On September 18, 1793, George Washington lays the cornerstone for the new US Capitol

The United States originally had no permanent capital city under the Articles of Confederation.  Even when the US Constitution was ratified, it included no mention of a national capitol.  Congress met in eight different cities including New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore before 1791.  In 1790, Congress passed the Residence Act, establishing the permanent seat of …

America’s First True Disaster Area — New Madrid, MO

In the early hours of December 16, 1811, the residents of New Madrid, a Mississippi River town once part of the Louisiana Territory, rushed from their homes as the ground rolled beneath their feet. Trees were uprooted and thrown to the ground. Huge chasms opened in the earth, and the Mississippi River ran backward! Somewhere …

Hire the Regimental Brewmeister for your Event or Site

Add excitement and authentic color to your special event, or create one for your site, with Philadelphia’s best Colonial Brewer and tradesman.  Whether it is a reenactment, motion picture, a tavern night for a private event, or other endeavor, I can bring can bring a real sense of authenticity and fun to your event and …

UPCOMING EVENT

Colonial Brewing during Fall FestColonial Pennsylvania Plantation3900 N. Sandy Flash Drive Ridley Creek State Park Newtown Square, PA 19073September 30, 202311:00am – 4:00pm Celebrate the fall season with Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation’s Fall Fest on Saturday, September 30! Enjoy colonial brewing by the Regimental Brewmeister demonstration, cider pressing, pottery making by Wallingford Potters Guild , music …

Early Meteorology — Predicting the Weather 18th Century Style: old wives tales and superstitions

In the 18th century, families relied on almanacs to help them make many weather and seasonal decisions, such as when they should plant their crops or travel. However, almanacs only gave a long-term idea of what the weather might be based on weather in the past. Furthermore, in an age where all travel, especially by …

Guns, Horse Races, and Beer – What could go Wrong?  Herzlich Willkommen beim Oktoberfest!

Oktoberfest began on October 12, 1810, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig, married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The Bavarian royalty invited the citizens of Munich to attend the festivities, held on the fields in front of the city gates.  This festival lasted for several days with free food and beer served to all.  The celebration concluded with …

Historical Tidbits — Siege of Savannah

When reenacting or acting as a historical interpreter, its good to have a few historical dates and stories to share. This series will publish a few. September 16, 1779        Failed Siege of Savannah The Siege of Savannah was also known as the Second Battle of Savannah. The year before, the city had been captured by …

Hire the Regimental Brewmeister for your Event or Site

Add excitement and authentic color to your special event, or create one for your site, with Philadelphia’s best Colonial Brewer and tradesman.  Whether it is a reenactment, motion picture, a tavern night for a private event, or other endeavor, I can bring can bring a real sense of authenticity and fun to your event and …

Apples and Honey Mead

Shlomo Latis wrote “The Collection of Hoshaanot, Songs and Prayers, Annulments of Vows, Tashlichs and Other Things” in Italy around 1790. The name describes the book well; a collection of various prayers and descriptions of Jewish ceremonies that were compiled into one manuscript.  A careful look at the one existent copy, however, reveals to interesting …