Category: News

Tucked away in the back of a kitchen drawer—often forgotten, but never truly obsolete—lies a tiny piece of history: the P-38 can opener. Barely two inches long, this rugged, foldable metal tool may not look like much at first glance, but it holds a powerful legacy of utility, resilience, and ingenuity. A Simple Tool With a Complex Past The P-38 was first issued to American soldiers during World War II, and it quickly earned a reputation as an essential survival tool. Lightweight, compact, and incredibly durable, the P-38 became a constant companion in the field—used not only to open cans… CONTINUE READING…

Twenty minutes ago in Chicago, Michelle Obama sent shockwaves through the political world with a major, yet undisclosed announcement at the Obama Presidential Center. Witnesses described an unusually emotional scene as the former First Lady arrived with her family, suggesting this was no ordinary press conference. The gravity of the moment was palpable, with even her typically composed husband Barack Obama appearing visibly moved as they entered the building together. Political insiders are scrambling to decipher the meaning behind this sudden gathering, coming at such a critical juncture in the 2024 election cycle. The Obama family’s solemn demeanor has fueled… CONTINUE READING…

The remains of a century-old mansion that met a fiery demise years after it was deserted.About Built in the early 1900s, Van Slyke Castle (previously known as Foxcroft) transitioned through multiple owners until the final blow to the property came when vandals burned the mansion in 1959. Large portions of the castle, pool, and water tower can still be explored today (the pool and water tower are not too far from the castle ruins).  William Porter, a stockbroker, built the place in the early 1900s. He named the property Foxcroft, as it was built on Fox Hill. Porter died in a… CONTINUE READING…

It started as a simple moment, almost ordinary, yet it held something extraordinary. The sun had begun to dip low, casting golden light that danced across everything it touched. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, birds called to one another, and the world felt, for just a heartbeat, perfectly still. In that quiet, a scene unfolded that begged to be remembered. Someone lifted a camera, and through the lens, the ordinary became magical. Colors seemed brighter, shadows softer, and the smallest details—the curve of a flower petal, the sparkle in someone’s eye, the way the light kissed the world—felt like… CONTINUE READING…

The day was gray and heavy, as if the sky itself understood the loss. Friends, family, and fans gathered in quiet reverence to say goodbye to Gordon Lightfoot — the legendary musician whose voice had carried stories across decades, whose songs had woven themselves into the hearts of millions. The church was filled with the soft murmur of memories shared and the gentle rustle of tissues. Flowers lined the aisle, their scent mingling with the faint echo of guitar chords playing in the minds of those who loved him. But amid the solemn crowd, one figure stood out — not… CONTINUE READING…

Sharing is caring! Next time you drive by there you might want to know that in the 1940s and 50s it was a working ranch of a special sort. Known as “Murray’s Ranch,” and “The Overall Wearing Dude Ranch,” it was African-American owned and operated in the Bell Mountain community. California Eagle, Sun, Aug 29, 1937  According to The History of Apple Valley by Kate O’ Rourke, Murray’s “Overall Wearing Dude Ranch” was the only African-American dude ranch in the United States, and the only ranch in the area to be written about in Life magazine at the time. The earliest Black… CONTINUE READING…

When we encounter something from our past, it often brings back a flood of nostalgic memories. These memories, though simple, have the power to make us feel positive about our history. Often, this sense of nostalgia can be triggered by a simple object we once used during childhood. Even if we didn’t use it ourselves, the memory of seeing others use it can still evoke that warm, familiar feeling from our past. This vintage agricultural tool has a long history and continues to be used today, though it has evolved over time. I’m referring to the hay hook, a straightforward… CONTINUE READING…

The Morning Star Villa in Cape May, New Jersey is a one-of-a-kind historic jewel! This beautiful structure was originally built in 1884. It is notable because in 1893, a fourth floor was added above the mansard roof, giving the building a very unusual visual effect. Zoned residential/commercial, the Morning Star Villa is one of the country’s oldest beach resort destinations. Interestingly, in May of 1967, the entire building was moved one mile. Try as she might, House Crazy Sarah could not find a reason why this move was done. Hurricane flooding mitigation perhaps?  If anyone knows, please share! In any case the large, striking building looks right… CONTINUE READING…

Once the world’s largest reinforced concrete structure, this abandoned bridge now beckons urban explorers. About The Paulinskill Viaduct, which was completed in 1910, was once the world’s largest reinforced concrete structure. At a total length of 1,100 feet and with a clearance of 115 feet, the New Jersey structure still a worthy feat of engineering to behold, even though it has since lost its record-holding title. Trains traveled atop the railway up until the late 20th century, then traffic gradually diminished as the years passed. The last train crossed the bridge in 1979. After the viaduct officially closed in 1982, the railroad… CONTINUE READING…

Fern Court House | San Mateo, Florida | Built c. 1889 Fern Court, a striking Victorian mansion in San Mateo, Florida, is more than just a house. It is a keeper of stories. Built in the late 19th century, this grand estate has welcomed distinguished guests, echoed with music from glittering dances in its third-floor ballroom, and stood as a proud landmark in the quiet riverside community of San Mateo in Putnam County, perched above the St. Johns River. Step inside, and the Gilded Age still whispers from every corner: the warm gleam of original wood floors, the jewel tones… CONTINUE READING…