What was the Underground Railroad, really? Beyond the imagery of secret routes and hidden safe houses, it was a complex network of people, places, and powerful codes—codes in words, songs, and even the stars. Join us in today's episode at the Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center in Cambridge, MD. 🌊 Moses of Her People 💪🏾 In this episode, we delve into the stories of Harriet Tubman, known as the Moses of her people, and explore how faith, resilience, and ingenuity helped guide countless ...
Dec 04, 2024•32 min•Ep. 66
What if you could step back in time to a farm where history, medicine, and agriculture intertwine? Join us as we uncover the remarkable legacy of the Remick family, who have tended their northern New England farm since 1790. Through stories of resilience and dedication, we spotlight Edwin Remick and his son, Edwin Crafts Remick, the country doctors who served their community for nearly a century, adapting to the challenges of rural healthcare while embracing the spirit of innovation and care. 🌾...
Nov 19, 2024•41 min
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...
Nov 06, 2024•29 min•Ep. 64
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 t...
Oct 23, 2024•54 min
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 E...
Oct 09, 2024•28 min•Ep. 62
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...
Sep 25, 2024•55 min•Ep. 61
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 entrepren...
Sep 11, 2024•48 min•Ep. 60
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 evoluti...
Aug 28, 2024•37 min•Ep. 59
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 Gall...
Aug 14, 2024•31 min•Ep. 58
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 Muse...
Jul 31, 2024•36 min•Ep. 57
📅 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 circumsta...
Jul 16, 2024•43 min•Ep. 56
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 Chasers Luray Caverns was discovered on August 13th, 1878 by three local men: Andrew J. Campbell (a local tinsmith), William Campbell, and local photographer Benton Stebbins. Th...
Jul 02, 2024•42 min•Ep. 55
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 🎭 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 Tel...
Jun 18, 2024•40 min•Ep. 54
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 ...
Jun 04, 2024•32 min•Ep. 53
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 h...
May 22, 2024•47 min•Ep. 52
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 wo...
May 07, 2024•38 min
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 jui...
Apr 23, 2024•52 min
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 evolut...
Apr 09, 2024•31 min•Ep. 49
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 dentis...
Mar 27, 2024•32 min
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 ...
Mar 12, 2024•26 min•Ep. 47
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 des...
Feb 27, 2024•31 min•Ep. 46
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'r...
Feb 13, 2024•37 min•Ep. 45
Step aboard a journey through time as we illuminate the remarkable tale of the Drum Point Lighthouse! Your host Ayla Sparks and guest Kevin Allor guide you through the immersive chronicles of this iconic beacon and the dedicated souls who tended to its flame. From guiding vessels through the Chesapeake Bay's misty waters in the 1800s to its triumphant resurgence following years of neglect, the Drum Point Lighthouse's saga is as captivating as the resilient keepers who ensured its luminance never...
Jan 30, 2024•44 min•Ep. 44
Discover a treasure trove of history as your host Ayla Sparks, along with guest Jess Cragg, take you through the industrial evolution of Pensacola, Florida. Our episode unearths how the Industrial Revolution reshaped a fort town into a center of progress, revealing the ingenuity behind Snapper Smacks and the monumental role of trains like the T.R. Miller Mill Company Steam Engine #12. As we walk through time, you'll be captivated by the narratives of industries, from timber to turpentine, that l...
Jan 16, 2024•50 min•Ep. 43
On today’s episode, join host Ayla Sparks as she embarks on a captivating journey through the evolution of roadway travel at the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum in Luray, Virginia. Our guest, Rod Graves, takes us on a tour of this remarkable institution, showcasing over 140 items that paint a vivid picture of transportation history. From the opulent mid-18th century Berlin Coup de Gala, emblematic of Portuguese nobility's grandeur, to the utilitarian charm of horsehair blankets and coal boxes th...
Jan 02, 2024•23 min•Ep. 42
Curator’s Choice is back and better than ever! We're thrilled to unveil a fresh design, upgraded mic equipment, and an array of new museums and artifacts to share with you. Get ready for some upcoming highlights, including a visit to the Poozeum – yes, you heard that right! We'll also be exploring the enchanting Drum Point Lighthouse, the delectable Southern Food and Beverage Museum, and so much more. Could an interview with the Smithsonian Museum be in the cards? From ancient relics to modern m...
Jan 02, 2024•4 min
Continuing our trek in Luray, Virginia, I meet with Isabela Graves from the Shenandoah Heritage Village Museum. She shares the incredible work she and her husband have been doing to preserve the history of the valley, and some truly spectacular artifacts housed there. Shenandoah Heritage Village The Shenandoah Heritage Village is a seven-acre re-creation of a small 19th-century farming community made up of restored historic buildings, cottage-style gardens, and a small vineyard with a scenic mou...
Jun 07, 2022•26 min•Ep. 41
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 Chasers Luray Caverns was discovered on August 13th, 1878 by three local men: Andrew J. Campbell (a local tinsmith), William Campbell, and local photographer Benton Stebbins. Th...
May 17, 2022•42 min•Ep. 40
This week we meet with Julia Rose at the Marietta House Museum. “Marietta House Museum houses the histories of multiple generations of families, free and enslaved, who lived and labored on the roughly 600 acres that made up Marietta Manor. The historic site holds the stories of how life was lived in agricultural Maryland from the Federal Era, Antebellum years, Civil War period, Jim Crow and Reconstruction through to the rise of the modern Civil Rights era in the early 20th century.” The work don...
May 03, 2022•40 min•Ep. 39
This week we meet with Robert Hicks, the previous Director of the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia. The Museum contains a collection of anatomical and pathological specimens, wax models, and antique medical equipment, and is part of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. Along with the many preserved specimens in the macabre repository, you can find the liver of conjoined twins Chang and Eng Bunker, a 40 lb colon, and anthropodermic books (or books bound in human skin). Robert shares with us th...
Apr 20, 2022•49 min•Ep. 38
