Doctor Heal Thyself — 18th Century Medicine Gone Wrong

Humphry Davy Nearly Died Laughing Surgery in the 18th Century was a brutal affair. Often the last resort treatment for severe wounds, surgery was undertaken in the 18th century only when death was likely as the act often resulted in infection and death anyway.  What was needed, beyond an understanding of germ theory and clean …

Man Does Not Live on Beer Alone – 18th Century Cocktails

We all know the Sugar Trade and Rum fueled the Boston and Philadelphia economies in the 1760’s.  There is no denying that our founding fathers frequently enjoyed a stiff drink.  George Washington owned a distillery that produced rye. Thomas Jefferson treasured his French wines. Even the staid and ultraconservative John Adams had a gill of …

A New England Beer Run!

On August 15, 1620; the Mayflower and the Speedwell set sail for VIRGINIA.  Unfortunately, after only about 200 miles in the rough waters of the north Atlantic, the Speedwell sprang began taking on water and had to turn back.  The decision to abandon the Speedwell and transfer many of its passengers onto the Mayflower set …

Please Go to the Young American Hard Cider & Tasting Room in Germantown.

6350 Germantown AvenuePhiladelphia, PA 19144215-406-5307 From time to time, you find a business or other enterprise worthy of your patronage.  Today, Noah Lewis (aka Ned Hector) and I were working our way back from the Concord School House where the SAR posted colors to honor our fallen at Germantown when we were beckoned, as we …

Why Did Washington Only Serve Two Terms?

We applaud George Washington for his decision to end his presidency after two terms.  The peaceful transition of power is the hallmark of American History and with only one exception, every president has chosen to follow Washington’s lead.  George Washington helped unify the new nation and was a leading force behind the ratification of the …

National Treasure — Lost Gold at the Bottom of the Hell’s Gate

At the confluence of the Harlem and East Rivers is a narrow tidal channel – the Hell Gate.  On the map, this looks like an ideal waterway between the Long Island Sound and Manhattan but Its fast currents change multiple times a day and it used to be riddled with rocks just beneath the surface …