Episodes
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Join us as we journey to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, a relatively young museum founded in 2004, yet one that preserves the centuries-old lifeline of Icelandic fishing. Discover how this unique museum showcases Iceland's deep connection to the sea and the essential role of fishing in the country’s survival and prosperity.
🐟 From Cod to Commerce 💰
Explore the historical significance of cod, Iceland’s economic mainstay, and learn how the museum’s immersive exhibits depict the fascinating “from sea to plate” journey. Walking through spaces designed to mirror a fish processing plant, visitors experience the scale and importance of Iceland’s fishing industry.🧴 Nothing Wasted: A Creative Approach to Fish Byproducts
Our guide Ingiborg introduces the “Nothing Wasted” exhibit, celebrating Iceland’s resourcefulness by repurposing fish byproducts. Discover how fish skin is used in medical plasters for burn victims, and fish collagen has found its way into everything from leather products to health supplements.🦈 Fermented Shark & The Cod Wars ⚔️
Uncover the story behind Iceland’s infamous fermented shark, hákarl, once essential to Iceland’s diet and now a delicacy with a distinct place in Icelandic culture. Learn about the Cod Wars, a series of intense confrontations with the UK, that underscored Iceland’s fierce independence and commitment to its fishing territory.🦺 Safety at Sea: A Matter of Life and Legacy 🌊
The museum also highlights the vital role of safety in Icelandic fishing culture, sharing stories of those who risked—and often lost—their lives at sea. From a unique exhibit on fishermen’s safety to the revolutionary strides that made Iceland's waters safer, the museum emphasizes the courage and resilience of Iceland’s seafaring communities. Whether you’re intrigued by maritime history, fascinated by Iceland’s inventive spirit, or curious about the cultural traditions shaped by the ocean, this episode offers a rich dive into Iceland’s maritime legacy.
🔗 Episode Links
Reykjavík Maritime Museum:
https://borgarsogusafn.is/en/reykjavik-maritime-museum
Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum in Snæfellsnes:
https://www.icelandtravel.is/attractions/shark-museum/Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Join us as we step into the rich history of the Seashore Trolley Museum, celebrating 85 years of preserving trolley heritage with Phil Morse, a devoted leader and long-time member. Phil's passion for keeping trolley history alive is evident as he shares his personal connection with the museum. Set against the backdrop of the 1930s Depression and the transition from trolleys to buses, discover how a group of young, visionary men laid the foundation for what would become a pivotal institution in transportation history.
🎓 From Harvard Dreams to Historic Rails 🚋Dive into the captivating story of Car 31's dramatic rescue, a mission that tested the resolve and creativity of a small group of trolley enthusiasts. Learn how their dedication and community support saved this historic trolley from being scrapped, securing its place as a cherished piece of the museum’s collection. As you explore the museum’s treasures, you'll encounter the luxurious Narcissus trolley from the Portland-Lewiston interurban line, an icon of early 20th-century elegance in travel. Experience the nostalgia and wonder of trolleys like never before. Whether you're a seasoned trolley aficionado or just discovering the charm of electric railways, this episode will spark your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for these extraordinary vehicles and the stories they tell.
📚 Teddy Roosevelt, Millie, and the Elegant Ride 🚎
Millie Thayer is a headstrong farmer's daughter who chases her dreams in a way you would expect a little girl nicknamed "Spitfire" would-running full tilt and with her eyes on the stars. Dreaming of leaving the farm life, working in the city, and fighting for women's right to vote, Millie imagines flying away on a magic carpet. One day, that flying carpet shows up in the form of an electric trolley that cuts across her farm. A fortune-teller predicts that Millie's path will cross that of someone famous. Suddenly, she finds herself caught up in events that shake the nation, Maine, and her family. Despairing that her dreams may be shattered, Millie learns, in an unexpected way, that dreams can be shared.This book is a fund-raiser for the Seashore Trolley Museum Narcissus Renovation Project.
Link to Purchase This Book from the Museum:
https://store.trolleymuseum.org/teddy-roosevelt-millie-and-the-elegant-ride.html
🔗 Episode Links
Phil's Blog:
https://narcissus1912.blogspot.com/
Seashore Trolley Museum:
https://trolleymuseum.org/
The Biddeford and Saco Railroad by Osmond Richard Cummings:
https://digicom.bpl.lib.me.us/books_pubs/31/
Biddeford & Saco Railroad Co. 31 Car:
https://collections.trolleymuseum.org/items/14
Narcissus 1912 Renovation Project:
https://narcissus1912.blogspot.com/p/about.html
Virtual Tour of the Narcissus:
https://narcissus1912.blogspot.com/2020/06/virtual-tour-narcissus-3-d.htmlSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Episodes manquant?
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Explore the profound journey of funeral practices through the ages. Discover how embalming has evolved from its origins in ancient Egypt to contemporary times, and how societal involvement in death rituals has transformed along the way. Our guide Genevieve Keeney Vasquez provides a thoughtful analysis of modern detachment from death rituals, examining its potential impact on grieving processes and the portrayal of death in media today.
💐 Honoring the Past: Cemeteries, Iconic Funerals, and the Evolution of Funeral Traditions 📸⚰️
Join us on a heartfelt exploration of personalized memorialization and funeral ceremonies. Learn how cemeteries serve as reservoirs of meaning and explore exhibits like the Funerals of the Famous, which provide unique connections to history. Delve into the technological advancements that have revolutionized funeral traditions, such as the brownie camera's impact on mortuary photography. And don't miss the intriguing story of a triple casket from the 1940s, a poignant reflection on shifting perceptions of grief and mental health over the years.
🔗 Episode Links:
National Museum of Funeral History
https://www.nmfh.org/the-museum/
NMFH Podcast Series
https://www.nmfh.org/haunting-stories-of-the-museums-hometown/Send us a text
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Ever wondered what makes Indian River citrus the sweetest in the world? Join us as we explore the Indian River Citrus Museum. With Heather Stapleton as our guide, we unravel the historical significance and modern cultivation practices that make the fruit so remarkable. From Queen Isabella's explorers bringing sour orange seeds to Henry Flagler's transformative railroad, you'll gain fascinating insights into the vibrant history of Florida's citrus industry.
🍊 Savoring the Sweet Legacy of Florida's Citrus 🌴
Join us as we uncover the unique characteristics that differentiate Florida citrus from its Californian counterparts. Heather explains how the state's climate, sandy soils, and high water table contribute to the unparalleled juiciness and sweetness of Indian River citrus. Learn about the concept of BRIX measurement and how it quantifies the sweetness of citrus juice, making Florida's fruit a standout.
🍋 A Fruitful Community 👨👩👧👦
The Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum aren't just about fruit—they're about community. Heather shares heartwarming stories, like her nostalgic calamondin-inspired cupcake competition that brought joy to locals. Discover how the museum has evolved from a community building to a cherished event space while preserving Vero Beach's cultural heritage. Whether it's hosting festive holiday parties or offering a slice of home to visiting college baseball teams, this space continues to foster a strong sense of community.
🔗 Episode Links:
Indian River Citrus Museum:
https://www.veroheritage.org/citrus-museum/
Indian River Citrus Museum’s Oral Histories: “Stories from the Grove”
https://www.veroheritage.org/-stories-from-the-groves/
Florida Cowboy’s article:
https://www.flamingomag.com/2021/10/18/how-these-ranchers-are-carrying-on-the-little-known-legacy-of-florida-cowboys/Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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In this episode, we take a deep dive into the real story of Johnny Appleseed—exploring the man behind the myth. Was he truly the eccentric figure who wore a tin pot as a hat? How did his Swedenborgian faith influence his life's mission? We uncover the origins of this small religious sect, examining Johnny's unique spiritual path and his role in shaping the American frontier.
🍏 Unveiling Johnny Appleseed: Myths, Faith, and Apples 🌱
We discuss Johnny Appleseed's nonlinear journey as an entrepreneur and his deep connection to the Swedenborgian Bible, which guided him in planting apple orchards for pioneers expanding westward in pursuit of Manifest Destiny. The episode also explores how these orchards helped support the westward expansion and highlights a special pewter spoon—diving into its historical significance and how even small, everyday objects can tell powerful stories of the past.
🔗 Episode Links
Johnny Appleseed Education Center and Museum: https://www.johnnyappleseedmuseum.org/
Delights of Wisdom Concerning Conjugial Love: After which Follow Pleasures of Insanity Concerning Scortatory Love, by Emanuel Swedenborg: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/11248Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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In today's episode, we take you on an immersive journey into the fascinating world of swimming giants at the Whales of Iceland Museum. Located in Reykjavik, this one-of-a-kind museum is home to over 25 life-size whale models, including the awe-inspiring blue whale, the largest animal to have ever existed.
🌊 Echoes of the Deep 🐋
Join us as we uncover the crucial roles whales play in our oceans, from carbon sequestration to fertilizing marine ecosystems. We'll also trace their incredible evolutionary path from land-dwelling mammals to the ocean's giants. We dive into the remarkable sensory abilities of whales and the challenges they face in today's world, such as the impacts of noise pollution. And yes, we'll even talk about what whale poop can reveal about their health!
🔗 Episode Links
Whales of Iceland Museum: https://www.whalesoficeland.is/Send us a text
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Ever wondered how graffiti evolved from gang-related tags to a celebrated art movement? Join me, Ayla Sparks, as we unravel the vivid history of graffiti, starting with Cornbread, the Philadelphia pioneer who turned the city into his personal canvas all to impress a girl named Cynthia. Through his story, we trace graffiti's metamorphosis from an act of defiance to a widely recognized artistic expression, capturing the spirit of an era that challenged conventions.
🎨 From Street Gangs to Art Galleries 🖼️
In this episode, we dismantle the stereotypes and legal challenges surrounding graffiti, questioning whether it's mere vandalism or a profound cultural statement. We'll explore how graffiti artists revolutionized the spray paint industry and gained mainstream acceptance in galleries and public spaces. Learn how the Museum of Graffiti in Miami is honoring this dynamic art form, offering insights into its rich history and evolving perception. From the clandestine world of street tags to the halls of art institutions, discover the dual lives of modern graffiti artists and the exciting exhibitions that celebrate their journey.
🔗 Episode Links
https://museumofgraffiti.com/Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Join us for an enlightening journey through the rich history and diverse ecosystems of the White Mountains, also known as the "Switzerland of America." Discover the ancient origins of the Appalachian Mountains and their profound geological and cultural significance. We'll highlight the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Abenaki communities, whose enduring legacy is under threat from an invasive insect species.
🧺 Of Baskets and Borers: Abenaki Basketry and Conservation Efforts 🌲
At the Museum of the White Mountains, we delve into the “Of Baskets and Borers” exhibit, exploring the severe threat posed by the Emerald Ash Borer to ash trees, disrupting delicate ecosystems and endangering the tradition of Abenaki basketry. Discover the natural history of ash trees that makes them a favorite among these skilled basket weavers and learn how the Emerald Ash Borer is decimating these vital trees. The exhibit also highlights promising conservation efforts, including naturally resistant ash trees, the use of parasitoid wasps to control the borer population, and protective insecticide injections.
🔗 Episode Links
Museum of the White Mountains (MWM): https://www.plymouth.edu/mwm/
MWM Youtube lecture series: https://www.youtube.com/@mwmpsuSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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📅 A Date Which Will Live in Infamy
Today, we reflect on December 7, 1941—a date that will live in infamy. On this day, the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. With Amanda Sheley as our guide, we delve into the attack on Pearl Harbor at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Hawaii. Join us as we uncover the reality of the attack, which extended beyond Pearl Harbor to multiple airfields on Oahu. We examine the circumstances that both aided and hindered the response of U.S. forces, including chaotic communication efforts, technological limitations, and human errors.🤝 Unsung Heroes
Amidst this chaos, unsung heroes emerge, such as in the Niʻihau Incident where a native Hawaiian woman played a crucial role in what became the first battle of WWII. We also highlight the rallying of local communities to support the war effort, exemplified by the model airplane project in which students meticulously crafted 500,000 exact models to train soldiers in field identification. Additionally, we discuss the tragic fate of three men who were trapped underwater with no hope of rescue for over two weeks aboard the sunken USS West Virginia.🎖️ Heroism and Impact
This episode delves into stories of true heroism in the face of adversity and explores the profound and lasting impact Pearl Harbor had on world history. Please note, this episode contains depictions of death and may not be suitable for all listeners.🔗 Episode Links
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum: https://www.pearlharboraviationmuseum.org
Day of Infamy Speech: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Day_of_Infamy_speechSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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This week we head to Virginia to visit Luray Caverns, the most highly decorated caverns in the world according to the Smithsonian. In this episode, we hear from three professionals who share the history of the caverns, the science behind the decorating formations, and how The Great Stalacpipe Organ creates music.
Phantom ChasersLuray Caverns was discovered on August 13th, 1878 by three local men: Andrew J. Campbell (a local tinsmith), William Campbell, and local photographer Benton Stebbins. These fellows were prospecting for a show cave as they knew of a cave in southern Virginia that was open and giving tours. If they could find a cave, they too could make some money.
They spent a whole summer looking at every sinkhole on every farmer's land, all around town. The townspeople thought they were crazy, calling them “Phantom Chasers”. Eventually, the group came across one particular sinkhole. When they put their hands down, they felt cool air coming out of a quarter-size hole in the ground. They enlarged the hole enough for one man, Andrew Campbell, to slide down on a rope with a candle in hand. They discovered what they were looking for, one of the largest caverns in the world.
The Science of Cavern DecorCavern formations are created when water on the surface infiltrates into the ground. It picks up minerals that are in the soil and rock as it seeps into the earth.
Eventually, it enters the cavern system through microscopic pores in the rock. As the water drips and flows in, it deposits those minerals along the ceilings, walls, and floors. And over many, many years those minerals build up and reconstitute into these larger formations.
The Great Stalacpipe Organ
On average, scientists estimate that formations at Luray take around 120 years to grow one cubic inch. The largest formation in the cavern system is 40 feet tall, 120 feet in circumference at the base, and is an estimated seven and a half million years old. It’s called the Giant Redwood Tree as it resembles the trunk of a giant Sequoia.Mr. Leland Sprinkles brought his son to Luray Caverns for his fifth birthday. At the time, tour guides would play a tune on the stalactites and stalagmites by striking them with a mallet. This gave Mr. Sprinkles, an engineer and organist, the idea to create a playable organ using the cave’s formations. With an agreement over a handshake, Sprinkles began developing the organ.
He would scout for tones by striking the formations and pick those that were closest. Then he would tune them to concert pitch by sanding them down. It was first played in 1957 and is still in use today. It covers three and a half acres, making it the world’s largest natural musical instrument!
Luray Caverns webpage: https://luraycaverns.com/Discovery of Luray Caverns, Virginia by Russell H. Gurneebook: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/discovery-of-luray-caverns-virginia_russell-h-gurnee/1801668/item/8715266/#edition=727824&idiq=32909429
Episode Links:Send us a text
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Join us as we delve into the tragic and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe, one of literature's most intriguing figures. Discover his legacy and unravel the secrets of his life at the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum in Baltimore, Maryland.
🕯️ Melancholy and Masterpieces 🎭
Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum: https://www.poeinbaltimore.org/Complete Works of Poe: https://poemuseum.org/poes-complete-works/
Explore how Poe's tumultuous adolescence, marked by loss and upheaval, fostered a sense of melancholy that permeated his future works, including "The Masque of the Red Death," "The Raven," and my personal favorite, "The Tell-Tale Heart." Discover often overlooked aspects of Poe's life, such as his career as a book critic, his role as the inventor of the detective story, and his fascination with the cosmos.
🔍 Unveiling Poe's Life, Death, and Legacy ⚰️
Even in death, Poe remains shrouded in intrigue, with his body being reburied no less than three times in the same cemetery. We'll also examine the legend of the Poe Toaster, a mysterious cloaked figure who sneaked into the cemetery and left a tribute for Poe on his birthday until 2009.
🔗 Episode LinksSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Ever wondered how a humble canned meat could become a cultural icon? Join us as we uncover the rich history and global legacy of Spam. We'll take you back to its origins in Austin, Minnesota, where Jay Hormel's quest for a fully cooked ham led to the creation of Spam 87 years ago. Discover how this innovative product became a vital food source for soldiers during World War II and evolved into a beloved household staple in the post-war era. Our journey will take us around the globe, highlighting Spam's immense popularity in South Korea, the Philippines, and Japan.
🐖 From Humble Origins to Global Culinary Icon 🥫
Get ready to be enthralled by the stories, traditions, and crazy recipes that surround Spam. We'll debunk some common misconceptions about Spam, delve into its 6 ingredient recipe, and explore how its formulation has evolved over the years. From unique culinary creations like Spam Musubi to the vibrant Spam Jam celebration in Hawaii, this episode is packed with delicious inspiration. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the Spam phenomenon, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation and perhaps even a few ideas for your next meal.
🧀 SPAM Species 🧄
Classic Spam
Spam Lite
Spam Less Sodium
Spam with Real Hormel Bacon
Spam Hickory Smoke
Spam Hot & Spicy
Spam Jalapeño
Spam Black Pepper
Spam Teriyaki
Spam Oven Roasted Turkey
Spam Garlic
Spam Tocino
Spam Portuguese Sausage
Spam Chorizo
Spam Cheese
Spam Single Classic
Spam Single Lite
Spam Single Hickory Smoke
Spam Single Hot & Spicy
Spam Spread
Spam Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice🔗 Episode Links
SPAM Museum: https://www.spam.com/museum
Spam Recipies: https://tinyurl.com/yh37capmSend us a text
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Step behind the neon glow with me as we venture into a radiant corner of Las Vegas history at the Neon Sign Museum. With Aaron Berger as our guide, we delve into a treasure trove of glowing lights that tell the story of Sin City.
🎰 Illuminating Las Vegas's Past and Preserving Its Glow 💡
Las Vegas's neon signs are more than just advertisements; they're historical landmarks that reveal the city's (dark and light) past. In this episode, you'll learn the ins and outs of neon sign restoration and how unique leasing arrangements inadvertently became a lifeline for preserving these glowing artifacts. Among the stories highlighted is that of the Moulin Rouge sign, which marked the first integrated casino in the United States and was created by a rarity in the sign industry, Betty Willis.
🎲 Weaving Neon into the Heartbeat of Las Vegas 💖
We'll also delve into the city's mission to weave these signs into the community's heartbeat, installing them in public spaces, and even enshrining their maintenance in law — exemplified by the legendary cowboy Vegas Vic. Whether you are looking for free aspirin, tender sympathies, or the brightest lights in town, the city that never sleeps has something for everyone.
🔗 Episode Links
Neon Sign Museum: https://neonmuseum.org/Send us a text
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Embark on a captivating journey through the life of the legendary Babe Ruth, from his humble beginnings in Pig Town to his towering fame in American baseball. Dive deep into the story behind his iconic status, dispelling myths and revealing the influences that shaped him early on. Explore the man behind the legend, tracing his roots from Pig Town to the pivotal moment he signed his first professional contract.
🌟Babe Ruth: The Man. The Myth. The Legend⚾️
Our narrative delves into the gritty world of early 20th-century baseball, uncovering the forces that propelled Ruth from the minor leagues to the Yankees. Discover intimate details of his life, including his unconventional wedding and his affection for children, offering a glimpse into the private side of this public figure.
⚾️A Legend's Lasting Impact on Baseball History🏆
Concluding our journey, we reflect on Babe Ruth's monumental impact, from the frenzy of his fame to his lasting influence on the Yankees and the sport itself. Through personal stories and historical insights, we paint a vivid picture of Ruth's enduring legacy, echoing through the annals of baseball history.
🔗Episode Links
Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum: https://baberuthmuseum.org/Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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All aboard as we delve into Maryland's captivating trolley history at the Boonsboro Trolley Station Museum. Uncover how these transport marvels transformed rural connections, surprising even in funeral processions. With Reuben Moss leading the way, we unravel the intricate impact of trolleys on local trade, education, and the agricultural economy.
💡 Boonesboro's Trolley Tales: Cantaloupes, Power Plants, and Electric Parks! 🎡
This episode delves into the history of Boonesboro, famed for its juicy cantaloupes and bustling trolley system—one of the nation's largest rural-urban networks. Experience the thrill of riding these trolleys and discover the Frederick Company's entrepreneurial zeal as it powered beyond transportation, electrifying rural Maryland with power plants and vibrant electric parks that became community hubs of leisure and excitement.
🎶 Trolley's Last Stand: From Wheels to Wisdom! 📚
Discover the fate of the final four trolleys, some transformed into vibrant libraries! Finally, we share the story of a Washington D.C. DJ who had a dual passion for Beatles tunes and trolley lore, whose efforts have preserved the echoes of the trolley bells in a museum that stands as a testament to this bygone but never-dimming era of transportation's enchanting past.
The Hagerstown & Frederick Railway Historical Society
Oral History Project
This Society is collecting visual and audio records of individuals with stories of the trolley line. These records are added to the Society's archives where they can be used for education and research. If you have a story you would like to share, reach out to Reuben at [email protected] or write to:
H&FRHS Inc.
P.O. Box 1314
Frederick, MD 21702
www.hfrhs.org/oralhistory
🔗 Episode Links
National Road Museum: NationalRDFoundation.org
Hagerstown & Frederick Railway Historical Society: https://hfrhs.orgSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Embark with us on a highway through history as we unravel the fabric of America's love affair with her roads. From the meticulous preservation efforts of past pathways in Frederick County to the lonely stretches of Nevada's Route 50, this episode is a true homage to the arteries that have shaped our nation. With guest Bob Savitt, we witness the celebratory opening of a museum dedicated to the National Road, the very first highway funded by the federal government. Join us as we discuss its evolution from trade route to leisure destination.
Saturday April 27, 9am - 5pm during the Boonsboro Spring Jubilee. A townwide spring festival with activities at several local businesses, all of the museums and in the park. The town is also planning to have carriage rides available!Sunday May 19, 11am - 4pm, during the arrival of the National Road Wagon Train, a collection of horse-drawn wagons that makes the three-day journey on the National Pike from Clear Spring just west of the city, through Hagerstown and Funkstown and ending their trip in Boonsboro.Saturday June 1, hours TBD. The peak date of the National Road Yard Sale where people along the road from Baltimore to St. Louis set up yard sales on the same weekend, and the last Saturday of the Boonsboro Fire Department Carnival in the park just behind the museums.
🚦 Road Evolution 🚗
Discover the various innovations in road development, from ancient Macadam techniques to modern paving, and how these advancements reflect America's cultural and infrastructural growth. The conversation also highlights the Good Roads Movement and the advent of automobiles, mapping out how these critical shifts influenced the way we experience road travel today.
🛣️ Time Traveler's Rest 🕰️
Finally, take a brief respite at some historical mile markers, the original rest stops that offered sanctuary for weary travelers and their steeds. So tune in, fasten your seatbelt, and prepare for a ride through time on the fascinating roads of America's past.
The open houses we will be holding for the National Road Museum will be:
🔗 Episode Links
National Road Heritage Foundation https://nationalrdfoundation.org/national-road-museum/
Direct donation link for the National Road Museum to make sure we can get several of the exhibits completed before the opening in October: https://www.paypal.com/donate?token=pywWjsWVvmG2SuAg8IrmK7rK62NUPn0mHW_QGTVedC8mMCisLKz-X9P1XaQR1byC58M8LvdV8eCZLiH9
Maryland Byways tour information for people who want to do a roadtrip on the Maryland segment of the road: https://www.visitmaryland.org/scenic-byways/historic-national-road
Hagerstown & Frederick Railway Historical Society (for the trolley history): https://hfrhs.orgSend us a text
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Embark on a journey into the heart of Baltimore where the first dental school took root, revolutionizing oral health care. We'll reveal the pivotal moments that sparked the dire need for dental regulation, from sideshow jaw hackers to educated dentistry professionals.
🔧 From Baltimore's Roots to Regal Dentures 🦷
With Scott Swank as our guide, we reveal the pivotal moments that sparked the need for regulation, professional associations, and medical journals, transforming the landscape of dentistry. From extracting teeth from the mouths of the city's poorest to showcasing the most luxurious dental tools fit for royalty, we delve into the stark contrast between the struggles of early dental care and the opulence of elite dentistry.
😁 Teeth, Technology, and Oral Narratives 🧚♂️
Hear the captivating truth behind George Washington's dentures, a tale far removed from the myth of wooden chompers. Get the inside scoop on the intricate craftsmanship of these dental devices, made from materials like hippopotamus ivory, and the exclusive nature of dentures in the 18th century. We pay homage to John Greenwood, Washington's trusted dentist, whose skill with dentures proved indispensable to our nation's first president. Join us as we sift through the complex layers of this historic dental story, from the origins of oral folklore to stem cell innovations in tooth replacement.
🔗 Episode Links:
The Dr. Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry: www.dentalmuseum.comSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Step into the whispered secrets of the past and uncover the echoes of history within the walls of the Lee-Fendall House. With our guide, Jenny Waters, we stroll through the timeline of this architectural marvel, from its conception in 1785 by Philip Richard Fendall to its dramatic roles during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. We'll weigh the gravity of a potential name change for this historic house museum, contemplating the delicate balance between historical accuracy and the enduring legacy of its name as we near its 50th anniversary as a cherished public space.
🕵️♂️ Whispers of the Past: Intrigues and Intricacies within Lee-Fendall's Walls 📸
The lives that intertwined with the Lee-Fendall House are as varied as they are compelling. We trace the ownership from the poignant story of Dr. Robert Fleming, whose chapter at the house was cut short by tuberculosis, to Robert Downham, a Freemason and business titan whose Prohibition-era adventures still linger in the home's aura. As we reveal the storied past of these walls, you'll hear about the high-profile guests, the whispers of undercover liquor trade, and the curious mysteries left behind, culminating in our annual fundraiser that draws inspiration from these Prohibition tales.
🏛️ From Cane Chronicles to Prohibition Tales: Unveiling the Legacy of John L. Lewis 🔍
Closing our exploration, we delve into the complex persona of John L. Lewis, the final private owner of the house, whose leadership in the labor movement left an indelible mark on American history. His intriguing cane collection offers a physical connection to the past, with each piece holding its own hidden narrative, including a cane with a secret message that sheds light on the intimate bond between historic figures and their cherished possessions. Prepare to connect with history in a way you've never experienced before, as these artifacts bridge the gap between yesterday's stories and today's reflections.
🔗 Episode Links:
Lee-Fendall House Gardens & Museum: https://leefendallhouse.org/
The Medical and Surgical History of the War of the Rebellion, (1861-65): https://archive.org/details/b21934629_0003Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Step into the glittering past of Las Vegas and discover how the city's infamous mobsters played a pivotal role in its rise to fame. Our journey chronicles the visionaries like Meyer Lansky and Bugsy Siegel, who laid the foundations of modern Vegas, and the likes of Moe Dalitz and Benny Binion, who left indelible marks on the city's landscape. Listen to the tales of ambition, power, and downfall that encapsulate the era when the mob ran the roost - a time that forever changed the face of this desert oasis and turned it into an international haven for entertainment and sin.
🔒 Unlocking America's Criminal Underbelly
This episode offers a rare glimpse into Al Capone's empire-building tactics, where talent trumped ethnicity and law enforcement's battle against the cunning of organized crime led to monumental advancements in policing. We don't just recount these tales; we dissect the symbiotic evolution of criminal enterprises and crime-fighting techniques that have shaped American society. Join us for a narrative that juxtaposes the mob's ruthless reality with its glamorized pop culture image, revealing the true cost of crime.🔗 Episode Links:
Mob Museum https://themobmuseum.org/Send us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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Step into the quirky and captivating realm of the Poozeum, where fossilized feces are not only objects of curiosity but also a cultural phenomenon reshaping our understanding of natural history. Guiding you through this journey is your host Ayla Sparks and Coprolite Captain George Frandsen, who boasts an extraordinary repository of over 8,000 coprolites and holds two Guinness World records.
💩 Unveiling the Secrets of Fossilized Droppings
These coprolites aren't your garden-variety rocks; they're fossilized droppings that offer a unique glimpse into the diets and lifestyles of ancient earthlings. In this episode, we delve into George's remarkable journey—from his first encounter with a coprolite to his ascent as a world record holder.🦕 VIP's (Very Important Poops)
Witness the transformation of this unparalleled collection from a digital marvel to a dynamic traveling exhibit, breathing new life into museum halls and captivating audiences of all ages. Prepare to be amazed by the tales of these fossil VIPs (Very Important Poops), from specimens bearing evidence of shark bites to the largest coprolite fossil in the world.🏆 Securing a Guinness World Record...of Feces!
George shares the meticulous process behind earning a coveted spot in the Guinness World Records and extends an open invitation to explore the Poozeum's offerings. Whether you're a seasoned natural history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the educational and unconventional, this episode promises a story unlike any other.
🔗 Episode Links
Poozeum website: https://poozeum.com
Turtle Shell Impression in a Coprolite by Godfrey, Weems, and Palmer: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10420940.2017.1386662?scroll=top&needAccess=true
Poozeum Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PoozeumSend us a text
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Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers
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