400 years.

Jan 10, 2024

Exploring 18th Century Medicine: The Role of Orange Peels and Insights from Dr. John Minson Galt

Go down the rabbit hole of 18th century America with me and learn about John Minson Galt along the way.

Jan 05, 2024

Happy New Year! January or March and from Wassail to Rockin Eve: It's About American History.

From Wassailing to Dick Clark, New Year's Eve in American history. Small bits as I wish you a Happy 2024!

Jan 01, 2024

December 15th in American History: Celebrating the Victory at Yorktown in 1781

On December 15th 1781, Williamsburg celebrated the victory at Yorktown. What else happened on this day in history?

Dec 15, 2023

Leather Breeches to Blue Jeans: Everyday Pants in American History

History isn't just about major events. It's also about the clothes people wore. So let's talk about everyday pants.

Dec 13, 2023

Sandra Day O'Connor Passed Away and I'm Reflecting on More Female Firsts in American History

The passing of Sandra Day O'Connor, the first female Supreme Court Justice in the United States, led me to explore more firsts.

Dec 02, 2023

Unshakeable Wisdom from Washington: Essential Principles for Living Boldly

Learning from history is vital and these wise words from George Washington are some of the best Washington quotes out there.

Nov 26, 2023

November 23rd Celebrates Thanksgiving 2023, but What Else Happened on this Day in American History?

In 2023, we celebrate November 23rd as Thanksgiving Day. But what else happened on this day in American history?

Nov 23, 2023

United States Place Names and the History Behind Them: The Cities Edition

Do you ever wonder how cities got their names? Who are the people behind the place names?

Nov 15, 2023

The Most Powerful Tribute: Honoring and Supporting Veterans of the United States Military and Their Families

No matter how you do it, take the time to honor veterans of the U.S. Military and their families - every day of the year.

Nov 14, 2023

3 Cool Primary Sources That Are Not the Declaration of Independence but Are Fascinating Bits of American History

3 primary sources that are just as important as the Declaration of Independence in our American history.

Nov 09, 2023

November 6th: A Day of Presidential Elections and More!

Lincoln was elected as the 16th American president on November 6th. What else happened in history on that day?

Nov 06, 2023

October 11th: Eat BBQ and Dive into a Day of Mysterious Death and the Birth of a New American Comedy Legacy

Celebrate October 11th by eating BBQ and diving into some serious American history.

Oct 11, 2023

The Jefferson Triumvirate of Williamsburg: A Concise Historical Summary

Who influenced, supported, and taught Thomas Jefferson? Meet his Williamsburg triumvirate and get a taste.

Oct 10, 2023

The Spy Whose Powerful Decision Helped Get an American Victory at Yorktown: Meeting James Armistead Lafayette

Have you met James Armistead Lafayette? He was the spy who helped us at Yorktown and shouldn't be forgotten.

Oct 09, 2023

4 Things I Learned at Margaret Hunter's Millinery: An 18th Century Trade in an Original Building

I'm loving Margaret Hunter's shop, the 18th century millinery in Colonial Williamsburg.

Oct 02, 2023

October 1st: Celebrate Fall with Pumpkin Spice and Remember Johnny Carson's Debut on the Tonight Show

Celebrate fall with Pumpkin Spice and remember all the other bits of American history that happened on October 1st.

Oct 01, 2023

The Trades of Colonial Williamsburg Teach Us About Daily Life in the 18th Century

Major events in history are easy to find information about. What if you want to know a bit about daily life in the 18th century? The trades shop in Williamsburg can help!

Sep 29, 2023

Today I Learned About George Washington From a Scholar Named Peter Henriques

Learning about George Washington took on new meaning through Washington scholar Peter Henriques lecture in Colonial Williamsburg.

Sep 28, 2023

Notes on How Decisions to Take Action Impacted American History

What if our founding fathers procrastinated? My personal procrastination on a marketing project inspired a post about decisions to take action in American history.

Sep 24, 2023

September 21 in American History: The Traitor Becomes a Traitor,  Reagan Speaks and the King of Horror Is Born

When did Benedict Arnold become a traitor to America? September 21st 1780. See what else happened that day!

Sep 18, 2023

Putting this Blog into Context: A Quick Note About the 13 Colonies

Let's have a quick chat about the 13 colonies to put this American history blog in context.

Sep 17, 2023

4 Things I Learned from the Colonial Williamsburg Gunsmiths- A True Gem of a Trade

The Colonial Williamsburg gunsmiths make early American guns lock, stock, and barrel and share insight into the era!

Sep 15, 2023

The Scotchtown Post: Insight into Patrick Henry and the Place He Lived for a Few Pivotal Years

Have you visited Patrick Henry's Scotchtown? He only lived there for a few years, but they were pivotal ones.

Sep 09, 2023

September 8th: On the Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s Passing, Let’s Look at This Day in American History

What happened on September 7th throughout American history? Get a snapshot of this day in history here.

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September 7th: From the 1776 Naval Attack to 2003's Farm Aid 16

What happened on September 7th throughout American history? Get a snapshot of this day in history here.

Sep 06, 2023

Colonial History Learned From the Trees Around Us

What can trees tell you about history? A lot! Start with this post and begin the journey into history through trees.

Sep 05, 2023

Put Your Toes in the Sand and Celebrate the All-American Holiday: Labor Day

The origins of Labor Day beyond the cookout and into the real American history.

Sep 03, 2023

Agecroft Hall: The Tudor House that Traveled to Virginia in the 1920s

Reasons to visit the Tudor house that travelled to America during the Gilded Age because of TC and Bessie Williams.

Aug 30, 2023

August 27th: George Washington Requested Food for Soldiers and Mary Poppins Premiered!

What happened in American history on August 27th? George Washington asked the states for food in 1780, LBJ was born and Mary Poppins premiered!

Aug 26, 2023

Experimenting on the Farm: A Necessity in 18th Century America and Beyond

Why was experimental farming necessary in early America? Let's hear what George Washington and others had to say.

Aug 25, 2023

A Visit to One of the Most Historical Sites Around: Berkeley.

Have you visited the ancestral home of 2 presidents? Take a peek into the Harrison home in Charles City Virginia and soak in some history.

Aug 20, 2023

Capturing the Right Spirit of Early American History: More Names to Know

Meet Caty and Rochambeau, two names from early American history that helped shape our world.

Aug 19, 2023

George Washington: What Was He Thinking as He Left the Presidency?

What thoughts did Washington have about our United States after eight years as President? Start grabbing some history here.

Aug 17, 2023

August 15th- A Day to Remember Because So Many Things Happened

What happened on August 15th in American history? Let's take a look, blogger-style.

Aug 15, 2023

Discover the Sweet Secret of 18th Century Baking: One Pound Cake, Endless Delights!

How a Nun's Cake is related to learning the history of food in a place like Colonial Williamsburg.

Aug 12, 2023

Get Excited for National Simplify Your Life Week: Fun Tips to Make American History Easily Accessible!

Use my 7 tips to simplify your journey into finding out about American history!

Aug 08, 2023

Thank Goodness Abigail Smith Adams Loved to Write Letters Because They Show the Woman Behind the Public Image

History is about real people. Abigail Adams' letters give us a glimpse into the private thoughts behind her public image.

Aug 07, 2023

August 7th: A Day in American History

What happened in American history on August 7th? A few events to talk about at the water cooler and at the dinner table!

Aug 07, 2023

The House Richard Decatur Lee Built

Richard Decatur Lee built a piece of art called Lee Hall Mansion, and I had to tell you about it!

Aug 05, 2023

The Woman in the Portrait and 2 More Who Fascinate Me

I saw a portrait and it led me to write about 3 women from early American history.

Aug 02, 2023

The 2nd Continental Congress Established the Postal System and Sandra Bullock Was Born: July 26th in American History

The U.S. Postal Service, Vivian Vance, Sandra Bullock and the FBI were all born on July 26th!

Jul 26, 2023

3 Names From American History You May Not Know but Should Learn

Do you know Peyton Randolph died so John Hancock's signature replaced his? I'm sharing 3 names from American history you may not know but should.

Jul 25, 2023

I Heard Music No One's Seen Performed for Hundreds of Years

We heard music from Jefferson's library that was unlikely performed for hundreds of years!

Jul 21, 2023

Things to Love About the Raleigh Tavern, Past and Present

Past meets present when you visit the Raleigh Tavern, an 18th century reconstruction showing off the Daphne and Apollo rooms, where liberty happened.

Jul 16, 2023

July 15th- A Random Date On Which Many Things Happened

What happened on July 15th in American history? Let's find out.

Jul 15, 2023

Freedom Is Not Free: A Grandfather in Maine Created an Evergreen Movement Reminding the World

If we are talking about American history, Wreaths Across America's Mobile Education Exhibit deserves a mention.

Jul 07, 2023

Music in History: All-American From the Start of our United States

How did music start out in early America? It was all-American from the beginning!

Jul 13, 2023

Musings on Liberty: A Quick Post Celebrating Independence Day

If we're discussing what American history is about, liberty must be discussed as we celebrate Independence Day.

Jul 04, 2023

3 Reasons to Take Tours and Visit Historic Sites Multiple Times

Keep visiting historical places you love. I'm sharing 3 reasons why, knowing you really want to see what American history is about!

Jun 29, 2023

Honor the Frenchman Who George Washington Cherished as a Lifelong Friend This 4th of July!

The Marquis de Lafayette, Washington's friend for life and why we should honor him on Independence Day.

Jun 28, 2023

I Went to the Library to Learn About the Rare Breed Program but Left Wondering About Sheep.

Sheep were a vital part of American history! Learn the impact during Colonial times.

Jun 24, 2023

How Do You Get the Right Frame on a Huge 1690’s Painting? Create It!

When you acquire a 1690's painting and the frame is not original, creating a period-style frame happens, at least in Williamsburg!

Jun 23, 2023

What to Write About When There Is So Much History? Anything.

What this blog is about: American history as I learn it.

Jun 22, 2023

Want to Really Understand American History? Read Letters and Other Primary Sources.

What's the best way to learn American history? Reading letters, inventories, diaries and other primary sources!

Jun 18, 2023

Colonial Colors, the Blog Brand, and History of Course: Let's Talk About Wallpaper

Let's talk about 18th century wallpaper because it tells us about history, not just color.

Jun 17, 2023

Being Free At 50: I Moved to Williamsburg and Get to Experience American History Every Day

Experience American history come alive! This blog is dedicated to what American history is really about. The people and everything in their lives.

Jun 09, 2023