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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/



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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/11248

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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/



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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/

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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/@mwmpsu

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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_speech

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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 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. 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 Decor

    Cavern 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.

    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.

    The Great Stalacpipe Organ

    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!

    Episode Links:

    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

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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 🎭
    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 Links

    Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum: https://www.poeinbaltimore.org/Complete Works of Poe: https://poemuseum.org/poes-complete-works/

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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/yh37capm


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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/

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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/

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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.org



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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.

    🚦 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:

    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.



    🔗 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.org

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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.com

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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_0003

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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/

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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/Poozeum


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  • 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 dimmed.

    🏡 Cottage-Style Design and Daily Keeper Lives 💡
    Step into the quaint quarters of the Drum Point Lighthouse and explore the ingenious screw pile cottage-style design that anchored it in the soft silt of the Chesapeake Bay. Experience the daily challenges of isolation faced by the keepers and delve into their captivating stories forever etched in lighthouse logbooks.


    📚 U.S. Lighthouse Service Library Box 📖
    Explore the day-to-day life of the Weems and Yeatman families who made it their home. Their narratives, marked by ingenuity and resilience, reveal the reality of living in isolation, relying on innovative solutions for supply deliveries, and the comfort brought by the US Lighthouse Service Library boxes – a fascinating traveling library that brought literary treasures to the keepers and their families.

    📜 A Legacy Preserved 🖋️
    Through meticulous record-keeping and relics from the Drum Point Lighthouse, this episode pieces together a life of reliance on the Chesapeake's bounty, the innovative use of fog warning systems, and the personal triumphs amidst societal upheavals, including Prohibition and World War II. Heartwarming heroics and lively tales of illicit activities color the history of these guardians of the light.

    🔗 Episode Links
    Calvert Marine Museum: https://www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/

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  • 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 left an indelible mark on the Gulf Coast.

    🌊 Maritime Saga: Red Snapper Industry
    Step into the past with vibrant tales of Pensacola's maritime saga, where the red snapper industry reigned supreme before succumbing to overfishing and ecological challenges. We canvas the transformative impact of trains on the local economy and share the poignant history of brick making in a sandy region. The rise of the Pensacola Ice Company and its revolutionary fish preservation methods unfold, painting a picture of innovation amidst adversity. The Museum of Industry stands as a testament to these stories, with artifacts that connect you to a time of bustling industry and cultural richness.

    ☠️ Pirate Archaeology and Turpentine?
    Shift to the darker side of the Gulf of Mexico as we explore pirate archaeology and the turpentine industry's reliance on penal labor. Discover the realities of the pirate's life beyond romanticized tales through the co-authored book "Deadman's Chest." Jess Cragg's insights provide a unique lens into the past that continues to shape the present and future of this coastal gem.


    🔗 Episode Links:
    "Dead Man's Chest: Exploring the Archaeology of Piracy" Co-authored by Jess Cragg: https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/227/edited_volume/book/111420

    Guest:
    Jessie Cragg earned her Bachelors in History, with a minor in Archaeology, from the University of Georgia. She earned her Master's in History/Public History from the University of West Florida, focusing on colonial and early republic maritime history. She has previously worked for Gulf Islands National Seashore, the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, and Emerald Coast Tours but is currently the Curator of Exhibits at the UWF Historic Trust. She also serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Pensacola History Illustrated, a publication of the Historic Trust. She is currently the Vice President of the Northwest Florida Maritime Landscape Alliance for Preservation, and recently co-authored a book chapter with Mike Thomin on identifying pirates in the archaeological record. Jessie is also a certified SCUBA diver, and is about to start the Heritage Awareness Diver specialty course, so while not at work she spends most of her spare time under the water.

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    Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers

  • 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 that tell tales of early travelers' resourcefulness—this episode is a treasure trove for aficionados of motion and mechanics. Rod illuminates how the humble pursuits of the common man have propelled society forward, with artifacts that echo the cultural reverberations of their era.

    🕰️ Uncovering History: The 1898 Benz Vis a Vis

    Dive into the intriguing story behind the 1898 Benz Vis a Vis, a vehicle with roots tracing back to Carl Benz, often regarded as the father of the modern automobile. Learn how the Vis a Vis, meaning "face to face" in French, reflects the evolution of the automobile industry from horse-drawn carriages to the front-facing designs we know today. Explore the unique features that make this vehicle a timeless piece of automotive history.

    🏰 Opulence Among Nobility: The Berlin Coupe de Gala

    Switching gears (pun intended), we unravel the fascinating history of the mid-18th-century gilded coach—the Berlin Coupe de Gala. This opulent Berlin Carriage revolutionized travel for Portuguese nobility, incorporating a leather strap suspension system Remarkably, this carriage stands as one of the oldest on permanent display in the United States!

    #CuratorsChoice #RoadwayTravel #TransportationHistory #CarMuseum #ArtOnWheels #BenzVisaVis #BerlinCoupeDeGala #PortugueseNobility #GildedCoach #PodcastJourney

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    Curator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers