Cornhole: The Game and Its History
Some say it was invented in 14th century Germany. Others credit the Blackhawk tribe of Illinois. Still others point to a Kentucky farmer in the…
There Were Pirates at Philipsburg Manor…Really???
What’s the connection between the heritage of Philipsburg Manor, an 18th-century Sleepy Hollow historic site once operated by slave labor, and piracy? Plenty. Though pirates have…
Washington Irving’s Role in Creating the Legend of Captain Kidd
Besides giving us the classic tales of a Catskill denizen with a propensity for snoozing and a horseman seeking heads to replace the one he…
The Story of ‘Old Bet’ the Circus Elephant
Ever wanted to see an exotic animal up close and personal, and would you pay for the privilege? In the early 1800’s Hackaliah Bailey figured…
Cotton Candy: The Toothy History of a Classic Circus Treat
A dentist invented cotton candy. We swear we’re not making that up. The year? 1897. The place? Nashville, Tennessee. Dentist William Morrison – perhaps seeing…
Adinkra and Pinkster: Symbols Provide Glimpse Into Past
Oh Sankofa, high on the Heavens you soar My soul is soon to follow you, back to yesterdays moon will it remember me? Back to…
Knitting Together History: From Garter Stitch to Yarn Bombs
Like many pearls of bygone centuries, including the typewriter and corset, the culture of knitting has enjoyed a 21st-century revival. Once the province of “decent,…
ArtsWestchester Honors Blaze Creative Director
At its 33rd Arts Award celebration last Friday, April 9, ArtsWestchester gave kudos and honors to Michael Natiello for his extraordinary efforts as creative director…
Washington Irving’s Degree Hangs at Harvard University
What do Benjamin Franklin, Walt Disney, Mother Teresa, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Albert Einstein have in common with Washington Irving? Why, they were all honorary degree…