During this uncertain time, stories of human survival—especially in times of sheer hopelessness—can provide an uplifting swell throughout long periods of tedium and fear. This one, in particular, redefines the term: perseverance.
Tag: History
Ten Interesting Facts About the 1918 Flu Pandemic
The Spanish Flu wreaked havoc on an unsuspecting audience between the years of 1918 and 1919. While flu viruses are common, this particular strain proved deadly—and was an eerie foreshadowing of things to come.
A Swindler’s Folly: The Underwater Ballroom of Whitaker Wright
Near the English village of Witley, a sprawling, 9,000-acre estate plays host to one of Britain’s most unique structures. Hidden beneath one of the property’s three artificial lakes, lies an ornate underwater smoking room and parlor with an elaborate “ballroom” dome as its focal point. The only indication that something may rest below the surface is an ornate statue of Neptune that stands guard above the hidden structure.
Devil in a Green Dress: A Brief History of Absinthe
There was a time when you’d have to be mad to take a swig from a bottle of absinthe. However, the once-forbidden anise-flavored spirit has experienced a resurgence in popularity and is now the go-to tipple for many partygoers – from bachelorette parties to golden wedding anniversaries. But how did it get here?
The Elegant Tradition of Mime in Ballet
In order to grasp the intricacies of the art of ballet, one must truly understand and appreciate the elements that have been incorporated into its delicate folds since its creation nearly 600 years ago. One such element has managed to leave a particularly indelible impression.
Book Your Stay in a Restored 17th-Century Monastery in Québec
A haven of heritage and hospitality awaits guests of Le Monastère des Augustines, a hotel and wellness center operating out of the historic wings of a former monastery in Québec City.
Marina Amaral: Breathing Life Into Historic Moments
Digital colorist Marina Amaral believes that “color has the power to bring life back to the most important moments.” The self-taught young artist is described as the “Master of Photo Colorization” and has amassed a following of over a quarter of a million fans from around the world.
A Brief History of Saint Valentine’s Day
Few patron saints have birthed polarizing legacies as lasting as Saint Valentine. Valentine’s Day, or Saint Valentine’s Day, is a recognized holiday, occurring each year on February 14, wherein lovers exchange gifts and indulge in pleasantries. Alternatively, the unattached are often left to feel castigated for their failures to find a partner. Whatever your thoughts on the occasion, Saint Valentine’s history is as important as it is fascinating and murky.
Tupelo, MS: The Humble Birthplace of the King of Rock and Roll
When most people think of Elvis Presley, they picture him in his famous Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee – a symbol of opulence and prestige. It may come as a surprise, however, that the “King” wasn’t born into the wealthy lifestyle that was virtually synonymous with his fame.
Shackleton’s Hut: Home to Hundred-Year-Old Frozen Whisky
In August of 1907, Irish Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton and his crew set sail on their 200 ton-ship, the “Nimrod,” in an attempt to be the first expedition to reach the geographic South Pole. Shackleton and his small team were met with many hardships, but also achieved many “firsts,” including climbing Mount Erebus, the world’s southernmost volcano.