The Dutch tulip mania of the 1600s is often cited as an example of greed, excess, and financial mania, with the prices driven by the fear of missing out and crowd psychology. Tulips were imported into Europe in the 16th century by the Dutch East India Company, arriving via the spice trading routes that lent …
Author Archives: Michael Carver
The DUTCH East India Company
The Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC), better known as the Dutch East India Company was set up in 1602 and head-quartered in the Oost-Indisch Huis (East-India House) in downtown Amsterdam, which still stands today. The company was first company to officially issue stocks, which peaked during the Dutch “Tulip Mania”, a craze for tulip bulbs that …
Historical Tidbits — Congress adjourns to Baltimore
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. December 12, 1776 Congress adjourns to Baltimore In mid-December 1776 Congress decided to move to Baltimore to escape capture by the advancing British. The time in Baltimore was a …
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Bill of Rights Day — December 15, 1791
On December 15, 1791, the new United States of America ratified the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, confirming the fundamental rights of its citizens. The Bill of Rights draws influence and inspiration from the Magna Carta (1215), the English Bill of Rights (1689), and various later efforts in England …
Historical Tidbits — General Lee captured
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. December 15, 1776 General Lee captured General Charles Lee left his army and rode to Widow White’s Tavern in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, with a minimal guard. The following …
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Come Help Us Create a Unique Portable Bar at Fort Mifflin
TODAY at 19:00 EST via Zoom! On September 17, 2022, Fort Mifflin took possession of an Amish surrey style wagon approximately 5 ft wide and 7 feet long in serviceable condition. This buggy was donated by Warehouse on Watts and transported to the fort by Fort Mifflin staff. The buggy is in “good” condition but …
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We’re Reopening the Blacksmith Shop at Fort Mifflin
In 1776 the Committee of Safety of the Delaware River ordered a “Smith Shop and Forge” to be built on Mud Island. That building was likely demolished during the siege of 1777 but we have the rebuild (new and improved) blacksmith shop from 1798 The only thing missing is a blacksmith is on duty managing …
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Cast Iron Chef Returns to Fort Mifflin
Want an opportunity to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger for an immersive history experience this winter. Come to Fort Mifflin for a taste of life in early 19th century Philadelphia! Join the Regimental Brewmeister and our team of hearth cooks for a unique hands-on experience in early 19th century foodways. Take up an …
Molly Pitcher Shandy
Molly Pitcher was the nickname of Mary Hays McCauley who is said to have carried water to American soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth on June 28, 1778, before taking over for her husband on the battlefield after he was no longer able to fight. Originally from Carlise Pennsylvania, Mary was married to William Hays …
Louisiana Purchase finalized 12/20/1803
On December 12, 1803 the United States completed the purchase of the Louisiana Territory from Frans for $15 million. This territory encompassed 530,000,000 acres of territory. As the United States spread across the Appalachians, the Mississippi River became an increasingly important conduit for the produce of America’s West (which at that time referred to the …
