Archive For 2022 - Zeph1
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Yaupon Holly - A Unique Evergreen Plant

The Yaupon Holly is a small to medium-sized tree that is indigenous to the southeastern United States. The Yaupon Holly is the only species of holly that is native to the United StatesThe Yaupon Holly typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet and has dark green, glossy leaves. The tree produces small white flowers that are followed by red berries. The berries of the Yaupon Holly are toxic to humans but are beloved by birds. The Yaupon Holly is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and is resistant to pests and disease. Being evergreen, it is also great for providing shelter for birds and other wildlife.

Yaupon Holly Leaves and Berries
Yaupon Holly Leaves and Berries

Are yaupon holly berries poisonous to humans?

The berries of the yaupon holly plant are bright red and look like they'd be edible like currants and wild cherries are. However, the berries of the yaupon holly are poisonous to humans and pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other health issues. Animals such as birds and squirrels are able to eat the berries without any ill effects, so they help to spread the plant's seeds. If you come across a yaupon holly, admire it from a distance and do not eat the berries.

Are yaupon holly leaves poisonous?

The leaves are not poisonous. Yaupon tea is made from the leaves of the yaupon holly tree, and has been used by Native Americans for centuries. Yaupon tea is known for its high level of antioxidants, for containing caffeine, and has been shown to have numerous health benefits. It is said that some of the potential benefits include:

- boosting the immune system
- reducing inflammation
- improving memory and brain health

If you're looking for a healthy and delicious tea, yaupon tea is a great option.

Is yaupon holly invasive?

Yaupon holly is not an invasive plant. In fact, it is a popular landscaping shrub in the southern United States. It is often used as a foundation plant, hedge, or in topiary. Yaupon holly is also popular because it is an evergreen plant that can tolerate salt, drought, and partial shade.

How long does a yaupon holly live?

The yaupon holly is a tough plant that can live for many years. They typical live for anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Some yaupon hollies have been known to live for over 100 years! The longest-lived yaupon holly on record in history was over 200 years old when, sadly, it was cut down. So, if you are looking for a plant that will last a many years, the yaupon holly is a good choice.

Does yaupon holly attract bees?

Yes, the yaupon holly can attract bees and numerous other beneficial insects since the tree grows small white flowers in the spring, which are a source of nectar for bees and other insects.

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The Shadbush Tree: A Beautiful & Unforgettable Addition To Any Yard

The shadbush tree is a mid-sized deciduous tree that is native to North America. It is a member of the rose family and is related to the apple, crabapple, and quince. The shadbush is a popular choice for landscaping because of its showy white flowers and attractive fruits.


Shadbush white flowers
The shadbush is a fast-growing tree and can reach a height of 30 feet in just a few years. It has a spreading growth habit and a rounded crown. The leaves are ovate-shaped and have serrated margins. They are dark green in color and turn yellow or orange in the fall. The flowers are white, borne in clusters, and have five petals. They bloom in early spring. The fruits are small, oval-shaped, and reddish-purple in color.

The shadbush is a hardy tree and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It is relatively disease- and pest-free. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings,

Are shadbush berries edible?

So, are shadbush berries edible? The answer is yes! In fact, many people consider shadbush berries to be a delicious and nutritious treat. The berries are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Which, of course, these vitamins may also help boost your immune system. The berries can be eaten fresh or made into jams and pies.

Where should you plant a shadbush tree?

If you are thinking about planting a shadbush tree, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, choose a location that has well-drained soil and full sun. The shadbush tree can also tolerate partial shade, but it will not produce as many fruits in these conditions.

Secondly, make sure to plant your tree in an area that is sheltered from strong winds.

Finally, keep in mind that the shadbush tree can self-pollinate, so you only need to plant one tree if you want it to produce fruit.

What birds does a shadbush attract?

The shadbush is a popular plant for bird gardens as it attracts a variety of birds. Some of the birds that are attracted to the shadbush include the American goldfinch, the Baltimore oriole, the black-capped chickadee, the cedar waxwing, the common grackle, hummingbirds, the Cooper’s hawk, the downy woodpecker, the eastern bluebird, the evening grosbeak, the purple finch, the ruby-crowned kinglet, the tree swallow, the white-throated sparrow, and the yellow-rumped warbler. The shadbush is a valuable plant for bird gardens as it provides food and shelter for a variety of birds.

Other facts about Shadbush trees and berries:

Birds and other wildlife enjoy the berries of shadbush and the shadbush is somewhat deer resistant.
The flowers and their nectar are attractive to bees, butterflies and a host plant to certain butterfly species.
The leaves of the tree can be dried and used for tea.
The berries can be toxic to common domesticated animals, like dogs and cats.

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The Mississippi Blues Trail: A Roadmap To America's Music

What is the Mississippi Blues Trail?

The Mississippi Blues Trail is a musical heritage trail that celebrates the places where Mississippi's blues musicians lived, worked, and recorded their music. The Trail begins in Clarksdale, the "Birthplace of the Blues," and winds its way through the Mississippi Delta, home to the largest concentration of blues musicians and fans in the world. 

If you love the blues, then the Mississippi Blues Trail is a must-see. Keep reading to learn more about this important part of American music history!

Delta Blues Museum Blues Trail Marker Clarksdale Mississippi
By Chillin662 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=69837502
The Mississippi Blues Trail: A Celebration of the Roots of American Music

The Mississippi Blues Trail is more than just a collection of historical markers. It is a living, breathing tribute to the music and the people that created it. The Trail brings the story of the blues to life through the words and music of the people who lived it. It is a celebration of a uniquely American art form, and a reminder of the power of the human spirit to triumph over adversity.

The History of the Mississippi Blues Trail

The Mississippi Blues Trail is a project of the Mississippi Blues Commission, a state agency created by the Mississippi Legislature in 2002 to promote the blues and preserve the state's musical heritage. The Commission is overseen by a nine-member panel of experts appointed by the Governor of Mississippi. The Mississippi Blues Trail is funded by the Mississippi Development Authority, the state's economic development agency.

The first marker was erected in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where blues legend Robert Johnson is said to have sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads.

Since that first marker was erected, the blues trail has grown to over 200 markers, spread across all corners of the state. Each marker tells the story of the people, places, and events that shaped the blues. The trail has helped to preserve the history of the blues and has brought new attention to the places where this important music was created.

The Locations on the Mississippi Blues Trail

The trail includes a number of important blues sites, such as the Blue Front Cafe, the Crossroads, and the Delta Blues Museum. Other blues-related locations marked by markers include B.B. King's birthplace of Berclair, Dockery Plantation, Club Ebony and numerous other notable Mississippi Blues locations.

In conclusion, the Mississippi Blues Trail is a great way to learn about the history of the blues. The trail is full of fascinating markers that tell the story of the blues and the people who created it. If you're interested in learning more about the blues, be sure to check out the Mississippi Blues Trail Marker Maps.

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The Best Sun Annuals That Bloom All Summer

Marigold
Full sun annuals are those that need six or more hours of direct sunlight each day to grow their best. These sun-loving annuals are perfect for planting in beds and borders, as well as in containers and hanging baskets.


There are a wide variety of full sun annuals to choose from, so you’re sure to find one (or more!) that will suit your taste. From classic favorites like marigolds and petunias to more unusual choices like nasturtiums and portulaca, there’s an annual for everyone!

If you’re looking for a plant that will bloom all summer long, then look no further than full sun annuals. These plants will brighten up any space and add a touch of color to your garden.

What are sun annuals?

Sun annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in one year or less. This means that they germinate, grow, flower, and set seed all within the span of a single year. Many sun annuals are also known as summer annuals because they bloom during the summer months. Some common sun annuals include cosmos, marigolds, impatiens, and petunias.

What are the benefits of planting sun annuals?

Sun annuals are a type of plant that is well-suited for growing in sunny areas. These plants typically bloom for only the summer season and then die. However, they can provide a number of benefits to both people and the environment.

Some of the benefits of planting sun annuals include:

- They can help to brighten up a space
- They can attract bees and other pollinators
- They can provide a food source for animals
- They can help to improve the quality of the air

If you are looking for a way to improve your garden or add some color to your landscaping, consider planting some sun annuals.

What are some sun annuals that bloom all summer?

There are many sun annuals that will bloom all summer long with proper care. Some great examples include impatiens, petunias, and marigolds. With a little bit of planning, you can have a beautiful garden that blooms from early spring all the way until fall.

If you're looking for sun annuals that bloom all summer, be sure to check out impatiens, petunias, and marigolds. With a little bit of care, you can have a beautiful garden that blooms for months on end.

There are a variety of sun annuals that bloom all summer long. Some of these include: impatiens, petunias, marigolds, and zinnias. All of these annuals require full sun to thrive and will provide your garden with color all season long.

How to choose the right sun annual for your garden.

Choosing the right sun annual for your garden can seem like a daunting task. With all of the different options available, it can be hard to know where to start. But don't worry - we're here to help. In this article, we'll give you a few tips on how to choose the right sun annual for your garden.

First, you'll need to consider the climate in your area. Different sun annuals thrive in different climates, so it's important to choose one that will do well in your area. You'll also need to think about the amount of sun and shade in your garden. Some sun annuals need more sun than others, so you'll need to make sure you choose one that will be able to get the right amount of sun.

Once you've considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your options.

Planting and care tips for sun annuals

Sun annual flowers are a great way to add color and interest to your garden, and they are relatively easy to care for. Sun annuals are plants that need full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day) to thrive. Some examples of sun annuals include petunias, impatiens, and marigolds.

Impatiens
When planting sun annuals, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun throughout the day. If you are not sure if a location receives full sun, you can check the forecast for the sun's path. Once you have chosen a location, you will need to prepare the soil. Be sure to loosen the soil and add compost or manure to help the plants grow.

When it comes to watering, sun annuals will need to be watered more frequently than other plants. Be sure to check that they're getting enough water. Especially during heat waves.

Some of our favorite sun annuals.

Some of our top picks for sun annuals include impatiens, zinnias, and marigolds. These flowers are all relatively easy to grow and maintain, and they will add a vibrant pop of color to your garden. impatiens are available in a wide range of colors, making them a versatile addition to any garden. Zinnias come in a variety of colors as well, and they are known for their long-lasting blooms. Marigolds are also available in a range of colors, and they are known for their ability to deter pests.

There are so many great annuals that thrive in sunny conditions. Here are some of our favorites that are sure to add color and life to your garden.

Marigolds and geraniums are amongst the most popular annuals for sunny gardens. They come in a variety of colors and their cheerful blooms are sure to brighten up any space. Sunflowers are another great option, and their large blooms make a bold statement. No matter what you choose, annuals are a great way to add color and life to your sunny garden.
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Historical Museums in Genesee County, New York

Genesee County, New York, is rich in American history. The county is home to twelve historical museums, which are great places to learn about how things were done and how people lived in these communities in the past.

You do not need to visit large history museums in cities to learn about American history. Genesee County's historical places throw some insight into the history and history of each town. Come visit these locations in Genesee County to see history be brought to life!




The museum itself is a neat place as it was originally an one-room school house. When you walk into the museum, you can see the big windows and high ceilings and wonder about the children and the education that went on in the building. Through the artifacts you will discover that Alabama used to have three gun manufacturers in its small town. There was a prominent citizen named Dr. Grant Neal, who’s buggy is displayed at the museum. Part of the original Basom post office is also on display. Some visitors may appreciate the museum's historic posters of "horse auctions" and old-time carnivals to be intriguing cultural records and reminders of just how society used to be. A Christmas party invite from 1856 for a party in Alabama is just one object that remains relevant to today.


The Alexander Museum is located on the third floor of Alexander's Town Hall (the United States' only three-story cobblestone town hall). Bring your camera because the building by itself is worth a visit and offers very intriguing shots. An antique phone, record players, and typewriter are among the objects on show which remain important in today's environment, and are essentially now all part of our smartphones. Younger people these days  would be perplexed by the methods we had used to communicate. It's fun to look at the items in a tools area and try to figure out what they're used for. The museum's expansive open space is packed with its unique collection. The is a lot to take in at the museum, from farm tools to old record players and everything in between.



The Bergen Museum is absolutely one-of-a-kind. The museum is located in downtown Bergen at the historic 1880 Hartford Hotels Livery Stables. The building was converted into a charming and excellent museum. Inside the old barn, there are a few excellent life-size scenes showing a blacksmith shop, a general store, a schoolroom, and other scenes. The exhibitions' purpose is to allow the items convey their story. You truly get a feeling of how it was to go shopping, learn in school, or visit the neighborhood pharmacy. People's imaginations are captured by wartime posters in a local military exhibit. Volunteers from the museum built the beautifully designed scenes.


This museum is housed in an old church next to an old cemetery. The historic German Lutheran church's sanctuary is filled with numerous artifacts, including a large amount of clothes and textiles. Individuals who are interested in fashion or clothing will appreciate seeing what people wore a century ago. Photos and yearbooks from South Byron High School are also at the museum. A big annex behind the church is devoted to objects characteristic of a farming community. There is also old signage for former businesses and community signs in the annex.


The Elba Museum houses an excellent collection spread across three buildings: a museum, a historic 1842 house, and a recreated barn. The museum is loaded with Elba-related items. A tribute to the high school, along with a cheerleader uniform, was a unique touch. The 1842 house is right next door to the museum building. The house is well-kept and provides an insight into life before telephones, microwaves, computers, and other modern conveniences and technology. You can easily understand how people used to live their lives. Head over to the barn to witness how hard work was done around 150 years ago. The barn is packed with unique historical items and equipment.


The LeRoy Historical Society operates two separate museums within the same property in LeRoy. The Jell-O Gallery and the Historic LeRoy House are separated by the "Jell-O Brick Road," a small garden.

Learn the excellent story of America's Most Famous Desert, which was invented in LeRoy in 1897. The museum pays homage to the evolution of Jell-O as a brand and its place in everyday American life. There are numerous examples of how Jell-O promoted their product through clever marketing and merchandising tactics. The museum also has an excellent gift shop.

A little transportation museum, harkening to the times when people traveled by buggy or sled, is located in the basement of the Jell-O Gallery. It's a modest yet lovely collection that traces the growth of modern transportation.

The Historic Leroy House, erected in 1822 as a home for Jacob Leroy, a successful land agent, houses over a century of local history. The museum has three floors that are open to the public and are loaded with fascinating objects from the past. A highlight is an exhibit commemorating Leroy's Ingram University, which was established in 1837 and was the first institution to award women a four-year degree, as well as an exhibit honoring agricultural pioneer Calvin Keeney. The kitchen in the house recalls how meals were prepared and served a century ago.

Holland Land Office Museum, 131 West Main Street, Batavia, NY (585) 343-4727

The Holland Land Office Museum, housed in a stone building constructed in 1810, houses hundreds of objects from Western New York's history. Batavia is known as the "birthplace of Western New York" since the Holland Land Office was responsible for the sale and allocation of over 3.3 million acres of land. The Medal of Honor awarded to Batavian Charles F. Rand, the very first soldier in the country to volunteer for the Civil War, is on display inside the museum. The museum displays an authentic gibbet which was used to perform hangings, the last of which took place in 1881. Throughout the year, the Holland Land Office Museum hosts a variety of educational and social events. The museum is also located right next to the Batavia International Peace Garden.

Oakfield Historical Museum, 7 Maple Avenue, Oakfield, NY (585) 948-5901

The two-story house museum in Oakfield has several really interesting details. It provides an excellent job of informing tourists about the significance of gypsum mining in Oakfield. Numerous pictures and mining machinery reflect the history of significant gypsum mining in the town. Another representation at the museum is the Native American influence on the town and area which once stood a Seneca fort, village and  mounds. A very impressive collection of arrowheads (gathered from the surrounding area) that alone is worth the trip. The Oakfield Historical Museum is unique in that they print their own publications about local history, that are available for purchase.

Pembroke Museum, 1145 Main Road, Corfu, NY (585) 599-4892 ext. 9

This small museum can be found on Route 5 within the Town of Pembroke Town Offices. Items from the town's past post offices are all on exhibit, reminding us of the way people used to deliver messages and other communications. One area is dedicated to the local fire department, where you'll discover how they used to fight fires with glass water grenades over a century earlier. Civil War enthusiasts will appreciate seeing a soldier's hat and ammunition. Pembroke's military history is also displayed prominently.

Stafford Museum of History, 8903 Route 237, Stafford, NY (585) 343-1928

The Stafford Museum of History, which is connected to the Town of Stafford Town Hall, was constructed in 2004. The museum is one huge room with very well-presented artifacts in attractive display cases and information panels. This museum does not try to show you everything, but rather the excellent representations of early settlement life in Western New York. Visitors will also enjoy viewing the Morganville Pottery collection. A style of pottery with a characteristic reddish hue was produced in the nearby hamlet of Morganville (from the local excavated clay). Check out the museum's little gift shop on your way out.

Tonawanda Indian Reservation Historical Society, 372 Bloomingdale Road, Akron, NY (585) 542-2481

The Tonawanda Band of Seneca Indians' heritage is celebrated throughout the Tonawanda Indian Community House's hallways. The historical artifacts are presented all throughout the museum, therefore there is no particular museum room. The community house is open every day, so there are plenty of opportunities to visit and learn. Throughout the museum, large-scale photographs and illustrations showcase the Tonawanda Indian Reservation's history and heritage. Some of the lithographs tell the history of the tribe and the Seven Nations' history. On the second story, there is a piece of high reverence - a chief's headdress.

More Museums in Genesee County
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Keweenaw Dark Sky Park: Majestic Stargazing Views in Michigan

The Keweenaw Dark Sky Park is a Michigan state park that offers some of the most breathtaking nighttime views in the entire state. The park is located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, which is the northernmost point of Michigan. Expectedly, it offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including stargazing, night hiking, astrophotography and much more. So whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a first-time visitor, the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park is a must-see destination.




Over two years ago, the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge began preparing for its application process to become an International Dark Sky Park.

According to the International Dark Sky Association, a Dark Sky Park is a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and public enjoyment. 

And this week, the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park has officially been designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the IDA. This makes it the third International Dark Sky Park in Michigan, and the first in the  Upper Peninsula.


Today, the Keweenaw Peninsula is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The area is home to a number of state parks, as well as several historic sites and museums that showcase the region's rich history.

More Information:

Keweenaw Peninsula History

https://www.darksky.org/our-work/conservation/idsp/parks/keweenaw-dark-sky-park-michigan-u-s/ The Keweenaw Dark Sky Park is located at the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan

https://www.michigan.org/darksky - When night falls and Michigan’s breathtaking views fade into the darkness, the skyscape opens to one of the greatest star shows in the continental United States.

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Lodge EC1D43 3 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven

If you're looking for a classic, top quality, reliable Dutch oven that will help you prepare delicious meals, the Lodge EC1D43 is a great option. This enameled cast iron oven is durable and long-lasting, so you can enjoy it for years to come.


Lodge EC1D43 Cast Iron Dutch Oven
The Lodge EC1D43 3 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a durable and versatile cooking pot that can be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including induction, gas, electric, and even in the oven or over an open flame.

This Dutch oven is made of high-quality cast iron, which is known for its even heat distribution and retention. It features a tight-fitting lid that helps to lock in moisture and flavors, and also has a stainless steel knob on the top that is oven safe up to 500°F.

The interior of the Dutch oven is coated with Lodge's proprietary enamel, which is both durable and easy to clean. The enamel coating also prevents food from sticking and helps to prevent rusting, which is a common problem with bare cast iron cookware.

The Lodge EC1D43 3 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven has a capacity of 3 quarts, which is perfect for cooking small to medium-sized meals. It measures 9.5 inches in diameter and 3.75 inches in height, making it compact enough to store easily in a cabinet or on a shelf.

Overall, the Lodge EC1D43 3 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a high-quality and versatile cooking pot that is ideal for a wide range of cooking applications, from soups and stews to roasts and casseroles. It is built to last for years and is backed by Lodge's lifetime warranty.

Learn More, including reading customer reviews, by clicking here


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How to Choose the Perfect Stained Glass Table Lamp For Your Home

Stained glass table lamps add appealing lighting elements to your home or any room within it. One that enhances the ambiance of your home, whether in the living room or the bedroom. They will undoubtedly enhance and bring out the mood of any space in your home with the correct arrangement and lamp. Stained glass table lamps have long been a popular choice among interior designers and homeowners.

Stained glass table lamps are also available in an almost limitless variety of colors, styles, and preferences in many stores that sell them, particularly online. If you are looking for these types of table lamps, it is best to be familiar with their characteristics, benefits, and wide range of options.

Stained Glass Table Lamps Come in a Variety of Styles

Stained glass table lamps are available for purchase in a variety of locations and are popular with people all over the world. Here are some types of stained glass table lamps to help you decide:

  • Stained Glass Tiffany Lamps These are one-of-a-kind stained glass fixtures inspired by American classical designs. These Tiffany lamps will bring a timeless touch of elegance to any room in your house. These lamps are made of iridescent and hand-cut art glass, with signature looks that include geometric patterns and even beautiful floral designs. Tiffany stained glass table lamps are ideal for adding ambiance to home decor. They are frequently available in other styles, such as accent and floor lamps.

  • Vintage Desk and Table Lamps Vintage appearances, patterns, and styles continue to be incredibly popular among people trying to improve the interior spaces of their homes. There are numerous vintage designs to pick from when it comes to selecting certain antique designs. They are available in a variety of designs and styles ranging from the elegant to the understated and everything in between.

  • Peacock Stained Glass Table Lamps The “Peacock” stained glass lamps have been a favorite motif of Tiffany. These lamps are usually made of bronze or glass lamp materials. They are also commonly available in vivid colors of peacock feathers blended with various color tones to create an attractive appearance.

Dragonfly Lamp by Clara Driscoll for Tiffany Studios, circa 1910, leaded glass and bronze, Dayton Art Institute

Where Can I Purchase These Stained Glass Table Lamps?

If you're looking for a stained glass table lamp with the best prices, online is usually the best place to look. Yard and garage sales are a close second. Although these types of lamps are uncommon at yard sales. You should also be able to find them in local retailers.

Online, you can find a bigger range of styles and selections, as well as a greater variety of lamps. At the same moment, you will receive important information such as the price, discount (if applicable), user reviews, and more.

Why Should You Buy a Stained Glass Table Lamp?

Stained glass table lamps are popular among creative homeowners for a variety of reasons. The most obvious explanation is that these goods assist them in achieving a distinct appearance, elegance, and attractiveness that will last. A stained glass lamp is also something you may pass down through your family if you so desire.

Depending on the type of stained glass lamp and where you purchase it, you may also be able to enjoy significant savings (or discounts) and hassle-free delivery. More information and customer reviews can be found by clicking any of the links above.

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Why Floating Solar Panels Are The 'Wave' Of The Future

As the world looks for ways to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and move towards renewable energy sources, solar power has emerged as one of the most promising options. Solar panels have been installed on rooftops and in fields for years, but there is a new application for this technology that is taking the world by storm: floating solar panels.

Floating solar panels are not just a novel way to generate renewable energy – they also come with a host of other benefits. For example, they can be used to provide shade and cooling for reservoirs, which can help to reduce evaporation. They can also be used to generate power in remote locations where it is not possible to install traditional ground-mounted solar panels.


Floating Solar Panel Electricity Production

Solar panels installed on a structure that floats on a body of water, often a reservoir or a lake, are referred to as floating solar or floating photovoltaics.

Since 2016, the market for this renewable energy method has expanded fast. Throughout 2007 to 2013, the very first 20 plants with capacity of around a dozen kWp were constructed. In 2020, produced power reached 3 GW, with 10 GW anticipated by 2025.

The price of a floating installation is 20-25% greater than the cost of a land installation.

Positives of Floating Solar Panel Installations and related electricity production

The fundamental advantage of floating photovoltaic systems is the fact that they not require any land, aside from the small areas required for the electric cabinet and grid hookups. Their cost is equivalent to that of land-based systems, however floating photovoltaic systems offer an excellent option for reducing land consumption.


Floating photovoltaic power systems are much more streamlined than land-based systems, have simpler management, and thus are easier to build and dismantle. The significant aspect is that there aren't permanent structures, such as those used for land-based plants. Therefore, the installation is completely reversible.


Water conservation and water quality is improved by the solar panels partially covering water bodies. This benefit is influenced by both the climate and the amount of the covered surface.


Cooling the floating structure is basic. Environmental cooling can be maximized by having put a water layer on the photovoltaic modules or by having them in the water. Which, in turn, can increase the amount of electricity generated.


The platforms can be rotated both horizontally and vertically to follow the sun. Moving photovoltaic panels need minimal power as well as no sophisticated mechanical equipment. The cost of outfitting a floating photovoltaic plant with such a system is minimal.


Algal blooms, a severe concern in developed nations, may be decreased. The partial basin coverage and light reduction of the panels may reduce the growth of algal blooms. 


In conclusion, floating solar panels are an innovative and sustainable way to generate energy. They have a number of advantages over traditional ground-mounted solar panels, easier installation, and less environmental impact. Gloating solar panels offer a promising solution for the future of energy production.




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The Alarming Effects of Light Pollution on Trees and What You Can Do To Help

It is no secret that pollution, including light pollution, is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. But what many people don't realize is that this pollution doesn't just impact our own health and quality of life - it also takes a toll on the natural world. Trees are particularly vulnerable to the effects of light pollution, and this can lead to a host of problems for both the trees themselves and the ecosystems they support.


In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the ways light pollution affects trees, from interfering with their natural growth cycles to making them more susceptible to disease. We'll also explore what can be done to mitigate the effects of light pollution on trees and help protect our planet's precious green spaces.

How to minimize the impact that light pollution has trees

In modern society, light pollution has become a big problem. It has detrimental effects on our environment, especially trees, as well as our ability to appreciate the sky at night. We'll look at how light pollution harms trees and what we can do to mitigate those effects.

Effects of light pollution on trees

Light pollution can harm trees in a variety of ways including by disrupting photosynthesis, interfering with the tree's natural cycle regarding day and night, and attracting pests. Plants use the process of photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into food. A tree's growth may be stunted if this process is hindered. Trees can also be harmed by altering their natural day/night cycle since it throws off their biological clocks and hinders them from getting the required amount of rest. Furthermore, light pollution can bring pests like beetles and moths, which can damage trees even more by laying their eggs on their leaves.

Light pollution's risks to trees

Even though light pollution's effects on trees may appear to be very minimal, they can have a long-term negative impact on both the health of particular trees and entire ecosystems. Light pollution has been demonstrated in some instances to entirely destroy young seedlings. In some instances, it can make mature trees more prone to illness and pests. Moreover, insects drawn to artificial lighting frequently escape from their natural predators, causing population imbalances that can disrupt entire ecosystems.

How to reduce the harm light pollution does to trees.

Using reflective materials like mirrors or aluminum foil to deflect stray light away from trees is another method of reducing light pollution's effect on trees. If a mirror is positioned behind an outdoor lighting fixture, for instance, the light will obviously be reflected back toward the fixture rather than out into the surroundings. This can still give the area enough illumination while assisting in reducing glare and sky glow. Similar methods can also be done with aluminum foil, which should only be used as a last resort because it is not as effective as a mirror.

In the modern world, light pollution is becoming a greater problem. As a result of the numerous negative effects that excessive artificial light has on trees, they are just one of the many victims of light pollution. While light pollution can have negative impacts on trees, there are also measures to lessen these effects and shield trees from further harm.

We can lessen the detrimental effects of light pollution on trees by growing them in appropriate places, utilizing light-colored mulch, and using reflective materials. Additionally, finding long-term remedies depends on increasing awareness of this problem. To preserve our environment and its natural riches, we must continue to take part in preserving the night.


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Blackfeet Star Stories - Story of Scar-Face (Poia)

Listen, for now comes one of the many stories told of Scar-Face.


Once there lived a girl who was kind and beautiful. Many young men wanted to marry her, but one by one she turned them away. This concerned her mother and father, and they asked, why will you not marry any of these young men? They are fine young men. The girl explained that Natosi, Sun, had once visited her and told her she could not marry anyone for she belonged only to him.


Her parents accepted her explanation and no more was said to her. Even so, young men still asked to marry. Now in that same place lived a young man whose body was strong and pleasing. He would have been handsome were it not for a terrible scar on his face. 


His name was Poia, Scarface. Scarface was an orphan. Having no one, he grew up going from one family to another for food and clothing. But all his life he cried, for always there were people who laughed at him and made fun of his scarred face and the fact that he was pitiful. 


One day the young men in the camp were making fun of him and one said, Scarface, the girl has refused to marry us but you are so handsome. You should ask her to marry you. And since you are so rich, said another, she will certainly choose to marry you. And then they all laughed.


Scarface went off by himself. He had seen the girl many times, and he had come to love her. He decided to go to the girl, profess his love, and asked her to marry him. He found the girl standing by a stream. I am Scarface, he said. I am poor and ugly, but I am a good person. I love you and I want to marry you. And to his amazement, the girl said, I care not if you are poor, I will marry you, but first you must go to Sun and ask permission to marry me. Ask Sun to remove the scar as a sign that we truly have his blessing.


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Esopus Munsee Winter Customs - Deep Snow Moon and The Story of the Celestial Bear

Long before European settlers arrived, the land belonged to the Esopus Munsee people, descendants of the Lenape nation. Unlike the iconic stone houses, their dwellings were circular structures made from natural materials like saplings and bark, known as wigwams. A replica stands today at the DuBois Fort Visitor Center, offering a glimpse into their way of life.

The Esopus Munsee people, speaking a Munsee dialect of the Algonquian language family, inhabited the region for generations. Their way of life was intimately connected with the rhythms of nature, as evidenced by their circular dwellings known as wigwams. These homes, constructed from saplings and bark, provided shelter and warmth during the harsh winter months. In winter, the would share stories while around the communal fire, where elders imparted wisdom through tales about nature and the mysteries of the universe.

One such story, cherished by both the Munsee and Mohican peoples, is the legend of the celestial bear. This mythic tale unfolds with the seven stars of the Big Dipper chasing a bear across the sky each spring, culminating in her demise by winter's end. The bear's blood, symbolic of the changing seasons, coloring the leaves in autumn. As winter arrives, the bear's oil drips down, blanketing the earth in a layer of pristine snow. Come spring, the melting snow nourishes the trees, prompting them to offer sap – a gift of thanks. This story not only speaks to the interconnectedness of all living things but also serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between humans and nature.


Visit

------

Munsee / Munsey - "people of a stone country.". (Minassiniu, Minisink, Minsi, Moncy, Monthey, Mundook, Muncey, Munsi, Muncie).

Four groups of this division were sometimes called together (Esopus, Espachomy) : Catskill, Momekotiny, Waranawonkong, Wawarsink

Culturally, the Mansi stood apart and until the last century were often considered an independent tribe. The term appears in sources in the 18th century.
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The Passamaquoddy: A People Reborn Short Documentary

The Passamaquoddy


In the early 1960s the Passamaquoddy tribe was at an all time low, but they were about to begin a two decade battle with the State of Maine which would forever change themselves, their relationship between the United States Government, and all Native American tribes.



Its conclusion would bring a new wealth, and a new pride to the native peoples of Maine.


But with it came unexpected troubles and dissension which struck to the heart of what it means to be Indian.


Preceding these events, in the late 18th century, Congress created the Nonintercourse Act, declaring that any transfer of land from Indians to non-Indians had to be approved by Congress.


Between 1794 and 1833, title to most of the land of the Passamaquoddy was transferred o the state of Maine and individuals. Those transfers, encompassing two-thirds of the state of Maine, were never approved by the U.S. Congress, and were therefore illegitimate.


This was the foundation for the Maine Indian Land Claims Case of 1980. 


Before the Claims settlement, the conditions on the Maine reservations were poor. The houses were small and wooden, with little to no insulation, leaky roofs, and bare floors.


In the sixties, 85% of the houses had no toilets or plumbing.


NEWS ANCHOR

The average annual family income is $3000, well below the national poverty level. Most members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe live on this 100 acre reservation on the Northeast coast of Maine. Here, an unemployment rate of 50% is a sign that things are getting better.


Intolerance for the tribal people and their culture was common in many areas of Maine, and over time, they grew used to the treatment. Discrimination was very regular. As a matter of fact it happened so regularly that we didn't even know that it was discrimination. One of the things about an oppressed people is they get so used to it they think it's normal. And you act a certain way accordingly, and you try to survive by saying that's the way it is.


So there was all of this going on, and the saddest part is that we went along with it because  we thought it was normal and the other thing is it was so hopeless that we thought we couldn't change it.


Indians were derided by whites, and treated with the same contemptuous nature that blacks in the South were suffering, although resident Whites blinded themselves to this. As Donald Hansen of the Kennebec Journal wrote in 1965, Maine folk can get pretty upset when a Negro in Mississippi has to move to the back of the bus and yet remain relatively indifferent when they learn that barbers refuse to cut the hair of a Passamaquoddy Indian.

Visit https://www.passamaquoddy.com

Related:
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Chef Boyardee 1953 Spaghetti Dinner Kits Commercial

Hello, may I come in?

I am Chef Boyardee. Perhaps you have seen my picture on Chef Boyardee products at you grocers?

Today I want to tell you about a wonderful dinner for three. A dinner that only costs about fifteen cents a serving. It's my own Chef Boyardee spaghetti dinner with meat sauce or mushroom sauce. It all comes in one carton. A full half pound of tender, quick cooking spaghetti, ten full ounces of rich, tasty sauce and to top it off, a whole can of simply grated cheese. A wonderful food.

So ask your grocer for Chef Boyardee spaghetti dinner with meat or mushroom sauce, won't you? And look for other Chef Boyardee's products. They're all so delicious but also nourishing, and they help keep the cost of your meals down.

Chef Boyardee products are at best grocer.

Ask for Chef Boyardee's spaghetti dinner. Only about 15 cents a serving.


Chef Boyardee




Here's a 1979 Chef Boyardee also starring Ettore Boiardi in his last appearance in Chef Boyardee commercials



Facts about Ettore Boiardi

He took a chef apprenticeship at a restaurant in Italy at the age of 11 but was mainly relegated to doing custodial tasks at the La Croce Bianca restaurant.. He later learned true restaurant skills in Paris and London prior to coming to the USA.

After his family arrived in the USA in 1914, he got a job as a cook at tony Plaza Hotel (where his brother also worked) and was eventually promoted to head chef.

He catered Woodrow Wilson's wedding banquet at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.

The precursor to his idea for Chef Boyardee home meals was at his  Il Giardino d'Italia restaurant in Cleveland. He would package ingredients of pasta, cheese and his spaghetti sauce in milk bottles for restaurant patrons. From that, demand for his food "packages" became so great that, in 1928, he opened a small processing plant that soon became the home to Chef Boyardee products.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ettore_Boiardi

https://web.archive.org/web/20080801131203/http://www.conagrafoods.com/consumer/brands/brand_info.jsp?cookietest=true&page=chef_boyardee

https://www.chefboyardee.com/about-us

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Battle of the Network Stars V - Robin Williams, William Shatner and Others - November 18th, 1978

Battle of the Network Stars V: A Landmark Television Event

On November 18, 1978, the fifth installment of the iconic Battle of the Network Stars unfolded at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. This unique competition, pitting television stars from ABC, CBS, and NBC against each other in athletic contests, had become a cultural phenomenon since its inception.

Howard Cosell, the legendary sports broadcaster, returned to host the event, joined by a new co-commentator, Frank Gifford. Gifford, Cosell's colleague from Monday Night Football, brought his professional football expertise and affable personality to the commentary booth, replacing Suzanne Somers from the previous edition.

The Competition Lineup

The competition featured a star-studded lineup of television personalities:

ABC Team (Captain: Gabe Kaplan)

  • Debby Boone
  • Billy Crystal
  • Joyce DeWitt
  • Richard Hatch
  • Maren Jensen
  • Robert Urich
  • Robin Williams

CBS Team (Captain: McLean Stevenson)

NBC Team (Captain: Robert Conrad)

  • Joseph Bottoms
  • William Devane
  • Pamela Hensley
  • Brianne Leary
  • Wendy Rastatter
  • William Shatner
  • Caskey Swaim

The event showcased a variety of athletic competitions, including swimming, running, and tug-of-war. The swimming competition, held in an Olympic-sized pool, required each team to field five participants, with at least two women per team. Swimmers completed a 25-yard lap, except for the anchor, who swam a 50-yard distance.

Throughout the competition, the intensity and competitive spirit of the participants were evident. Robert Conrad, captain of the NBC team, was particularly noted for his fervent leadership, inspiring his team with passionate encouragement.

The Battle of the Network Stars V marked a significant moment in the series' history. It continued to draw massive audiences, capitalizing on the star power of its participants and the unique spectacle of seeing beloved television personalities compete in athletic events. The combination of Cosell's distinctive commentary style and Gifford's insights provided viewers with engaging and often humorous coverage of the proceedings.

As the day progressed, the competition remained fierce, with each network vying for supremacy. In a thrilling conclusion, the NBC team emerged victorious, adding another win to their tally in the ongoing battle for network supremacy.

The success of Battle of the Network Stars V further cemented the show's place in television history, paving the way for future installments and inspiring similar celebrity-athlete competitions in the years to come. Its legacy continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a nostalgic reminder of a unique era in television entertainment.



Related Links:

Battle of the Network Stars, full episode 5 Nov. 18, 1978
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Network_Stars#Battle_of_the_Network_Stars_V_(Nov._18,_1978)

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Soldier Huts That Housed George Washington's Continental Army at Valley Forge

This is a video by the American Battlefield Trust and they're at Valley Forge National Historical Park. Here are some of the recreated soldiers huts that George Washington's Continental Army would have lived in during the winter of 1777-1778. 

Valley Forge



We see from the outside we have a roof, we have stacked logs that have notches in them known as saddle notches here. We also have between our logs um today what is cement but at the time would have been clay, hay, straw, everything together. We have a small chimney trying to make this as much of a log cabin or a home for 12 soldiers. Yes, 12 soldiers would live in this 14 by 16 hut. 

We'll take a step inside for just a second. You can see how they would live in here on their bunks. You have a small fireplace where you would cook and you would have for heat. But 12 men would live inside of here. They would try to make it as comfortable as possible. 

Sometimes you would find women in here. There are at least 400 women who are following the army here to Valley Forge. So this would be very cramped quarters if you're a soldier in Washington's army.

More about Valley Forge:

Valley Forge functioned as the third of eight winter encampments for the Continental Army's main body, commanded by General George Washington, during the American Revolutionary War. In September 1777, Congress fled Philadelphia to escape the British capture of the city. After failing to retake Philadelphia, Washington led his 12,000-man army into winter quarters at Valley Forge, located approximately 18 miles northwest of Philadelphia. They remained there for six months, from December 19, 1777 to June 19, 1778. At Valley Forge, the Continentals struggled to manage a disastrous supply crisis while retraining and reorganizing their units. About 1,700 to 2,000 soldiers died from disease, possibly exacerbated by malnutrition.

https://wikivisually.com/wiki/Valley_Forge
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Patterson Maple Farms Sugar House - 2019 PCN Tour

Good morning and welcome to Patterson Farms. My name is Linda Neal and I've worked here at Patterson's for 28 years now, so I've seen a lot of changes. 

Before we start going into the sugarhouse I'd like to give you a little idea of what the family is here. In the early 1920s, Grandma and Grandpa Patterson, and that would be Orin and Mabel Patterson, started here on the farm. They had a little dairy of cattle. They tapped a few sugar bushes up on top of the hill and made a little bit of syrup. And how they made their syrup was they used wooden buckets and wooden spiles. They tapped their trees with a hand auger, brought their sap down to their backyard with a horse-drawn sleigh and the sap and they boiled outside on a flat pan. 



Patterson Maple Farms


When they passed the farm down to Clifton and Alberta Patterson, they changed a little bit. They built a sugar house. They got a wood-fired evaporator, put in twenty six hundred buckets that Richard and Robert and Mary Lee had to dump twice a day. 

When it passed down to Richard that's when it really changed. We got into tubing and a lot more taps. We got up to 87,000 taps and 26 different sugar bushes. We got a new evaporator. We built a larger sugar house. 

Now we're down to our fifth generation, Terri and Terry Patterson. So we're changing every day. I've been very lucky to work with three out of the five generations. Our seasons run anywhere from the end of January into April. We need freezing nights, warmed up days to about 41 degrees, and a westerly wind. And if you don't have that three combination, the sap doesn't run very well.

There's 143 different species of maple. Now in our area here we have red, silver, black swamp, striped. But the best tree to make your syrup from is the American Sugar Maple and that's what we basically tap here. Trees have to be 30 years old before we tap them and about 10 inches in diameter. We'll put one tap in the tree. As the trees grow larger and larger we may put two or three taps in the tree. But here at Patterson's that's as far as we go. It doesn't hurt your trees to be tapped every single year. 

Mother nature knows when to turn the sap off when it's ready for the leaves to come out and if you look at this cross cut here of a sugar maple tree, you can see the old tap holes this shows you that it does not hurt your trees to be tapped every year. Putting a new hole in the tree. It just grows right on over. 

This tree was 143 years old when it had to come down after a storm and it was giving sap at about 30 years and it was still giving sap when it was cut down. 

When sap comes from a sugar maple tree it's clear like water, about two percent sugar, and a two percent sugar it takes 43.7 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. So we need a lot of sap to make a lot of syrup. Now you say with so many different kinds of maple trees, how do you tell a sugar maple? Well the way I do it because it's the easiest way, I look at the leaves. And on a sugar maple leaf it has five points to it. No other maple tree does. When there's no leaves on the trees you can look at the twigs and on a sugar maple twig it grows and v shapes. No other maple tree does. Now when our guys get really good at it all they have to do is look at the outside bark. It has a very distinctive look and feel to it. 

Now the first people who made maple syrup were the Indians. And how they did it was they took a tomahawk or hatchet and they would put a great big slice in the tree, put a piece of bark under that slice and the sap would run down and into their birch buckets but they pitched on the inside to carry their sap back to either their teepees or their sugar camps out in the woods. And how they boiled is they had a hollowed-out log and they would put their sap in the hollowed-out log. Heat rocks up, drop the rocks into the sap and that's how they made their sugar and they kept it in sugar blocks just like this. This is how they kept their syrup. Now if they wanted syrup they would just scratch a little off, add water back to it and it would become syrup again. 

Now to tell whether it's sugaring season we normally look at a calendar and we know that about the end of January it's time to get ready start tapping your trees and getting ready for the next sugaring season. The Indians didn't have that and how they could tell that it was sugaring season is by the moon phases. Now in a year there's always 13 full moons and it was the third full moon of the season that they knew was a sugar moon and that's when they usually started making their maple syrup. Third full moon in this year was around the 22nd of March and that's when they would have started to make their syrup. 

How they got their calendar is by looking at the turtle and on the turtle's shell there's always 13 cylinders on the top of the shell that was the 13th full moons and the little cylinders on the outside of the turtle shell is always 28 and that was the 28 days in between each full moon. 

Now when the Indians taught the colonists to do it that's where changed a little bit. They used a hand auger where the hole in the tree started from and wooden spiles. Now they made these wooden spiles out of sumac or elderberry bushes because they have a pithy inside. They would drill the inside out, whittle down one end, that end would go into the tree and the sap would flow down and into their wooden buckets. They would boil their sap in big black iron kettles and as they got thicker and thicker they would go from one kettle to another and at the end they made sugar blocks just like the Indians did and kept them in little muslin bags. Kept them in the root cellar or their attics where it was cool. 

If anybody has ever read the Little House on the Prairie books, Laura's mother asked her to go to the root cellar and bring up a brick of sugar and this is what they were talking about was maple sugar. Richard's grand folks also used the wooden buckets and the wooden spiles. They had snowshoes that they used to go out in the woods to do their tapping and their lanterns to bring down. 

Over on this wall we have one of the older sap haulers, which was drawn by a horse, and they would there's little springs on the top they would pour their sap in that would keep the twigs and the leaves out of it. And the horse would bring it down and they would boil from that. 

When Richard's folks took over they went to the metal buckets and the metal spiles. These spiles were made out of tin and cast-iron and you can see how big these and the wooden spires are. So it took a pretty big hole in the tree. Took the tree about two years to heal over or bellybutton overs what we call it. We also had very heavy tappers and we would have to carry out, plus a jug of gas, and do our tapping with those. 

Now when people think of maple syrup they often think of Vermont. Well I'm here to tell you Vermont's not the only state that makes maple syrup. If you look at my map up here I have all the states that make maple syrup and they make enough to be in the United States stat books. They go as far north as Minnesota and Iowa and as far south as Tennessee. Now all the states use different maple trees. All maple trees give sap. They all make syrup but it is going to taste a little different. So each state that you visit and you try their maple syrup it will taste a little different. Different soil, different growing season, and different trees do the different grades or their different tastes of syrup. 

We are now using our lighter, battery-operated tappers. We also have tubing instead of buckets and you might have seen some of this tubing as you came up Gurnee Road this morning. Now the light blue tubing we string tree to tree, it then runs into a larger line which we call our main lines. The main lines then run into big catch tanks that we have at every sugar bush. 

Now what a sugar bush is just a group of maple trees in different areas. Some of them are large bushes, some are very small. Depends on how many trees are in that area. The big main lines then run into big catch tanks and that's where we pick up our sap with our trucks and they go around and pick it up. We also use a different kind of spile. This is called a health tree spile. It's only 5/16ths. It gives us just as much sap as the larger taps do and it only takes our trees about six months to heal over instead of two years. 

So each generation learned a little bit better how to take care of their trees. From their Indians putting great big slices in the tree and leaving scars, down to the new health tree spiles that we use today. 

Now tubing isn't a new concept. In the early 1800s, Canada made metal tubing and spiles and which they hooked together, they had miles and miles of this, and they would put it all together, tap their trees but it didn't work very well because once the sap started to flow into the metal tubing and it froze at night like it was supposed to, it popped apart. With the plastic tubing that we use it contracts and goes back to its original size.

Related Links:

https://www.pattersonmaplefarms.com
https://www.facebook.com/Patterson-Farms-264986307007350/
https://pcntv.com/product/2019-pcn-tours-patterson-maple-farms/
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Quanah Parker, Last Chief of the Comanches

For three centuries the Comanches ruled as lords of the Southern Plains. With the coming of white settlers and the might of the US Army, the land was been rested from its Indian masters. The Comanches resented this appropriation of their ancestral home and say only one recourse, war. 

In 1836, during a Comanche raid on Fort Parker, Texas, nine-year-old Cynthia Ann Parker was captured. She grew up among the Comanches, whom she learned to love dearly. Ultimately, she married famed Comanche chief Peta Nocona for whom she bore three children.



Who was Quanah Parker?


Quanah was born to the couple in 1845 and was the only one of the three children to survive. Sharp of mind and an intrepid warrior, Quanah emerged as a vigorous and enlightened protector of Comanche interest.

Quanah led Cheyennes, Arapahos, Comanches, Kiowas, and Apaches in their last great surge against white encroachment known as Battle of Adobe Walls. A military strategist of the first order, he became one of the most feared Indians on the Southern Plains. But the white man was superior in weapons and numbers. The day came when Quanah knew that further resistance would only lead to annihilation of the Comanches. He counts this people to lay down their arms and to take the white men's rules.

On June 2nd, 1875, Quanah and his followers surrendered at Fort Sill. By an ironic twist of fate it was Quanah who led the Comanches in their final struggle against the encroachment of his mother's own people, the whites. And once the fighting was over it was he as last chief of the Comanches who would lead them up from the bitter ashes of defeat to walk the white man's road. Quanah dedicate himself to the strenuous task of guiding the Comanches into civilization. Courageous and strong-willed, he was also a natural diplomat. Traveling numerous times to Washington DC to represent the Comanches, he was a familiar figure in Congress. He became a successful farmer, a rancher, and a major stockholder in the Quanah, Acme & Pacific Railway. 

He had vital interest in educating the young people and became president of his local school board in 1905. On a road in Theodore Roosevelt inaugural parade, in a special report to the president it was stated of Quanah, "if ever nature stamped a man with the seal of headship, she did it in his case. Quanah would have been a leader and a governor in any circle where fate may have cast him." 

Where is Quanah Parker buried?


On December 4, 1910, Quanah had his mother's remains exhumed and reburied near his home where, as he said, "I might lie beside her". At Quanah's request, Congress erected a monument at her gravesite. 

Three months after her reburial, Chief Quanah died on February 23, 1911. Quanah, who was responsible for the Comanche's transition onto the white man's road and who perhaps did more than any other man to reconcile these two great races was mourned by Whites and Indians alike. Approximately 1,500 people formed a funeral procession over two miles long. 

Although his remarkable adaptation to white ways brought him honor and wealth, he never did forsake his Comanche heritage. He loved his culture, he was proud of it and strove to preserve it. When he was buried beside his white mother, he was in the full regalia of a Comanche chief.

Quanah had seven Comanche wives and begat 24 children. Every year, the descendants of Quanah and the Parker relatives of Texas gather to honor the memory of Cynthia Ann and a remarkable son, Quanah Parker, Last Chief of the Comanches.

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1800's Covered Wagon Tracks Still Exist - Oregon Trail Ruts

Traveling through Wyoming now. Not stopping too many places but I wanted to stop here and show you this. This is a very interesting historical place. Where during the mid-1800s an estimated 500,000 people crossed this area on the famous Oregon Trail. They went through this sandstone, this rock. Those thousands of covered wagons crossed this area. They crossed over and eventually in through this sandstone rock, they created huge ruts. Some of the ruts are as deep as four feet.

Oregon Trail Ruts - Guernsey, Wyoming


 

I mean this is so interesting to me. This sandstone is a lot softer than other types of rock so those wagon wheels, slowly over the course of decades, cut into this. 

The Oregon Trail was about two thousand miles long and it took anywhere from four to six months for these pioneers, people in search of a better life out West, to cross and lots of danger lots of hardship. Lots of accidents and deaths. They were full on committed to making it out West.

So during the mid-1800s more than 500,000 pioneers journeyed West right through this area and the Oregon Trail was just a rocky, horrible, rocky rutted trail. It was never any nicer than that. The trail began in Missouri, crossing the plains before entering into here into Wyoming, along the North Platte River.

As they continued on the trail, travel became even more difficult and once they reached the Wyoming area, the terrain changed from wide open plains to rugged landscape typical of what's out here.

There's a plaque here that says the Oregon Trail was 2,000 miles and it's a tribute to the human spirit. The people from all walks of life sold most of their possessions, piled what was left in a wagon and journeyed West in search of a better life. Thousands of travelers struggled through this winding, rocky terrain before making camp just west of this point. Evidence of their passage is clearly visible at the crest of this hill where deep ruts cut by the wheels of countless wagons. Thousands of wagons are preserved in the soft sandstone.
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Zimmerman's Covered Bridge - Pennsylvania's Covered Bridges

So greetings from Pennsylvania once again and today we're up here in Schuylkill County and we've got a covered bridge behind us. 

So, I'm starting one of my new series on the different covered bridges here in Pennsylvania and we're going to start here at the Zimmerman covered bridge

So, this idea has been in my head for quite some time to do all the covered bridges here in Pennsylvania. I have filmed some videos on cover bridges already but never turned into like a series. Never made it a concerted effort to get to all of them. There are quite a few left here in Pennsylvania. Some counties have none. Like Lebanon County, which is not too far from here, has no covered bridges. Here in Schuylkill County there's just two. But down in Lancaster County there's a whole ton of them. So it varies from county to county.


Zimmerman Covered Bridge


We'll talk a little bit just why what the purpose of a covered bridge is and then we'll take a look at this one here, the Zimmerman covered bridge. I'll tell you a little bit of history about it oh yeah we're going to talk about the architecture. You know, as I make these videos I learn stuff too because I'm studying all these bridges. They're made different ways, different architecture. Like this one is called a Burr Truss or Burr Arch Truss and we'll go inside.

But let me tell you where I'm at. First, this is Covered Bridge Road appropriately. Just across the bridge is Route 895. We're not too far from the town of Rock. But if you go west it'll take you to Pine Grove. So that's kind of where we are and because we'll walk through the bridge. There's a little trail down below we can get a view of the bridge from down below too.

So what's the purpose? Why have a covered bridge? What's the purpose of that? Why not just have a regular open bridge like they do today these days? 

I want to mention what the purpose of covered bridges is. Obviously the bridge is there to cover like a creek or stream or the body of water. I've heard different reasons why there's sides to them. Sometimes the sides, like these go back you know to the 1800s. The sides were on the bridges so the horses couldn't see over the edge and be scared or something like that. I heard that explained once but the reason they're covered is because they're made of wood, because they have a roof and roofing materials to prevent the wood from getting wet.

Wooden bridges that were uncovered only lasted about 20 years. Obviously because the wood would rot. But, if you put a cover on it, a roof like what's on these covered bridges, they could last 100 years or so. So that's why it's one of the main reasons why they're covered. Same with your house. You know if your house didn't have a roof it wouldn't last that long. But once you have a good solid roof on top of your house it can last you know hundreds of years. So, that's why they're covered. 

Alright, so let's go take a walk through. Because I think at the end of this video we'll actually drive through too. Yeah, so depending on what website you read, I've heard different ages for Zimmerman's covered bridge. 1875 or 1880. I'm gonna go with 1875. That's what I heard the most. See the arch everybody mentioned? The name of that is a Burr Arch Truss. It's called that because a man named Theodore Burr patented that design I think in 1817. And the truss refers to these posts. This is called a king post truss. It's got the one big post and the two angles. That's a king post right there. One up in the two angled ones and it's there's multiple ones of those it's a multiple king post truss and then this is the burr the burr arch. So Burr Arch Truss design is what this is.

This bridge is about 50 feet long too. I think it was redone a bit in 1996. They lifted it off its abutments and kind of did some work on it, refurbished it a bit, and there's looking at it from this way. One of the shorter cover bridges I've seen because the second one here that's in Schuylkill County, which is actually just down the road, maybe several miles, the Rock Covered Bridge that one's even shorter I believe.
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