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Travel Back in Time – A Continuing Travelogue the Best Historic Sites Part III The Midwest
June 10, 2009
A continuing travelogue brough to you by Sealand Travel.
Part three of our journey to the best historic sites to visit worldwide takes us to the Midwestern United States. It is made up 12 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
European settlement of the Midwest began in the 17th century first by the French and followed later by the British. The Midwest provokes images of the French fur traders following the many lakes and river systems covering much of the area. In fact, the mighty Mississippi runs through the Midwest and was forever ingrained in our memories by the famous author Samuel Clemens, otherwise known as Mark Twain.
Mark Twain has become a part of history, perhaps a more upbeat part of history to explore than the many wars we could discuss. The Mark Twain House and Museum is a wonderful tourist attraction for us to start out at on our journey through the Midwest.
Samuel Clemens lived in the late 1800’s to 1910 and is known to many as the American author. The Mark Twain House and Museum makes a great addition to any historic trek across the Midwest. Located in Hartford, Connecticut, it consists of many options for the history buff. As one of our defining cultural figures, we have the chance to see what life was like for people in that time in the Midwest.
The Mark Twain House and Museum offers living history tours dealing with the entire era, not just the subject of Mark Twain alone. One exhibit offered is the “origins of baseball’s ‘color line’”. This exhibit informs its onlookers as to the increasing racism in society as reflected in sports. Another interesting feature, perhaps more for the kids or at least the kids at heart is the Lego replica of Twains house, which was part of the LEGO road show in the 1980’s!
The house alone is a wonderful journey to the past. Then new technologies such as a gravity flow heat system, and one of the first telephones to be installed in a private home are found here. Many interiors created by Tiffany and various other cultures and styles exist to inspire and amuse to visitor the this historic house.
The museum also offers another opportunity to absorb some history, created in the present. Opened in 2003, visitors have to chance to explore Twains life both good and bad as told or illustrated by many of Twains peers as well as through artifacts containing manuscripts, photos, and many changing exhibits. This makes the Mark Twain House and Museum a highlight of any trip to the Midwest.
Let’s travel now to one of my favorite spots in the world, Michigan. The Great Lakes have their own history of many ill fated ships that helped to created what Michigan is today.
“The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
of the big lake they called “Gitche Gumee.”
The lake, it is said, never gives up her dead
when the skies of November turn gloomy.
With a load of iron ore twenty-six thousand tons more
than the Edmund Fitzgerald weighed empty,
that good ship and true was a bone to be chewed
when the “Gales of November” came early.”
from “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot
Stories abound in the Great Lakes with tales such as this. From iron ore from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, mined from the mountains covering its countryside, to great ships full of timber from the lower peninsula of Michigan heading for growing cities across the lakes, the number of shipwrecks historically in the great lakes is in the thousands!
If this is the kind of history that interests you, opportunities abound in the Lake States of the Midwest. Located in Paradise, a well known maritime museum lies in the vast unspoiled wilderness of Michigan. Called the Great Lake Shipwreck Museum, it also includes a wonderful lighthouse on Whitefish Point.
Here you will have the chance to travel back in time to 1861 to the lighthouse keepers quarters of the oldest active lighthouse on Lake Superior. The museum holds artifacts from 13 local shipwrecks, one being the Edmund Fitzgerald.
Guests even have the opportunity to sleep in the crews quarters, and if you go in the off season, May to November, you are even entitled to a private tour and membership to the Shipwreck Society. In the gales that strike early and hard in the Great Lakes, many ships went down without a trace and ghost stories abound. Even lighthouses invoke ghostly images of keepers long past haunting the lighthouses still today.
Say yes to Michigan and other states in the Midwest, a spectacular place to vacation for a look back at our nations history.
Travel Back in Time – A Continuing Travelogue the Best Historic Sites Part II Southern United States
June 10, 2009
Continuing on our journey of the best sites to visit on your historic journey across the world, we are now visiting the Southern United States. From the east coast all the way to Texas.
The south has a rich history of Native Americans, early Europeans, French English and of course a more sordid tale of battle of the original African slaves for their freedom. Due to this incredibly varied past, the south is home to some of the most varied cultures found in the United States today.
We will begin our journey to the South by visiting Louisiana. This states history is a bit different from that of the northeast. First colonized by France and Spain, the culture and history here are strong in French influences.
An option for historic travel in Louisiana is to visit one of the many historic plantations left over from an era gone by. Though many were destroyed in hurricane Katrina, one that remains is called the Destrehan Plantation. Located just outside of New Orleans, they offer tours of the plantation where you are taken back by costumed players to a time of slavery, bells, French nobles, and the Jefferson Document. It was established in 1787 and is the oldest documented plantation in the lower Mississippi River Valley.
Experience plantation life on your own or with a guided tour. They also offer a museum store with a large collection of historic books and vintage toys and decorative items from the past. The Destrehan Plantation has demonstrations of 18th century cooking, construction, as well as candle making and African American herbal remedies. They also have an option of special group tours for children, making this a great option for families as well on the lookout for a wonderful historic journey.
Perhaps your journey through time leads you to want to explore Texas. Remember the Alamo? Texas offers much more than the Alamo, though it does play an integral part in U.S. History. Our journey today however is off the a further back in the past, to the Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site.
Located in Val Verde County, this historic place has only been open to the public since 1980. Its history goes back 12,000 years to early man. Seminole Canyon is home to some of the most well preserved rock art. Ancient riverbeds formed by the Devil’s River, and hikes down the canyon to see drawings made by humans who still lived off the land and depended solely on nature for survival are just a few of the historical treasures found here.
Originally named for the Seminole-Negro Indian Scouts it honors the scouts from Fort Clark there to protect the frontier from marauding Apache and Comanches in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The history of the railroad is also woven into this vast area. You may journey into these canyons, but a guide is required for access. History here is abundant and spans thousands of years. Make this one a trip to remember and camp out at one of the areas provided.
Our journey to the Southern United States has ended for now, but the options for travel in the south are abundant. History abounds here, and it is just waiting for you to come and see. Take the opportunity to broaden your horizons and visit the south.
Travel Back in Time – A Continuing Travelogue to the Best Historic Sites
June 5, 2009
History is a way for us to progress into the future without making the same mistakes. Phrases like “lest we forget” written in a poem by Rudyard Kipling and made famous around the world, illustrate mankind’s desire to remember the past to move forward in the future.
All parts of the world are rich in some kind of history that have had an impact on its current citizens.
In the United States alone, a relatively new country in the world, historic sites are found everywhere you look. Wars, social movements, assassinations, amazing tales of survival, and heroism abound throughout.
If this were just a one part article, I would probably just touch on the general areas of interest, simply to peak a curiosity to the reader, but as this is continuing series we are going to travel to individual parts of the world beginning here with the Eastern United States
Our journey of the best historic places to visit begins in the North Eastern United States. This includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut; and the Mid-Atlantic States of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania as defined by Wikipedia.
My rational for beginning here is this is the oldest part of the United States, founded by the pilgrims, and so begins our journey.
New England is filled with historic sites and places wonderful for historic travel. Plymouth Rock is located just off Cape Cod Bay. The rock is now sheltered to prevent weathering. The Plymouth Plantation itself is an entire trip. Here you can revisit much of Americas varied past.
The Wampanoag Homesite gives you the opportunity to experience the Native American culture. The Wampanoag people have called New England home for over 12,000 years. Learn about their history and culture in Americas past. A unique opportunity to see Americas founding by the first Americans in history.
Your visit to Massachusetts may also include visiting a re-creation of an English Village founded in 1627, seven years after the landing of the Mayflower. Immerse yourself in living history. Period clothing, and role players give visitors a chance to see what it was like to be a pilgrim in the new world.
You will be surrounded by opportunities to find out about our heritage as Americans as well as many opportunities to shop around in six award winning museum shops and have some fine dining as well. Why not try themed dining and complete your historic visit with a traditional meal of turkey or Mayflower Golden Ale made right there in New England.
For the war historians, why not try a visit to Pennsylvania. There are well over 2,000 places on the National Register of Historic Places. One place of interest may be the Gettysburg National Military Park and Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Begun in 1909, the Gettysburg National Military Park and Cemetery offers many different ways to experience the Civil War. Podcast tours, virtual tours, field exhibits, and a visitors center are just a few of the ways you could experience what the park has to offer. There are also guided tours of the park throughout the summer months to enhance your experience. Visit the High Water Mark Monument which lists the commands of both armies involved in “Pickett’s Charge”, one of the last southern attacks at Gettysburg.
Philadelphia also is home to the signing of both the Declaration of Independence as well as the Constitution and Independence Hall. Philadelphia has rekindled its popularity in the last few years thanks to the film industry. National Treasure, directed by Jon Turteltaub stars Nicolas Cage and revives history to the young in this movie. It takes place in Philadelphia and highlights some of the amazing historical sites to visit including Independence Hall.
You could also visit the Reading Terminal Market which can trace it origins to 1857, and of course the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial to the unknown soldiers. The Liberty Bell and Congress Hall are also not far away and filled with history.
Philadelphia has many fantastic accommodations for the all travelers and would make a wonderful place to visit on your historic journey to the North Eastern United States. Travel back in time in the Northeast and experience Americas historic treasure trove of vacation possibilities.
Travel Green - What Ecotourism is All About
June 1, 2009
Having Fun...
Today’s society is becoming more ecologically minded with a concern for the world’s future. Look in any market today and you can find almost anything made from recycled products or created with an environmentally friendly form of energy. We are encouraged to recycle cans, bottles, and even old paint.
Ecotourism is defined as a form of tourism that involves traveling to tranquil and unpolluted natural areas. It’s focus is on the plants, animals and indigenous peoples in the area. To be truly an ecotourist, you must also minimize the impact you have on the area you visit. It is easily summed up by one statement: take only pictures, leave only footprints.
This type of travel may or may not sound exciting, but delve further into the ecotourism industry and it is obvious why some estimate that over 5 million people have become green in their travels.
The industry of ecotourism is thriving in areas where there is abundant wildlife and natural areas. Countries such as Costa Rica, Kenya and Antarctica have a substantial ecotourism base supporting their economy.
If you choose a place like Costa Rica, more than a quarter of this area is set aside for protection in some way or another. If you like to hike, go exploring in the rainforests or mountains. Snorkeling through a tropical reef is another way to experience Costa Rica at its finest. You could also visit local villages and towns to find out what the native culture is really like.
If you want to be totally ecofriendly, try camping out and getting a closer look at the native flora and fauna that makes Costa Rica one of the most diverse areas in the world.
If you are looking for something a little different, why not see what Kenya has to offer the ecotourist out for an adventure of a lifetime. Head out on the Serengeti with a local guide for the Safari that only children dream of. Explore the local market and see the bustle of a world completely different from your own, or experience the complete stillness surrounding you in a land where the animals are still the rulers of their jungle.
For the true adventurer, why not kayak in the wildest place in the world, Antarctica. What is more environmentally friendly than a boat powered only by you. Float inches above the sea gliding past mammoth iceburgs, perhaps spot a humpback whale on its journey through the sea, or watch a mother Leopard seal curl up with her pup for a nap in the sun.
The possibilities are endless. We don’t have to travel the same way we always have. The world is ours to enjoy, why not enjoy it in a way we have never thought of before.
Travel to Oahu For an Amazing Vacation
May 27, 2009
Oahu Lighthouse
You may think that a trip to the Hawaiian Islands is far beyond your grasp, but it may be closer than you think. Oahu is an island with much to experience. It is rich in history and beauty. Home to Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu, Oahu is nicknamed “The Gathering Place”. With a population of 905,266. Oahu can be bustling in Honolulu, or quiet and peaceful in the mountains or on the beach. You can even rent a car and drive around the entire island in a day, stopping at any number of historic or legendary places along the way.
Here are just some places Oahu has to offer for the traveler looking for adventure.
In 1941 Pearl Harbor was attacked, and history was made on this small island. For the history buff, Pearl Harbor is a must see. The USS Arizona Memorial is a floating memorial built over the Battleship USS Arizona, and is powerful place to reflect on the effects of war. Pearl Harbor also offers the Battleship Missouri Memorial which allows visitors to explore retired battleships and experience the more recent history of our 50th State.
Diamond Head is one of the most identifiable landmarks in Hawaii. Located outside of Honolulu, this ancient crater has a history in ancient Hawaiian lore as well as a more volatile war history. Not only was it used by ancient Hawaiian Kings, but during the World War, it served as a fortress. Tourists can now traverse up the side of Diamond Head all the way to the top and see why this mountain is such an integral part of Oahu’s past and present.
The Dole Plantation, known as Hawaii’s “Pineapple Experience”. For children and adults alike this is wonderful stop along the way to Oahu’s north shore. It offers a train tour around the fields, a history of pineapples in Hawaii, a shop to pick up a wonderful pineapple smoothie, made with pineapple fresh picked from the field, and even the world’s largest maze! This is one of Hawaii’s top visitor attractions.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Koko Head Beach Park is a wonderful place to try something new, and see the world in a whole new way. For those new to snorkeling, this will be an experience you will never forget. A sheltered bay with a beautiful reef teeming with life. Once under the water, you don’t have to look far to see things only dreamed of. Fish of all different shapes and colors surround you and if you look hard enough, you may even be lucky enough to see an ancient sea turtle in its native habitat.
This is something for all to enjoy. Even if you are an avid snorkeler, you will still be awestruck at what this amazing area has to offer.
On the North Shore of Oahu, you may like to stop at Waimea Falls Park. Here you have cliff diving shows, kayaking, biking, and living archeology. It is staffed by Hawaiin’s dressed in traditional clothing and illustrating traditional activities and Hawaiian lifestyle. There is enough to see and do at Waimea Falls Park to keep you busy all day.
There are places to surf and body board all around the island and many other places to see while in Hawaii. Honolulu has wonderful restaurants and is filled with a variety of activities for the traveler to do and see in the evening before heading off to you hotel or other accommodations. Oahu is rich in culture and is a wonderful destination as it is considered the cultural center of Hawaii. Plan a trip to this exciting destination today, you will never regret it.
Brought to courtesy of Sealand Travel.
