Wise Words from Washington: Words to Live By

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

Nov 26, 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

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

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

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

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

National Simplify Your Life Week: Tips for Simplifying Access to American History

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 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

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

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

This 4th of July, Give Thanks to the Frenchman Who George Washington Called a Friend for Life

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

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