An Adventure Through History - by Sieglers.com

Major Liquidation Sale

2006-08-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give my History Buffs a heads-up - We are having a really big Liquidation Sale at sieglers.com. Most of our merchandise is priced right around cost - savings of up to 80% off retail!

This Day in History: May 26, 1896

2006-05-26T13:36:00.002-07:00

Czar Nicholas II crowned

Nicholas II, the last czar, is crowned ruler of Russia in the old Ouspensky Cathedral in Moscow.

Nicholas was neither trained nor inclined to rule, which did not help the autocracy he sought to preserve in an era desperate for change. Born in 1868, he succeeded to the Russian throne upon the death of his father, Czar Alexander III, in November 1894. That same month, the new czar married Alexandra, a German-born princess who came to have great influence over her husband. After a period of mourning for his late father, Nicholas and Alexandra were crowned czar and czarina in May 1896.

As the ruler of Russia, Nicholas resisted calls for reform and sought to maintain czarist absolutism; although he lacked the strength of will necessary for such a task. The disastrous outcome of the Russo-Japanese War led to the Russian Revolution of 1905, which Nicholas only diffused after approving a representative assembly--the Duma--and promising constitutional reforms. The czar soon retracted these concessions and repeatedly dissolved the Duma, contributing to the growing public support enjoyed by the Bolsheviks and other revolutionary groups.

In 1914, Nicholas led his country into another costly war--World War I--and discontent grew as food became scarce, soldiers became war-weary, and devastating defeats at the hands of Germany demonstrated the ineffectiveness of Russia under Nicholas. In 1915, the czar personally took over command of the army, leaving the Czarina Alexandra in control at home. Her unpopular court was dominated by the Russian mystic Rasputin, who replaced the czar's competent ministers and officials with questionable nominees.

In March 1917, the army garrison at Petrograd joined striking workers in demanding socialist reforms, and Nicholas II was called on to abdicate. On March 15, he renounced the throne in favor of his brother Michael, whose refusal of the crown brought an end to the czarist autocracy in Russia. Nicholas, his wife, and children were held at the Czarskoye Selo palace by Russia's Provincial Government and in August moved to Tobolsk in Western Siberia under pressure from the Petrograd Soviet, the powerful coalition of soldiers' and workers' councils that shared power with the Provincial Government in the first stage of the Russian Revolution.

In November 1917, the Bolsheviks led by Vladimir Lenin seized power in Russia and set about establishing the world's first communist state. In April 1918, Nicholas and his family were transferred to Yekaterinburg in the Urals, which sealed their doom. Civil war broke out in Russia in June 1918, and in July the anti-Bolshevik "White" Russian forces advanced on Yekaterinburg during a campaign against the Bolshevik forces. Local authorities were ordered to prevent a rescue of the Romanovs, and after a secret meeting by the Yekaterinburg Soviet, a death sentence was passed on the imperial family.

Just after midnight on July 17, Nicholas, Alexandra, their five children, and four family retainers were ordered to dress quickly and go down to the cellar of the house in which they were being held. There, the family and servants were arranged in two rows for a photograph they were told was being taken to quell rumors that they had escaped. Suddenly, a dozen armed men burst into the room and gunned down the imperial family in a hail of gunfire.

The remains of Nicholas, Alexandra, and three of their children were excavated in a forest near Yekaterinburg in 1991 and positively identified two years later using mtDNA fingerprinting. The Crown Prince Alexei and one Romanov daughter were not accounted for, fueling the persistent legend that Anastasia, the youngest Romanov daughter, had survived the execution of her family. Of the several "Anastasias" that surfaced in Europe in the decade after the Russian Revolution, Anna Anderson, who died in the United States in 1984, was the most convincing. In 1994, however, scientists used mtDNA to prove that Anna Anderson was not Anastasia but a Polish woman named Franziska Schanzkowska.

From The History Channel

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Still very busy at work. I will try to post when I can!

Have a great long weekend!

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This Day in History: May 18, 1860

2006-05-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

Lincoln nominated for presidency

Abraham Lincoln, a one-time U.S. representative from Illinois, is nominated for the U.S. presidency by the Republican National Convention meeting in Chicago, Illinois. Hannibal Hamlin of Maine was nominated for the vice presidency.

Lincoln, a Kentucky-born lawyer and former Whig representative to Congress, first gained national stature during his campaign against Democratic Senator Stephen Douglas of Illinois for a U.S. Senate seat in 1858. The senatorial campaign featured a remarkable series of public encounters on the slavery issue, known as the Lincoln-Douglas debates, in which Lincoln argued against the spread of slavery while Douglas maintained that each territory should have the right to decide whether it would become free or slave. Lincoln lost the Senate race, but his campaign brought national attention to the young Republican Party. In 1860, Lincoln won the party's presidential nomination.

In the November election, Lincoln again faced Douglas, who represented the Northern faction of a heavily divided Democratic Party, as well as Southern Democrat John C. Breckinridge and Constitutional Union candidate John Bell. On November 6, 1860, Lincoln defeated his opponents with only 40 percent of the popular vote, becoming the first Republican to win the presidency. The announcement of Lincoln's victory signaled the secession of the Southern states, which since the beginning of the year had been publicly threatening secession if the Republicans gained the White House.

By the time of Lincoln's inauguration on March 4, 1861, seven states had seceded, and the Confederate States of America had been formally established, with Jefferson Davis as its elected president. One month later, the American Civil War began when Confederate forces under General P.G.T. Beauregard opened fire on Union-held Fort Sumter in South Carolina.

From The History Channel

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Yes. It's been a very long time. What happened? I got promoted! Which is really cool, but I've been horribly busy, and unfortunately the blog had to pay for it. Things are much more under control now, so I'll be able to be more consistent from now on. Thanks for your patience!

Right now San Diego is having what's called "May Gray". The marine layer from the ocean basically hovers over the city all day, and the sun barely comes out. It's really hard to be a midwestern transplant to have to deal with this, since I'm used to May weather being nice! Summer will be here soon, though...

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This Day in History: April 28, 1789

2006-04-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

Mutiny on the HMS Bounty

Three weeks into a journey from Tahiti to the West Indies, the HMS Bounty is seized in a mutiny led by Fletcher Christian, the master's mate. Captain William Bligh and 18 of his loyal supporters were set adrift in a small, open boat, and the Bounty set course for Tubuai south of Tahiti.

In December 1787, the Bounty left England for Tahiti in the South Pacific, where it was to collect a cargo of breadfruit saplings to transport to the West Indies. There, the breadfruit would serve as food for slaves. After a 10-month journey, the Bounty arrived in Tahiti in October 1788 and remained there for more than five months. On Tahiti, the crew enjoyed an idyllic life, reveling in the comfortable climate, lush surroundings, and the famous hospitality of the Tahitians. Fletcher Christian fell in love with a Tahitian woman named Mauatua.

On April 4, 1789, the Bounty departed Tahiti with its store of breadfruit saplings. On April 28, near the island of Tonga, Christian and 25 petty officers and seamen seized the ship. Bligh, who eventually would fall prey to a total of three mutinies in his career, was an oppressive commander and insulted those under him. By setting him adrift in an overcrowded 23-foot-long boat in the middle of the Pacific, Christian and his conspirators had apparently handed him a death sentence. By remarkable seamanship, however, Bligh and his men reached Timor in the East Indies on June 14, 1789, after a voyage of about 3,600 miles. Bligh returned to England and soon sailed again to Tahiti, from where he successfully transported breadfruit trees to the West Indies.

Meanwhile, Christian and his men attempted to establish themselves on the island of Tubuai. Unsuccessful in their colonizing effort, the Bounty sailed north to Tahiti, and 16 crewmen decided to stay there, despite the risk of capture by British authorities. Christian and eight others, together with six Tahitian men, a dozen Tahitian women, and a child, decided to search the South Pacific for a safe haven. In January 1790, the Bounty settled on Pitcairn Island, an isolated and uninhabited volcanic island more than 1,000 miles east of Tahiti. The mutineers who remained on Tahiti were captured and taken back to England where three were hanged. A British ship searched for Christian and the others but did not find them.

In 1808, an American whaling vessel was drawn to Pitcairn by smoke from a cooking fire. The Americans discovered a community of children and women led by John Adams, the sole survivor of the original nine mutineers. According to Adams, after settling on Pitcairn the colonists had stripped and burned the Bounty, and internal strife and sickness had led to the death of Fletcher and all the men but him. In 1825, a British ship arrived and formally granted Adams amnesty, and he served as patriarch of the Pitcairn community until his death in 1829.

In 1831, the Pitcairn islanders were resettled on Tahiti, but unsatisfied with life there they soon returned to their native island. In 1838, the Pitcairn Islands, which includes three nearby uninhabited islands, was incorporated into the British Empire. By 1855, Pitcairn's population had grown to nearly 200, and the two-square-mile island could not sustain its residents. In 1856, the islanders were removed to Norfolk Island, a formal penal colony nearly 4,000 miles to the west. However, less than two years later, 17 of the islanders returned to Pitcairn, followed by more families in 1864. Today, around 40 people live on Pitcairn Island, and all but a handful are descendants of the Bounty mutineers. About a thousand residents of Norfolk Island (half its population) trace their lineage from Fletcher Christian and the eight other Englishmen.

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Everyone have a fabulous weekend!

I know I will :)
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This Day in History: April 27, 1901

2006-04-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

Magellan killed in the Phillippines

After traveling three-quarters of the way around the globe, Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan is killed during a tribal skirmish on Mactan Island in the Philippines. Earlier in the month, his ships had dropped anchor at the Philippine island of Cebý, and Magellan met with the local chief, who after converting to Christianity persuaded the Europeans to assist him in conquering a rival tribe on the neighboring island of Mactan. In the subsequent fighting, Magellan was hit by a poisoned arrow and left to die by his retreating comrades.

Magellan, a Portuguese noble, fought for his country against the Muslim domination of the Indian Ocean and Morocco. He participated in a number of key battles and in 1514 asked Portugal's King Manuel for an increase in his pension. The king refused, having heard unfounded rumors of improper conduct on Magellan's part after a siege in Morocco. In 1516, Magellan again made the request and the king again refused, so Magellan went to Spain in 1517 to offer his services to King Charles I, later Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

In 1494, Portugal and Spain, at the prompting of Pope Alexander VI, settled disputes over newly discovered lands in America and elsewhere by dividing the world into two spheres of influence. A line of demarcation was agreed to in the Atlantic Ocean--all new discoveries west of the line were to be Spanish, and all to the east Portuguese. Thus, South and Central America became dominated by the Spanish, with the exception of Brazil, which was discovered by the Portuguese explorer Pedro ýlvares Cabral in 1500 and was somewhat east of the demarcation line. Other Portuguese discoveries in the early 16th century, such as the Moluccas Islands--the Spice Islands of Indonesia--made the Spanish jealous.

To King Charles, Magellan proposed sailing west, finding a strait through the Americas, and then continuing west to the Moluccas, which would prove that the Spice Islands lay west of the demarcation line and thus in the Spanish sphere. Magellan knew that the world was round but underestimated its size, thinking that the Moluccas must be situated just west of the American continent, not on the other side of a great uncharted ocean. The king accepted the plan, and on September 20, 1519, Magellan set sail from Spain in command of five ships and 270 men.

Magellan sailed to West Africa and then to Brazil, where he searched the South American coast for a strait that would take him to the Pacific. He searched the Rýo de la Plata, a large estuary south of Brazil, for a way through; failing, he continued south along the coast of Patagonia. At the end of March 1520, the expedition set up winter quarter at Port St. Julian. On Easter day at midnight, the Spanish captains mutinied against their Portuguese captain, but Magellan crushed the revolt, executing one of the captains and leaving another ashore when his ship left St. Julian in August.

On October 21, he finally discovered the strait he had been seeking. The Strait of Magellan, as it became known, is located near the tip of South America, separating Tierra del Fuego and the continental mainland. Only three ships entered the passage; one had been wrecked and another deserted. It took 38 days to navigate the treacherous strait, and when ocean was sighted at the other end Magellan wept with joy. He was the first European explorer to reach the Pacific Ocean from the Atlantic. His fleet accomplished the westward crossing of the ocean in 99 days, crossing waters so strangely calm that the ocean was named "Pacific," from the Latin word pacificus, meaning "tranquil." By the end, the men were out of food and chewed the leather parts of their gear to keep themselves alive. On March 6, 1521, the expedition landed at the island of Guam. Ten days later, they reached the Philippines--they were only about 400 miles from the Spice Islands.

After Magellan's death, the survivors, in two ships, sailed on to the Moluccas and loaded the hulls with spice. One ship attempted, unsuccessfully, to return across the Pacific. The other ship, the Victoria, continued west under the command of the Basque navigator Juan Sebastiýn de Elcano. The vessel sailed across the Indian Ocean, rounded the Cape of Good Hope, and arrived at Seville on September 9, 1522, becoming the first ship to circumnavigate the globe.

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My co-worker says that Magellan was killed in the Phillippines because "he had too much fun over there"...

Sorry there was no post yesterday. I’ve been so busy lately!

It’s cold and gray in San Diego today. Again! Why does this keep happening?
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This Day in History: April 25, 1901

2006-04-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

New York is the first state to require license plates

In the United States, the first license plates used on automobiles were seen in New York, in 1901. The first NY plates actually had no numbers. From 1901 through 1902, the plates were usually leather pads or flat metal plates, with attached letters indicating the initials of the car owner. New York didn't actually produce a state-issued license plate until 1910, when a cream on blue steel plate was made - undated, with riveted numbers. Plates in New York from 1901 through 1909 were owner-provided plates, usually referred to by plate collectors as "pre-states", because they were "pre-state issue".

Massachusetts and West Virginia were the first states to issue plates, in 1903. The earliest plates were made out of porcelain baked onto iron, or simple ceramic with no backing, which made them extremely fragile and impractical. Few examples of these earliest plates survive. Later materials experimented with include cardboard, leather, plastic, and during wartime shortages, copper and pressed soybeans.

Earlier plates varied in size and even shape from one jurisdiction to the next, such that if one moved, new holes would be needed drilled into the bumper to support the new plate. Standardization of plates came in 1957, when automobile manufacturers came to agreement with governments and international standards organizations. Our standard, the one used in the bulk of the Western Hemisphere countries, is six by 12 inches.

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I just came across this little event, and while it’s not incredibly historically significant, it’s rather interesting, don’t you think?

Today is a very un-San Diego day. Cloudy and chilly. Ick. It makes me want to curl up on the couch and watch movies. Maybe Casablanca? ;)
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This Day in History: April 24, 1942

2006-04-24T16:46:00.000-07:00

Ingrid Bergman signs on for Casablanca
Ingrid Bergman signs with Warner Bros. to play Ilsa, opposite Humphrey Bogart, in Casablanca (1942). Bergman was under contract with David O. Selznick, but he allowed her to do Casablanca in exchange for the right to use Warner Bros.' Olivia de Havilland in another film.

Bergman was born in Sweden, orphaned at a young age, and raised by family. After high school, she attended the Royal Dramatic Theater School and just a year later was landing lead roles in Swedish films. Her performance in Intermezzo (1936) so impressed David O. Selznick that he invited her to Hollywood to reprise her role in the U.S version. In 1937, she married a Swedish dentist, and the couple had a daughter.

In Hollywood, she soon won acclaim for roles in films like For Whom the Bell Tolls (1943); Gaslight (1944), for which she won an Oscar; and Notorious (1946). Her career came to a sudden halt in 1949, however, when she left her husband for Italian director Roberto Rossellini. She and Rossellini married the following year and had three children, one of whom is actress and model Isabella Rossellini.

Bergman's desertion of her family provoked an outcry in an America already concerned about the scandalous behavior of Hollywood stars. No U.S. studio would touch her, but she starred in Italian films directed by her husband-none of which were successful. After seven years, she pulled off an unexpected comeback, appearing in Anastasia (1956) as an amnesiac refugee who claimed to be the daughter of the late Czar. She won an Academy Award and continued to appear in U.S. films. She won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1974 for Murder on the Orient Express. She died in 1982 after a long battle with cancer.

From HistoryChannel.com

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I must admit that I’ve never seen Casablanca. I should really get around to it!

San Diego weather this weekend was super nice. There was some rain on Saturday night but on Saturday and Sunday during the day it was perfect. I can’t wait for summer! I live a block and a half from the beach. :P

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p.p.s. This item is also $10 off right now…

This Day in History: April 21, 1926

2006-04-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

Queen Elizabeth II is born

From Wikipedia

Elizabeth II (Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor), born on 21 April 1926, is Queen of sixteen independent nations known as the Commonwealth Realms. These are the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. By the Statute of Westminster 1931 she holds these positions equally; no one nation takes precedence over any other.

She became Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan and Ceylon upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February 1952. As other colonies of the British Commonwealth (now Commonwealth of Nations) attained independence from the UK during her reign she acceded to the newly created thrones as Queen of each respective realm so that throughout her 54 years on the throne she has been Monarch of 32 nations. Elizabeth II has seen a number of her former territories and realms leave this shared relationship and become kingdoms under a different dynasty, or republics. (See Commonwealth Realm — Former Commonwealth Realms.)

Today about 128 million people live in the 16 countries of which she remains Head of State.

She also holds the positions of Head of the Commonwealth, Supreme Governor of the Church of England, Lord of Mann and Duke of Lancaster.

She is currently the second-longest-serving head of state in the world, after King Bhumibol of Thailand and the fourth-longest serving British monarch (after Queen Victoria, King George III and King James VI of Scotland). Her reign of over half a century has seen ten different Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom and numerous Prime Ministers in the other Commonwealth Realms of which she is or was Head of State.

Also here are some really interesting facts about her life I thought I should share:
From ABC News

1. Blowin' Out The Candles Twice? — The queen's real birthday is on April 21, but will be officially celebrated this summer. No, it has nothing to do with more cake. The tradition of having an official birthday on a different date began for practical reasons. Monarchs who had their birthdays in the winter months often encountered problems due to cold, wet weather spoiling parades and other outdoor celebrations. This year the queen will blow out another set of candles on June 17.

2. Life's a Party — Over the course of her reign, more than 1 million people have attended garden parties hosted by the queen. In 2002 the queen went all out for her Golden Jubilee (50 years in power) by having a concert open to the public in the lush gardens of Buckingham Palace. It wasn't all bagpipes or classical music either —the queen attended the pop concert featuring rock icons Ozzy Osbourne, Paul McCartney, Elton John and Phil Collins.

3. Blue Ribbon Overload — Since 1952, the queen has gathered over 387,700 honors and awards. And it's not only for her stable of horses or collection of roses. The queen became the first member of the Royal Family to be awarded a gold disc from the recording industry for the record CD sales of the Golden Jubilee rock concert.

4. Air Miles Galore — As much as Queen Elizabeth II loves Scotland and her regal home in London, she's spent a good portion of her time in the air. The queen has traveled to 129 different countries on 256 official overseas visits. It seems like she's got a soft spot for maple syrup because the queen visited Canada 23 times vs. Australia 15 times.

5. From Sloths to Prawns: Gifts Fit for a Queen? — Live animals rank high among the more unusual gifts, including jaguars and sloths from Brazil, and two black beavers from Canada. Worry not, they're not parading around the gardens, they now live at the London zoo. It doesn't end there. The queen has also received pineapples, eggs, a box of snail shells, and prawns.

6. At The Wheel — Horses and custom-built, chauffered Rolls Royces and Bentleys are fine for outings but it wasn't always so. Queen Elizabeth learned how to drive in 1945 when she joined the Army. Speaking of transportation, the queen also ventured into the London subway. In May 1939, she and her governess Marion Crawford along with Princess Margaret dared to take the Tube.

7. Pretty Picture — Despite all of her official duties, the queen has found the time to pose for 139 official portraits during her lifetime. Her Majesty was just 7 years old when she sat for her first portrait in 1933.

8. Dogs vs. Cats — Dogs win out in the Royal household. The queen has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign, starting with Susan who was a present for her 18th birthday. Currently five corgis pad around the palace and in case you want to send them treats, they're called: Emma, Linnet, Monty, Holly and Willow.

9. Mad Scientist? — The queen has dabbled in science too. She's introduced a new breed of dog known as the "dorgi" when one of Her Majesty's corgis was mated with a dachshund. Cider, Berry, Candy and Vulcan all keep the five corgis company. This sounds like a doggie soap opera in the making.

10. Bling, Bling — The palaces rule but that's nothing compared to the piles of jewelry. Most are Crown Jewels and some were inherited but let it be known (J. Lo, you've got serious competition) that the queen has the largest pink diamond in the world. The tiaras may sparkle and shine but that's nothing compared to a necklace of large square cut aquamarines and diamonds with earrings (a gift from Brazil) that the queen last wore on her visit to monarch-less France in 2004.

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Happy Friday everyone! I’m really excited for this weekend. And today for lunch everyone at work is going to this super yummy restaurant called Brian’s and they have the best mac & cheese in the world. I’m not kidding about this.

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This Day in History: April 20, 1902

2006-04-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

Curies isolate radium:

On April 20, 1902, Marie and Pierre Curie successfully isolate radioactive radium salts from the mineral pitchblende in their laboratory in Paris. In 1898, the Curies discovered the existence of the elements radium and polonium in their research of pitchblende. One year after isolating radium, they would share the 1903 Nobel Prize in physics with French scientist A. Henri Becquerel for their groundbreaking investigations of radioactivity.

Marie Curie was born Marie Sklodowska in Warsaw, Poland, in 1867. The daughter of a physics teacher, she was a gifted student and in 1891 went to study at the Sorbonne in Paris. With highest honors, she received a degree in physical sciences in 1893 and in mathematics in 1894. That year she met Pierre Curie, a noted French physicist and chemist who had done important work in magnetism. Marie and Pierre married in 1895, marking the beginning of a scientific partnership that would achieve world renown.
Looking for a subject for her doctoral thesis, Marie Curie began studying uranium, which was at the heart of Becquerel's discovery of radioactivity in 1896. The term radioactivity, which describes the phenomenon of radiation caused by atomic decay, was in fact coined by Marie Curie. In her husband's laboratory, she studied the mineral pitchblende, of which uranium is the primary element, and reported the probable existence of one or more other radioactive elements in the mineral. Pierre Curie joined her in her research, and in 1898 they discovered polonium, named after Marie's native Poland, and radium.

While Pierre investigated the physical properties of the new elements, Marie worked to chemically isolate radium from pitchblende. Unlike uranium and polonium, radium does not occur freely in nature, and Marie and her assistant Andrý Debierne laboriously refined several tons of pitchblende in order to isolate one-tenth gram of pure radium chloride in 1902. On the results of this research, she was awarded her doctorate of science in June 1903 and later in the year shared the Nobel Prize in physics with her husband and Becquerel. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.
Pierre Curie was appointed to the chair of physics at the Sorbonne in 1904, and Marie continued her efforts to isolate pure, non-chloride radium. On April 19, 1906, Pierre Curie was killed in an accident in the Paris streets. Although devastated, Marie Curie vowed to continue her work and in May 1906 was appointed to her husband's seat at the Sorbonne, thus becoming the university's first female professor. In 1910, with Debierne, she finally succeeded in isolating pure, metallic radium. For this achievement, she was the sole recipient of the 1911 Nobel Prize in chemistry, making her the first person to win a second Nobel Prize.

She became interested in the medical applications of radioactive substances, working on radiology during World War I and the potential of radium as a cancer therapy. Beginning in 1918, the Radium Institute at the University of Paris began to operate under Curie's direction and from its inception was a major center for chemistry and nuclear physics. In 1921, she visited the United States, and President Warren G. Harding presented her with a gram of radium.

Curie's daughter, Irene Curie, was also a physical chemist and, with her husband, Frederic Joliot, was awarded the 1935 Nobel Prize in chemistry for the discovery of artificial radioactivity. Marie Curie died in 1934 from leukemia caused by four decades of exposure to radioactive substances.

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Hi, my name is Bettina, and I’m going to be taking over Cara’s position as “blogeteer”. I know that I have some pretty big shoes to fill!

I’m really excited to be working on this project. And of course, I’m always open to any suggestions or comments you might have.

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Well…we all know what the discovery of radioactive materials led to. Duck and cover with this Fallout shelter sign. Fortunately, those days are over, but there was something oddly calming about those yellow and black signs pointing the way to a safe haven. These high-gauge, enameled steel signs are nearly exact replicas of the 50's vintage originals. Ready to hang. Imported from England. 14"x10".

Also we have this "Radiation Safety in Shelters" book. It was published by FEMA in September, 1983 and is 128-pages long, but other than that, I have no idea what it’s about.

This Day in History: April 19, 1861

2006-04-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

First Blood in the Civil War

On April 19, 1861, the first blood of the American Civil War is shed when a secessionist mob in Baltimore attacks Massachusetts troops bound for Washington, D.C. Four soldiers and 12 rioters were killed.

One week earlier, on April 12, the Civil War began when Confederate shore batteries opened fire on Union-held Fort Sumter in South Carolina's Charleston Bay. During a 34-hour period, 50 Confederate guns and mortars launched more than 4,000 rounds at the poorly supplied fort. The fort's garrison returned fire, but lacking men, ammunition, and food, it was forced to surrender on April 13. There were no casualties in the fighting, but one federal soldier was killed the next day when a store of gunpowder was accidentally ignited during the firing of the final surrender salute. Two other federal soldiers were wounded, one mortally.

On April 15, President Abraham Lincoln issued a public proclamation calling for 75,000 volunteer soldiers to help put down the Southern "insurrection." Northern states responded enthusiastically to the call, and within days the 6th Massachusetts Regiment was en route to Washington. On April 19, the troops arrived in Baltimore, Maryland, by train, disembarked, and boarded horse-drawn cars that were to take them across the city to where the rail line picked up again. Secessionist sympathy was strong in Maryland, a border state where slavery was legal, and an angry mob of secessionists gathered to confront the Yankee troops.

Hoping to prevent the regiment from reaching the railroad station, and thus Washington, the mob blocked the carriages, and the troops were forced to continue on foot. The mob followed close behind and then, joined by other rioters, surrounded the regiment. Jeering turned to brick and stone throwing, and several federal troops responded by firing into the crowd. In the ensuing mayhem, the troops fought their way to the train station, taking and inflicting more casualties. At the terminal, the infantrymen were aided by Baltimore police, who held the crowd back and allowed them to board their train and escape. Much of their equipment was left behind. Four soldiers and 12 rioters were killed in what is generally regarded as the first bloodshed of the Civil War.

Maryland officials demanded that no more federal troops be sent through the state, and secessionists destroyed rail bridges and telegraph lines to Washington to hinder the federal war effort. In May, Union troops occupied Baltimore, and martial law was declared. The federal occupation of Baltimore, and of other strategic points in Maryland, continued throughout the war. Because western Marylanders and workingmen supported the Union, and because federal authorities often jailed secessionist politicians, Maryland never voted for secession. Slavery was abolished in Maryland in 1864, the year before the Civil War's end. Eventually, more than 50,000 Marylanders fought for the Union while about 22,000 volunteered for the Confederacy.--History Channel.
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Today is my last day here at Siegler & Co. It has been a great time working here, and I will miss it greatly, especially the readers here!

I wish you all well, and I hope they find a great person to take this over.
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Related Products

Check out our brass and copper CSA Bugle. Bugles like these once sounded the charge during the Civil War. Fully functional; ideal for calling the troops home for chow or waking up new recruits. Accurate replica complete with CSA (Confederate States of America) insignia and wreath and braided cord. Two-toned, crafted of copper and brass. 12" overall.

Next we have this Suede Civil War Kepi Cap in Union blue. Kepis, modeled after French officer's caps, were worn by soldiers on both sides during the Civil War. Hunched in the trenches, they raised their kepis with their rifles; if no one shot, it was safe to move. Our suede caps have a leather bill and strap across the front. Metal crossed rifles badge. Available in sizes S (6 7/8), M (7 1/8), L (7 3/8) and XL (7 5/8).

We also have this Suede civil War Kepi Cap in Confederate gray. This is also available in sizes S (6 7/8), M (7 1/8), L (7 3/8) and XL (7 5/8).

This Day in History: April 18, 1942

2006-04-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Doolittle leads air raid on Tokyo

The Doolittle Raid of April 18, 1942, was the first air raid by the United States to strike the Japanese home islands during World War II. The mission was notable in that it was the only operation in which United States Army Air Forces bombers were launched from a US Navy aircraft carrier. It was also the longest combat mission ever flown by the B-25 Mitchell bomber. The Doolittle Raid proved that the Japanese home islands were vulnerable to American retaliation for Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor Hawaii on December 7, 1941.

The raid was planned and led by Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, already a famous civilian aviator and aeronautical engineer before the war. However, the raid had its roots in the mind of Navy Captain Francis Low, who early in the war predicted that, under the right conditions, twin-engined Army bombers could be successfully launched from an aircraft carrier. Subsequent calculations by Doolittle indicated that the B-25 Mitchell could be launched from a carrier with a reasonable bomb load, hit military targets in Japan, and fly on to land in China.

The Doolittle raid did little material damage. Nevertheless, when the news of the raid was released, American morale soared from the depths to which it had plunged following the Pearl Harbor attack and subsequent territorial gains by the Japanese. The raid also had some strategic impact in that it caused the Japanese to recall some fighter units back to the home islands for defense; these reassignments subsequently weakened Japan's air capabilities against the Allies at the Battle of Midway and later Pacific Theater campaigns.

Go here to see an animated version of how this all took place. It is a pretty interesting animation!

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So I have some news that is at least sad to me. Tomorrow is my last day at Siegler & Co. I have received a job in Costa Mesa where I will be moving to after I graduate in May. This is a twist in my life that I have to take, and I hope it leads to great places. I will miss all of the readers here, and the friends on Myspace that I have made.

I am not sure who will be writing the blogs once I leave, but I am sure they will do a fantastic job! If you would like to keep in contact with me, leave me a comment and I will give you my personal email. Have a good day!
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Related Products

Check out our Doolittle Raiders autographed WWII photo. The Doolittle Raiders countered and struck five major Japanese cities after the attack on Pearl Harbor. They are presented in this photo, which is autographed by the three surviving members. Professionally framed and matted with certificate of authenticity. 8"x10" photograph; 11"x14" framed.

We also have this vintage aircraft nose art.A unique and interesting collection of color photos depicting a variety of warbird nose art. Over 1,000 wartime photos show art work close up, with explanations of art, aircraft, and pilots.

This Day in History: April 17, 1961

2006-04-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Bay of Pigs Invasion Begins

The Bay of Pigs invasion begins when a CIA-financed and -trained group of Cuban refugees lands in Cuba and attempts to topple the communist government of Fidel Castro. The attack was an utter failure.

Fidel Castro had been a concern to U.S. policymakers since he seized power in Cuba with a revolution in January 1959. Castro's attacks on U.S. companies and interests in Cuba, his inflammatory anti-American rhetoric, and Cuba's movement toward a closer relationship with the Soviet Union led U.S. officials to conclude that the Cuban leader was a threat to U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere. In March 1960, President Dwight D. Eisenhower ordered the CIA to train and arm a force of Cuban exiles for an armed attack on Cuba. John F. Kennedy inherited this program when he became president in 1961.

Though many of his military advisors indicated that an amphibious assault on Cuba by a group of lightly armed exiles had little chance for success, Kennedy gave the go-ahead for the attack. On April 17, 1961, around 1,200 exiles, armed with American weapons and using American landing craft, waded ashore at the Bay of Pigs in Cuba. The hope was that the exile force would serve as a rallying point for the Cuban citizenry, who would rise up and overthrow Castro's government. The plan immediately fell apart--the landing force met with unexpectedly rapid counterattacks from Castro's military, the tiny Cuban air force sank most of the exiles' supply ships, the United States refrained from providing necessary air support, and the expected uprising never happened. Over 100 of the attackers were killed, and more than 1,100 were captured.

The failure at the Bay of Pigs cost the United States dearly. Castro used the attack by the "Yankee imperialists" to solidify his power in Cuba and he requested additional Soviet military aid. Eventually that aid included missiles, and the construction of missile bases in Cuba sparked the Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962, when the United States and the Soviet Union nearly came to blows over the issue. Further, throughout much of Latin America, the United States was pilloried for its use of armed force in trying to unseat Castro, a man who was considered a hero to many for his stance against U.S. interference and imperialism. Kennedy tried to redeem himself by publicly accepting blame for the attack and its subsequent failure, but the botched mission left the young president looking vulnerable and indecisive. -www.HistoryChannel.com.
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In almost every single one of my communication classes this semester I have read about this, and how it was such a failure in group communication. Interesting to see it from a historical perspective, rather than just a communication strategy perspective.
I hope you all had a great weekend! I did. I was able to see an Easter Dog Costume Parade! It was great!!!
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Related Products

Check out our Limited-edition JFK collectible. This classic "Camelot" pose features a smiling JFK at the helm of the Manitou. Exclusive to us and limited to just 500 pieces. Featuring a 1964 Kennedy silver half-dollar, the rare, Eternal Flame JFK stamp and a numbered brass plaque/story card. Custom-matted and framed under glass. 11"x9".

Next we have this John F. Kennedy Pot Belly box.These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too. 2½"x2".

Lastly, we have this JFK silver dollar pocket watch. JFK's immortal image graces this handsome timepiece. The intricately embossed, chrome watchcase is set with a 90% silver JFK half dollar. Powered by a precision quartz movement with sweep-second hand. Fob chain included. Certificate of authenticity. One-year warranty.

This Day in History: April 14, 1865

2006-04-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

President Lincoln is Shot

Today in history, on April 14, 1865 President Abraham Lincoln was fatally shot by John Wilkes Booth, an actor and Confederate sympathizer, at Ford’s Theater in Washington D.C. This happened five days after Confederate General Robert E. Lee had surrendered at Appomattox, which ended the American Civil War.

Booth had originally planned to capture President Lincoln and take him to Richmond, the Confederate capital, however on March 20, 1865, the day of the planned kidnapping, the president did not appear where Booth and his fellow six conspirators were waiting for him. Two weeks later Richmond fell to Union forces, so Booth and his buddies needed a new plan.

By the time April came around the Confederate armies were near collapse in the South. Booth came up with a plan to save the Confederacy by killing Lincoln, his Vice President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William H. Seward when attending Laura Keene’s acclaimed performance in Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater on April 15, 1865. Booth though that he murdered the president and his two possible successors, that Booth and his buddies could throw the U.S. government into disarray.

On the evening of April 14, conspirator Lewis T. Powell broken into Secretary of State Seward's home and seriously wounded him and three others, while George A. Atzerodt, assigned to Vice President Johnson, lost his nerve and fled. Meanwhile, just after 10 p.m., Booth entered Lincoln's private theater box unnoticed, and shot the president with a single bullet in the back of his head.

Slashing an army officer who rushed at him, Booth jumped to the stage and shouted, "Sic semper tyrannis! [Thus always to tyrants]--the South is avenged!" Although Booth had broken his left leg jumping from Lincoln's box, he succeeded in escaping Washington.

After the shooting Lincoln was carried to a cheap lodging house across the street from Ford’s Theater. About 7:22 a.m. the next morning, he died—the first U.S. president to be assassinated. Booth was pursued by the army and secret
service forces and was finally cornered in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia, where he died from a possibly self-inflicted bullet wound as the barn was burned to the ground. Of the eight other persons eventually charged with the conspiracy, four were hanged and four were jailed.

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I am so excited that today is Friday. I had to study all night and all morning for a test I am taking today. I plan to go to sleep once I get home around 5pm. I doubt it will happen, but the idea is definitely helping my morning along.

Do you have any plans this weekend?

I am stuck studying more. I have a few papers to write, some presentations to prepare for, and another test to study for. Wish me luck!!
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Related Products

Check out our Abraham Lincoln Pot Belly box. hese handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too. 2½"x2".

This Day in History: April 13, 1743

2006-04-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

Thomas Jefferson is Born

Today in history, Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence, American statesman, ambassador to France, political philosopher, revolutionary, agriculturalist, horticulturist, land owner, architect, archaeologist, slave owner, author and founder of the University of Virginia was born on April 13, 1743.

Jefferson was among the most brilliant American exponents of the Enlightenment, the movement of 18th-century thought that emphasized the possibilities of human reason.

President John F. Kennedy who welcomed 49 Nobel Prize winners to the White House in 1962, said, "I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone."

A Virginia aristocrat, he had the time and resources to educate himself in history, literature, law, architecture, science, and philosophy; as a diplomat and friend of French and British intellectuals, he had direct access to European culture and thought; and as a provincial farmer and novice revolutionary leader, he had the motivation and the opportunity to apply Enlightenment political philosophy to the task of nation-building.

Thomas Jefferson wished to be remembered for three achievements in his public life. He had served as governor of Virginia, as U.S. minister to France, as secretary of state under George Washington, as vice-president in the administration of John Adams, and as president of the United States from 1801 to 1809. On his tombstone, however, which he designed and for which he wrote the inscription, there is no mention of these offices. Rather, it reads that Thomas Jefferson was "author of the Declaration of American Independence, of the Statute of Virginia for religious freedom, and Father of the University of Virginia" and, as he requested, "not a word more."

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Thomas Jefferson

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I am in a hurry getting this done, so I can’t write much more. Have a good day!!

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Related Products

Check out our Thomas Jefferson Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

Next we have this Library of Congress mirror.Our stately mirror draws on the architectural elements found in the Library of Congress. The graceful figures were inspired by the work of sculptor Lyon Pratt (1867-1917).Liber Delictatio Animae (Books, the Delight of the Soul) is inscribed on the Library. Rendered in artist-grade gypsum cement. 1

This Day in History: April 12, 1861

2006-04-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

American Civil War Begins

On April 12, 1861 the American Civil War began when Confederates fired on Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Fort Sumter had been the source of tension between the Union and Confederacy for several months. After South Carolina seceded, the state demanded Fort Sumter to be turned over but the Union officials refused. A supply ship, the "Star of the West," tried to reach Fort Sumter on January 9, but the shore batteries opened fire and drove it away. For both sides, Sumter was a symbol of sovereignty. The Union could not allow it to fall to the Confederates, although throughout the Deep South other federal installations had been seized.

For South Carolinians, secession didn’t mean much if the Yankees still held the stronghold. This issue hung in the air when Abraham Lincoln took the oath of office on March 4. In his in his inauguration he addressed the issue by saying: "You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors."

Lincoln did not try to send reinforcements but he did send in food. This way, Lincoln could characterize the operation as a humanitarian mission, bringing, in his words, "food for hungry men." He sent word to the Confederates in Charleston of his intentions on April 6.

The Confederate Congress at Montgomery, Alabama, had decided on February 15, 1861 that Sumter and other forts must be acquired "either by negotiation or force." Negotiation, it seemed, had failed. The Confederates demanded surrender of the fort, but Major Robert Anderson, commander of Fort Sumter, refused. At 4:30 a.m. on April 12, the Confederate guns opened fire. For thirty-three hours, the shore batteries lobbed 4,000 shells in the direction of the fort. Finally, the garrison inside the battered fort raised the white flag. No one on either side had been killed, although two Union soldiers died when the departing soldiers fired a gun salute, and some cartridges exploded prematurely. This was a nearly bloodless beginning to America's bloodiest war. –History Channel

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Fort Sumnter

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I forgot to buy lunch before coming here, and now I am starving. I just ordered some food from a place next door, so I am going to go get that now. Have a good one!!
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Related Products

Check out our Authentic Civil War bullets. Load your collection with these genuine relics from perhaps the most significant event in U.S. history. Four-piece set includes a musket ball and minie-bullet along with an exceedingly rare "William's Cleaner" bullet and a .52-caliber Sharp's bullet (used only by cavalrymen). Limited to just 1,865 poignant sets, each with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity. Handsome, 9"x6" presentation case. Two-piece set includes a musket ball and minie-bullet in a handsome, 3"x4" presentation case. Certificate of authenticity. After more than 130 years of slow oxidation, the lead has acquired a white patina. Protective lacquer finish to preserve them for posterity. Bullets approximately 1".

Next we have this Civil War cannon. This 1861 Civil War cannon is sure to fire up your décor. Polished metal barrel and wooden wheels, both moveable. Historically complete with a gunpowder loader and ramrod. Great for desk or mantel. Barrel 7"; overall 15". 2 lbs.

And lastly, we have these Confederate cavalry figures. Lead cast figurines, entirely hand-painted, seem to gallop off the pages of history. In exact 1:32 scale and historically accurate. Each comes to life with exquisite details, from uniform buckles to the horses' flowing manes. Confederate Cavalry features set of six troopers on horseback. 54 mm. For history and Civil War buffs alike.

This Day in History: April 11, 1814

2006-04-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Napoleon Bonaparte abdicated as emperor of France and was banished to the island of Elba

On April 11, 1814 Napoleon Bonaparte abdicated as emperor of France and was banished to the island of Elba.

Napoleon is famed for his military successes and for not quite conquering Europe. Starting as a second lieutenant in the French artillery, he rose quickly through the ranks until he became First Consul of France. (Later he crowned himself Emperor.) He led his armies to victory after victory, and by 1807 he ruled territory that stretched from Portugal to Italy and north to the river Elbe. But his attempts to conquer the rest of Europe failed; a defeat in Moscow in 1812 nearly destroyed his empire, and his 1815 loss to the Duke of Wellington at Waterloo finished the job. Due to this loss, he was forced to abdicate his power on April 11, and did so in favor of his son, and as part of an unconditional surrender forced upon him by his allies. In the Treaty of Fontainebleau that was signed after this, the victors exiled the Corsican to Elba, a small island in the Mediterranean 20 km off the coast of Italy. They let Napoleon keep the title of "Emperor" but restricted his empire to that tiny island.

Napoleon is considered to have been a military genius, and is known for commanding many successful campaigns, although he is also known for some spectacular failures, such as this. Aside from his military achievements, Napoleon is also remembered for the establishment of the Napoleonic Code, and is considered to have been one of the "enlightened monarchs".

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The picture up at the top is supposed to be how Napoleon looked when he was exiled to Elba. Apparently, he was pretty upset, and rightly so.

Anyway, I should be heading out; I have some things to wrap up.
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Related Products

Check out our Napoleon Bonaparte figure. Galloping off the pages of history, each lead figure is crafted and painted entirely by hand. In exact 1:32 scale (54mm) and historically accurate. Intricate details, like muscle tone on their mounts, facial expressions and gleaming weapons and instruments. Excellent additions to a collection, or a great starting point.

Next we have this Crown of Napoleon. When Emperor Napoleon went head to head with Tsar Alexander I, their crowns bumped with such force that it changed the course of European history. This miniature, handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, is an exact 1:12 scale replica of the actual crown of Napoleon. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

And lastly, we have this Napoleonic chess set. Relive the Battle of Waterloo. Hand-painted, molded resin figures capture exquisite detail, from the peaks of their hats to their boots. Inlaid walnut board. Felt-lined holder protects pieces inside storage drawer.

This Day in History: April 10, 1933

2006-04-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

Franklin D. Roosevelt Creates Civilian Conservation Corps

On April 10, 1933 President Franklin d. Roosevelt creates the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which was an innovative federally funded organization that gave thousands of Americans jobs during the Great Depression on projects that helped the environment.

FDR created the CCC as part of his administration’s “New Deal” plan for social and economic progress, to help America during its worst economic crisis. The part that FDR liked most about the CCC was that it supported his deep passion, environmental conservation.

The CCC was also known as “Roosevelt’s Tree Army”. It was open to unemployed, unmarried U.S. male citizens between the ages of 18 and 26. All recruits had to be healthy and were expected to perform hard physical labor. Blacks were placed in de-facto segregated camps, even though administrators denied the practice of discrimination.

Enlistment in the program was for a minimum of 6 months; many re-enlisted after their first term. Those were participated received $30 a month, and were also given a supplemental basic and vocational education while they served.

The CCC employees fought forest fires, planted trees, cleared and maintained access roads, re-seeded grazing lands, and implements soil-erosion controls under the guidance of the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture. The CCC also helped to build wildlife refuges, fish-rearing facilities, water storage basin and animal shelters. They also encouraged citizens to get out and enjoy America’s natural resources by building bridges and campground facilities.

From 1933 to 1942, the CCC employed over 3 million men. Of Roosevelt’s many New Deal policies, the CCC is considered by many to be one of the most enduring and successful. The CCC has provided the model for future state and federal conservation programs. Although it was so successful, the Congress discontinued its appropriations for the CCC in 1942 in order to divert the funds to World War II.

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the New Deal

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I hope everyone’s weekend went well. My weekend was alright. I had to say goodbye to Emily for 2 months on Saturday. She is heading to Houston until I can get a place that allows her. On Sunday, I spent all day writing a 15-page paper. I am so glad that it is done!

I hope you all have a great week!!

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Related Products

Here we have this Franklin D. Roosevelt Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

This Day in History: April 6, 1957

2006-04-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

New York City ends trolley car service

New York’s electric trolleys ran their last trip through Queens to Manhattan.

New York City used to be an electric trolley town, beginning in the 1870s on Ninth Avenue in Manhattan. Dozens of elevated lines rose and swiftly traveled over traffic-clogged streets. Whole neighborhoods came into being as former farmland was converted for business and residential purposes at the coming of elevated trains. The electric trolleys in Brooklyn and Queens replaced surface railroads and eliminated dangerous grade crossings.

Now New York City has replaced their trolley system with a subway system. By the time the first subway opened (which was originally a trolley car service), the lines had been consolidated into two privately-owned systems, Brooklyn Rapid Transit Company (BRT, later Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit Corporation, BMT) and Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT). The city was closely involved; every line built for the IRT, and most other lines built or improved for the BRT after 1913, was built by the city and leased to the companies (via the original Contracts 1 and 2 for the IRT subway, and the Dual Contracts for later extensions and widenings). The first line of the city-owned and operated Independent Subway System (IND) opened in 1932; this system was intended to compete with the private systems and allow some of the elevated railways to be torn down, such as the New York City trolley car service.

The New York City Transit Authority was created in 1953 to take over subway (and bus/streetcar/trolley) operations from the city, and was placed under control of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in 1968.

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I am very excited that today is Friday, even though I will spend most of my weekend doing homework.

I hope you all have a better weekend than that!!
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Related Products

Here we have this NYC Steinway Trolley model. During the first part of the 20th-century, trolley cars like these were a fixture in big cities. Designed in 1915, Birney Safety Cars bustled commuters for decades. The NYC Steinway Trolley ran past the infamous Steinway Piano Factory in Queens.

This Day in History: April 6, 1917

2006-04-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

U.S. Enters World War I

On April 6, 1917, the U.S. enters World War I, two days after it was approved.

When World War I first erupted in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson pledged to the country that the United States would be neutral. This at first was also a position favored by most of Americans at the time. This caused some problems with America’s closest trading partners; Britain. This was because Germany had been attempting to quarantine the British Isles, and they wanted the U.S. support. When the U.S. went to attempt to support them, by sending several ships to Britain, German mines damaged or sunk the ships. This did not go over very well with the Americans.

In February 1915, Germany said that they would have unresitrcted warfare against all ships, whether or not they were neutral, if they entered the war zone area around Britain. One month later, Germany proclaimed that they had sunk the William P. Frye, a private American vessel, just for entering in the war zone area.

This obviously got American’s upset, especially President Wilson who became outraged. The German government ended up apologizing, by calling the attack a mistake, although that did not ease all the tension. This was not the only time that Germany did this. On May 7 Germany torpedoed a British-owned ocean liner without any warning just off the coast of Ireland. Of the nearly 2,000 passengers aboard, 1,201 were killed, including 128 Americans.

The German government upheld (correctly) that the Lusitania was carrying munitions, but the U.S. demanded reparations and an end to the German attacks on unarmed passenger and merchant ships.

In August, Germany pledged to keep the passengers safe before sinking an unarmed vessel, but in November a U-boat sank an Italian liner without warning, killing 272 people, including 27 Americans. Because of these attacks, public opinion in the United States began to turn against Germany.

In February 1917, Germany, determined to win its war of attrition against the Allies, resumed its policy of unrestricted submarine warfare in war-zone waters. Three days later, the United States broke diplomatic relations with Germany. This was the same day, the American liner Housatonic was sunk by a German U-boat.

On February 22, Congress passed a $250 million arms-appropriations bill intended to ready the United States for war. In late March, Germany sank four more U.S. merchant ships, and on April 2, President Wilson went before Congress to deliver his famous “war message.” Within four days, both houses of Congress had voted in favor of a declaration of war.

The American entry into the war saved Great Britain, and by extension the rest of the Entente, from bankruptcy. The United States also crucially reinforced the strength of the Allied naval blockade of Germany, in effect from the end of 1914 and aimed at crushing Germany economically. American naval forces reached Britain on April 9, 1917, just three days after the declaration of war. Though the U.S. Army’s contributions began slowly, they would eventually mark a major turning point in the war effort and help the Allies to victory.

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Today has been a crazy one for me again. But, our Siegler mascot, Emily, will come in once I finish this blog. I am excited to show her off. There will definitely be pictures to come.
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Related Products

Here we have a Luger Parabellum WWI replica pistol. Our non-firing replicas of WWII sidearms, with cocking/firing triggers and moveable sights, look and feel like true-blue originals. The Luger Parabellum, one of the most recognizable pistols worldwide, was originally issued to German paratroopers and officers in WWI. 9¾". Made in Spain.

Next we have this WWI aircraft prop. Visions of WWI flying ace, Eddie Rickenbacker, in his Nieuport 28 come spinning to mind. Crafted in richly stained pine and accented with brass hardware. Over 6' long (73"x6"x3"). 8 lbs.

Next we have this WWI trench lighter. On the muddy, wind-swept battlefields of Europe, the fighting men of WWI fashioned trench lighters like these from spent ammo casings. Soldiers needed a flame they could count on and these did the trick. Slide the outer casing up and the flame is protected from the elements. Slide the casing down and the flame is snuffed. Uses standard lighter fluid. Complete with lanyard/key ring. Ideal for your next outing or adventure. Great conversation piece.

This Day in History: April 5, 1614

2006-04-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Pocahontas Marries John Rolfe

On April 5, 1614 Pocahontas, the daughter of the chief of the Powhatan Indian confederacy, married John Rolfe, an English tobacco planter, in Jamestown, Virginia. During this time, this sort of marriage could cause a lot of controversy, although this married ended up actually instilling peace between the Jamestown settlers and the Powhatan Indians for several years.

There is much background behind how Pocahontas and John Rolfe met, information that is a lot different than Disney’s version of Pocahontas. In the Disney movie Pocahontas fell in love with John Smith, but in the real story it was actually another John!

The beginning of all of this started in May 1607 when 100 English colonists decided to come to Jamestown, Virginia and settle along the James River. This area soon became the first permanent English settlement in America.

The settlers didn’t do too well in their new environment. Many suffered from famines, diseases and attacks led by Indians. John Smith, a 27-year-old Adventurer, helped the settlers by directing survival efforts and mapping the area. While exploring the Chickahominy River in December of 1607, Smith and two other colonists were captured by Powhatan warriors. Smith’s companions were both killed, although John Smith was spared and released because Pocahontas pleaded to her father, Chief Powhatan, to release him.

After surviving the capture, Smith came to be the president of Jamestown colony in 1608. Unfortunately, the settlement still continued to suffer. One tragic day an accidental fire destroyed most of the Jamestown colony, which led to increased famine, hunger, disease and Indian attacks. While this was happening, Pocahontas would come to Jamestown as an emissary of her father, where she would bring gifts of food to help the settlers. During her visits she ended up making friends with the settlers, and becoming acquainted with the English ways.

In 1609, however, the relations with the Powhatan deteriorated and many more settlers died from famine and disease. This is said to be caused from an injury that Smith received from a fire in his gunpowder bag that forced him to return to England.

Jamestown was close to being abandoned when two people arrived in June 1610 with new supplies and help to rebuild the settlement. These two people were Baron De La Warr (also known as Delaware) and John Rolfe. To help Jamestown two years later even more, Rolfe cultivated the first tobacco there, which ended up (obviously) being a successful monetary resource for the Jamestown settlers, and all of Virginia.

In 1613 Indians were still attacking Jamestown settlers, and vice versa. English Captain Samuel Argall decided to take this issue into his own hands by taking Pocahontas hostage in order to use her to negotiate permanent peace with her father. Pocahontas was put under the custody of Sir Thomas Gates, and was, fortunately for her, treated more like a guest rather than a prisoner. She was taught English customs and ended up converting to Christianity while she was imprisoned.

Powhatan finally agreed to the terms for her release, but not soon enough, because Pocahontas had already fallen in love with John Rolfe. On April 5th, Pocahontas married him with the blessing of her father, and the governor of Virginia. Thankfully, their marriage brought peace between the English colonists and the Powhatans for quite awhile.

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I know… I know… I am late again at posting, but it is because we just launched a redesign for our sister site, www.TreasuresCatalog.com, and that took up a lot of time this morning.

Aside from that, this story was really interesting to me. I had no idea that the true man she married was NOT John Smith, but John Rolfe. That is crazy to me that the wrong story was repeated so often that even after taking many history classes I was never taught the fallacies behind Disney’s Pocahontas movie. Maybe they just did not see it as important.

Anyway, I hope you have a good day. I am at work right now SHIVERING because I got poured on while walking back from class, and my clothes are drenched.
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Related Products

Check out this Native American breastplate. Our stunning breastplate faithfully recalls Native American artistry. With exacting craftsmanship, each is handstrung with row upon row of bone and pewter beads. Genuine leather fringe accents complete this amazingly accurate piece of Native American heritage.

Next we have this Peace pipe tomahawk. This fully functioning replica of a Chippewa tomahawk shows the close relation between war and peace. The business end of the metal head was designed for bloody battle. The other end was made for smoking during peace talks. 13" wooden handle. 2 lbs.

And lastly, we have this Wooden peace pipe. Peace pipes signify acceptance of a treaty. Faithfully recreated from drawings found in various journals of Indian Wars. Features ornate, hand carved bowl lined with gorara stone. Crafted of beautiful, tropical hardwood. 17".

This Day in History: April 4, 1776

2006-04-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

Washington begins March to New York

General George Washington began a march to New York on April 4, 1776 with his soldiers from Cambridge, Massachusetts, after the successful siege of Boston, to get Congress to pay his unpaid soldiers for fighting.

George Washington wrote a letter to the president of Congress, about his intentions for marching to New York and his irritation with Congress for not sending adequate funds to pay his troops.

In his letter, he wrote, "I heartily wish the money had arrived sooner, that the Militia might have been paid as soon as their time of Service expired."

Because Congress did not pay the soldiers at this time, the soldiers became very unsatisfied. Washington's march to New York was to get the money he felt was owed to each and every solider. When he got to New York he talked to Congress about how he wasn't happy that these soldiers weren't getting paid. He talked about how soldiers wanted to quit, because they needed money. The Congress said they didn't have any money and that all they could do was offer them land. Some of the soldiers still wanted to quit, but Washington gave a very patriotic speech to them, and convinced them that despite the lack of income currently, it would be worth the effort because of the freedoms they would gain in the end.

Although this situation was calmed for a short while due to this March to New York, the Continental Congress continued to have problems with paying and adequately supplying their soldiers throughout the war. This lack of compensation sparked a debate following the peace at Yorktown. This debate caused two major ramifications, eventually leading to a new draft of the United States constitution.

The first ramification came about when Congress decided it would be a good idea to pay soldiers with promises of western lands instead of actual currency. This was the same land that the Congress was simultaneously promising to its Indian Allies. Of course, you can see what kind of problems this could bring about.

The second ramification was that because Congress was unable to pay expenses, even after winning the war, they had to convince conservative Patriots to overthrow the Articles of Confederation and write up a new Constitution of the United States. This new constitution had to have more authority to raise funds to pay for things such as soldiers, and provide for a better way to manage the country and the nation's finances.

Washington's march to New York, and Congress' inability to pay it's soldiers were largely the cause in the change in the Articles of Confederation to the new draft of United State's constitution that we know today.

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Sorry this is late today. I had to go get my cap and gown this morning, which took a lot of time. Getting my cap and gown was pretty exciting because graduation seems that much closer. Woo hoo!!

Too bad the "free" shirt they gave me, which says something along the lines of "2006 Graduate from SDSU", was an EXTRA LARGE when I asked for a small. Booo. And it's not like I can give that away to anyone. Boo.

Anyway, I hope you are having a good day!! Mine has been going well so far. The weather is beautiful and graduation seems a lot closer. :-)
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Related Products

Here we have this George Washington Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

This Day in History: April 3, 1817

2006-04-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

Texas Ranger “Big Foot” Wallace was Born

William Alexander Anderson Wallace, the legendary Texas Ranger, commonly known as “Big Foot” was born in Lexington, Kentucky on April 3, 1817.

At 19-years-old, Wallace found out that one of his brothers had been killed in the Battle of Goliad, which was an early fight in the Texan war of Independence with Mexico. When he found this out, he pledged to “take pay of the Mexican’s” for killing his brother and left for Mexico shortly after.

When he arrived in Mexico though, the war was over. Wallace ended up deciding to stay though, because he liked the independence of the new Republic.

Wallace was known as “big foot” because of his unusually large feet and his large physique. Wallace weighed in at around 240 pounds and was over six feet tall, which probably was another reason why he was called “big foot”.

Wallace finally was given the chance to fight Mexicans when he joined with other Texas in 1842 to repulse an invasion by the Mexican General Adrian Woll.

He had another scuffle with Mexicans in 1842, although this time Wallace was captured and placed in the in the notoriously brutal Perote Prison in Vera Cruz for 2 years.

After he was able to return to Texas, Wallace decided to join the Texas Rangers, instead of the formal Texan Military force. He liked the idea of the Texas Rangers better because they had a less rigid organization. The Texas Rangers were made up of part law-enforcement officers and part soldiers. Texas Rangers fought the Indians and were said to protect areas along the Texas frontier that were lightly populated.

Wallace served until the start of the Civil War in 1861, under Ranger John Coffee Hays. While Wallace was opposed to the secession, he was unwilling to fight against his fellow people. During the Civil War he spent most of his time fighting Indian attacks that happened along the Texas frontier.

Wallace had hundreds of adventures in Texas, including times where he was stranded in the Texas desert after Indians stole his mules. He was forced to walk all the way to El Paso, where he said he ate 27 eggs at the first house he came into contact with because he was so hungry.

When he got older, Wallace decided he would quit his life as a fighter and adventurer. The State of Texas granted him land along the Medina River and in Frio County for the work he had as a ranger.

Wallace ended up becoming a contemporary folk hero to the people of Texas. Wallace is said to be the symbol of “old-timey free days, free ways and free land”.

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I actually hung out with some Texans on Saturday, although they were nothing like Wallace. They actually talked about how awful it was to DRIVE to El Paso from Houston. If it was that horrible of a DRIVE, I can't imagine the wtrip that Wallace made.

My weekend was a lot of fun. I finally got my new dog and she is incredibly cute, although still a lot of work.

I hope you all have a great Monday!!
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Related Products

Check out our Texas Rangers Badge. Pin on one of these silver-plated, die-cut copper badges, round up your posse and tell the gentlefolk to clear the streets. 2"-3".

Next we have this Leather gambler's vest. Wear this to poker night and the boys will know you're serious. Crafted of soft cowhide with satiny lining. Notched lapel and adjustable waist tabs. Two welted pockets – one for your lucky deck, the other with a flap for your winnings. It's like a poker face you can wear.

Lastly, we have this Cowboy hat with bullet hole.This hat, from Charlie One Horse, has more character and style than a Louis L'Amour novel. Heck, there's even a bullet hole shot clean through it! Its rugged look is as comfortable on the ranch as in a fancy club. Presented in a handsome hatbox.

This Day in History: April 1, 1954***

2006-03-31T09:48:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Air Force Academy was established at Colorado Springs, Colorado

The idea surfaced almost four decades ago, but did not become a reality until April 1, 1954, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the bill establishing the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Many of America's pioneer airmen advocated the creation of an academy to prepare officers especially for the air service. One of them, Brig. Gen. William "Billy" Mitchell, tried in vain to persuade first, the government, then, private interests to establish such a school.

In 1948, the Air Force appointed a board of leading civilian and military educators to plan the curriculum for an Air Force academy. The idea made little progress outside the Air Force, until 1949 when Secretary of Defense James Forrestal appointed a board of military and civilian educators. This board headed by Dwight D. Eisenhower, then president of Columbia University, and Robert L. Stearns, president of the University of Colorado, was tasked to recommend a general system of education for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

In 1950, this board found the needs of the Air Force could not be met by a desirable expansion of the older service academies. The board recommended that an Air Force academy be established without delay and proposed that, in peacetime, not less than 40 percent of the regular officers taken into each service should be academy graduates.

Congress authorized creation of the Air Force Academy in 1954. Harold E. Talbott, then secretary of the Air Force, appointed a commission to assist him in selecting the permanent site. After traveling 21,000 miles and considering 580 proposed sites in 45 states, the commission recommended three locations. From those, Secretary Talbott selected the site near Colorado Springs. The state of Colorado contributed $1 million toward the purchase of the property.

On July 11, 1955, the same year construction began, the first class of 306 men were sworn in at a temporary site at Lowry Air Force Base, Denver. Lt. Gen. Hubert R. Harmon, a key figure in the development of the Academy since 1949, was recalled from retirement to become the first superintendent.

Two years later, Maj. Gen. Briggs took over as the Academy's second superintendent. During his tour, on Aug. 29, 1958, the wing of 1,145 cadets moved to its present site from Denver. Less than a year later the Academy received accreditation. On March 3, 1964, the authorized strength of the Cadet Wing was increased to 4,417 and later reduced to its present number of 4,000.

Perhaps the most controversial event in academy history was the admission of women. President Gerald R. Ford signed legislation Oct. 7, 1975, permitting women to enter the nation's military academies. Women entered the Air Force Academy for the first time on June 28, 1976. The first class with women graduated in May 1980.

As with any other institution, the Air Force Academy has suffered growing pains. But in its relatively short period of existence, the school has excelled in its quest for excellence to a degree that similar organizations achieved only after much longer periods.

The Academy has provided the Air Force with a corps of officers dedicated to upholding the high standards of the United States. The Air Force has provided a proving ground for these officers and a source for the dedicated staff members who have come to the academy to educate and train these future leaders.

Throughout its history, one theme has been constant and persistent ﷓ a "Commitment to Excellence." And, it's with that theme that the Air Force Academy looks forward to the future. (United States Air Force Academy)

***I know today is not April 1, but because this is so important and I do not post on Saturday’s I thought that I should post this today.

Take My Quiz
- on -
the Air Force Academy

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My Grandpa was in the Air Force. My mom told me that he was on his first trip overseas to fight in World War II when the war ended. He was disappointed, but my Grandma was sure happy.

So do any of you have plans for this weekend? I have my family coming in along with my new puppy (a West Highland White Terrier!!), my boyfriend and a few of his friends from Texas. It should be a busy weekend!! Wish me luck!!
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Related Products

Check out our Air Force blanket. Each soft, woven jacquard throw features the seal of one of our nation's Armed Forces. Crafted in the USA of 100% cotton with fringed edging. 50"x60".

We also have this Air Force Military Walking Stick. The next time you step out for a leisurely stroll, have the Air Force there to support you. Each brass-handled walking stick is emblazoned with the symbol of the Air Force. The tempered aluminum shaft delivers remarkable strength and exceptional handling (each is balanced to create the ideal pendulum swing to match your natural walking rhythm). 35½".

Next we have this Air Force insignia watch. Show your patriotic spirit with our striking watches, featuring the Air Force insignia. Japanese quartz movement in water resistant, stainless steel casing. Sweep second hand. Leather strap with silver-finish buckle closure. Presented in tin gift canister.

Lastly, we have these USAF Aviator Sunglasses. Our classic aviators are produced to the demanding standards of the U.S.A.F. by government contractor American Optics. True Color™ lenses are distortion free, scratch resistant and provide 100% UV protection. Lightweight, steel frames with golden finish. Handy carrying case included. In either 52mm or 57mm.

This Day in History: March 30, 1981

2006-03-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

President Reagan shot

On March 30, 1981,a deranged drifter named John Hinckley Jr. shot President Ronald Reagan in the chest outside a Washington, D.C., hotel.

The president had just finished addressing a labor meeting at the Washington Hilton Hotel and was walking with his entourage to his limousine when Hinckley, standing among a group of reporters, fired six shots at the president, hitting Reagan and three of his attendants. White House Press Secretary James Brady was shot in the head and critically wounded, Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy was shot in the side, and District of Columbia policeman Thomas Delahaney was shot in the neck. After firing the shots, Hinckley was overpowered and pinned against a wall, and President Reagan, apparently unaware that he'd been shot, was shoved into his limousine by a Secret Service agent and rushed to the hospital.

The president was shot in the left lung, and the .22 caliber bullet just missed his heart. In an impressive feat for a 70-year-old man with a collapsed lung, he walked into George Washington University Hospital under his own power. As he was treated and prepared for surgery, he was in good spirits and quipped to his wife, Nancy, ''Honey, I forgot to duck,'' and to his surgeons, "Please tell me you're Republicans." Reagan's surgery lasted two hours, and he was listed in stable and good condition afterward.

The next day, the president resumed some of his executive duties and signed a piece of legislation from his hospital bed. On April 11, he returned to the White House. Reagan's popularity soared after the assassination attempt, and at the end of April Congress gave him a hero’s welcome. In August, this same Congress passed his controversial economic program, with several Democrats breaking ranks to back Reagan's plan. By this time, Reagan claimed to be fully recovered from the assassination attempt. In private, however, he would continue to feel the effects of the nearly fatal gunshot wound for years.

Of the victims of the assassination attempt, Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy and D.C. policeman Thomas Delahaney eventually recovered. James Brady, who nearly died after being shot in the eye, suffered permanent brain damage. He later became an advocate of gun control, and in 1993 Congress passed the "Brady Bill," which established a five-day waiting period and background checks for prospective gun buyers. President Bill Clinton signed the bill into law.

After being arrested on March 30, 1981, 25-year-old John Hinckley was booked on federal charges of attempting to assassinate the president. He had previously been arrested in Tennessee on weapons charges. In June 1982, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity. In the trial, Hinckley's defense attorneys argued that their client was ill with narcissistic personality disorder, citing medical evidence, and had a pathological obsession with the 1976 film Taxi Driver, in which the main character attempts to assassinate a fictional senator. His lawyers claimed that Hinckley saw the movie more than a dozen times, was obsessed with the lead actress, Jodie Foster, and had attempted to reenact the events of the film in his own life. Thus the movie, not Hinckley, they argued, was the actual planning force behind the events that occurred on March 30, 1981.

The verdict of "not guilty by reason of insanity" aroused widespread public criticism, and many were shocked that a would-be presidential assassin could avoid been held accountable for his crime. However, because of his obvious threat to society, he was placed in St. Elizabeth's Hospital, a mental institution. In the late 1990s, Hinckley's attorney began arguing that his mental illness was in remission and thus had a right to return to a normal life. Beginning in August 1999, he was allowed supervised day trips off the hospital grounds and later was allowed to visit his parents once a week unsupervised. The Secret Service voluntarily monitors him during these outings. On December 30, 2005, a federal judge ruled that Hinckley would be allowed visits, supervised by his parents, to their home outside of Washington, D.C. The judge ruled that Mr. Hinckley could have up to three visits of three nights and then four visits of four nights, each depending on the successful completion of the last. All of the experts testifying at Mr. Hinckley's 2005 conditional release hearing, including the government experts, agreed that his depression and psychotic disorder are in full remission and that he should have some expanded conditions of release.

Take My Quiz
- on -
The Assassination Attempt on Ronald Reagan

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This story is crazy. I can’t believe Reagan didn’t even realize he had been shot in the chest, collapsing a lung. Eek. Nor can I believe that the guy who shot Reagan and his entourage wasn’t found guilty. Wow.

In other news, I don’t have class today or tomorrow, thanks for Caesar Chavez day, pretty much the only holiday my school acknowledges. So that is pretty sweet.

Have a good day everyone!
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Related Products

Check out our Ronald Reagan Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

Next we have this Ronald Reagan inaugural invitation. A select few received personal invitations to the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. Join this elite gathering with your very own, genuine Presidential invite. We have a handful of these historic invitations, each printed on heavy card stock. Set in an archival fabric mat and framed, under glass, in an elegant gold-tone, wood frame. Brass story plaque. Certificate of authenticity.

This Day in History: March 29, 1879

2006-03-29T09:37:00.000-08:00

British victory at Kambula

On March 29, 1879, at Kambula, in northwest Zululand, a force of 2,000 British and Colonial troops under the command of British Colonel Henry Evelyn Wood defeated
20,000 Zulus under King Cetshwayo, turning the tide in the favor of the British in the Zulu War.

In 1843, Britain succeeded the Boers as the rulers of Natal, which controlled Zululand, the neighboring kingdom of the Zulu people. Boers, also known as Afrikaners, were the descendants of the original Dutch settlers who came to South Africa in the 17th century. Zulus, a migrant people from the north, also came to southern Africa during the 17th century, settling around the Tugela River region.

In 1838, the Boers, migrated north to elude the new British dominions in the south, first came into armed conflict with the Zulus, who were under the rule of King Dingane at the time. The European migrants succeeded in overthrowing Dingane in 1840, replacing him with his son Mpande, who became a vassal of the new Boer republic of Natal. In 1843, the British took over Natal and Zululand.

In 1872, King Mpande died and was succeeded by his son Cetshwayo, who was determined to resist European domination in his territory. In December 1878, Cetshwayo rejected the British demand that he disband his troops, and in January British forces invaded Zululand to suppress Cetshwayo. The Zulu War had begun.

The British suffered severe defeats at Isandlwana, where 1,300 British soldiers were killed or wounded, and at Hlobane Mountain, but on March 29 the tide turned in favor of the British at the Battle of Khambula. At Ulundi in July, Cetshwayo's forces were utterly routed, and the Zulus were forced to surrender to the British. In 1887, faced with continuing Zulu rebellions, the British formally annexed Zululand, and in 1897 it became a part of Natal, which joined the Union of South Africa in 1910.

Take My Quiz
- on -
the Zulu War

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It’s funny how in America we don’t really learn about this war, at least before college.

I hope you all have a great Hump Day (Wednesday)!
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Related Products

Check out our Zulu helmet. For more than 100 years, canvas covered pith helmets have been a staple in hot climates. Zulu helmet, like those worn by the British 24th Regiment during the Zulu war of 1877-79, has a sloped and pointed brim.

We also have this 24th Infantry breast plate. The 24th Infantry breast plate is a replica of the Foreign Service badge worn on the 24th Regiment's helmets. Die-stamped brass with copper lug mounts.

Lastly, we have these Rorke's Drift lead figures. On January 22, 1879, 139 British soldiers armed with breech-loading rifles and biscuit boxes, successfully defended Rorke's Drift against 4,500 Zulu warriors. British dominance was restored and many soldiers received the Victoria Cross, the highest military award for gallantry and valor. Our set of six lead cast figures, in exacting 1:32 scale, are entirely hand-painted. Includes four VC winners, one wounded British soldier and one Zulu warrior. Lead cast. 54mm.

This Day in History: March 28, 1979

2006-03-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Nuclear accident at Three Mile Island

At 4 a.m. on March 28, 1979, the worst accident in the history of the U.S. nuclear power industry began when a pressure valve in the Unit-2 reactor at Three Mile Island failed to close. Cooling water, contaminated with radiation, drained from the open valve into adjoining buildings, and the core began to dangerously overheat.
The Three Mile Island nuclear power plant was built in 1974 on a sandbar on Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River, just 10 miles downstream from the state capitol in Harrisburg. In 1978, a second state-of-the-art reactor began operating on Three Mile Island, which was lauded for generating affordable and reliable energy in a time of energy crises.

After the cooling water began to drain out of the broken pressure valve on the morning of March 28, 1979, emergency-cooling pumps automatically went into operation. Left alone, these safety devices would have prevented the development of a larger crisis. However, human operators in the control room misread confusing and contradictory readings and shut off the emergency water system. The reactor was also shut down, but residual heat from the fission process was still being released. By early morning, the core had heated to over 4,000 degrees, just 1,000 degrees short of meltdown. In the meltdown scenario, the core melts, and deadly radiation drifts across the countryside, fatally sickening a potentially great number of people.

As the plant operators struggled to understand what had happened, the contaminated water was releasing radioactive gases throughout the plant. The radiation levels, though not immediately life-threatening, were dangerous, and the core cooked further as the contaminated water was contained and precautions were taken to protect the operators. Shortly after 8 a.m., word of the accident leaked to the outside world. The plant's parent company, Metropolitan Edison, downplayed the crisis and claimed that no radiation had been detected off plant grounds, but the same day inspectors detected slightly increased levels of radiation nearby as a result of the contaminated water leak. Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburgh considered calling an evacuation.

Finally, at about 8 p.m., plant operators realized they needed to get water moving through the core again and restarted the pumps. The temperature began to drop, and pressure in the reactor was reduced. The reactor had come within less than an hour of a complete meltdown. More than half the core was destroyed or molten, but it had not broken its protective shell, and no radiation was escaping. The crisis was apparently over.

Two days later, however, on March 30, a bubble of highly flammable hydrogen gas was discovered within the reactor building. The bubble of gas was created two days before when exposed core materials reacted with super-heated steam.

On March 28, some of this gas had exploded, releasing a small amount of radiation into the atmosphere. At that time, plant operators had not registered the explosion, which sounded like a ventilation door closing. After the radiation leak was discovered on March 30, residents were advised to stay indoors. Experts were uncertain if the hydrogen bubble would create further meltdown or possibly a giant explosion, and as a precaution Governor Thornburgh advised "pregnant women and pre-school age children to leave the area within a five-mile radius of the Three Mile Island facility until further notice." This led to the panic the governor had hoped to avoid; within days, more than 100,000 people had fled surrounding towns.

On April 1, President Jimmy Carter arrived at Three Mile Island to inspect the plant. Carter, a trained nuclear engineer, had helped dismantle a damaged Canadian nuclear reactor while serving in the U.S. Navy. His visit achieved its aim of calming local residents and the nation. That afternoon, experts agreed that the hydrogen bubble was not in danger of exploding. Slowly, the hydrogen was bled from the system as the reactor cooled.

At the height of the crisis, plant workers were exposed to unhealthy levels of radiation, but no one outside Three Mile Island had their health adversely affected by the accident. Nonetheless, the incident greatly eroded the public's faith in nuclear power. The unharmed Unit-1 reactor at Three Mile Island, which was shut down during the crisis, did not resume operation until 1985. Cleanup continued on Unit-2 until 1990, but it was too damaged to be rendered usable again. In the more than two decades since the accident at Three Mile Island, not a single new nuclear power plant has been ordered in the United States.
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I had no idea about how this happened. I guess it was covered up pretty well. I thought it was important to know though.

I hope you have a wonderful day, and I have to give a shout-out to my co-worker because it is her birthday today! Happy Birthday Truda!
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Related Products

Check out our "Keep out" metal sign. Don't miss these high-gauge, enameled steel English keep out signs, nearly an exact replica of the '50s-vintage originals. Ready to hang. Signs imported from England. 16"x12".

We also have this Steel fallout shelter sign. Remember civil defense drills? Duck and cover! Fortunately, those days are over, but there was something oddly calming about those yellow and black signs pointing the way to a safe haven. These high-gauge, enameled steel signs are nearly exact replicas of the 50's vintage originals. Ready to hang. Imported from England. 14"x10".

Lastly we have this "Radiation Safety in Shelters" book. Published by FEMA in September 1983. 128-pages.

This Day in History: March 27,1794

2006-03-27T09:28:00.000-08:00

President George Washington and Congress Authorize the Creation of the U.S. Navy.

In accordance with the Constitution, Congress and George Washington ordered the construction and manning of six frigates on March 27, 1794 after the American War for Independence where Congress sold the surviving ships of the Continental Navy and released the seamen and officers. In1797 the first three frigates, USS United States, Constellation and Constitution went into service. All together, the Continental Navy numbered some fifty ships over the course of the American Revolutionary War, with approximately twenty warships active at its maximum strength. The frigates became famous in the War of 1812, where they unexpectedly defeated the British Royal Navy on a number of occasions.

During the American Civil War, the Navy was an innovator in the use of ironclad warships, but after the war slipped into obsolescence. A modernization program beginning in the 1880s brought the U.S. into the first rank of the world's navies by the beginning of the 20th century. The Navy saw relatively little action during World War I, but in the years before World War II, it grew into a formidable force, which Japan realized would be a threat to their strategic interests. Japan resolved to remedy the situation with a surprise attack in late 1941. The primary goal of this attack on Pearl Harbor was to cripple the Navy in the Pacific Ocean. The action was strategically ineffective, however, and during the next three years of hard fighting, the U.S. Navy grew into the largest and most powerful navy the world had ever seen.

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This weekend my friend was in town, so I was able to entertain her. I have known her since I was in 3rd grade, so we know each other pretty well, and have a lot of fun every time we hang out.

Although we had a lot of fun, we did have one small snag, when I locked my keys in my car, along with my purse, wallet and cell phone. Luckily, we were able to get help, fast, which was awesome. Thank you Ocean Beach people!!

I hope you have a fantastic week! I am looking forward to this weekend, because I get a new puppy, a West Highland White Terrier!
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Related Products

Check out our Navy insignia watch. Show your patriotic spirit with our striking watches, featuring the Navy insignia. Japanese quartz movement in water resistant, stainless steel casing. Sweep second hand. Leather strap with silver-finish buckle closure. Presented in tin gift canister.

We also have this Navy Insignia Blanket. Each soft, woven jacquard throw features the Navy seal. Crafted in the USA of 100% cotton with fringed edging.

Lastly, we have this Navy Insignia Walking Stick.The next time you step out for a leisurely stroll, have the Navy walking stick there to support you. Each brass-handled walking stick is emblazoned with the symbol of the US Navy. The tempered aluminum shaft delivers remarkable strength and exceptional handling (each is balanced to create the ideal pendulum swing to match your natural walking rhythm). 35½".

This Day in History: March 24, 1765

2006-03-24T09:04:00.000-08:00

Parliament Passes the Quartering Act

On March 24, 1765, Parliament passes the Quartering Act, which outlines the locations and conditions in which British soldiers are to find room and board in the American colonies.

The Quartering Act of 1765 required the colonies to house British soldiers in "barracks provided by the colonies." If the barracks were too small to house all the soldiers, then localities were to accommodate the soldiers in local "inns, livery stables, ale houses, victualling houses, and the houses of sellers of wine."

Should there still be soldiers without accommodation after all such "publick houses" were filled, the colonies were then required "to take, hire and make fit for the reception of his Majesty’s forces, such and so many uninhabited houses, outhouses, barns, or other buildings as shall be necessary."

As the language of the act makes clear, the popular image of Redcoats tossing colonists from their bedchambers in order to move in themselves was not the intent of the law; neither was it the practice. However, the New York colonial assembly disliked being commanded to provide quarter for British troops--they preferred to be asked and then to give their consent, if they were going to have soldiers in their midst at all. Thus, they refused to comply with the law, and in 1767, Parliament passed the New York Restraining Act.

The Restraining Act prohibited the royal governor of New York from signing any further legislation until the assembly complied with the Quartering Act. In New York, the governor managed to convince Parliament that the assembly had complied. In Massachusetts, where barracks already existed on an island from which soldiers had no hope of keeping the peace in a city riled by the Townshend Revenue Acts, British officers followed the Quartering Act’s injunction to quarter their soldiers in public places, not in private homes. Within these constraints, their only option was to pitch tents on Boston Common. The soldiers, living cheek by jowl with riled Patriots, were soon involved in street brawls and then the Boston Massacre of 1770, during which not only five rock-throwing colonial rioters were killed but any residual trust between Bostonians and the resident Redcoats. That breach would never be healed in the New England port city, further, George Washington drove them the British soldiers out of Boston with the Continental Army in 1776.

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I think class should be illegal on Friday’s. At least I only have… 7 Fridays left for the entire semester. It is funny to think of it that way.

Anyway, do any of you have plans for the weekend?

My friend is in town, and we are going to just hang out and probably check out the beach. It should be fun. I am excited.

I hope you have a good weekend.
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Related Products

Check out our British Bobby helmet. The London Metropolitan Police have been wearing hard-shell police helmets like these since the 19th century. Each is fitted with an adjustable leather chinstrap, padded interior and the official emblem of the Metropolitan Police. (One size fits all.)

We also have this Bobby police nightstick. This 22" solid ash nightstick, featuring a leather strap and a sure-grip handle, has been faithfully reproduced.

And this British Bobby whistle. The London Metropolitan Police have been using whistles like these since the 19th century. Produced by the official supplier to the Metropolitan Police and engraved with the official Metropolitan trademark and "Made in England," complete with certificate of authenticity.

This Day in History: March 23, 1903

2006-03-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

The Wright brothers obtained an airplane patent

On March 23, 1903, the Wright Brothers applied for a patent for the novel technique of controlling lateral movement and turning by "wing warping".

The Wright brothers, Orville Wright and Wilbur Wright are generally credited with the design and construction of the first practical airplane, and making the first controllable, powered heavier-than-air flight along with many other aviation milestones. However, their accomplishments have been subject to many counter-claims by some people and nations at their start, and through to the present day.

In 1903, they built the Wright Flyer, later referred to as the Flyer I, and today referred to as the Kitty Hawk. The Kitty Hawk had carved propellers and had an engine built in their bicycle shop, called the Wright Cycle Company in Dayton, Ohio. The propellers had an 80% efficiency rate. The engine was superior to manufactured ones, having a low enough weight-to-power ratio to use on an airplane.

Then on December 17, 1903, the Wrights took to the air, both of them twice. The first flight, by Orville, of 39 meters (120 feet) in 12 seconds, was recorded in a famous photograph. In the fourth flight of the same day, the only flight made that day which was actually controlled, Wilbur Wright flew 279 meters (852 ft) in 59 seconds. Four lifesavers and a boy witnessed the flights from the village, making it arguably the first public flight.

The Kitty Hawk cost less than a thousand dollars to construct. It had a wingspan of 40 feet (12 m), weighed 750 pounds (340 kg), and sported a 12 horsepower (9 kW), 170 pound (77 kg) engine.

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So at work today, for some reason I brought up the cartoon David the Gnome, which used to be on Nickelodeon (Not sure if it still is). Only one person here remembered it. Do any of you remember it?
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Check out our Nose art clocks. Turn back the clock to a time when scantily clad beauties decorated our bombers. Made using a proprietary process that imbeds the image into the surface of the metal dial. Set in an aluminum riveted case with a polished acrylic crystal. Accurate, quartz movement powered by one AA battery (not included). 14" diameter. Made in U.S.A. Choose from B-25, B-17 or Memphis Belle.

We also have these Vintage Aircraft Nose Art books. These contain a unique and interesting collection of color photos depicting a variety of warbird nose art. Over 1,000 wartime photos show artwork close up, with explanations of art, aircraft, and pilots.

This Day in History: March 22, 1933

2006-03-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

FDR legalizes sale of beer and wine

On March 22, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Beer and Wine Revenue Act. This law levies a federal tax on all alcoholic beverages to raise revenue for the federal government and gives individual states the option to further regulate the sale and distribution of beer and wine.

With the passage of the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act in 1919, temperance advocates in the U.S. finally achieved their long sought-after goal of prohibiting the sale of alcohol or “spirits.” Together, the new laws prohibited the manufacture, sale or transportation of liquor and ushered in the era known as “Prohibition, defining an alcoholic beverage as anything containing over 0.5 percent alcohol by volume. President Woodrow Wilson had unsuccessfully tried to veto the Volstead Act, which set harsh punishments for violating the 18th Amendment and endowed the Internal Revenue Service with unprecedented regulatory and enforcement powers. In the end, Prohibition proved difficult and expensive to enforce and actually increased illegal trafficking without cutting down on consumption. In one of his first addresses to Congress as president, FDR announced his intention to modify the Volstead Act with the Beer and Wine Revenue Act.

No fan of temperance himself, FDR had developed a taste for alcohol when he attended New York cocktail parties as a budding politician. (While president, FDR refused to fire his favorite personal valet for repeated drunkenness on the job.) FDR considered the new law “of the highest importance” for its potential to generate much-needed federal funds and included it in a sweeping set of New Deal policies designed to vault the U.S. economy out of the Great Depression.
The Beer and Wine Revenue act was followed, in December 1933, by the passage of the 20th Amendment, which officially ended Prohibition.

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Maybe this is the true reason why FDR is one of my favorite presidents to learn about. Haha. This story is great!
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Check out our Franklin D. Roosevelt Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

Check out our 50s-vintage moose mugs. For more than half a century, Russians have enjoyed their favorite brews from classic tankards like these. Our heavy glass mugs, produced from the original molds, hearken back to the days when men were men. Each holds a full pint (16 oz.) and is embossed with the image of a bull moose. Say "nyet" to ordinary glasses!

Check out our Personalized leather koozies. These, handcrafted of handsome Italian bridle leather, marry form and function beautifully. Koozies keep libations cold and refreshing with 3mm neoprene liner, the same material used in wet suits. Solid brass rivets. 4¼" diam. Please allow two weeks for delivery.

Check out our Gas pump liquor dispenser. Our liquor dispenser, in the shape of a retro gas pump, will take you back a generation or two, along Route 66. Just fill with your favorite libation and pump to serve. Base reads, "High Octane, Contains Alcohol". Tarnish resistant chrome-plated finish. 19". Holds one liter. Seen elsewhere for $70+, here for only $35!!

Check out our Beer mug checkers. The rules haven't changed, but the stakes have. Fill each mini-mug with 1.7 oz of refreshing brew. When you take your opponent's piece, cheers! 13 frosted and 13 clear glass mini-mugs. 15" frosted glass board.

This Day in History: March 21, 1804

2006-03-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Napoleonic Code was adopted

On March 21, 1804 the original Napoleonic Code, also known as the French civil code, was established and put into law by Napoleon I.

The Napoleonic code was not the first legal code to be established in a European country with a civil legal system but it is considered the first successful codification, in addition it also strongly influenced the law of many other countries. The development of the Code was a fundamental change in the nature of the civil law legal system for it made laws much clearer.

The Napoleonic Code dealt only with civil law issues, such as filiations and property; it also later dealt with criminal law, criminal procedure and commercial law. However, it did not deal with how laws and regulations were to be passed, for that was supposed to be reserved for a constitution.

The Napoleonic Code was based on both earlier French laws and Roman law, and followed Justinian's Corpus Juris Civilis in dividing civil law into:
1. Personal status;
2. Property;
3. Acquisition of property.

The intention behind the Napoleonic Code was to reform the French legal system in accordance with the principles of the French Revolution. Before the Napoleonic Code, France did not have a single set of laws. Prior to the Napoleonic Code laws depended on local customs, and often on exemptions, privileges and special charters granted by the kings or other feudal lords.

During the Revolution the vestiges of feudalism were abolished, and the many different legal systems used in different parts of France were to be replaced by a single legal code, whose writing Jean Jacques Régis de Cambacérès had been elected to lead. However, due to the turmoil of war and unrest, the situation did not advance until Napoleon's era ensured more stability. Once this stability was in place, the Napoleonic Code was finally formed, and put into action on March 21, 1804.

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Today I dressed very warm because the weather information I read everyday said it was going to be raining with a chance of thunderstorms. It rained this morning, but now I only see blue skies. Oh well for warm clothes.
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Check out our Crown of Napoleon. When Emperor Napoleon went head to head with Tsar Alexander I, their crowns bumped with such force that it changed the course of European history. This miniature, handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, is an exact 1:12 scale replica of the actual crown of Napoleon. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

We also have this Napoleonic Chess Set. Relive the Battle of Waterloo. Hand-painted, molded resin figures capture exquisite detail, from the peaks of their hats to their boots. Inlaid walnut board. Felt-lined holder protects pieces inside storage drawer. 21"x21"x3". Kings 4½".

Next we have this Napoleonic Dagger. When Napoleon took a stab at world domination, he had his custom-made dagger (crafted in 1809 by Martin Biennais, his court goldsmith) close at hand. This remarkable, museum quality rendering was re-created by metalsmiths in Spain. Features ornate scrollwork and intricate details, like the Emperor's profile and the Imperial eagle. Solid alloy construction. Highly polished, non-sharpening, 10" blade. 16" overall.

This Day in History: March 20, 1952

2006-03-20T09:13:00.000-08:00

Bogart Receives an Oscar

On March 20, 1952 Humphrey Bogart receives his first and only Oscar, for Best Actor in The African Queen.

Born in 1899 in New York, Bogart planned to become a doctor like his surgeon father, but he was expelled from prep school for bad behavior. He joined the Navy during World War I and was injured in an attack on his ship, the Leviathan. His upper lip was scarred and partially paralyzed during this attack, which gave him his tough-guy poker face and slight lisp that characterized his acting. When he returned from the war, a family friend gave Bogart a job as an office boy at a theater. Eventually, Bogart became a tour manager and stage manager for the company and became interested in acting in the early 1920s.

Sadly, the reviews of an early play called Swiftly in which he appeared, called his acting "what is usually and mercifully called inadequate.” Bogart kept at it despite the bad reviews. In 1935, he co-starred with Leslie Howard in a Broadway production called The Petrified Forest where he played the role of Duke Mantee. When Warner Bros. bought the film rights, they wanted to keep Howard but recast Bogart's role, but Howard said the two were a package deal. The film, released in 1936, was a hit, and Bogart began landing movie roles. He played gangsters and other mediocre parts until 1941, when he played a gangster in High Sierra, written by John Huston. Huston was impressed with Bogart's abilities and cast him as detective Sam Spade in the noir classic The Maltese Falcon.

Bogart's most famous features followed: Casablanca in 1943, The Big Sleep in1946, and Key Largo in 1948. Bogart had been married three times when he starred in To Have and Have Not with 21-year-old actress Lauren Bacall. The two fell in love and married. In 1947, he formed his own company, which produced Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948), The African Queen (1951), and Sabrina (1954). Bogart died of cancer in 1957, but college students in the 1960s rediscovered his films and launched the "Bogey" cult that still continues today.

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Humphrey Bogart

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Sorry for the lack of blogs on Thursday and Friday. I took a sort of vacation for my spring break. It was really nice. Too bad it went so fast.

I hope you are all doing well! Happy Monday!
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Check out our Bogart fedora. Sport this debonair lid and journey back to Casablanca, Morocco, circa 1942. Crafted of 100% wool felt with a grosgrain band and sewn-in cotton sweatband. Crushable and waterproof. Available in M, L and XL.

We also have this Casablanca poster. Bring home the magic of the silver screen with these reprints of famous theatre lobby posters. Casablanca shows dashing Rick (Humphrey Bogart) with beautiful Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) – their heart-wrenching romance was unforgettable. Must-haves for film buffs and fans alike. Custom framed under glass. 27"x39".

It's Your Lucky Day!!

2006-03-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

Can't see our images? click here

The fine print: Website orders only. Use coupon code LUCKYDAY at checkout. Offer may not be applied to previous purchases. One order per customer. Merchandise sub-total (not including shipping or tax) must be equal or greater than $50, $100, or $150 to be eligible for corresponding discounts. Offer valid until midnight, 3/20/05.

This Day in History: March 15, 44 B.C.

2006-03-15T10:14:00.000-08:00

The Ides of March

Today in history, 2050 yyears ago, on March 15, 44 B.C., Gaius Julius Caesar, dictator of Rome, was stabbed to death in the Roman Senate house by 60 conspirators led by Marcus Junius Brutus and Gaius Cassius Longinus.

Caesar, born into the Julii, an ancient and somewhat distinguished Roman aristocratic family, began his political career in 78 B.C. as a prosecutor for the anti-patrician Popular Party. He won influence in the party for his reformist ideas and oratorical skills, and aided Roman imperial efforts by raising a private army to combat the king of Pontus in 74 B.C. He was an ally of Pompey, the recognized head of the Popular Party, and essentially took over this position after Pompey left Rome in 67 B.C. to become commander of Roman forces in the east.

In 63 B.C., Caesar was elected pontifex maximus, or "high priest," allegedly by heavy bribes. Two years later, he was made governor of Farther Spain and in 64 B.C. returned to Rome, ambitious for the office of consul. Two politicians on an annual basis shared the consulship, essentially the highest office in the Roman Republic. Consuls commanded the army, presided over the Senate and executed its decrees, while also representing the state in foreign affairs. Caesar formed a political alliance--the so-called First Triumvirate--with Pompey and Marcus Licinius Crassus, the wealthiest man in Rome, and in 59 B.C. was elected consul. Although generally opposed by the majority of the Roman Senate, Caesar's land reforms won him popularity with many Romans.

In 58 B.C., Caesar was given four Roman legions in Cisalpine Gaul and Illyricum, and during the next decade demonstrated brilliant military talents as he expanded the Roman Empire and his reputation. Among other achievements, Caesar conquered all of Gaul, made the first Roman inroads into Britain, and won devoted supporters in his legions. However, his successes also aroused Pompey's jealousy, leading to the collapse of their political alliance in 53 B.C.

The Roman Senate supported Pompey and asked Caesar to give up his army, which he refused to do. In January 49 B.C., Caesar led his legions across the Rubicon River from Cisalpine Gaul to Italy, thus declaring war against Pompey and his forces. Caesar made early gains in the subsequent civil war, defeating Pompey's army in Italy and Spain, but was later forced into retreat in Greece. In August 48 B.C., with Pompey in pursuit, Caesar paused near Pharsalus, setting up camp at a strategic location. When Pompey's senatorial forces fell upon Caesar's smaller army, they were entirely routed, and Pompey fled to Egypt, where he was assassinated by an officer of the Egyptian king.

Caesar was subsequently appointed Roman consul and dictator, but before settling in Rome he traveled around the empire for several years and consolidated his rule. In 45 B.C., he returned to Rome and was made dictator for life. As sole Roman ruler, Caesar launched ambitious programs of reform within the empire. The most lasting of these was his establishment of the Julian calendar, which, with the exception of a slight modification and adjustment in the 16th century, remains in use today. He also planned new imperial expansions in central Europe and to the east. In the midst of these vast designs, he was assassinated on March 15, 44 B.C., by a group of conspirators who believed that his death would lead to the restoration of the Roman Republic. However, the result of the "Ides of March" was to plunge Rome into a fresh round of civil wars, out of which Octavian, Caesar's grand-nephew, would emerge as Augustus, the first Roman emperor, destroying the republic forever.

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I remember reading Julius Caesar in my 10th grade class. But we got to act out a scene as our final project. It was pretty neat. I think I got to say the last words of the play: “Et tu, Brute?” Or maybe we just repeated that line a lot. I was in all honor classes, so I was quite the nerd. Hah.
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Check out our Ancient Roman coin. This coin is 1,500 years old! These recently discovered coins are from the reign of Constantine, who converted Rome to Christianity in 312 A.D. We have several different styles featuring Constantine or one of his three sons on the obverse and a religious or military theme on the reverse. Coins made in the ancient way by striking a metal blank between two dies. Presented in a handsome leatherette folder with certificate of authenticity. Let us make the selection – we're sure you'll be pleased.

We also have this Roman Centurion Miniature helmet with stand. Each handcrafted helmet faithfully recalls period armor in perfect detail – down to the materials used (steel, horse hair, buffalo horn and genuine leather). Presented with wooden stand.

This Day in History: March 14, 1964

2006-03-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

Jack Ruby Found Guilty for Lee Harvey Oswald’s Death

Jack Ruby, the Dallas nightclub owner who killed Lee Harvey Oswald--the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy--is found guilty of "murder with malice" of Oswald and sentenced to die in the electric chair.

This was the first courtroom verdict to be televised in U.S. history.

On November 24, 1963, two days after Kennedy's assassination, Lee Harvey Oswald was brought to the basement of the Dallas police headquarters on his way to a more secure county jail. A crowd of police and press with live television cameras rolling gathered to witness his departure. As Oswald came into the room, Jack Ruby emerged from the crowd and fatally wounded him with a single shot from a concealed .38 revolver. Ruby was immediately detained and claimed he was distraught over the president's assassination. Some called him a hero, but he was nonetheless charged with first-degree murder.

Jack Ruby, originally known as Jacob Rubenstein, operated strip joints and dance halls in Dallas and had minor connections to organized crime. He also had a relationship with a number of Dallas policemen, which amounted to various favors in exchange for leniency in their monitoring of his establishments.

Ruby is mentioned in many Kennedy-assassination theories, where a lot of people believe he killed Oswald to keep him from revealing a larger conspiracy.

In his trial, Ruby denied the allegation and pleaded innocent on the grounds that his great grief over Kennedy's murder had caused him to suffer "psychomotor epilepsy" and shoot Oswald unconsciously. The jury found him guilty and sentenced him to die.

In October 1966, the Texas Court of Appeals reversed the decision on the grounds of improper admission of testimony and the fact that Ruby could not have received a fair trial in Dallas at the time. In January 1967, while awaiting a new trial to be held in Wichita Falls, Ruby died of lung cancer in a Dallas hospital.

The official Warren Commission report of 1964 concluded that neither Oswald nor Ruby were part of a larger conspiracy, either domestic or international, to assassinate President Kennedy. Despite its seemingly firm conclusions, the report failed to silence conspiracy theories surrounding the event, and in 1978 the House Select Committee on Assassinations concluded in a preliminary report that Kennedy was "probably assassinated as a result of a conspiracy" that may have involved multiple shooters and organized crime. The committee's findings, as with those of the Warren Commission, continue to be widely disputed.

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JFK Assassination Conspiracy Theories

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I figured that because I am on spring break, I might be able to get some sleep. But this week so far, I have gotten NO sleep. Hmmm. Maybe tonight….

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Check out our JFK silver dollar pocket watch. JFK's immortal image graces this handsome timepiece. The intricately embossed, chrome watchcase is set with a 90% silver JFK half dollar. Powered by a precision quartz movement with sweep-second hand. Fob chain included. Certificate of authenticity. One-year warranty.

We also have this John F. Kennedy Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

Lastly, we have these Kennedy silver half dollars. In 1964, Congress decided that silver would no longer be used in U.S. coins. The one exception – the Kennedy half dollar. Known as "silver-clads", these highly-collectible coins were produced between 1966-1970. Each features an inner core of copper and silver and is plated in silver. Our set features five coins in a leather pouch with certificate of authenticity.

This Day in History: March 13, 1868

2006-03-13T09:51:00.000-08:00

Impeachment Trial of Andrew Johnson Begins:

The first impeachment trial in U.S. history goes underway in the U.S. Senate on March 13, 1868 with American President Andrew Johnson in the hot seat. The impeachment trial was held because the Republican-dominated Congress disagreed on his views on reconstruction, and accused him of violating the controversial Tenure of Office Act, that was passed by Congress over his veto in 1867.

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, Johnson, a U.S. senator from Tennessee, was the only senator from a seceding state who remained loyal to the Union. Johnson's political career was built on his defense of the interests of poor white Southerners against the landed classes; of his decision to oppose secession. For his loyalty, President Abraham Lincoln appointed him military governor of Tennessee in 1862, and in 1864 Johnson was elected vice president of the United States.

Sworn in as president after Lincoln's assassination in April 1865, President Johnson enacted a lenient Reconstruction policy for the defeated South, including almost total amnesty to ex-Confederates, a program of rapid restoration of U.S.-state status for the seceded states, and the approval of new, local Southern governments, which were able to legislate "black codes" that preserved the system of slavery in all but name. The Republican-dominated Congress greatly opposed Johnson's Reconstruction program and passed the "Radical Reconstruction" by repeatedly overriding the president's vetoes. Under the Radical Reconstruction, local Southern governments gave way to federal military rule, and African-American men in the South were granted the constitutional right to vote.

In March 1867 Congress passed the Tenure of Office Act over his veto to further to weaken Johnson's authority. The act prohibited the president from removing federal office holders, including Cabinet members, who had been confirmed by the Senate, without the consent of the Senate. It was designed to shield members of Johnson's Cabinet like Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, who was appointed during the Lincoln administration and was a leading ally of the so-called Radical Republicans in Congress. In the fall of 1867, Johnson attempted to test the constitutionality of the act by replacing Stanton with General Ulysses S. Grant. However, the U.S. Supreme Court refused to rule on the case, and Grant turned the office back to Stanton after the Senate passed a measure in protest of the dismissal.

On February 21, 1868, Johnson decided to rid himself of Stanton once and for all and appointed General Lorenzo Thomas, an individual that was a lot less favorable to the Congress than Grant, as secretary of war. Stanton refused to give way, and barricaded himself in his office, and the House of Representatives, which had already discussed impeachment after Johnson's first dismissal of Stanton, initiated formal impeachment proceedings against the president. On February 24, the House voted 11 impeachment articles against President Johnson. Nine of the articles cited his violations of the Tenure of Office Act; one cited his opposition to the Army Appropriations Act of 1867 (designed to deprive the president of his constitutional position as commander in chief of the U.S. Army); and one accused Johnson of bringing "into disgrace, ridicule, hatred, contempt, and reproach the Congress of the United States" through certain controversial speeches.

On March 13, according to the rules set out in Section 3 of Article I of the U.S. Constitution, the impeachment trial of President Johnson began in the Senate. U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase presided over the proceedings, which were described as theatrical. On May 16 and again on May 26, the Senate voted on the charges brought against President Johnson. Both times the vote was 35 for conviction and 19 for acquittal, with seven moderate Republicans joining 12 Democrats in voting against what was a weak case for impeachment. Because both votes fell short--by one vote--of the two-thirds majority needed to convict Johnson, he was judged not guilty and remained in office. Nevertheless, he chose not to actively seek reelection on the Democratic ticket. In November, Ulysses S. Grant, who supported the Republicans' Radical Reconstruction policies, was elected president of the United States.
In 1875, after two failed bids, Johnson won reelection to Congress as a U.S. senator from Tennessee. He died less than four months after taking office at the age of 66. Fifty-one years later, the U.S. Supreme Court declared the Tenure of Office Act unconstitutional in it’s ruling in Myers v. United States.

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San Diego actually got some real “weather” this weekend. It was actually nice, but mostly because I just stayed inside the entire time. San Diego drivers in the rain are crazy, so I do my best at avoiding them. I got to catch up on some good movies, and get some homework done.

I hope you all had a fantastic weekend!!
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Check out our Presidential robe. Embroidered with the Presidential seal and Mr. President or First Lady. Each contains 69,000 loops of thick and thirsty, 100% Turkish cotton (60% heavier than ordinary robes). Roomy raglan sleeves, wide belt and doubled collar. 52" long (one size fits nearly everyone). Save on a pair!

Also look at our United States Great Seal dinnerware. On July 4, 1776, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson began creating a unifying symbol for America's virtues. Six years later, their masterpiece: The Great Seal of the United States. Our fine porcelain proudly displays the Seal. This patriotic set would be a precious gift or a fine addition to your table or display cabinet. Dinner plate, 10". Dessert plate, 8". Soup bowl, 7". Cup/saucer, 8oz. Save on a 5-pc. or 20-pc. place setting!

This Day in History: March 10, 1864

2006-03-10T09:34:00.000-08:00

Ulysses S. Grant Commissioned to Command U.S. Army

On March 10, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed a brief document officially promoting then-Major General Ulysses S. Grant to the rank of Lieutenant General of the U.S. Army, tasking the future president with the job of leading all Union troops against the Confederate Army.

The rank of Lieutenant General had not officially been used since 1798. When it was last used President John Adams assigned the post to former President George Washington, in anticipation of a possible French invasion of the United States. One of Grant’s predecessors in the Civil War, Winfield Scott, had briefly earned the rank, although the appointment was only temporary, due to its suspension after George Washington’s death in 1799.

In 1862, Lincoln asked Congress to revive the rank of lieutenant General in order to distinguish between the general in charge of all Union forces and other generals of equal rank who served under him in the field. Congress also wanted to reinstate the rank of Lieutenant General, but only if Lincoln gave the rank to Grant. Lincoln had other ideas.

Lincoln preferred to promote then-Commanding General Henry Wagner Halleck to lead the Union Army, which had been plagued by a string of ineffective leaders and terrible losses in battle. He was reluctant to promote Grant and risk boosting the general’s popularity because at the time Washington was abuzz with rumors that many northern senators were considering nominating Grant instead of Lincoln at the 1864 Republican National Convention. After Grant publicly dismissed the idea of running for the presidency, Lincoln submitted to Congress’ choice and agreed to give Grant the revived rank. As Lieutenant General of the U.S. Army, Grant was answerable only to Lincoln. Well-respected by troops and civilians, Grant earned Lincoln’s trust and went on to force the South’s surrender in 1865.

Even though Grant claimed that he never wanted to be president, something must have changed inside of him because in 1869 he became the 18th President of the United States.

Take the quiz on Ulysses S. Grant and I will e-mail you a code to get $5 off any www.Sieglers.com order!

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Ulysses S. Grant

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I don’t know about you, but I am in a great mood today because it is FRIDAY!! It is also the beginning of my spring break, which I am very excited about. Although I won’t be going on some crazy vacation, I will be able to watch a few more movies and sleep a little more. I am definitely excited about that!

Well have a good weekend!
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Related Products

Check out our Ulysses S. Grant lead figurine. Lead figurines, crafted and painted entirely by hand. In exact 1:32 scale (54mm) and historically accurate. Ulysses S. Grant shown in uniform, and on horseback. For history and Civil War buffs alike.

We also have this Ulysses S. Grant Civil War shadow box. Commemorate our nation's heritage with these historic Civil War collector's shadow boxes. Each features a non-firing replica of an infantryman's Model 1849 pocket revolver, antiqued, brass-plated belt buckle, battle flag fragment and vintage-style photo of Ulysses S. Grant or Robert E. Lee. Mounted under glass and framed in handsome oak.

We also have this Suede Civil War Union Blue kepi cap. Kepis, modeled after French officer's caps, were worn by soldiers on both sides during the Civil War. Hunched in the trenches, they raised their kepis with their rifles; if no one shot, it was safe to move. Our suede caps have a leather bill and strap across the front. Metal crossed rifles badge.

This Day in History: March 9, 1943

2006-03-09T09:14:00.000-08:00

Yuri Gagarin, First Human to Travel into Space, was Born

Yuri Alekseyevich Gagarin (Russian: Юрий Алексеевич Гагарин; YOO-ree a-lek-SE-ye-veech ga-GA-reen) was born on March 9, 1934. Gagarin was a Soviet cosmonaut who became the first human to travel into space in 1961.

After an extensive search and selection process Gagarin was selected for the Soviet space program. During his training he was subjected to a series of experiments designed to test his physical and psychological endurance, as well and engage in training for his upcoming flight. Gargarin was slected out of 20 other cosmonauts, but was eventually selected due to his excellent performance in training as well as his physical characteristics that allowed him to fit into the small Vostok cockpit. Others say that the choice of Gagarin was probably due to Gagarin's modest upbringing and genial, outgoing personality, as distinct from the middle-class and somewhat aloof Titov.

On April 12, 1961, Gagarin became the first human to travel into space. According to the media abroad Soviet Union, Gagarin made the comment from orbit, "I don't see any god up here." However, there are no such words in the full verbatim record of Gagarin's conversations with the Earth during the space flight.

He was promoted "in the field" from the lowly rank of Second Lieutenant to Major - and this was the rank at which TASS announced him in its triumphant statement during the flight. At the time the Soviet authorities thought it was more likely he would perish in the descent than survive.

Gagarin became very famous as he was returning to earth. Nikita Khrushchev rushed to his side and Gagarin issued a statement praising the Communist Party of the Soviet Union as the "organizer of all our victories". He then toured the world.

Khrushchev saw Gagarin's achievement as a vindication of his policy of strengthening the Soviet Union's missile forces at the expense of conventional arms. This policy antagonized the Soviet military establishment and contributed to Khrushchev's eventual downfall.

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the Space Race!

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Today I woke up 25 minutes before I had to leave for work. Somehow I forgot to set the alarm. I still made it here in time, and even got to shower. I think you should be proud.

Have a good day and wish me luck on my midterm today!

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Related Products

Check out this Vintage Cosmonaut survival suit. The price of this went down from $895 to $149. That is a pretty big savings! Cosmonauts relied on orange hydro suits like these when their re-entry vehicles splashed down at sea. Vintage '60s-'80s and in excellent condition. A few suits have CCCP patterns and markings (as shown).

We also have this Alexi Leonov's "First Walk" lithograph. Tethered by a safety line to his spacecraft with planet Earth below, Leonov wears same spacesuit (complete with air supply in small backpack and CCCP emblem on helmet) which cosmonauts hoped to use on the Moon. In vivid color and extraordinary detail. Printed on archival quality, 100% acid-free paper.

Lastly, we have these Astronaut's slipper socks. Since 1982, these Acorn classic twisted cotton socks have been standard issue on the space shuttle. Mission-essential designs, like full-grain leather sidewall/ outsole and memory foam midsole get you to the moon and back in comfort and style.

This Day in History: March 8, 1848

2006-03-08T09:58:00.000-08:00

The February Revolution Erupted

March 8, 1917, in Russia, the "February Revolution" (known as such because of Russia's then use of the Julian calendar) began when riots and strikes over the scarcity of food erupted in Petrograd.

The February Revolution of 1917 in Russia was the first stage of the Russian Revolution of 1917. Its immediate result was the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. It occurred as a result of the dissatisfaction with the Tsar’s way of running the country, in particular Russia's ongoing involvement in the First World War. It saw a largely bloodless transfer of power from the Tsar. The regime that came into being was an alliance between liberals and socialists who wanted to instigate political reform, creating a democratically elected executive and constituent assembly.
In the first half of February lack of food supplies caused riots in the capital, Petrograd. On February 18th (O.S.) the major plant of Petrograd, Putilov plant, announced a strike; the strikers were fired and some shops closed, which caused unrest at other plants. On February 23 (O.S.) (March 8, N.S.) a series of meetings and rallies were held on the occasion of the International Women's Day, which gradually turned into economical and political ones. They continued during the following days. At one point, a large battalion of soldiers was sent to the city to quell the uprising, but many shot or deserted their officers and joined the revolt instead. This led Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate the throne on March 2 (O.S.) (March 15, N.S.).

The Provisional Government which replaced the Tsar was initially led by a liberal aristocrat, Prince Georgy Yevgenyevich Lvov. After his government failed, he was succeeded by a socialist, Alexander Kerensky. Maintaining Russian involvement in the First World War, Kerensky was unable to deal with the problems Russia faced. Pressure from the right (such as those behind the Kornilov Affair) and from the left (mainly the Bolsheviks) put the government under increasing strain. On March 1, 1917 the Petrograd Soviet of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies issued Order No. 1, which ordered the military to obey its orders rather than those of the Provisional Government. Ultimately the regime instigated by the February Revolution was forcibly replaced in the October Revolution.

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I got the most amazing coffee this morning. I needed it too. I got it with two shots of espresso so pretty soon I will be bouncing off the walls. As you can tell, I am pretty excited about the coffee, maybe the caffeine is already kicking in.

Anyway, here is your blog for today. I hope you enjoy(ed) it. I have a lot of things going on right now, including a midterm tomorrow, so if anything is wrong with the info, just let me know.
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Related Products

Check out this Astrakhan wool visor cap. Does the hat make the man or does the man make the hat? Pose this question to Russia's President Vladimir Putin and he'll probably insist on the latter. We say it's the former. The soft, 100% astrakhan (Persian lamb) wool exterior keeps you warm even when sailing out of the North Sea. Silky, quilted interior is a comfort to your head. Complete with all the trimmings, like embroidered "scrambled egg" visor, hammer and sickle anchor buttons, adjustable chinstrap and Russian officer's enameled insignia. In Russia, only the top brass are issued these rare caps. Available in M and L.

We also have Gorbachev's Astrakhan hat. ikhail Gorbachev, often seen in an Astrakhan hat just like this, changed the world with his policies of Glasnost and Perestroika. We can't guarantee you'll have the same effect on world affairs, but we guarantee you'll look sharp in this hat. The soft, 100% Persian lamb wool exterior keeps you warm, even in December in Siberia. Silky, quilted interior.

Finally, we have this Soviet naval officer's mouton ushanka.These genuine ushankas, made from mouton (the softest, warmest and highest quality lamb's wool) are identical to those worn by Soviet submarine Captain Marco Ramius (Sean Connery) and his senior officers in The Hunt for Red October. Brand new, straight from the factory in Vilnius, Lithuania (Ramius's hometown), which supplied fine furs to high-ranking Soviet officers and Politburo members for 70+ years. Quilted lining. Pull down ear flaps or tie them on top of hat. Complete with rare Soviet naval officer's insignia. We have very few (and they're a fraction of the price you'd pay at a fine fur boutique or a hoity-toity department store).

This Day in History: March 10, 1876

2006-03-07T09:12:00.000-08:00

Alexander Graham Bell was granted a patent for the telephone

On March 7, 1876, the U.S. Patent Office granted Alexander Graham Bell Patent Number 174,465 for the telephone, covering "the method of, and apparatus for, transmitting vocal or other sounds telegraphically ... by causing electrical undulations, similar in form to the vibrations of the air accompanying the said vocal or other sound."

After obtaining the patent for the telephone, Bell continued his many experiments in communication, which culminated in the invention of the photophone-transmission of sound on a beam of light — a precursor of today's optical fiber systems. He also worked in medical research and invented techniques for teaching speech to the deaf. The range of Bell's inventive genius is represented only in part by the eighteen patents granted in his name alone and the twelve he shared with his collaborators. These included fourteen for the telephone and telegraph, four for the photophone, one for the phonograph, five for aerial vehicles, four for hydro-airplanes, and two for a selenium cell.

Bell was not only known as the father of the telephone, but he was also a scientist, inventor and the founder of the Bell Telephone Company.

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Alexander Graham Bell

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My throat is feeling a little better, thanks to tea. Also, my head seems to be clearing up a bit. I hope it all gets better 100% by Thursday when I have a huge midterm.

I should be heading out now though, I have a million things to do. I hope your day is going well so far!

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Related Products

Check out this Vintage 1940's Ericsson wall phone. These phones, produced more than a half-century ago by Sweden's Ericsson, were rescued from a forgotten warehouse in Buenos Aires. Rugged rotary dial and heavy bakelite handle. Professionally restored, inside and out. New wiring, ringer, microphone and equipped with a modern-day universal jack.

We also have this Vintage 1960's desk phone. These, recalling the idyllic days of JFK, were produced by Germany's Siemens. Rugged rotary dial and resilient resin casing. Rescued from a forgotten warehouse in Buenos Aires. Professionally restored, inside and out. New wiring, ringer and microphone. Each looks and operates just like the day it left the factory. Equipped with a modern-day universal jack. Great addition to desks, nightstands, kitchens and entranceways. 9"x8"x5". 6 lbs. Please specify red, green, orange or light blue.

The last one for today is our Antique 1920's candlestick phone. These rare phones, designed by Western Electric, were built during the 1920s. We rescued a few from a forgotten warehouse in Buenos Aires; each has been professionally restored, by hand, inside and out so they're just like the day they left the factory. Nickel plated solid brass frame. Rugged rotary dial and heavy bakelite ear/mouth pieces. Features original clicking sound instead of today's modern ringer. New wiring, microphone and cord to meet today's standards. Equipped with a modern-day universal jack. Great addition to desks, nightstands and entranceways.

This Day in History: March 6, 1836

2006-03-06T14:01:00.000-08:00

The 13-day Siege of the Alamo Came to an End

The Battle of the Alamo was a battle between Mexican and Texian forces during the Texas Revolution that took place at the Alamo mission in San Antonio in February and March of 1836. The siege ended on March 6, 1836 with the capture of the mission and the death of nearly all the Texian defenders, save for a few slaves. The siege of thirteen days did delay the bulk of the Mexican army and cost Santa Anna supplies and good manpower. It allowed the Texans to build a government and to draft a constitution. The delay made the Texans aware of the fact that they would have to continue the fight in order to win its independence.

Shortly after the year 1836 began, General Antonio López de Santa Anna marched an army across the Rio Grande river through stormy weather, including snowstorms in mountain passes, to suppress the Texas rebellion. San Antonio de Bexar was one of his intermediate objectives; his ultimate objective was to capture the Texas government and restore the rule of the central or "Centralist" Mexican government over a rebellious state.

The Alamo protected the road farther northeast into Texas. Although the Alamo was not designed for military purposes, the Texian militia and regulars under Green B. Jameson fortified the post and mounted 18 cannons. The Mexican forces would not be able to bypass the post and use the road without investing and taking the Alamo.

The Mexican Army arrived on February 23, 1836 and was a mixed force of regular infantry and cavalry units as well as active reserve infantry battalions. They were equipped with the British Baker and the out dated, short range but effective and deadly British "Tower Musket, Mark III or Brown Bess musket and were well-drilled, though the Mexican army discouraged individual marksmanship. The Mexican siege was scientific and professionally conducted in the Napoleonic-style. The Mexican army was about four times larger than the U.S. Army.

After a 13-day siege, the Mexican army attacked the post in four columns plus a reserve and a pursuit and security force, starting at 5:00 a.m. on March 6, 1836 and took the Alamo by 6:30 a.m. that day, using hand-to-hand combat. The first column was comprised of 400 men lead by Martin Cos. The second column of 380 men was commanded by Col. Francisco Duque. The third column was comprised of 400 soldiers lead by Col. Jose Maria Romero. The fourth column was comprised of 100 cazadores or light infantry-commanded by Col. Juan Morales. The attacking columns had to cover 200 to 300 yards (200 to 300 m) of open ground before they could reach the Alamo walls. To prevent any attempted escape by the fleeing Texans or reinforcements from coming in, Santa Anna place a 350 cavalry under Brig.Gen.Ramirez y Sesma to patrol the surrounding countryside.

Lieutenant Colonel William Barret Travis, commander of the Texas regular army forces, was able to dispatch riders before the battle and informed the Texas provisional government of his situation and requested assistance. However, the Texas Army was not strong enough to fight through the Mexican Army and relieve the post. Travis had sent several riders, James Bonham to Colonel and James Fannin for help. Fannin, commander of over 450 Texas forces at Goliad 100 miles southeast of the Alamo, attempted a relief march with 320 men and cannon on February 28, 1836 to the Alamo but aborted the relief column due to poor transportation.

On March 1, 1836 at about 1AM, 32 men lead by Capt. George Kimbell and John W. Smith from the town of Gonzales were able to make it through Mexican lines and join the defenders inside the Alamo.

Before the siege, Santa Anna ordered that a red flag be raised from San Fernando cathedral indicating to the defenders inside the Alamo, that no quarter would be given. According to the controversial Jose de le Pena diary several defenders who had not been killed in the assault on the Alamo, were captured by Col. Manuel Fernandez Castrillon and were presented to Santa Anna who personally ordered their execution. Among the six prisoners was David Crockett.

De la Pena also states that Travis attempted to negotiate surrender with Santa Anna but was turned down on the grounds of 'no guarantees for traitors'.

Texas independence was declared on March 2, 1836. The delegates elected David Burnet as Provisional President and Lorenzo de Zavala as Vice-President. The men inside the Alamo never knew this event occurred. Houston still held his rank. Texan loses were about eight killed and eighteen wounded. Santa Anna was captured the following day, dressed in a common soldiers jacket, having discarded his finer clothing in hopes of escaping.

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Sorry this blog is so late in getting posted. This morning there was a lot to catch up on that had to be taken care of first.

I am feeling better than Friday, regarding my cold, but all of a sudden at 11am, my throat started to kill me. It hurts to talk and swallow, anything. Ehh.

I hope the rest of you are having a spectacular Monday, and are in better health than me!
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Related Products

Check out this Cowboy hat with genuine bullet hole. This hat, from Charlie One Horse, has more character and style than a Louis L'Amour novel. Heck, there's even a bullet hole shot clean through it! Its rugged look is as comfortable on the ranch as in a fancy club. Presented in a handsome hatbox.

We also have this Schott split cowhide leather fringe jacket. This spilt cowhide leather fringe jacket, handcrafted in the USA, is a classic on the range or on Main St. Features a lightweight poly satin lining and brass snap closures. Leather fringe detail all around. Front yoke pockets and handsome notch collar. From Schott N.Y.C.

Lastly, we have this Double leather six-shooter holster. Our six-shooter holsters are crafted from hand-tooled leather and accented with brass hardware. Leather thigh straps. Loops hold over two-dozen bullets.

This Day in History: March 3, 1831

2006-03-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

George Pullman, inventor of railroad sleeping car, was Born

George Mortimer Pullman was born in March 3, 1831. Pullman was an American inventor and industrialist, most famous for his invention of the railroad sleeping car.

He arrived in Chicago in 1855 and discovered that Chicago streets were frequently filled with mud deep enough to drown a horse. He suggested that the houses be raised and a new foundation built under them, a technique his father used to move homes during the widening of the Erie Canal. In 1857, with a couple of partners, Pullman proved his technique would work by raising an entire block of stores and office buildings.

Between 1859 and 1863, he spent time as a gold broker near Golden, Colorado where he raised money and met a future business associate, Hanniball Kimball.
He used his money and success to develop a comfortable railroad sleeping car, the Pullman sleeper. The first one was finished in 1864. Although the sleeper cost more than five times the price of a regular railway car, by arranging to have the body of President Abraham Lincoln carried from Washington, D.C. to Springfield on a sleeper, he received national attention and the orders began to pour in. By 1865, he wanted to expand business into the reconstructing South and sent Kimball to act as his Southern agent. Pullman built a new plant on the shores of Lake Calumet, several miles from Chicago. In an effort to make it easier for his employees, he also built a town in Chicago called Pullman. It had its own shopping areas, theaters, parks, hotel and library for his employees.

When business fell off in 1894, Pullman cut jobs, wages and working hours. His failure to lower rents, utility charges and products led his workers to the Pullman Strike, which was eventually broken up by federal troops sent in by President Grover Cleveland.

Loathing for Pullman remained, and when he died in 1897, he was buried in Graceland Cemetery at night in a lead-lined coffin within an elaborately reinforced steel-and-concrete vault. Several tons of cement were poured to prevent his body from being exhumed and desecrated by labor activists.

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I am sick today. Not sure how it happened, but it got really bad last night. I hope I get better soon because this weekend I need to study for a huge midterm and then finish 2 papers. Wish me luck!
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Related Products

Check out our Classic railway badges. Pin on one of these historically correct badges and you'll have the run of the train, from engine to caboose. Silver-plated, die-cut copper. Pin back. Choose from Railway Express, Railroad Police, Western Atlantic Railway and Texas and Pacific Railroad. 2"-3". Save on a set of 4!

We also have this Cast-iron railroad lock. This cast-iron railroad lock recalls those that once secured railway cars from bandits, hobos and other unsavory types. Fully functioning, it's ideal for safeguarding your shed, barn or any entry that needs more style than any common lock can deliver. Embossed copper railway medallion. Complete with pair of oversized, iron skeleton keys. 7" tall. Weighing in at nearly 5 lbs.

Finally we have these Vintage trolley car models. During the first part of the 20th-century, trolley cars like these were a fixture in big cities. Designed in 1915, Birney Safety Cars bustled commuters for decades. The NYC Steinway Trolley ran past the infamous Steinway Piano Factory in Queens. Our Philadelphia Trolley model was one of 35 Birney cars criss-crossing the city. Highly detailed, die-cast models; 1:48 scale. 6"x3"x2".

This Day in History: March 2, 1944

2006-03-02T10:30:00.000-08:00

Casablanca Wins Three Academy Awards

On March 2, 1944 at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, Casablanca won three awards at the 16th Academy Awards. Casablanca won “Best Picture”, “Best Director” and “Best Screenplay”.

Casablanca premiered in 1942 and was set during World War II in the Vichy-controlled Moroccan city of Casablanca. Directed by Michael Curtiz, Humphrey Bogart as Rick and Ingrid Bergman as Ilsa star in Casablanca. It focuses on Rick's conflict between love and virtue: he must choose between his love for Ilsa and his need to do the right thing by helping her husband, Resistance hero Victor Laszlo, escape from Casablanca and continue his fight against the Nazis.

The film was an immediate hit, and it has remained consistently popular ever since. Critics have praised the charismatic performances of Bogart and Bergman, the chemistry between the two leads, the depth of characterization, the taut direction, the witty screenplay and the emotional impact of the work as a whole.

Casablanca Trivia
**When this film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, Jack L. Warner was first on stage to accept the award, beating the film's actual producer, Hal B. Wallis, who was incensed at this slight and never forgave Warner. Wallis, at the time regarded as the "wunderkind" at the studio, left Warner Brothers shortly afterwards.

**Casablanca, Morocco, was one of the key stops for refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe, which is why the original playwrights chose the city for the setting of their play (though initially they had opted for Lisbon).

**Dooley Wilson (Sam) was a professional drummer who faked playing the piano. As the music was recorded at the same time as the film, the piano playing was actually a recording of a performance by Elliot Carpenter who was playing behind a curtain but who was positioned such that Dooley could watch, and copy, his hand movements.

**No one knew right up until the filming of the last scene whether Ilsa would end up with Rick or Laszlo. During the course of the picture, when Ingrid asked director Michael Curtiz with which man her character was in love, she was told to "play it in between". Since the ending was not the final scene shot, there are some scenes where she *was* aware of how everything would turn out, and these include the scene in the black market with Rick and the scene in the Blue Parrot where Ferrari offers the Laszlos one exit visa.

**Because the film was made during WWII they were not allowed to film at an airport after dark for security reasons. Instead they used a sound stage with a small cardboard cutout airplane and forced perspective. To give the illusion that the plane was full-sized, they used little people to portray the crew preparing the plane for take-off. Years later the same technique was used in the film Alien (1979), with director Ridley Scott's son and some of his friends in scaled down spacesuits.

**The difference in height between Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman changes throughout the film. This is because Bergman was actually a few inches taller than Bogart, though to create the illusion that it was vice versa, Michael Curtiz had Bogart stand on boxes and sit on pillows in some shots, or had Bergman slouch down.

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Casablanca

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Last night my purse broke, but today Bettina used her nimbleness and Carlos used his strength and came to my rescue and fixed my poor purse. I am happy to say that it is back in business!!

Have a good one everyone!
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Related Products

Bring home the magic of the silver screen with this Casablanca poster, a reprint of the famous theatre lobby posters. Casablanca shows dashing Rick (Humphrey Bogart) with beautiful Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) – their heart-wrenching romance was unforgettable. Must-haves for film buffs and fans alike. Custom framed under glass

This Casablanca film cell collectible is a limited edition with only 300 pieces ever made. Recapture the magic of Bogart and Bergman on the big screen. Featuring two strips of vintage 16mm film from the 1942 theatrical release of Casablanca. Produced exclusively for us and limited to just 300 pieces. Mounted on suede matte and framed in wood, under glass. Serial-numbered brass plaque. Certificate of authenticity. 15"x13".

Lastly, we have this Bogart fedora. Sport this debonair lid and journey back to Casablanca, Morocco, circa 1942. Crafted of 100% wool felt with a grosgrain band and sewn-in cotton sweatband. Crushable and waterproof. Available in M, L and XL. Please specify size above.

This Day in History: March 1, 1781

2006-03-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

Articles of Confederation are ratified

On March 1, 1781, the Articles of Confederation were finally ratified. The Articles were signed by Congress and sent to the individual states for ratification on November 15, 1777 after 16 months of debate. The bickering between Virginia and Maryland over land claims delayed the final ratification for almost four years. Maryland finally gave in and approved the Articles on March 1, 1781, affirming the Articles as the outline of the official government of the United States. The nation relied on the Articles of Confederation until the implementation of the current U.S. Constitution in 1789.

The critical distinction between the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution —the primacy of the states under the Articles--is best understood by comparing the following lines:

The Articles of Confederation begin: “To all to whom these Present shall come, we the undersigned Delegates of the States…”

In contrast, the Constitution begins: “We the People of the United States…do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Less than five years after the ratification of the Articles of Confederation, enough leading Americans decided that the system was inadequate to the task of governance so they peacefully overthrew their second government in just over 20 years.

The difference between a collection of sovereign states forming a confederation and a federal government created by a sovereign people was the heart of the debate as the new American people decided what form their government would take. Between 1776 and 1787, Americans went from living under a sovereign king, to living in sovereign states, to becoming a sovereign people. This transformation defined the American Revolution.

Take My Quiz
- on -
the Articles of Confederation!

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I remember learning about this in high school. I was in the AP U.S. History class and it was pretty hard. The quiz I made would have definitely helped me back then. My teacher then said this class was as hard as college classes, but really, it was a whole lot harder. I wonder why they make the AP test so difficult, because in college, the tests are nowhere near as hard. Or maybe I was just taught how to learn history better then, so when I took the classes in college they just seemed easier. Either way, I passed the AP U.S. History test and it is over and done with. If any of you have to take the test soon, I hope my blog helps! It would have helped me back then. Hah.

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Check out our Library of Congress mirror. Our stately mirror draws on the architectural elements found in the Library of Congress. The graceful figures were inspired by the work of sculptor Lyon Pratt (1867-1917).Liber Delictatio Animae (Books, the Delight of the Soul) is inscribed on the Library. Rendered in artist-grade gypsum cement. 15"x11". 8 lbs.

We also have this United States Great Seal dinnerware. On July 4, 1776, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson began creating a unifying symbol for America's virtues. Six years later, their masterpiece: The Great Seal of the United States. Our fine porcelain proudly displays the Seal. This patriotic set would be a precious gift or a fine addition to your table or display cabinet. Dinner plate, 10". Dessert plate, 8". Soup bowl, 7". Cup/saucer, 8oz..

This Day in History: February 28, 1827

2006-02-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

1st commercial railroad in U.S. Chartered

On February 28, 1827, the 1st commercial railroad in the U.S., the Baltimore & Ohio, was charted. This railroad is also known as the B&O, which is very profitable in Monopoly.

The railroad was charted by a group of Baltimore businessmen to regain trans-Allegheny traffic lost to the newly opened Erie Canal. Construction began in 1828, and the first division opened in May, 1830, between Baltimore and Ellicott's Mills, Md. Horses were the first source of power, but the successful trial run of Peter Cooper's Tom Thumb in Aug., 1830, brought the change to steam locomotives. The B&O expanded steadily and reached St. Louis in 1857.

During the Civil War the railroad moved Union troops and supplies. By the end of the 19th century the B&O had achieved almost 5,800 miles of track and connected with Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York City. By the mid-1900s it had become mainly a freight carrier. Faced with financial difficulties, the B&O was acquired by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway in 1963 and merged with it in 1965. In 1980 the combined company became part of the CSX Corporation.

The B&O was the first railroad to publish a timetable, to use electric locomotives and specialty cars (i.e. dining and baggage), and to run fully air-conditioned trains.

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the American Railroads

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So Southern California finally got our big storm. Although it is probably no where near the damage of 95% of the rest of the country it is pretty crazy for us. I was thinking about how San Diego drivers are so terrible during the rain, and how there are a million and one accidents when it rains. And then I thought about why this was so. I think it is because 1) we never get rain (or as some like to say weather), thus we never get practice in driving in it. 2) our roads aren’t built for rain, thus all of our roads are always flooded over and terrible, which makes the drive a bit harder and 3) because it hardly ever rains, when it does, our roads are super slick from all the built up oil, etc.

After thinking about this I thought I should cut San Diegan’s some slack for their lack of skills or abilities to drive well in the rain. Hmm. Let’s see how our expected week of rain works out, and then I will tell you my final decision on this.

Have a good week!

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Check out our Cast-iron railroad lock. This cast-iron railroad lock recalls those that once secured railway cars from bandits, hobos and other unsavory types. Fully functioning, it's ideal for safeguarding your shed, barn or any entry that needs more style than any common lock can deliver. Embossed copper railway medallion. Complete with pair of oversized, iron skeleton keys. 7" tall. Weighing in at nearly 5 lbs

Check out our Railwayman's pocket watch. Our best-selling 18-jewel pocket watch features famous "winged wheel" logo and 24 hour markings on dial. Back shows massive Russian 4-8-2 steam locomotive, with 14 wheels (four unpowered in front, eight in center to drive train and two in rear on single axle) in high relief. Free 14" chain and Russian/English factory docs. Serial-numbered. 90-day warranty. 2" round face.

We also have this Classic train whistle. The whistle of the ol' West. The old familiar "choo-choo" of this train whistle will delight the child in anyone. Three nickel-plated brass pipes create a vintage locomotive whistle tone. Crafted in England by the legendary Acme Whistle Company (since 1883). 12"; 7 oz.

This Day in History: February 27, 1922

2006-02-27T09:14:00.000-08:00

The 19th Amendment was Declared Constitutional

On February 27, 1922 the eight members of the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously declared the 19th Amendment, which provided female suffrage to the U.S. Constitution, constitutional.

The 19th Amendment, which stated that "the right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex," was the product of over seven decades of meetings, petitions, and protests by women suffragists and their supporters.

The amendment was the culmination of the work of many activists in favor of women's suffrage. One such group called the Silent Sentinels protested in front of the White House for 18 months starting in 1917 to raise awareness of the issue.

On January 9, 1918, President Woodrow Wilson announced his support of the amendment. The next day, the House of Representatives narrowly passed the amendment but the Senate refused to even debate it until October. When the Senate voted on the amendment in October, it failed by two votes.

In response, the National Woman's Party urged citizens to vote against anti-suffrage senators up for election in the fall of 1918. After the 1918 election, most members of Congress were pro-suffrage. On May 21, 1919, the House of Representatives passed the amendment by a vote of 304 to 89, and 2 weeks later on June 4, the Senate finally followed, where the amendment passed 56 to 25.

Take My Quiz
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Women’s Suffrage

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Too bad weekends are never as long as you want them to be. I had a pretty good weekend, with some relaxation and even an adventure at a Brazilian restaurant. I wish the weekend wasn’t over though, because I am tired and I know this week might even seem longer than last week. Wish me luck!

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Check out our Rosie the Riveter sign. This nostalgic tin sign is an exact replica of the famous WWII propaganda sign. Ready to hang, 12"x16".

This Day in History: February 24, 1885

2006-02-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

Chester W. Nimitz is Born

This day in history, Chester W. Nimitz, the Commander Chief of the Pacific Forces for the United States and Allied forces during World War II, was born on February 24, 1885. Nimitz was the nation’s leading authority on submarines, as well as the Chief of the Navy Bureau of Navigation in 1939.

In World War II Nimitz played a very significant role. Ten days after the attack on Pearl Harbor Nimitz was selected the Commander in Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet with the rank of Admiral. Nimitz assumed command at the most critical period of the war in the Pacific, and despite the losses from the attack on Pearl Harbor and the tragic shortage of shops, planes and supplies, he successfully organized his forces to halt the Japanese advance.

On October 7, 1943 he was designated Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas. By Act of Congress, approved 14 December 1944, the grade of Fleet Admiral of the United States Navy — the highest grade in the Navy — was established and the next day President of the United States Franklin Roosevelt nominated and, with the advice and consent of the Senate, appointed Admiral Nimitz to that rank. He took the oath of office December 19 1944.

In the final phases in the war in the Pacific, he attacked the Mariana Islands invading Saipan, inflicting a decisive defeat on the Japanese Fleet in the Battle of the Philippine Sea and capturing Guam and Tinian (from which Col. Paul Tibbets flew the Enola Gay to drop the Little Boy atomic bomb on August 6, 1945). His Fleet Forces isolated enemy-held bastions of the Central and Eastern Caroline Islands and secured in quick succession Peleliu, Angaur, and Ulithi. In the Philippines his ships turned back powerful task forces of the Japanese Fleet, a historic victory in the multi-phased Battle for Leyte Gulf 24 to 26 October 1944. Fleet Admiral Nimitz culminated his long-range strategy by successful amphibious assaults on Iwo Jima and Okinawa. In addition, Nimitz also persuaded the Army Air Forces to mine the Japanese ports and waterways by air in an successful mission called Operation Starvation which severely disrupted enemy logistics.

On September 2, 1945 Fleet Admiral Nimitz signed for the United States when Japan formally surrendered on board battleship Missouri in Tokyo Bay. On October 5, 1945, which had been officially designated as "Nimitz Day" in Washington, DC, Admiral Nimitz was personally presented a Gold Star in lieu of the third Distinguished Service Medal by the President of the United States "for exceptionally meritorious service as Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas, from June 1944 to August 1945...."

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It is FINALLY Friday! Woo hoo!! I have one more test this afternoon, and then it is pretty much home free. I am heading up to Long Beach later tonight. There are no real specific plans, except to have some time for relaxation.

I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and an even better weekend!!
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Related Products

Check out our Navy Blanket. Each soft, woven jacquard throw features the seal of one of our nation's Armed Forces. Crafted in the USA of 100% cotton with fringed edging. Please specify Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines. Machine washable. 50"x60".

Check out our Navy insignia watch. Show your patriotic spirit with our striking watches, featuring the Navy insignia. Japanese quartz movement in water resistant, stainless steel casing. Sweep second hand. Leather strap with silver-finish buckle closure. Presented in tin gift canister.

Check out our Bosun's whistle. On a ship, the boatswain (aka "bosun") is responsible for the hull, rigging and anchors. When he blows his whistle, sailors jump! These whistles, constructed of nickel-plated brass, are easy to master and produce a distinctive sound. They have 101 uses - security, athletics, meetings or just keeping the troops in line - they'll put you in the captain's chair. A unique collectible and a great gift, too. Officer on deck!

This Day in History: February 23, 1861

2006-02-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

Lincoln avoids assassination attempt

On February 23, 1861 Lincoln foils an assassination attempt in Baltimore.

A few days before the attempt, Lincoln was in his hometown Springfield, Illinois giving a poignant farewell to his hometown and close friends. People who heard the speech felt like it was Lincoln saying goodbye to them forever when he said during his speech that Springfield was a place where his children were born and one was buried.

It turns out that when departing Springfield, Lincoln’s aides received reports of a planned assassination attempt in Baltimore and ordered the train to proceed to Washington immediately.

Lincoln was hated in a lot of southern states, for he assumed presidency on the eve of civil war, during which slaveholding states threatened to secede from the Union. Southern conspirators had vowed to kill Lincoln, because they perceived him as an abolitionist president even before he entered office.

A Chicago police detective, Allan Pinkerton, who was a devout supporter of Lincoln, infiltrated secessionist groups in order to prevent assassination attempts. While working undercover, Pinkerton engaged in a conversation on February 15 with one Captain Ferdinanda and an associate who told him “that d—d abolitionist shall never set foot on Southern soil but to find a grave….one week from today the North shall want a new president, for Lincoln will be dead.”

Even when news of the plot reached Lincoln, he argued to keep the Baltimore engagement, much to his aides’ frustration. A stubborn Lincoln finally submitted to his wife’s insistence to abandon his plans and avoid the attack. Observers who heard of Lincoln’s arrival at the Willard Hotel noticed the “tall and awkward form” of Lincoln. The president appeared nervous and quickly worked his way through the gathering throng toward his room. Shortly thereafter, his wife, Mary, and their sons joined him at the hotel, where the family stayed until his inauguration on March 4, 1861.

Trivia about Lincoln
·Lincoln was seeing the play "Our American Cousin" when he was shot.
·Lincoln was the first president to have a beard while in office. He grew his beard out of the suggestion of an 11 year old girl.
·A plot was developed to steal Lincoln's body, so a secret society to guard his tomb was formed.
·During the Civil War, telegraph wires were strung to follow the action on the battlefield. But there was no telegraph office in the White House, so Lincoln went across the street to the War Department to get the news.
·Lincoln once had a dream right before the fall of Richmond that he would die. He dreamt that he was in the White House, he heard crying and when he found the room it was coming from he asked who had died. The man said the President. He looked in the coffin and saw his own face. A week later Lincoln died.
·Lincoln was shot on Good Friday.
·Lincoln had a cat named "Bob," a turkey named "Jack," and a dog named "Jib."
·He was the first president to be photographed at his inauguration. John Wilkes Booth (his assassin) can be seen standing close to Lincoln in the picture.
·Mary Todd Lincoln's brother, half-brothers, and brothers-in-law fought in the Confederate Army.
·John Wilkes Booth's brother once saved Abraham Lincoln's son's life.
·Lincoln and his wife held séances in the White House. They had great interest in psychic phenomena.

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Abraham Lincoln!

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Lincoln was always one of my favorite presidents to learn about, but I wonder if what I learned about was really true. I found out that a lot of the things I learned about past presidents, even in high school, were ridiculously wrong, or at least sugar coated.

Anyway, happy Thursday everyone! I am done with my tests, for the most part. I have a continuation of one on Friday. But after that it is free sailing for… a few hours… because I have a paper to write due Tuesday. Fun.

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Related Products

Check out our Abraham Lincoln Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too. 2½"x2".

This Day in History: February 22, 1980

2006-02-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

U.S. Olympic Hockey Team Beats Russia

In one of the most dramatic upsets in Olympic history, the underdog U.S. hockey team, made up of college players, defeats the four-time defending gold-medal winning Soviet team at the XIII Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York. The Soviet squad, previously regarded as the finest in the world, fell to the youthful American team 4-3 before a frenzied crowd of 10,000 spectators. Two days later, the Americans defeated Finland 4-2 to clinch the hockey gold.

The so-called Miracle on Ice was more than just an Olympic upset; to many Americans, it was an ideological victory in the Cold War as meaningful as the Berlin Airlift or the Apollo moon landing. The upset came at an auspicious time: President Jimmy Carter had just announced that the United States was going to boycott the 1980 Summer Games in Moscow because of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and Americans, faced with a major recession and the Iran hostage crisis, were in dire need of something to celebrate. After the game, President Carter called the players to congratulate them, and millions of Americans spent that Friday night in revelry over the triumph of "our boys" over the Russian pros.

As the U.S. team demonstrated in their victory over Finland two days later, it was disparaging to call the U.S. team amateurs. Three-quarters of the squad were top college players who were on their way to the National Hockey League (NHL), and coach Herb Brooks had trained the team long and hard in a manner that would have made the most authoritative Soviet coach proud.

The 1980 U.S. hockey team was probably the best-conditioned American Olympic hockey team of all time--the result of countless hours running skating exercises in preparation for Lake Placid. In their play, the U.S. players adopted passing techniques developed by the Soviets for the larger international hockey rinks, while preserving the rough checking style that was known to throw the Soviets off-guard. It was these factors, combined with an exceptional afternoon of play by Craig, Johnson, Eruzione, and others, that resulted in the miracle at Lake Placid.
This improbable victory was later memorialized in a 2004 film, Miracle, starring Kurt Russell.

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the 1980 Olympic Hockey Games

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So in one of my books for class, they talk about this whole ordeal throughout three chapters, and the book is about Group Communication. It is pretty funny. Ironically enough, I have a test in this class today, and I am 100% sure that this will be talked about. Good thing I am writing about it today and learning even more. I guess it sets the mood, in a sense, for the test.

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Related Products

Check out our 1980 Soviet Hockey Jersey. You can have your very own USSR or Red Army Penguins hockey jerseys. Jerseys are 100% polyester and feature a famous player's name, in Russian. One size fits all.

We also have this other1980 Soviet Hockey Jersey.

This Day in History: February 21, 1885

2006-02-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Washington Monument dedicated
Today, on February 21, 1885 the Washington Monument, built in honor of America’s first president, is dedicated in Washington, D.C.

In February 1885, the Washington Monument was formally dedicated, and three years later it was opened to the public, who were permitted to climb to the top of the monument by stairs or elevator.

Trivia
The Washington National Monument Society laid the monument's cornerstone on Independence Day, 1848, 36 years before completion. But when the obelisk was a height of about 156 feet, the Society lost support and funding. The monument stood incomplete and untouched for 20 years. Finally, in 1876, President Ulysses S. Grant authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to finish the project. When fully constructed, it was the world's tallest structure. Today, the approximately 36,000-stacked blocks of granite and marble compose the world's tallest freestanding masonry structure.

The monument was the tallest structure in the world when completed and remains today, by District of Columbia law, the tallest building in the nation's capital.

Even More Trivia
That 9-inch aluminum pyramid, which completes the top of the structure as it narrows to a point, is 100-ounces of solid aluminum, part of the monument's lightning protection system. In the 1880s, aluminum was a rare metal, selling for $1.10 per ounce and used primarily for jewelry. The pyramid was the largest piece of aluminum of its day and was such a novelty that it was displayed at Tiffany's jewelry store in New York before it was placed at the top. Last, if you go to visit the Washington Monument, you will have a spectacular panoramic view from the observation deck because, by government mandate, it will always be the tallest structure in Washington

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Today will be a busy night of studying. I have to learn two 30-page study guides by tomorrow morning.

Also, I have been thinking about the Olympics this morning and how I haven’t been able to watch more than five minutes of it. I am pretty disappointed about that. I really want to watch curling. I wish I had more time.

What is your favorite Olympic sport?
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Related Products

Check out our George Washington Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

This Day in History: February 20, 1971

2006-02-20T09:17:00.000-08:00

U.S. President's Day

On February 20, 1971, the observance of President’s Day on the third Monday of February became effective in the United States. President’s Day is officially known as Washington’s Birthday (February 22), although it is celebrated also for Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12).

Observance on the third Monday of February dates to the Monday Holidays Act of 1968, which became effective in 1971. A draft of that bill called for a Presidents' Day to honor both Washington and Lincoln, but the final version only moved Washington's Birthday from February 22 to the third Monday without changing its name. In 1971, President Richard Nixon issued a proclamation calling for a Presidents' Day on the third Monday to honor all US presidents, but that did not have the force of law. As of 2003, the federal government still refers to the holiday as Washington's Birthday, while many state and local governments and private employers refer to it as Presidents' Day.

U.S. schools generally use the days leading up this holiday to teach their students about the history of the President’s of the United States, in particular George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Adding to the confusion is that George Washington's birthday was nominally on February 11, but in the Julian calendar that predated England's calendar reformation in September 1752. His birthday is equivalent to February 22 in the Gregorian calendar used today. The third Monday in a month never falls later than the 21st, so the official holiday now never occurs on his actual birthday.

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U.S. Presidents!

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I hope everyone’s weekend went well. Mine was full of studying with a break of judo and lunch with a friend. Oh… and I also watched parts of the All-Star game and the Slam Dunk contest…which was awesome!

Anyway, for some reason I could not sleep for the life of me. It took me almost 4 hours to fall asleep. I thought maybe it was a full moon or something, but I think it was just the energy drink I drank a few hours before bedtime. Oops.

By the way, if you were wondering whether I got this holiday off from work or school, the answer would be no. I think I deserve a comment for that one.
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Related Products

Check out our George Washington Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

We also have an Abraham Lincoln Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

Next we have these Presidential robes. Embroidered with the Presidential seal and Mr. President or First Lady. Each contains 69,000 loops of thick and thirsty, 100% Turkish cotton (60% heavier than ordinary robes). Roomy raglan sleeves, wide belt and doubled collar. 52" long (one size fits nearly everyone). Save on a pair!

And the last item today is our Great Seal Dinnerware . On July 4, 1776, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson began creating a unifying symbol for America's virtues. Six years later, their masterpiece: The Great Seal of the United States. Our fine porcelain proudly displays the Seal. This patriotic set would be a precious gift or a fine addition to your table or display cabinet. Dinner plate, 10". Dessert plate, 8". Soup bowl, 7". Cup/saucer, 8oz. Save on a 5-pc. or 20-pc. place setting!

Titanic's Final Moments on History Channel, Sunday

2006-02-17T15:34:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, February 26, 2006 at 9pm Eastern, the History Channel will present "Titanic’s Final Moments: Missing Pieces".

During this show they will talk about "A top-secret expedition by The History Channel to the Titanic wreck site, conducted in August 2005, produced never-before-seen footage that could completely rewrite the final moments of the world’s most famous sunken vessel. Using high-definition photographic equipment, an internationally acknowledged team of experts has located brand-new information that maritime historian Simon Mills has termed "…possibly the most significant pieces of evidence since the wreck was located in 1985." Find out what was down there and what it means to the story you thought you knew." --History Channel

This show is supposed to provide "the missing link" in the Titanic story, a piece of information that has causes many debates amongst experts for years.

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This is a White Star framed print. Thomas H. Ismay salvaged the White Star Line in 1868 for just £1,000. Ismay steered the company to success with his "comfort rather than speed" policy, creating a fleet of luxury liners like the Olympic and Titanic. Our reproduction of a vintage advertising print is a wonderful piece of White Star Line's amazing story of success, luxury and loss. Custom framed under glass. Ready to hang.

This is a Titanic ship model. 1:350 scale model exquisitely rendered in mahogany. The ship that suffered the most tragic of all maritime disasters is recreated in this exact mahogany scale model. Hand-signed by Millvina Dean, one of the last living survivors of the ill-fated luxury liner. Master model builders handcrafted this beauty to exacting specifications (each takes about 1,000 man-hours). Amazing detail – from the complex rigging running bow to stern to the dozen lifeboats port and starboard. Mounted on wooden platform with brass accents. 30" length, 3" beam. Quite simply, phenomenal!

This is a Titanic ship whistle. Thanks to the signals of the Titanic's First Mate's whistle, countless lives have been saved at sea. An original whistle from the Titanic recently sold at auction for more than £3,000! Our fully functioning reproductions are crafted in England from solid brass and nickel-plated. Made using the original 100-year-old tooling. 2".

This is a Titanic ship bell. Like a relic pulled up from the icy North Atlantic. Solid brass with a rich, rust-tone patina. Engraved with the ship's name and year of the fateful accident. Great for calling the kids in from play or warning of impending danger.

This is a White Star Line lifeboat model. Lifeboats like these were standard issue for the opulent White Star Line, builders of luxury liners like the Olympic and Titanic. Each remarkable model is built entirely by hand using traditional lapstrake construction of overlapping wooden planks. Details galore – from the water barrels and oars to the mast and canvas sail. Ready to hang with wrought iron wall davits or display on the mantel with table rests (both included).

This is a Titanic porcelain place-setting. Entertain guests with the same china pattern used in R.M.S. Titanic's first class dining salon and on the captain's table. Recreated by Woodmere to the exact specifications, per White Star Line. Finely detailed cobalt blue porcelain is hand-decorated and trimmed with 23 karat gold. Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity. 16-piece place-setting includes four each; dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, cup and saucer. Dishwasher safe; do not microwave.

This Day in History: February 17, 1801

2006-02-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

Thomas Jefferson is elected

On February 17, 1801, Thomas Jefferson was elected the third president of the United States. This was the first election to constitute the first peaceful transfer of power from one political party to another in the United States.

There was a fierce partisan warfare that characterized the campaign of 1800 between Democratic-Republicans Jefferson and Aaron Burr and Federalists John Adams, Charles C. Pinckney and John Jay.

The election highlighted the ongoing battle between Democratic-Republican supporters of the French and the pro-British Federalists.

After a bloodless but vicious campaign in which candidates and influential supporters on both sides used the press, often anonymously, as a forum to fire slanderous volleys at each other, the then-laborious and confusing process of voting began in April 1800. Individual states scheduled elections at different times and although Jefferson and Burr ran on the same ticket, as president and vice president respectively, the Constitution still demanded votes for each individual to be counted separately. As a result, by the end of January 1801, Jefferson and Burr emerged tied at 73 electoral votes apiece. Adams came in third at 65 votes.

This unintended result sent the final vote to the House of Representatives. Sticklers in the Federalist-controlled House of Representatives insisted on following the Constitution’s flawed rules and refused to elect Jefferson and Burr together on the same ticket. The highly influential Federalist Alexander Hamilton, who mistrusted Jefferson but hated Burr more, persuaded the House to vote against Burr, whom he called “the most unfit man…for the office of president.” (This accusation and others led Burr to challenge Hamilton to a duel in 1804 that resulted in Hamilton’s death.) Two weeks before the scheduled inauguration, Jefferson emerged victorious and Burr was confirmed as his vice president.

In his inaugural address, Jefferson sought to heal political differences by graciously declaring, “We are all Republicans, we are all Federalists.”

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Thomas Jefferson

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Normally I am very excited about the weekend coming up, but this weekend I have to study, ALL weekend. I have three tests next week, and I haven’t even started studying yet. This will be a LONG weekend.

I hope your weekends go well!!
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Related Products

Check out our Thomas Jefferson Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

This Day in History: February 16, 1862

2006-02-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Confederates Surrender at Fort Donelson

On February 16, 1862 about 14,000 Confederate soldier’s surrender at Fort Donelson, Tennessee during the Civil War.

The Battle of Fort Donelson was fought on February 12–16, 1862. This battle earned Union general Ulysses S. Grant the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant.

This battle took place after the battle of Fort Henry, Tennessee, which was also a Union victory.

Albert Sidney Johnston gave Confederate General John B. Floyd command at Donelson. Floyd arrived after losing western Virginia to Union general George B. McClellan. Floyd was a wanted man in the North, for graft and secessionist activities as Secretary of War under the administration of President James Buchanan. Johnston gave him an additional 12,000 men and withdrew the rest of his force to Nashville to stop an expected Union attack there.

General Grant and U.S. Navy Flag Officer Andrew H. Foote had more trouble than they expected in the taking of Donelson, and did not catch Floyd.

The fort had twelve heavy guns about 100 feet above the Cumberland River, and three miles of trenches around the fort, which was more of a stockade than a fort.

Initial Union probing attacks on February 13 were repulsed, but on February 14, another 10,000 Union reinforcements arrived, with six gunboats, four of them ironclads. The ironclads approached too close to the fort, enabling the Confederates to pummel them. Crippled, they drifted downstream; fifty-four Union sailors were killed or wounded while the Confederates lost nothing.

However, on land well-armed Union soldiers surrounded the Confederates, and while the Union boats had been damaged, they still controlled the Cumberland River.

On the morning of February 15, the Confederates launched a counterattack from their left against the over-ambitious and glory-hungry Union general John A. McClernand's rash attack by his division on the Union right. The Union was caught off-guard, but the Confederates failed to capitalize on their advantage.

True to his nature, Grant did not panic at the Confederate assault. He ordered a counterattack the next day; the lost ground was soon retaken. By morning, Union artillery was scowling down on the Confederate fort. Nearly 1,000 soldiers on both sides had been killed with about 3,000 wounded still on the field; some froze to death in a snowstorm.

General Floyd expected a Confederate loss, and to be captured and face justice in the North. He gave command to the indecisive General Gideon Pillow, who gave it to the somewhat cautious General Simon Bolivar Buckner while Floyd escaped down the Cumberland in the night and Pillow also escaped.

Disgusted at this show of cowardice, Confederate cavalry general Nathan Bedford Forrest heatedly said, "I did not come here to surrender my command," and stormed out, leaving with his 700 men and not encountering a single Yankee at Donelson.

On the morning of February 16, Buckner sent a note to Grant requesting terms of surrender. Buckner had expectations that Grant would offer generous terms because of their previous relationship. In 1854 Grant had lost a command in California in part due a drinking problem, and then-U.S. Army officer Buckner had loaned him money to get home after his resignation. But Grant showed he had no mercy towards men who had rebelled against the Union. His reply was one of the most famous quotes to come out of the war, giving him his nickname of "Unconditional Surrender"; in part:

Sir:

Yours of this date proposing Armistice, and appointment of Commissioners, to settle terms of Capitulation is just received. No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted.

I propose to move immediately upon your works.

I am.

Sir: very respectfully,

Your obt. sevt.
U.S. Grant
Brig. Gen.

Buckner shortly surrendered his 12–13,000 troops, the first of three Confederate armies that Grant would capture during the war

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the Battle of Fort Donelson

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So is anyone watching the All-Star games this weekend? I am very excited for them, although I have three tests to study for this weekend, so I am not sure how this will all fit in. Either way, I at least want to watch the Slam Dunk Contest.

Have a good day out there!!

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Related Products

We have Confederate cavalry figures at www.Sieglers.com. These are lead cast figurines, entirely hand-painted, seem to gallop off the pages of history. In exact 1:32 scale and historically accurate. Each comes to life with exquisite details, from uniform buckles to the horses' flowing manes. Confederate Cavalry features set of six troopers on horseback. 54 mm. For history and Civil War buffs alike.

Next we have Authentic Civil War bullets. Load your collection with these genuine relics from perhaps the most significant event in U.S. history. Four-piece set includes a musket ball and minie-bullet along with an exceedingly rare "William's Cleaner" bullet and a .52-caliber Sharp's bullet (used only by cavalrymen). Limited to just 1,865 poignant sets, each with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity. Handsome, 9"x6" presentation case. Two-piece set includes a musket ball and minie-bullet in a handsome, 3"x4" presentation case. Certificate of authenticity. After more than 130 years of slow oxidation, the lead has acquired a white patina. Protective lacquer finish to preserve them for posterity. Bullets approximately 1". Please specify four-piece set or two-piece set.

This is a Brass and copper CSA bugle. Bugles like these once sounded the charge during the Civil War. Fully functional; ideal for calling the troops home for chow or waking up new recruits. Accurate replica complete with CSA (Confederate States of America) insignia and wreath and braided cord. Two-toned, crafted of copper and brass. 12" overall.

This Day in History: February 15, 1812

2006-02-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

The King of Diamonds is Born

Not to remind you of Valentine’s Day any longer, but today is the birthday of Charles Lewis Tiffany, the king of diamonds. Tiffany was born in Killingly, Connecticut in 1812. In 1837 he headed to New York to join his partner John B. Young in opening a stationary and fancy goods shop.

This plan change though when the political upheaval in Europe in 1848 caused the prices of precious stones to plummet. When this happened Tiffany took this perfect opportunity to open his own jewelry business. He bought a bunch of diamonds for really cheap, including the French Crown Jewel, which he later sold for a really good profit. Once he bought up all these diamonds, he got the press to call him “The King of Diamonds”.

Around this same time, Tiffany started to manufacture gold jewelry. He expanded his business rapidly, especially when he acquired John C. Moorey’s leading operations in 1851. Two years later, Tiffany gained complete control of the company and renamed it “Tiffany & Co”. During the following years, he opened Tiffany branches around the world and produced special items for famous people, such as the First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln.

When Tiffany died in 1902, his company had become very popular and considered a place for the high culture.

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Diamonds!

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Although it is only Wednesday, I still think the week has moved by pretty fast. Maybe it is because Valentine’s Day was yesterday. Even though, I didn’t do anything Valentine related except give some co-workers some candy and get a cupcake in one of my classes.
How was your Valentine’s Day? And if you think Valentine’s Day is just about corporations, tell me why.
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Related Products

This faceted glass diamond paperweight always makes me smile. I wonder what people think when you have this sitting on your desk. I bet if you were Tiffany, everyone would think it was real. Anyway, check it out; it is pretty unique and a lot cheaper than a real one. Imagine the look on a friend or girlfriend's face when you give this to them. It could go one fo two ways. Just imagining this makes me smile more.

This Day in History: February 14, 2006

2006-02-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

The History of Valentine’s Day

There are many legends about how Valentine’s Day started. One legend says it all started with St. Valentine and the cruel Emperor Claudius II. Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families so in effect he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine believed this was a great injustice and defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that St. Valentine be put to death.

Another legend says that St. Valentine was the first to send a “valentine”. Legend says that while he was in prison for marrying people against Claudius’s wishes, he fell in love with a young girl, rumored to be the jailor’s daughter, who visited him while he was in prison. Right before he died it is said that he wrote a letter and signed it “From your Valentine”. Sound familiar??

Some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrate in the middle of February to honor the anniversary of St. Valentine’s death or burial, although others say that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day in order to “christianize” the pagan Lupercalia fertility festival

Valentine’s Day became popular in Great Britain around the 17th century. By the middle of the 18th century, it was quite common for friends and lovers from all social classes to exchange tokens of affection, as they do now. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, however, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.

Take My Quiz
Valentine’s Day Quiz

Note: One answer is wrong on the quiz, Japan really does celebrate Valentine's Day, China doesn't. Oops.

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Happy Valentine’s everyone!! My real Valentine’s Day happened last weekend. My Valentine is now in Long Beach, so I will not see him tonight. Instead, I will probably be at the gym. It sounds sad, but, I just got to celebrate early, so that is all that matters to me. Heh.

I hope you all have a great Valentine’s Day with whoever you are with!
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Related Products

Give your Valentine a toast with our Crystal martini set. This is a five-piece crystal martini set where you can shake up your style and add a splash of decadence with our 24% lead crystal martini set. Whether you prefer a dirty martini or a cosmopolitan, this set is sure to please. Shaker 20 oz.; glasses 6 oz.

This is a Garibaldi-link bracelet. This is a 7.5" Garibaldi-link bracelet, that is 14k gold. Pendants not included.

This Day in History: February 13, 1923

2006-02-13T09:15:00.000-08:00

Charles "Chuck" Yeager was Born

On February 13, 1932 Charles Yeager, better known as “Chuck” Yeager, was born. Today he celebrates his 83rd birthday.

Yeager is best known as the first man to break the sound barrier.

Yeager was born in the poverty-stricken Myra, West Virginia and overcame his bleak circumstances. During World War II he became a combat pilot, where he was shot down over France in 1943, and somehow managed to survive.

After the war Yeager was in charge of pilot training for experimental aircraft. On October 14, 1947 he became the first person to break the sound barrier, flying a rocket powered Bell X-1 jet. After this he helped train the first U.S. astronauts until the Vietnam War in the 60s where he flew combat missions over Vietnam. In the 1980s Yeager became a celebrity, largely due to the 1984 film made from Tom Wolfe's book The Right Stuff, which was an account of the early U.S. space program.

Take My Quiz
- on -
Chuck Yeager

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This weekend was a lot of fun. So much fun, that I will have a lot of catching up to do this week to get things done. It was worth it, so its okay.

This weekend I went to Judo, and I also got to do the whole Frisbee Golf thing again. It was my third time, and I think I was a little worse than my first. I will blame it on the wind, but really, I think my beginner’s luck is running out. Either way it was a lot of fun.

I hope you had a good weekend. Did you do anything fun?

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Related Products

As mentioned above, Chuck Yeager broke the ‘sound barrier” and changed history. He did this in his Bell X-1 airplane, called the Glamorous Glennis. This is a recreated Bell X-1 model airplane and is signed by Chuck Yeager. This was meticulously handcrafted from solid mahogany, then intricately hand-painted and coated with clear lacquer to protect it for generations to come. Mounted on a handsome display stand with story plaque. 10½" wingspan.

Next we have these Classic nose art clocks. Turn back the clock to a time when scantily clad beauties decorated our bombers. Made using a proprietary process that imbeds the image into the surface of the metal dial. Set in an aluminum riveted case with a polished acrylic crystal. Accurate, quartz movement powered by one AA battery (not included). 14" diameter. Made in U.S.A. Choose from B-25, B-17 or Memphis Belle.

Lastly we have these Art deco airplane clocks. The sleek lines of this cast aluminum clock take you on a flight back in time. Precision quartz movement keeps your arrivals and departures on schedule.

This Day in History: February 10, 1942

2006-02-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

Japanese sub bombards Midway

On February 10, 1942 a Japanese submarine launched a brutal attack on Midway, a coral atoll used as U.S. Navy base. This was the fourth bombing of the atoll by Japanese ships since Pearl Harbor on December 7.

Capturing Midway was an important part of the Japanese strategy to create a defensive line that would stretch from the western Aleutian Islands in the north to the Midway, Wake, Marshall, and Gilbert Islands in the south, and then into the Dutch West Indies. If they could occupy Midway, it would allow them to deprive the US of a submarine base while also providing a perfect launching pad for an all-out assault on Hawaii.

The mastermind of the Pearl Harbor attack and commander in chief of the Japanese combined fleet, Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto, knew that the only way for the Japanese to have free reign in the Pacific was to completely destroy the U.S. naval capacity. This bombing of the atoll ship and submarine did not end up breaking through the defense set up by Adm. Chester Nimitz, the commander of the US Navy in the Pacific though. Nimitz used every resource available to protect Midway, and essentially Hawaii.

The Battle of Midway, which actually started on June 7, 1942, ended up being a disaster for Japan, although it was a major victory for the U.S. in the Pacific.

Take My Quiz
- on -
The Events Surrounding the Battle of Midway

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Sorry about the quiz being late today. Although it was late, I did learn a lot about the Battle of Midway. One of my co-workers here does tours for the U.S.S. Midway and he told me a lot of inside stories about it. He is a really interesting guy, and probably the most knowledge people around when it comes to history. Hopefully, if he ever gets the time, he will be a guest blogger.

Anyway, I hope you have a good weekend!I have no exciting plans as of yet, but we shall see how it turns out!

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Related Products

Here is our coppered brass "tot" rum cup.In days of yore, ship's pursers issued daily rum rations ("tots") to the crew. Our one-tot replica cup is handcrafted in brass with a silver-plated interior to protect the flavor of the drink. No ol' salt should be without one. 3½".

Next we have Navy insignia watch. Show your patriotic spirit with our striking watches, featuring the Navy insignia. Japanese quartz movement in water resistant, stainless steel casing. Sweep second hand. Leather strap with silver-finish buckle closure. Presented in tin gift canister.

Lastly we have this Schott U.S. Navy wool peacoat . Our U.S. Navy, melton wool pea coat is produced by Schott NYC, which has outfitted our sailors and flyboys since WWII. Wool-blend shell and full quilted lining with center vent back. Lined, slash pockets keep your hands warm; inside breast pockets keeps your valuables and documents safe. Ten-button, double-breasted front and stand-up collar. A great look, be ye a sailor or a landlubber.

Today in History: February 9, 1861

2006-02-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

Jefferson Davis was elected president of the Confederate States of America.

Four days after resigning from the Senate, Jefferson Davis was commissioned Major General of Mississippi troops, and then elected president of the Confederate States of America. He was then inaugurated on February 18, 1861.

Davis had initially argued against secession, but when a majority of his delegates opposed him, he gave in and allowed the secession to take place.

In order to resolve the Confederacy’s differences with the Union (USA) he appointed a Peace Commission. To help negotiate with the union though, he appointed P.G.T. Beauregard to lead the Confederate troops in the vicinity of Charleston, South Carolina. The Confederate government moved to Richmond, Virginia in May, 1861, and Davis and his family took up his residence there at the White House of the Confederacy on the 29th.

Davis was again elected as President of the Confederacy, but this time elected to an official six-year term on November 6, 1861. Davis never actually served a full term in any elective office though. He was inaugurated on February 22, 1862. On May 31, he assigned General Robert E. Lee to command the Army of Northern Virginia, the main Confederate army. That December, he made a tour of Confederate armies in the west of the country.

Take My Quiz
- on -
the American Civil War

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For some reason, this week seems like it is happening in slow motion. I cannot wait for the weekend, because I need some extra sleep. I think this is why it is going in such slow motion. Hah.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy my quiz on the Civil War, tell me what you thought about it!!

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Related Products

These are Confederate cavalry figures. These lead cast figurines, entirely hand-painted, seem to gallop off the pages of history. In exact 1:32 scale and historically accurate. Each comes to life with exquisite details, from uniform buckles to the horses' flowing manes. Confederate Cavalry features set of six troopers on horseback.

Next we have this Wool felt cavalry hat. Our cavalry hat, inspired by those worn by Civil War cavalrymen, has been updated with a western-style twist. Completely handcrafted of water-resistant, crushable wool felt. Cavalry yellow, braided cord trim. 15", wire-edged brim lets you customize your style.

These Confederate gray Civil War kepi caps are modeled after French officer's caps, that were worn by soldiers on both sides during the Civil War. Hunched in the trenches, they raised their kepis with their rifles; if no one shot, it was safe to move. Our suede caps have a leather bill and strap across the front. Metal crossed rifles badge. Available in sizes.

Lastly we have this Cavalry-style leather cinch belt. Superior fit with unique, lever-action design and rugged good looks. Italian bridle leather with solid brass hardware will gracefully weather years of adventure. This can also be personalized.

This Day in History: February 8, 1931

2006-02-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

James Dean is Born

Today, if James Dean were still alive, it would be his 75th birthday. Unfortunately James dean died in a tragic accident at the age of 24 that limited his career to only three major films. From these films, he is remembered as one of the greatest actors of all time.

James Dean spent part of his childhood in California, although most of his upbringing was in Fairmount, Indiana. In Indiana is where he discovered his passion for acting and theatre. He started his acting career off with several high school productions, but felt that he would reach greatest success in Hollywood.

Dean first started out with television and theatre work until he finally moved to film. The films he is known for are “East of Eden”, “Rebel without a Cause” and “Giant”. These movies were very successful and some say gave inspiration to the restless American youth of the 1950s. From these films, Dean earned two Academy Award nominations.

James Dean is a popular icon even today. Many of his fans continue to honor his life and career. On February 8, his 75th birthday, we celebrate him and the legacy he left behind.

Take My Quiz
- on -
James Dean

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The weather out here is amazing. It has been over 85 degrees today, and I am very excited about that. It is something I appreciate more and more everyday.

Anyway, take my quiz on James Dean. He was definitely an interesting character for living such a short lifetime.
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Related Products

Bring home the magic of the silver screen with this reprints of the famous theatre lobby poster of Rebel Without a Cause. This is Must-have for film buffs and fans alike. Custom framed under glass.

We also have this limited-edition James Dean film collectible.This features two strips of vintage 16mm film from the 1955 theatrical release of Rebel Without a Cause. Produced exclusively for us and limited to just 300 pieces. Mounted on suede matte and framed in wood, under glass. Certificate of authenticity.

This Day in History: February 7, 1775

2006-02-07T09:56:00.000-08:00

Benjamin Franklin publishes "An Imaginary Speech"

On February 7, 1775 Benjamin Franklin publishes "An Imaginary Speech" in London to defend America’s Courage. It is "imaginary" because it was never spoken but published in The Public Advertiser.

This speech was made to counter an unnamed officer who said to the Parliament that the British don’t have to fear the colonial rebels because "The Americans are unequal to the People of this Country (Britain) in Devotion to Women, and in Courage, and in what, in his Sight seems worse than all, they are religious."

Franklin counter this critique by saying that the colonial population had increased while the British population had declined, so therefore, the American men must be more "effectually devoted to the Fair Sex" compared to the British.
American then talked about how in the Seven Years’ War, where the colonial militia had to save the British from embarrassing themselves because of their strategic errors and cowardice.

In reality, the colonial militias were know for being undisciplined and ineffective at the beginning of the Seven Years’ War. New Englanders didn’t do as well either as they wanted to because they were unused to taking orders and unfamiliar with the necessary elements of military life. They also refused to build latrines, which ended up bringing illness upon them because of the sewage everywhere.
When taking account the religious attack on the Americans, Franklin overcame his own distaste for the devout and reminded his readers that it was the zealous Puritans that rid Britain of the despised King Charles I. Franklin surmised that his critic was a Stuart (Catholic) sympathizer, and therefore disliked American Protestants.

Take My Quiz
- on -
Benjamin Franklin

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Now that the Super Bowl is over with, is there any other craze that anyone is looking forward to? I am still excited for anything having to do with NBA basketball. I have not yet gotten into college basketball, even though some games (or a game) for March Madness will be played at my school. Because March Madness will be at my school this year, my spring break is set for when it will be at my school, making my spring break in mid-march, which is super early. I hope that will actually work out for the best.

Anyway, have a great day. And if any of you like basketball, let me know who your favorite team is

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Related Products

Here we have Benjamin Franklin’s published book The Way to Wealth for only $4.95.

Next we have these Bronze bald eagle bookends. Our majestic, bronze eagle, crafted using the ancient art of "hot pour" and "lost wax", has amazing detail – from her curved, pointed beak to her perfectly coiffed feathers. Perched on a marble base. Excellent paperweights; a pair make great bookends!

This Day in History: February 6, 1911

2006-02-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

Ronald Reagan is Born

On February 6, 1911 Ronald Wilson Reagan was born in Tampico, Illinois.
On this day in 1911, President Ronald Wilson Reagan is born in Tampico, Illinois.
Ronald Reagan became the 40th president of the United States later in life, serving two terms in 1981 to 1989. Reagan is known as “The Great Communicator”. He was also the first actor to be elected president, after two centuries of presidents who were either a soldier or a lawyer.

Reagan was born and raised in Illinois. He started his career in media as a radio sports announcer in the Midwest. After much success with on-air radio he deiced to go to Hollywood to be an actor in films in the 1930s. Here Reagan played many roles having to do with military training and propaganda films.

After the war, Reagan became the president of the Screen Actor’s Guild, where he served from 1947 until 1952. During this time Reagan supported Democratic policies, and it wasn’t until 1960 that he switched to the Republican Party.

Reagan launched his political career after giving a rousing speech in support of presidential candidate Barry Goldwater at the Republic National Convention in 1964.
Reagan became the governor of California a little later, and made a bid for the Republican presidential ticket in 1976, where he lost to Vice President Gerald Ford. In 1980, he ended up gaining the nomination and beat out Democrat incumbent Jimmy Carter. Through his administration he is said to have ushered in a new era of conservatism in American politics.

A few weeks into his first term someone attempted to assassinate Reagan, although Reagan bounced back with strength and a sense of humor.

Reagan was incredibly popular and influential as president. Reagan’s administration is know for freeing American hostages that were taken captive in Iran during Carter’s term, and for also resurrecting a tough image of America’s strength internationally. His administration is also known for increasing military spending and being very anti-communist. Even after he denounced the Soviet Union as the “Evil Empire” he was able to have a successful diplomatic relationship with Russian leader Mikhail Gorbachev.

Reagan won his second-term election in a landslide, although in 1986 a scandal erupted with Reagan’s administration. In 1986 evidence surfaced about how Reagan’s administration had struck a deal to sell Iran arms in order to use the proceeds from the sale to finance anti-Communist guerillas in Nicaragua. Reagan’s advisors had kept Reagan uniformed of the dirty details, which allowed Reagan to plead “plausible deniability”. For this he was nicknamed the “Teflon President”.

This scandal never ended up ruining Reagan’s image as the embodiment of traditional American Values. Americans fell in love with his image, as well as his picture-perfect marriage with Nancy Davis.

In 2004, Ronald Reagan died at age 93 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Take My Quiz
- on -
Ronald Reagan

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So did everyone watch the Super Bowl? I did not. I had papers to write and no one to watch the game with. I did, however, want to watch the commercials, but that didn’t happen. Were there any good ones this year?

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Related Products

Here we have Ronald Reagan Pot Belly boxes. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes are designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature Reagan carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too. 2½"x2".

We also have this Ronald Reagan inaugural invitation. A select few received personal invitations to the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. Join this elite gathering with your very own, genuine Presidential invite. We have a handful of these historic invitations, each printed on heavy card stock. Set in an archival fabric mat and framed, under glass, in an elegant gold-tone, wood frame. Brass story plaque. Certificate of authenticity. 22"x19".

This Day in History: February 3, 1994

2006-02-03T09:20:00.000-08:00

Clinton lifts the trade embargo against Vietnam

In June 1992, Vietnam announced that all South Vietnamese officials had been released from reeducation camps, a US-mandated prerequisite for lifting its embargo against Vietnam. As a result, on February 3, 1994 President Bill Clinton lifted the US trade embargo against Vietnam, nearly two years after the fall of Saigon. At the time Clinton lifted the embargo, there were still 2,238 US servicemen listed as missing in the Vietnam War. Vietnam agreed to cooperate with their recovery to the "fullest possible extent." Vietnam and the United States established full diplomatic relations in 1995. Trade between the United States and Vietnam has still been stymied by bickering over agreements, including a stalemate in trade normalization talks in May 2000; however, in December 2001, Vietnam and the United States normalized trade relations. Vietnam does not want to be perceived by China as overly friendly with the United States, and the Party elite is very reluctant to embark on the economic overhaul that the United States demands. This resistance to change mandated from outside has kept Vietnam from World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and World Trade Organization benefits, but has earned it some admiration among those who oppose those institutions' dominance. Vietnam's international economic relations often appear confused or confusing to observers, as the Party attempts to balance a certain level of openness with the strong will to preserve a socialist system that has become a rarity in the global economy.

Take My Quiz
on the
Vietnam War

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It has been a long week, and I can’t wait to get at least 8 hours of sleep one night of the weekend.

My plans this weekend are just to do homework, errands and cleaning. Pretty boring, I know. But it is so I can have fun next weekend without as much worry.

Do any of you have any good plans?

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Related Products

Here we have Bill Clinton Pot Belly boxes. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature Bill Clinton carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of. Perfect for storing tiny treasures; great gift, too.

Check out these Army medic towels that are identical to those that saw service in Vietnam; in perfect/unissued condition. Woven linen image of the Caduceus, emblem of Army Medics, symbolizing peace and health.

Over 100 New Items on Siegler & Co

2006-02-02T10:22:00.000-08:00

Can't see our images? click here

This Day in History: February 2, 1923

2006-02-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

This is the first gas station to sell ethyl gasoline, in 1923, take from www.historychannel.com

Leaded Gasoline Goes On Sale

The Gasoline that was mixed with Tetraethyl lead was first sold to the public at a roadside gas station owned by Willard Talbott in Dayton, Ohio (pictured above). Charles Kettering of General Motors called this type of gasoline "ethyl gasoline". The blend was discovered by Thomas Midgley, a laboratory technician for General Motor’s. His intention for making it was in order to alter the combustion rate of gasoline. In seven years of research and development by General Motors, labs tested at least 33,000 compounds for their propensity to reduce knocks in the engines of their cars. The addition of tetramethyl lead and tetraethyl lead to raise the octane number is no longer permitted in the United States because it leads to dangerous emissions containing lead. New formulations of gasoline designed to raise the octane number contain increasing amounts of aromatics and oxygen-containing compounds (oxygenates), such as alcohols, methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), and methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).

Take My Quiz
on the
History of Leaded Gasoline

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Happy Groundhog Day!!

The Groundhog saw his shadow today, which means there will be six more weeks of the warmest winter ever! The only reason I am okay with this is because it is the warmest winter ever, otherwise I would be very upset, because winter is my least favorite season.

Groundhog Day is a traditional festival celebrated in the USA and Canada on February 2. Tradition states that one must observe a groundhog's burrow on this day. If the groundhog emerges and fails to see its shadow because the weather is cloudy, winter will soon end; however, if the groundhog sees its shadow because the weather is bright and clear, it will be frightened and run back into its hole, and the winter will continue for six more weeks.

The tradition of Groundhog Day originated in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania on February 2, 1887.

In the U.S., the tradition derives from a Scottish couplet:

"If Candlemas Day is bright and clear,
there'll be two winters in the year."

This tradition also stems from similar beliefs associated with Candlemas Day

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Related Products

Check out our Route 66 Gas Pump CD Cabinet. Hearken back to a time when a gallon of gas cost $.49 and "fast food" meant a stop at HoJo's® or Stuckey's®. Our Route 66 cabinet, crafted from wood and resin, stands more than 2' tall and holds 64 CD's (top shelf will hold DVDs, too!). Handy clock is operated by one AA battery. Perfect for the den or game room (or even the garage), it's also a wonderful place to hide stray papers, store cards/games or organize car care supplies. Fuel your memories and your décor. 25"x10"x 8".

We also have this Gas Pump Liquor Dispenser. Our liquor dispenser, in the shape of a retro gas pump, will take you back a generation or two, along Route 66. Just fill with your favorite libation and pump to serve. Base reads, "High Octane, Contains Alcohol". Tarnish resistant chrome-plated finish. 19". Holds one liter. Seen elsewhere for $70+

This Day in History: February 1, 1931

2006-02-01T09:32:00.000-08:00

Boris Yeltsin is Born

On February 1, 1931 Boris Nikolayevich Yeltsin was born. Yeltsin was the first President of Russia, in 1991, and the first democratically elected leader in the country’s history. Yeltsin was a protégé of Mikhail Gorbachev's. Ironically, Yeltsin both saved and ended Gorbachev's rule.

Yeltsin worked on various construction projects from 1955 to 1968. He joined the Communist Party in 1961 during Khrushchev's anti-Stalinist reforms. In 1976, Yeltsin became first chairman of the Sverdlosk party committee. It was there that he met Gorbachev, who held the same position in Stavropol.

When Gorbachev took power in 1985, he chose Yeltsin to reform the corrupt Moscow party hierarchy. In 1986, Gorbachev made Yeltsin a non-voting member of the Politburo. Yeltsin, was hailed by many as an effective reformer, and soon became dissatisfied with the pace of restructuring. After challenging party conservatives and even Gorbachev himself, Yeltsin resigned from the party leadership in 1987 and from the Politburo in 1988.

Demoted to a deputy construction minister, Yeltsin remained popular with the people of Moscow. Popular demonstrations, which were a new phenomenon in the U.S.S.R., erupted in support of Yeltsin. When Gorbachev introduced contested elections for the new Congress of People's Deputies in 1989, Yeltsin won a landslide victory. He was later elected president of the Russian parliament over Gorbachev's objections.
In July 1990, Yeltsin quit the Communist Party. The following year, Yeltsin was elected president of the Russian Soviet Federated Socialist Republic on June 12 (my birthday), 1991 in the first popular election in Russian history,

Yeltsin's place in history was assured during the August 1991 coup by communist hard-liners. With Gorbachev detained at his country house, Yeltsin became the leader of the resistance to the coup, rallying his followers and demanding Gorbachev's return.
When the coup collapsed after a few days, Gorbachev did return to Moscow -- but the center of power had shifted. On August 23, Yeltsin humiliated Gorbachev in front of the Russian parliament, forcing him to read out documents implicating Gorbachev's own party colleagues in the coup against him.

Meanwhile, Yeltsin was negotiating with the leaders of Ukraine and Belarus for a new arrangement to replace the Soviet Union. When the Commonwealth of Independent States was established on December 8, 1991, U.S. President Bush was notified before Gorbachev.

On December 25, Gorbachev resigned as president of a Soviet Union that had effectively ceased to exist.

Faced with a stagnating economy, a hostile legislature, an attempted coup and a military debacle in Chechnya, Yeltsin's prospects seemed dim in the 1996 elections. But Yeltsin staged another comeback, defeating communist challenger Gennady Zyuganov in a July runoff.

In November 1996, Yeltsin underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery and was confined to the hospital for months; health problems would continue to be a concern throughout his presidency.

Yeltsin became increasingly unpopular in his second term, as economic progress remained obscure and rumors of ill health became more persistent. He appeared in public more sporadically, replacing government ministers as crises arose. On New Year's Eve 1999, Yeltsin surprised his nation and much of the world by announcing his resignation -- giving Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin the additional title of acting president.

Take My Quiz
on
Boris Yeltsin

Anyone who takes the quiz will recieve a Siegler & Co coupon, if you make sure to give your right email address on the quiz. (And I promise you, we will not sell your email, or sign you up for anything).
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There is not much to talk about today, well at least that is in my head. My days have been going by like a blur. Hopefully that means this semester will be over sooner than expected.

Have a good day, and take the quiz so you can win some Siegler & Co coupons.

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Related Products

Here we have the Last Soviet Coins. If you're a collector or history buff, don't miss out on this Russian coin set. Includes 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 50 kopecks and 1 ruble coins, the last issued before the USSR's collapse! Infamous hammer and sickle insignia on each. Includes certificate of authenticity.

We also have the First coins of the Russian Republic. In December, 1991, the new Russian Republic released its first coins in three-quarters of a century. The Communist Hammer and Sickle emblem has been replaced with the Imperial Russian double-headed eagle. Each set includes a 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Ruble coin. Coins presented in a air-tight display case to preserve them for generations.

Here is our Soviet Naval Officer's Mouton Ushanka. These genuine ushankas, made from mouton (the softest, warmest and highest quality lamb's wool) are identical to those worn by Soviet submarine Captain Marco Ramius (Sean Connery) and his senior officers in The Hunt for Red October. Brand new, straight from the factory in Vilnius, Lithuania (Ramius's hometown), which supplied fine furs to high-ranking Soviet officers and Politburo members for 70+ years. Quilted lining. Pull down ear flaps or tie them on top of hat. Complete with rare Soviet naval officer's insignia. We have very few (and they're a fraction of the price you'd pay at a fine fur boutique or a hoity-toity department store).

This Day in History: January 31, 1865

2006-01-31T09:13:00.000-08:00

General Robert E. Lee Named General of Confederate Armies

On January 31, 1865 General Robert E. Lee was named general-in-chief of all the Confederate armies. In the first few months of 1865, he advocated the support for the adoption of a scheme to allow slaves to join the Confederate army in exchange for their freedom. This scheme never ended up working out though.

The Confederate army became worn down by months of battle, leading to success of the Union’s capture of Petersburg on April 2, 1865. After this Lee abandoned the defense of Richmond and looked to join General Joseph Johnston’s army in North Carolina. The Union Army surrounded his forces though and Lee ended up surrendering to General Grant on April 9, 1865 at Appomattox Court House, Virginia.

After the war, Lee applied for official postwar amnesty, although was never granted it. After he filled out the application form, it was sent to the desk of Secretary of State William H. Seward, who thought that this application was just a copy and that someone else had already taken care of it. The application was filed away and was not found until decades later in his desk drawer. Because Lee obviously received no response, he figured that it mean that the government wished to retain the right to prosecute him in the future.

Many former members of the Confederacy’s armed forces took Lee’s example of applying for amnesty in order to become a citizen of the United States again as encouragement to do so themselves.

In 1975, President Gerald Ford granted a posthumous pardon and the U.S. Congress restored Lee’s citizenship, following the discovery of his oath of allegiance by an employee of the National Archives in 1970.

This discovery of Lee’s paper also changed some other issues, but this time regarding Lee and his wife’s estate. Lee and his wife lived at his wife’s home, the Custis-Lee Mansion, prior to the Civil War. Union forces ended up confiscating the mansion and turned it into what we know today as the Arlington National Cemetery. After Lee died the courts ruled that the estate had been illegally seized and that the estate should be returned to Lee’s son. The government offered to buy the land from him, to which Lee’s son agreed.

Take My Quiz
- on -
Robert E. Lee

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I can’t believe it is February starting tomorrow AND Valentine’s Day in 2 weeks! I hope these next few months keep moving just as fast, because I want to graduate already.

Anyway, have a good day everyone, and don’t forget to take the quiz, especially if you are a Civil War buff! I receive the results, and whoever gets the highest score, is in the running for a nice Siegler & Co gift certificate.

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Related Products

Look at our Robert E. Lee Civil War Shadow Box. Each features a non-firing replica of an infantryman's Model 1849 pocket revolver, antiqued, brass-plated belt buckle, battle flag fragment and vintage-style photo of Robert E. Lee.

Next we have a Robert E. Lee lead figurine. These lead figurines are crafted and painted entirely by hand. In exact 1:32 scale (54mm) and historically accurate. Robert E. Lee shown in uniform, and on horseback.

Lastly, we have these Confederate cavalry figures. These Confederate cavalry figures come in a set of 6, are made cast in lead, and are entirely hand-painted. They are in exact 1:32 scale and historically accurate. Each comes to life with exquisite details, from uniform buckles to the horses' flowing manes. Confederate Cavalry features set of six troopers on horseback. 54 mm.

This Day in History: January 30, 1882

2006-01-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

Franklin D. Roosevelt is Born

Franklin Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, was born on January 30, 1882. FDR was the longest serving holder of the office and the only man to be elected President more than twice.

FDR was born wealthy, although he had to overcome a crippling illness in order to become President. FDR suffered from Polio and was actually the first and only U.S. President ever to be elected with and illness that paralyzed him to the point that he could not stand on his own.

His family and close friends called him Frank. To the public he was usually known as "FDR."

FDR’s inspirational leadership helped the United States recover from the Great Depression according to many historians, but others dispute this claim arguing that Roosevelt's economic policies actually slowed recovery.

In the build up to the Second World War, he prepared USA to be the "Arsenal of Democracy" against Nazi Germany and the Japanese Empire, but some historians criticize aspects of his leadership, particularly his naïve attitude toward Joseph Stalin.

Finally his vision of an effective international organization to preserve peace was brought to completion at the United Nations after his death.

In his lifetime Roosevelt was a polarizing figure: he was a hero to liberals and a hated figure to conservatives. Today opinions of him are more complex. Some liberals criticize measures such as the internment of the Japanese-Americans during World War II and his failure to advance civil rights for African Americans. Some conservatives such as Ronald Reagan have praised his national leadership, while dismantling his social programs.

Take A Quiz on FDR

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This past weekend was pretty fun. On Friday I won tickets to the Clippers vs. Nuggets game in LA on Saturday, which I was pretty excited about. I am not an avid Clippers fan, but I am a huge fan of the NBA in general, so I was excited to see them for free. I rooted for the Clippers, and they ended up winning.

On Saturday I played Frisbee golf for my second time, and then I went to the game later on in the evening. Yesterday I took a lot of naps, and did some homework. Last night though, I only got about 3.5 hours of sleep because I just could not fall asleep after taking so many naps that day. I drove back from Long Beach this morning, and the drive was actually not bad.

Anyway, I hope you had a great weekend!!
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Related Products

Check out this new item that came out on Friday. This is a Franklin D. Roosevelt Pot Belly box. These handcrafted Pot Belly boxes, designed in Gloucestershire, England, feature presidential caricatures carved into crushed marble bodies. Each boasts hand-painted, "politically correct" details and vivid colors that even Congress would surely approve of.

This Day in History: January 26, 1756

2006-01-27T09:10:00.000-08:00

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was Born

On January 26, 1756 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the greatest composers of European classical music, was born. Mozart composed a large amount of chamber, symphonic, religious and operatic works, as well as solo instruments, particularly the keyboard. Mozart was very unappreciated during his lifetime, but was later admired by many composers and many people in general for his works.

To find out more about Mozart or to test your skills on what you know about Mozart, take the quiz, linked below, that I made up.

Quiz on Mozart!

Tell me how you did on the quiz in my comment box. I am very interested in knowing how good of a quiz I can really make. Also, there are talks about making quizzes everyday, and the winner getting a coupon for Sieglers.com. So if the turn out is well... then coupons and more quizzes can be in YOUR future. :-)

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I remember watching the movie about Mozart when I was a kid and being fascinated by how he was so great, and slightly crazy (obvioulsy in a good way). It was a pretty intense movie for my 7th grade music class.

Anyway, it is Friday right now, and I am beyond excited. This was my first full week back at school and it got to me. I had my first day back at Judo last night, which was a LOT of fun; although I will definitely be feeling the "fun" tomorrow I am sure. My legs are already sore.

I leave for Long Beach this evening and am very excited to spend Saturday relaxing and having fun. Have a good weekend everyone!!
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Related Products

We have here a 70s Vintage Baby Grand tin piano. When we stumbled across a forgotten case of these 30-year old toy pianos, it was music to our ears. Collectors and musicians alike will delight at the plinking of the tiny keys. Still in the original monochrome-printed box. Crafted of wood composition board and hand-painted in Japan.

Lastly we have Handcrafted rosewood harp. Right in tune, whether you're a traveling minstrel or you prefer this grand harp as decorative musical art. Handcrafted from plantation Rosewood and graced with a meandering carved floral motif. Fully functional with a resonant 3-octave voice and enchanting tone. Metal tuning pegs strung with color-coded nylon strings for easy learning. Tuning peg and 77-pg Basic Harp for Beginners instruction book included. Select from small (15" tall, 4 lbs.) or large (30" tall. 9 lbs.).

This Day in History: January 26, 1905

2006-01-26T09:01:00.000-08:00

World's largest diamond found

The World’s largest diamond was found on January 26, 1905 at the Premier mine in Pretoria, South Africa. The diamond is a 3,106-carat diamond and was discovered by a routine inspection by the mine’s superintendent. The diamond is called the “Cullinan”.

Joseph Asscher, head of the Asscher Diamond Company of Amsterdam, cut the Cullinan. Asscher examined the diamond for over six months before he determined how many pieces he would divide it into. On the first day of the division process, Asscher had a doctor stand by as he hit the first critical blow to the diamond, because he feared his heart might react negatively to the blunder. After pretty much shattering the diamond on his initial attempt, Asscher managed to satisfactorily divide it with his second blow, and fainted promptly after.

The Cullinan was later cut into 106 polished diamonds, and were valued at millions of dollars. The largest cut stones were called the “Star of Africa I” which was at 530 carats. It is the largest-cut fine-quality colorless diamond in the world. The South African province of Transvaal decided to present the gem, along with the smaller “Star of Africa II” to Britain’s King Edward VII. The “Star of Africa I” is pear-shaped with 74 facets, and now resides in the Tower of London among the other Crown Jewels. It is mounted in the British sovereign’s Royal Scepter. The 317-carat "Star of Africa II" is at the Imperial State Crown.
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That must have been a pretty sweet discovery. Do you think he got commission?? Heh :-)

Does anyone have good plans for the weekend? I am heading out to Long Beach on Friday where I will partake in some more frisbee golf. I will also be studying a lot this weekend, which isn't the best sounding plan, but I guess it has to be done.

I also would like to catch a movie. I am thinking I might FINALLY see Hostel or Match Point. We will see how that works out though.

Have a good day everyone, and wish me luck again in finding parking. It worked out well yesterday, but Tuesdays and Thursdays are always a completely different story.

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Related Products

Here we have a Faceted glass diamond paperweight, much like the Cullinan, although made of glass. Each is cut from a solid block of flawless optical crystal. Makes a gem of a paperweight. A great “engagement” gift for nagging girlfriends, too! Presented in a velveteen pouch and gift box.

Sieglers.com Winter Sale

2006-01-25T14:42:00.000-08:00

Can't see our images? click here

This Day in History: January 25, 1924

2006-01-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

First Winter Olympics

On January 25, 1924, the first Winter Olympics took place at Chamonix in the French Alps. Spectators were able to see skiing, bobsledding, as well as 12 other events involving a total of six sports. This first Winter Olympics, was known initially as the “International Winter Sports Week”. It was such a great success, that in 1928, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially designated the Winter Games in St. Moritz, Switzerland as the second Winter Olympics.

The interest in a Winter Olympics began officially five years after the birth of the modern Olympics i 1896 at the first organized international competition involving Winter sports staged in Sweden. This competition was called the Nordic Games, and only Scandinavian countries competed. It was like the Olympics, in that it was held every four years, but always in Sweden.
In 1908, figuring skating made its way into the Summer Olympics in London, although it was held three months after the events were over, in October.

In 1911, the IOC proposed a Winter competition for the 1912 Stockholm Games, but Sweden didn’t want it to happen, and declined in order to protect the popularity of the Nordic Games. Germany then planned a Winter Olympics after the 1916 Berlin Summer Games, but World War I forced the cancellation of both.

At the 1920 Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium, ice hockey joined figure skating as an official Olympic event, and Canada took home the first of many hockey gold medals.
Soon after, an agreement was reached with Scandinavians to stage the IOC-sanctioned International Winter Sports Week. It became so popular among the 16 participating nations that, in 1925, the IOC formally created the Winter Olympics, retroactively making Chamonix the first.

In Chamonix, Scandinavians dominated the speed rinks and slopes, and Norway won the unofficial team competition with 17 medals. The United States came in third, winning its only gold medal with Charles Jewtraw's victory in the 500-meter speed-skating event. Canada won another hockey gold, scoring 110 goals and allowing just three goals in five games. Of the nearly 300 athletes, only 13 were women, and they only competed in the figure-skating events. Austrian Helene Engelmann won the pairs competition with Alfred Berger, and Austrian Herma Planck Szabo won the women's singles. At Chamonix, Norway won all but one of the nine skiing medals.

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I am attempting to find parking at school today in the late-morning. Wish me luck; I will definitely need it.

I am finally coming up with a schedule that I think will work out best for me, regarding work, school, and working out. The first few weeks of school are always the hardest, getting down a good routine and such, so getting a plan started this early helps out a lot.

Have a good day everyone, and again, leave me some comments.

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Related Products

You're in luck, comrade! We've uncovered a small cache of Soviet-era Olympic pins from the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games. Set of 20 with assorted Olympic themes. 2"-5". Some real treasures, here. Let us make the selection – we guarantee you'll be pleased.

This is a Helsinki Olympics canvas poster. This classic image from the '30s-'40s will give Alpine charm to any home. Digitally recreated from a vintage ski poster. Giclee-printed onto canvas which has been stretched over a wooden frame – the look and feel of a painting. Great decor accent for skiers or those with a mountain home or office. Ready to hang. 21"x33".

Here we have a Soviet hockey jersey. When the U.S. hockey team upset the #1-ranked Soviet team in the last moments of the final game of the 1980 Olympics, sports commentator Al Michaels asked the TV audience "Do you believe in miracles?" Now, you can have the last laugh with your very own USSR or Red Army Penguins hockey jerseys. Jerseys are 100% polyester and feature a famous player's name, in Russian. One size fits all.

This Day in History: January 24, 1965

2006-01-24T09:02:00.000-08:00

Winston Churchill Dies

Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill died on January 24, 1965 at age 90 in London. Churchill was a British statesman, best known as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during the Second World War. Churchill is generally regarded to as one of the most important leaders in British and world history because of how he guided Great Britain and the Allies through the crisis of World War II. He was also a famous author or won the Novel Prize in literature.

Churchill distinguished himself several times in his illustrious military career. In 1899 he decided that he would concentrate on his literary and political career, and resigned his commission. In 1900 he was elected to Parliament as a Conservative MP from Oldham. In 1904, he joined the Liberals and served a number of important posts before being appointed Britain’s first lord of the admiralty in 1911. Here he worked to bring the British navy to a readiness for the war that he foresaw.

During the second year of World War I, Churchill was held responsible for the disastrous Dardanelles and Gallipoli campaigns. He ended up being excluded from the war coalition government for this. He resigned and volunteered to command an infantry battalion in France. However, in 1917, he ended up returning to politics as a cabinet member in the Liberal government of Lloyd George. From 1919 to 1921, he was the secretary of state for war and in 1924 he returned to the Conservative Party, where two years later he played a leading role in the defeat of the General Strike of 1926. Churchill was then out of office from 1929 until 1939, where he issued unheeded warnings of the threat of Nazi and Japanese aggression.

When the outbreak of World War II in Europe occurred, Churchill was called back to his post as first lord of the admiralty and eight months later he replaced the ineffectual Neville Chamberlain as prime minister of a new coalition of government. During his first year of his administration, Britain was the only one to stand against Nazi Germany, but Churchill promised his country and the world that the British people would never surrender. He rallied the British people to a resolute resistance and expertly orchestrated Franklin D. Roosevelt and Joseph Stalin into an alliance that crushed the Axis.

After Germany’s defeat, Churchill’s Conservative government suffered a defeat against Clement Attlee’s Labour Party, causing Churchill to resign as prime minister. Churchill then became the leader of the opposition and in 1951 was again elected prime minister.

Two years after this, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his six-volume historical study of World War II and for his political speeches. He was also knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at this point. In 1955, he returned as prime minister but remained in Parliament until 1964, the year before he died.

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Well today will be a long day with school and work. I think Monday-Wednesday are my hardest. I went to bed pretty early last night though because my throat was hurting last night. It still sort of hurts, but I think the worst is over. Thanks to Zicam.

Have a good day everyone. And feel free (encouraged) to leave a comment about something. Suggestions are always welcome, even things critical critiques.

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Related Products

Here we have a Allied Leader Figurines. This is supposed to be Winston Churchill and Roosevelt at the Casablanca conference in January 1943. Here they planned allied strategy and established terms of unconditional surrender for the Axis Powers. Skilled Russian artisans have recreated one of the 20th century’s most memorable meetings with these hand-painted lead-cast figurines. The expressions on the faces are almost lifelike; extraordinary details, like Roosevelt’s double-breasted suit and Churchill’s cigar. Each about 3" tall (90mm format). Select from Roosevelt(shown, left) or Churchill (shown, right).

Next we have Queen Elizabeth II's crown jewels Celebrate Her Majesty's Golden Jubilee (1952-2002) with this regal-piece crown. Each of these miniatures, handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, is an exact 1/12 scale replica of the actual Crown of the Queen Mother in the Tower of London. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals. 1¼".

This Day in History: January 23, 1897

2006-01-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

Nothing Happened

This Day in History: January 20, 1937

2006-01-20T09:20:00.000-08:00

U.S. Inauguration Day Changed to January 20th

Franklin Roosevelt’s second term began on January 20th, 1937, the first president to recognize the Twentieth Amendment that changed the previous Inauguration day on March 4th to January 20th.

Inauguration Day is the day on which the President and Vice President of the United States are sworn in and takes office. It was originally held every four years on March 4th, but with the Twentieth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution it was changed to noon on January 20th.

The U.S. armed forced have always participated in inaugural day ceremonies, even since George Washington. They do this because the President of the United States is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Since Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration in 1953, the Armed Forces have coordinated an Armed Forces Inaugural Committee (now called the Joint Task Force-Armed Forces Inaugural Committee) to coordinate the ceremony.

The oath of office is administered by the Chief of Justice of the United States on the steps of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. After the oath is given, the President delivers an inaugural address, where he sets the tone for the new administration. The Vice President is traditionally sworn into office a few minutes before the president.

If January 20 falls on a Sunday procedures are slightly different. The President usually takes the oath of office in a private ceremony that day, and then a public ceremony is held the following day.

Since 1953 the President and Vice President have been guests of honor at a luncheon held by the United States Congress right after the inaugural ceremony. Other than at State of the Union addresses and Red Mass, it is the only time the President, Vice President, and both houses of Congress congregate in the same locale.

Since Thomas Jefferson's second inaugural on March 4, 1805, it has become tradition for the president to parade down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House. The only president not to parade down Pennsylvania Avenue was Ronald Reagan. He paraded down Pennsylvania Ave. during his first inauguration, in 1981, amidst the joyous news just minutes into his term that the American hostages held in Iran for more than a year had been released, but didn't do so in 1985 because freezing cold temperatures, made dangerous by high winds, cancelled the parade. In 1977, Jimmy Carter started a new tradition by walking from the Capitol to the White House, although for security reasons, subsequent presidents have only walked a part of the way.

The inaugural celebrations usually lasts 10 days, from 5 days before the inauguration to 5 days after. However, in 1973, the celebrations marking Richard Nixon's second inauguration ended just two days after he was inaugurated because of the four days that marked the death and state funeral of Lyndon Johnson.

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I am so excited that the weekend is almost here. This week has been crazy for me. I still need to get used to it, but it should probably only take a few weeks.

Does anyone have any exciting plans for the weekend?

My plans involve sleeping. I will also do other errands and such, and maybe even a few fun things, but sleep will indefinitely be involved. I think I might catch the movie Hostel this weekend. Have any of you seen it? If so, please let me know if it is worth it. I have heard conflicting reviews of it.

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Related Products

Here we have a Ronald Reagan inaugural invitation. These are very limited and are each printed on heavy card stock. Set in an archival fabric mat and framed, under glass, in an elegant gold-tone, wood frame. Brass story plaque. Certificate of authenticity.

This is our John F. Kennedy inaugural invitation. We only have a handful of these historic invitations left, these are also printed on heavy card stock and set in archival fabric mat and framed, under glass in an elegant gold-tone wooden frame.

Next we have these President and First Lady robes. Each robe is embroidered with the Presidential seal and with either Mr. President or First Lady. Each contains 69,000 loops of thick and thirsty, 100% Turkish cotton (60% heavier than ordinary robes). Roomy raglan sleeves, wide belt and doubled collar. 52" long (one size fits nearly everyone).

This Day in History: January 19, 1807

2006-01-19T09:15:00.000-08:00

Robert E. Lee is born

Robert E. Lee was born on January 19, 1807 at Stratford Hall Plantation, in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Lee was the fourth child of Revolutionary War hero Henry Lee, otherwise known as “Lighthorse Harry” and Anne Hill (Carter) Lee.

Lee entered the United States Military Academy in 1825 and graduated second in his class in 1829. He attained the top academic record and was the only one to graduate from the Academy without a single demerit.

These were not Lee’s only achievements in his lifetime. He also was a career army officer and was considered to be the most successful general of the Confederate forces during the American Civil War. He eventually commanded all Confederate armies as general-in-chief. Although his victories against superior forces were ultimately losing cause he still won enduring fame. Lee remains an iconic figure of the Confederacy to this day.

Interesting Facts about Robert E. Lee

According to J. William Jones, Gen. Robert E. Lee spoke his last words on October 12, 1870, shortly before his death. He said: “Tell Hill he must come up. Strike the Tent.”

The birth of Robert E. Lee is celebrated in the state of Virginia as part of Lee-Jackson Day and as a state holiday in Mississippi, celebrated in conjunction with Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday

Traveller, Lee’s favorite horse, accompanied Lee to Washington College after the Civil War. Traveller lost many hairs from his tail to admirers who wanted a souvenir of the famous horse and his general. In 1870, when Lee died, Traveller was led behind the General’s hearse. Not long after Lee’s death, Traveller stepped on a rusty nail and developed lockjaw. There was no cure, and he was shot. He was buried next to the Lee Chapel at Washington and Lee University. In 1907 his remains were disinterred and displayed at the Chapel, before being reburied outside the Lee Chapel in 1971.

The General Lee, the 1969 Dodge Charger used in the television program in The Dukes of Hazzard in 1979 and also in the 2005 The Dukes of Hazzard (film) was named after Robert E. Lee.

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I liked the fact about Robert E. Lee’s horse the best up there. They must have been pretty good buddies.

Anyway, it is my second day of school today, although with a new class. It is what I am expecting to be my favorite class, so this should be good. My first day of classes ended up going well, although there is a LOT of work expected. Oh well.

I should be going though, I have a doctor’s appointment really soon.

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Related Products

To remember Robert E. Lee look to our Civil War shadow box. Each features a non-firing replica of an infantryman's Model 1849 pocket revolver, antiqued, brass-plated belt buckle, battle flag fragment and vintage-style photo of Robert E. Lee. Mounted under glass and framed in handsome oak.

Next we have this Robert E. Lee lead figurine. These lead figurines are crafted and painted entirely by hand. In exact 1:32 scale (54mm) and historically accurate. Robert E. Lee shown in uniform, and on horseback. For history and Civil War buffs alike.

This Day in History: January 18, 1486

2006-01-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth of York, daughter of Edward IV, marries King Henry VII

Elizabeth of York, daughter of Edward IV marries King Henry VII on January 18, 1486. Elizabeth was the eldest child of King Edward IV and his own Queen consort, Elizabeth Woodville.

Elizabeth Woodville arranged to marry her daughter to Tudor if he could overthrow King Richard. Tudor ended up overthrowing King Richard at the Battle of Bosworth Field on August 22, 1485 which allowed for him to become King Henry VII.

King Henry VII had publicly taken a scared oath to marry Elizabeth of York before he had left France to invade England, but he was not in a hurry to marry Elizabeth.

On October 30, Henry was crowned, but still delayed his wedding. To get Henry to stand by his word it took Parliament itself, on behalf of the people, to carry out his promise with a petition. On January 18, 1486, the marriage took place. Although Elizabeth was not crowned queen until November 25, 1487, more than a year after their first child Arthur was born on September 20, 1486.

Their marriage is considered relatively successful. They had seven children that are known of, although there is belief among many that there were really eight.

Their children include:

Arthur, Prince of Wales
Margaret Tudor
Henry VIII of England
Elizabeth Tudor
Mary Tudor
Edmund Tudor, Duke of Somerset
Edward Tudor. (This is the one that is up for debate)
Katherine Tudor

Elizabeth’s eldest son, Arthur, the heir to the throne, died after marrying Catherine of Aragon. This is said to have given Elizabeth the motive to become pregnant the last time, in order to strengthen the succession. This pregnancy ended up being the death of her though. Elizabeth died on her 37th birthday, a few days after giving birth to her last child, Katherine Tudor, who also ended up dying.

Henry VII threw Elizabeth a magnificent funeral. She is now buried in Westminster Abbey in the Lady Chapel. Her husband was later buried beside her.

Elizabeth of York is the only English Queen to have been a wife, daughter, sister, niece and mother to an English King.

Interesting Fact:

Elizabeth is also the basis for the picture of queens in a deck of cards.

Her second son Henry followed his father as king, her eldest daughter Margaret married James IV of Scotland, and her youngest child Mary married Louis XII of France.

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So right now I am at school. The parking is ridiculous the first few weeks of school, so I came early, so I could actually find a parking spot. I was successful.

Not much else is going on today yet. I have two classes in a few hours and another later tonight.

Oh yeah, also, did anyone see the Suns vs. Kings game last night? I didn’t have NBATV so I did not. The Suns lost really bad, and I am quite intrigued as to how that could happen. The Suns are the #2 team right now and the Kings are doing really awful. If you can tell, I’m on the Suns side. Hmm. If you could leave me some comments, that would be nice.

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Related Products

Here we have the minature crown of Queen Elizabeth II. Celebrate Her Majesty's Golden Jubilee (1952-2002) with this regal-piece crown. Each of these miniatures, handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, is an exact 1/12 scale replica of the actual Crown of St. Edward in the Tower of London. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

Next we have another miniature crown of Queen Elizabeth II. This one is the crown of Scotland. This miniature is also handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, and is an exact 1/12 scale replica of the actual Crown of Scotland in the Tower of London. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

Lastly, we have the crown of the Queen Mother. This is also a miniature handcrafted in England under Royal Warrant, and is an exact 1/12 scale replica of the actual Crown of the Queen Mother in the Tower of London. Cast in pewter, gilt in gold and/or plated in silver, then hand-set with dozens of sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

This Day in History: January 17, 1706

2006-01-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

Benjamin Franklin is Born

On January 17, 1706, Benjamin Franklin, a man known by practically everyone for his many talents, was born. Benjamin Franklin was born on Milk Street in Boston.

Benjamin Franklin was an American printer, journalist, publisher, author, philanthropist, abolitionist, public servant, scientist, librarian, diplomat, and inventor. He was also one of the leaders of the American Revolution. He is well known for his many quotations and his experiments with electricity. Franklin was a member of the Freemasons, corresponded with members of the Lunar Society and was also elected a Fellow of the Royal Society. In 1775, Franklin became the first United States Postmaster General.

Franklin's inventions include the Franklin stove, the medical catheter, the lightning rod, swimfins, improvements to the glass harmonica, and possibly bifocals.

Benjamin Franklin published many books including:

1) "The Way to Wealth"

2) "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin"

3) "Poor Richards Almanac"

4) "The Poetry of Minor Connecticut Wits"

5) "Writings"

6) “On Love, Marriage, and Other Matters”

7) "Satires and Bagatelles"

Other Interesting Facts about Benjamin Franklin
1. Ben Franklin is most famous for his experiments with electricity, but his scientific study had a much broader scope. He was among the first to study weather and explore the movements of the Gulf Stream.

2. Franklin is the one to say: "A penny saved is a penny earned" in his writings in "Poor Richards Almanac"

3. Franklin was the oldest delegate in attendance at the Constitutional Convention in 1787. His influence helped establish the two-house Congress that America has today. This system satisfied both large and small states, and was instrumental in gaining unanimous support for the new Constitution.

4. Franklin wanted the Turkey to symbolize America because he thought it was a bird of courage, opposed to the Eagle who he felt had bad moral character.

5. Franklin offered his own personal fortune to appease the British by paying for the ruined tea after the Boston Tea Party, under the condition that Britain would repeal the unfair tax.

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Tomorrow is my first day back at school, for my last semester ever as an undergraduate. I ended up getting that last class, by switching with a friend. It was a pretty sweet deal and I am pretty excited that I don’t have to crash my last semester of college.

I can’t wait for this semester to be over already. My days will be crazy. Everyday during the week I will basically be working and/or at school from 5am-10pm, not including getting homework done.

Today I get to buy books, one of the biggest rip-offs ever. And why are there not super sales at Staples for college starting, they always do it for high school and elementary school? Oh well.

Have a good day, and leave me a comment. Please, entertain me.

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Related Products

Here we have Benjamin Franklin’s "The Way to Wealth" among other great statesmen books. Benjamin Franklin’s words in "The Way to Wealth" are said to be just as true and relevant today as when he wrote it, 200 years ago.

This Day in History: January 16, 1983

2006-01-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King Day

After 15 years of trying to create the federal Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, President Ronald Reagan finally signed it into law. Congressman John Conyers, a Democrat from Michigan introduced the legislation to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. four days after King was assassinated in 1968. After the bill became stalled, petitions endorsing the holiday containing six million names were submitted to Congress.

Conyers and Rep. Shirley Chisholm, Democrat of New York, resubmitted King holiday legislation each subsequent legislative session due to its lack of passing. This caused increased public pressure for the holiday during the 1982 and 1983 civil rights marches in Washington.

There were issues about when to commemorate this day. They felt that by having it on King’s birthday, January 15th, was too close to Christmas and New Years, sot hey decided to move it to the third Monday in January in order to appease this issue with those who opposed the commemorative date. Funny, how this year, it is only a day after his birthday.

Even after the holiday was put into law, a number of states resisted celebrating the holiday. Some said that it shouldn’t be King who deserves his own holiday, but rather the entire civil rights movement. And in some southern states they celebrate various Confederate generals on that day. Arizona voters finally approved the holiday in 1992 after tourists boycotted the state. And in 1999, New Hampshire changed the name of Civil Rights Day to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

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Boy am I am tired from these past few days. I just officially got back into town at 730am this morning.

San Francisco was a lot of fun. I hung out with some good friends, went to some neat places, and even experienced new foods. The first two were great, although the new food (sushi) was not. Eww.

I am glad to be back though; the ride back home yesterday was pure torture. It only took up 6 hours to get up to San Francisco from Long Beach but on the way back I decided that going down Highway 1 would be a nice experience, and it was predicted to only take an hour longer than regular way back home. Highway 1, if you don’t already know, rides along the coast, it is really beautiful, but it is also very windy and only has one lane in each direction. Going the way of Highway 1, not only cost us $8 in toll charges (in Marin & San Francisco) but it also took us about 5 hours longer. What was supposed to be a 6-hour drive took us almost 11 hours. We didn’t get back to Long Beach until 11pm. I then woke up at 5am to drive from Long Beach down to San Diego. I am a little tired today.

Oh, one other thing, we saw the Oscar Mayer Weiner Mobile driving on Highway 1, which was pretty much the highlight of the ride.

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Related Products

Here we have an authentic Ronald Reagan inaugural invitation. A select few received personal invitations to the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. We have a handful of these historic invitations, each printed on heavy card stock. Set in an archival fabric mat and framed, under glass, in an elegant gold-tone, wood frame. Brass story plaque. Certificate of authenticity.

This Day in History: January 11, 1989

2006-01-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

Reagan gives his farewell address

On January 11, 1989, Reagan gave his farewell address after eight years as president of the United States. In his speech, President Reagan enthusiastically spoke about the foreign policy achievements of his administration.

Reagan declared in his farewell address that America "rediscovered" its commitment to world freedom in the 1980s. He said the United States was "respected again in the world and looked to for leadership." He said the key was a return to the "common sense" that "told us that to preserve peace, we’d have to become strong again after years of weakness."

Reagan then went on to talk about successes he had with his foreign policy, which included:

1)Achieving peace in the Persian Gulf

2)Forcing the Soviets to begin departing from Afghanistan

3)Negotiating the withdrawal of Vietnamese troops from Cambodia and Cuban forces from Angola.

All of his success was based upon the wage against communism, which Reagan felt was the main threat to freedom. Although Reagan claimed these were all achievements, these achievements were a bit more complicated than he described.

For example:

1)The strength that Reagan talked about that he felt he renewed increase defense expenditure, which led to a national debt of over one trillion dollars.

2)The Peace in the Persian Gulf that Reagan talked about was only temporary. The Gulf War erupted during the presidency of Reagan successor George Bush.

3)The Iran-Contra scandal revealed that the Reagan administration employed some questionable means to reach its anticommunist ends-specifically, a complicated scheme involving covertly selling weapons to Iran and illegally supplying the Contra forces in Nicaragua.

Although his achievements were not as good as he said in his farewell address, he still left office as one of the most popular modern U.S. presidents.

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Well, the registering for classes thing didn’t end up perfectly. They ended up canceling a class, which only gives me one option for a class that I need to graduate. The class is full, of course. Hopefully, I will be able to get into it still. Or work something out.

In other news, I am leaving for San Francisco tomorrow at 5am. I am pretty excited about it. I am not sure I will be able to have access to a computer while I am away, so I don’t think I will be posting anything for the blog. I apologize, but not everyone is up to date with technology.

Have a good rest of the week and a fantastic weekend!

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Here we have an authentic Ronald Reagan inaugural invitation. A select few received personal invitations to the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. We have a handful of these historic invitations, each printed on heavy card stock. Set in an archival fabric mat and framed, under glass, in an elegant gold-tone, wood frame. Brass story plaque. Certificate of authenticity.

Lastly, we have presidential robe. This is embroidered with the Presidential seal and Mr. President or First Lady. Each contains 69,000 loops of thick and thirsty, 100% Turkish cotton (60% heavier than ordinary robes). Roomy raglan sleeves, wide belt and doubled collar. 52" long (one size fits nearly everyone).

This Day in History: January 10, 1923

2006-01-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

U.S. troops depart Germany

On January 10, 1923 President Warren G. Harding orders U.S. troops stationed in Germany to return home, four years after the end of World War 1.

Under the agreements in the Treaty of Versailles signed in 1924, U.S. troops along with other Allied forces were supposed to occupy the defeated Central Powers nations in order to enforce the terms of the peace agreement. In Germany, Allied occupation and stiff war reparation against the county caused increasing bitterness.

As part of the Treaty of Versailles U.S. troops, along with other Allied forces, were supposed to occupy the defeated Central Powers nations to enforce the terms of the peace agreement. In Germany, Allied occupation and stiff war reparations levied against the country were regarded with increasing bitterness, and in 1923, after four years of contending Germany and their resentment towards Americans, the American troops were ordered home.

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Recently it has been very warm in San Diego, around 85 degrees on average. Well, on Thursday I am going to head up to San Francisco for a short little vacation. Up there though, the weather looks bad. The forecast says it will be raining the entire time, and will be in the 50s. I am sure that may seem warm to some, but the 50s to me, means layers upon layers. And yes, I am probably related to reptiles. Hah. I hope the weather turns out a little better, but if not, it will still be a good trip. I have some family to visit and some friends. It should be a good time.

But for today, I get to register for my last semester of classes. I am kind of nervous, because my school is notorious for not having enough room for my impacted major. Wish me luck, because I will need it. I want to graduate in May, and would like to go through as little trouble as possible to do so.
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Commemorate the World War I veterans with this WWI coin and stamp collection. Our World War I collection includes six .900 silver coins (including Barber Quarter, Washington Quarter, Mercury Dimes and Walking Liberty Half Dollars) along with rare WWI coins, like the Lincoln Wheat Cent and Buffalo Nickel. Hard-to-find stamps, like a Pershing 8, WWI Vets 22 and Victory Issue 3. WWII steel Lincoln Cent and silver Jefferson Nickel, too. It also comes in a handsome leather portfolio.

This is a full-scale WWI aircraft prop. Visions of WWI flying ace, Eddie Rickenbacker, in his Nieuport 28 come spinning to mind. Crafted in richly stained pine and accented with brass hardware. Over 6' long (73"x6"x3"). 8 lbs.

lastly, we have this WWI trench lighter. On the muddy, wind-swept battlefields of Europe, the fighting men of WWI fashioned trench lighters like these from spent ammo casings. Soldiers needed a flame they could count on and these did the trick. Slide the outer casing up and the flame is protected from the elements. Slide the casing down and the flame is snuffed. Uses standard lighter fluid. Complete with lanyard/key ring. Ideal for your next outing or adventure. This is a great conversation piece.

This Day in History: January 9, 1768

2006-01-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

First Modern Circus

The first modern circus was put on my Philip Astley in London. Although there had been trick riders, acrobats, clowns, trained animals and other familiar circus performances, but it was not until the late 18th century that the modern circus was born.

Astley, who was a former cavalry sergeant major, found that if he galloped in a tight circle fast enough, the centrifugal force allowed him to perform seemingly impossible feats on a horse's back. On January 9, 1768, he drew up a ring and invited the public to see him wave his sword in the air while he rode with one foot on the saddle and one on the horse's head.

Astley's trick riding became so popular he began to hire other equestrians, a clown, and musicians. He also built a roof over his ring in 1770 and called the structure “Astley’s Amphitheatre”.

In 1782 a competitor decided to set up shop just down the road from Astley's Amphitheatre, and called his show the "Royal Circus," after the Roman name for the circular theaters where chariot races were held.

The term "circus" was adopted as a generic name in the early 19th century for this new form of entertainment. Astley, who lived till 1814, eventually established 18 other circuses in cities across Europe.

In 1792, English equestrian John Bill Ricketts opened the first American circus in Philadelphia and later opened others in New York City and Boston. Smaller traveling circuses arose in Europe in the early 19th century, visiting towns and cities that lacked elaborate permanent shows. Larger traveling tent shows evolved in the 1820s.

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So… this weekend was pretty fun. On Saturday there was a party at my house for my roommate’s birthday. And then on Sunday I played Frisbee golf. It was a lot of fun. I wasn’t too terrible either, at least compared to what I expected I would be like. I only lost the Frisbee once, although some boys found it for me, thankfully.

While playing Frisbee golf we came upon a “Shoe Tree”, apparently a piece of art, and a current issue in San Diego City Council. Here is a picture of it:

Earlier in the day we also went to Dog Park in Ocean Beach. We saw the cutest baby lab there, it was only 2 months old. Here is a picture of that one:

Well, I hope you all had a good weekend too!
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Here we have a World's Fair musical miniature
Carousel. This animated musical toy will delight the child in anyone. The Carousel (8" diam.) generates smiles with its spinning motion. Each is crafted from metal and resin and features an array of colorful, twinkling lights. Each plays 15 all-time classics and 15 holiday tunes.

Next we have this Movie theatre popcorn cart. This is called The Real McCoy, and is built in USA by Paragon Intl., makers of heavy-duty popcorn systems for theatres. Made to withstand the rigors of a theatre or commercial environment; (not to be confused with consumer-level imitations from China.) Makes 100 servings of mouthwatering popcorn/hour (four quarts every three minutes), with a taste unrivaled by popcorn from the microwave or hot air poppers. The 1100 watt, thermostatically controlled, side-hinged, hard coat, anodized aluminum kettle is easy to clean. Stainless steel interior panels are dishwasher safe. Tempered glass panels. Easily rolls from room to room. 120 volts, 9.2 amps, plugs into household outlet. Wheels 20"; cart 30"x16", 58" tall. 96 lbs. The Hummer® of popcorn poppers; limited lifetime warranty! We'll even help you get started with 24 free popcorn packs and 100 buckets to serve it in!