Have you ever wondered about Orchard House, the property that inspired “Little Women” author Louisa May Alcott? Why not take a virtual trip to Concord, Massachusetts, and visit it for yourself?
Tag: History
New Acropolis Lighting System Creates a Vision of Athens–After Dark
Athens, Greece, has long been a heralded site in history: the center of early civilization and epic tales of fortified gods living among men. To today’s viewing audience, the mighty Acropolis of Athens is a rousing mixture of futurism and tradition, sitting stoically against a twenty-first-century landscape of modernity and contemporary life. The building system’s various structures, which have been under construction for the better part of 50 years thanks to the Acropolis Restoration Project, is now in the midst of another revision. And this one might be the most illuminating update of them all.
La Calavera Catrina: Mexico’s Lady of the Dead
Often referred to as the Grande Dame of Death, La Calavera Catrina (the “elegant skull”)—or, simply, La Catrina—is frequently seen throughout the streets of Mexico during the Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, celebrations. You’ve likely seen the face before: an eerie meld of macabre and charm; fear and poise. But from where did this deathly figure emerge? What does she stand for? And why has she become such a ubiquitous part of Mexican culture?
Alice Liddell: The Little Girl Who Helped Launch a Literary Icon
When searching the centuries for suitable examples, Alice Liddell is perhaps not the most likely of literary muses. Few children are. But it was her natural charm and, most significantly, her wondrous sense of curiosity that endeared her to Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known by his pen name, Lewis Carroll. In fact, little Alice proved to be such an inspiration to the budding English writer and mathematician, that had the two not been introduced during the mid-1800s, the world of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” might never have come to be.
Raise a Glass (Finally): The Allure of Tuscany’s Wine Windows
As the rest of the world continues to power through the COVID-19 pandemic, a delightful and intoxicating respite has returned to Italy — one of the planet’s most ravaged and earliest hit countries — in the form of tiny windows scattered throughout the luscious Tuscany region. The surprise awaiting imbibers on the other end of the opening is vino, pure and simple. A staple beverage that is ubiquitous to Italy; presented, with discreet charm, in a historic display that seems to indicate that things, finally, might just be returning to normal.
Don’t Shoot Portland Presents ‘Stop Killing Us’ Installation
2020 has ushered in a renewed uprising against systemic racism, social injustice, and excessive police force. As the “Black Lives Matter” movement gains momentum all over the United States and abroad, Portland has taken center stage for its unwavering stand for change. Don’t Shoot Portland, a nonprofit civil rights agency, is collaborating with Portland-based HOLDING Contemporary on its second exhibit in a series designed to shine a light on injustice.
The History of Graceland, Elvis’ Iconic Memphis Hideaway
There are only a handful of private residences that have the name recognition and cultural significance of Graceland. It’s not the White House or Buckingham Palace, but as an architectural wonder and symbol of one of the planet’s most popular and innovative musicians, this Memphis mansion has certainly earned its standing amongst royalty.
The Lorraine Motel Five Decades After MLK’s Assassination
The National Civil Rights Museum is an intricate complex of historic buildings in Memphis, Tennessee. At the heart of this structure, located at 450 Mulberry Street, is the Lorraine Motel, a site which, despite its unassuming name, has become the unintentional epicenter of one of the most important moments in American history. The significance of this humble-looking motor lodge is immense.
19 Grim Dollhouses Tell the Story of the ‘Mother of Forensics’
Over the years, the advancements made in crime scene studies have helped capture countless criminals and brought justice to an even greater number of victims and their families. Frances Glessner Lee, a curator of dollhouse-sized crime scene dioramas, is perhaps one of the least likely candidates to serve this role. At first glance, that is.
Rosie the Riveter: A Profile of the Woman With the Red Bandana
Her face looks familiar to you. You can decipher her message. You may have even heard her name. But how many of you can honestly say you know who Rosie the Riveter was—or how she came to be? The answer may not be as simple as you think.