That Insignificant Dutch Colony of New Amsterdam becomes New York City

Wall Street was not always just the New York Stock Exchange, in the 1600’s, it got its name because it WAS THE CITY WALL protecting the Dutch West India Company’s colony of New Amsterdam.  In the 1600s, the English and the Dutch were major commercial rivals (Dutch West India Company vs English East India Company).  …

The Scourge of Slavery (#5) — John Casor is Declared Slave for Life in America

John Casor was originally an indentured servant.  When he became a slave, it was through a contract of indenture, which obligated him to work for its holder for the period it set after which he was to set free.  Many of the early colonist in British North America came as indentured servants.  This was how …

Historical Tidbits — Tattoo and Taps

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. “Tattoo” is played in the evening signaling that all light in squad rooms should be extinguished and that all loud talking and other disturbances be discontinued within 15 minutes, …