Cranberries and Thanksgiving: The Origin
Cranberries are one of only a handful of commercially-farmed fruits that are native to North America. But the sweet relish we enjoy at Thanksgiving is quite a bit different from …
Only in the USA
Detroit’s History, Told in Vignettes
Detroit’s story is a truly American story, and it’s unique because of its prime location in the Midwest. By understanding what happened in Michigan through the years, we can more …
First Store Santa
Where was the first department store Santa in the United States? There are three contenders: First Store Santa at Macy’s? The earliest mention of a department store Santa is in …
Howard Johnson: Host of the Highway
Restaurateur Howard Johnson made a name for himself by building a chain of roadside restaurants and motor lodges throughout the country. Johnson emphasized quality control and a consistently good experience …
Dick and Jane: Story of These Early Readers
Dick and Jane books were the predominant readers in public schools from the 1940s through the early 1960s. The books were created by educator Williams S. Gray and former teacher …
Operation Pedro Pan
Operation Pedro Pan was an under-the-radar plan of the early 1960s to help families get their children out of Cuba before the Communist regime had complete control of the country. …
