History & Travel
The Mexican-American War is certainly one of the least studied wars in American history. It took place between the War of 1812 and the Civil War and it sort of gets lost in history books. Interestingly, out in California and other parts of the southwest, there are actually many signs of that event, to include a…
One of the most prominent natural features along today’s I-15 in Southern California is Battle Mountain. Though most say it gets its name from the nearby Battle of San Pasqual (which did not take place on this mountain), some believe it may be referring to an even older event that took place here between two…
On this journey, I explore six different stage coach stops located along the former Butterfield Overland Stage Route. From roadside historical markers, preserved structures from the Old West, to abandoned 1850s stage coach stations, you’ll see it all! The Butterfield Overland Stage Coach Route was a 2,800 mile path that connected St. Louis, MO, to…
The American Civil War stretched far beyond the battlefields, where massive armies slugged it out. In fact, the war also played out in family homes, at balls, and in the halls of government. In these distinct and oftentimes discreet arenas, politicians and even spies played very important roles. One such character was a woman named…
History When California joined the Union on September 9th, 1850, it was truly the Wild West. Prospectors from the East and around the world flocked to the region with the hopes of striking it rich, while coastal cities grew and boom towns came and went. Amidst the rush of settlers, numerous American Indian tribes in…
Thomas Jefferson has long been considered one of the brightest political minds from our nation’s founding generation- not to mention he is often referred to as the author of the Declaration of Independence. Of course, similar to other founding fathers, his legacy is far more interesting and complex than what is at the surface. His…
Early Life Henry Dearborn was born on February 23, 1751, in North Hampton, New Hampshire. He was the son of Simon Dearborn and Sarah Marston and part of a family who had immigrated to the Massachusetts Colony in 1639. Dearborn had a carefree childhood and he was able to attend public school, ultimately gaining a…
There exists a macabre fascination with gangsters and mobsters in American culture and perhaps nobody captures people’s interest more than that of John Dillinger. Not only have most people heard of him, but he remains relevant in pop culture with movies still being made about his exploits, such as the 2009 film Public Enemies. Of…
One of the most fascinating founding fathers was Gouverneur Morris. Outside of his unique first name, wooden peg leg, and personal sexual exploits (which would easily make headlines today), Morris made crucial contributions to America’s founding. In fact, his writing of the preamble of the United States Constitution earned him the nickname “Penman of the…
The American Revolution was an expensive venture and financing the war effort was a constant issue for the Continental Congress. Enter Robert Morris, a wealthy Philadelphia businessman who ended up being known as the “Financier of the American Revolution.” Early Life Robert Morris Jr. was born on January 20, 1734, in Liverpool, England. His father,…
James Otis was one of the most influential men in colonial Boston on the eve of the American Revolutionary War; however, many Americans have never heard of him. Journey along as I explore the life and contributions of James Otis! Early Life James Otis Jr. was born on February 5, 1725, in modern-day West Barnstable,…
Recently I was able to visit the gravesite of Morgan Earp, who was a brother to western lawman, Wyatt Earp.Alongside Doc Holliday and his brothers, Virgil and Wyatt, Morgan participated in the famous gun fight at the O.K. Corral in the mining town of Tombstone, Arizona Territory. Unlike how many movies portray it, the gun…
Old Point Loma Lighthouse towers above the entrance to San Diego Harbor and is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the west coast. Yet, it has not served its intended purpose for over 130 years. Today, it is a popular spot to take in the incredible views of San Diego and for visitors to…
The Battle of Kings Mountain proved to be a turning point in the southern theater of the American Revolutionary War. Not only did this overwhelming patriot victory quell loyalist support in the southern colonies, but it exposed the left flank of British General Lord Charles Cornwallis’ Army and forced him to fall back into South…
The island of Guam, located in the Mariana Island chain in the Pacific Ocean, is home to an unbelievable amount of history. Mostly known for its World War Two history (and the American invasion to retake the island in 1944), Guam has much more to offer to the curious visitor. In fact, Spain has had…