Tag Archives: historical

Renaissance era’s alive at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

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The gem and jewel of Miami, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, is a tribute to the grandeur of Italian Renaissance art and architecture and although the structure looks as though it were built in that era, it was actually constructed by American industrialist  James Deering who lived in the home from 1916 when it was finished, to 1925.

The grand structure which sits on Biscayne Bay, became a National Historic Landmark. The main house with its 34 rooms adorned with 15th through 19th century antique furnishings and art objects are the perfect complement to the lushly landscaped gardens. Overall, Vizcaya is the perfect way to take a trip to Italy while still enjoying all that Miami has to offer.

Visit a Harsh Reality at the Moving Holocaust Museum

Our nation’s capital houses more than just gorgeous architecture, prominent figures and a rich history – it serves as the home to some of the most profoundly significant memorials in the world.  For a true memoir to one of history’s greatest tragedies, take an emotional journey through the moving Holocaust Memorial Museum for an in-depth look at the inconceivable reality of genocide.

With a permanent collection housing three floors, the museum details the horrors that took place in Nazi Europe during the years of 1933-1945, with over 900 artifacts and four theaters detailing events too difficult to comprehend.

The exhibit begins with the story of Hitler’s rise to power through the use of propaganda and state-sponsored racism, entitled, Nazi Assault.  Move between floors for the Final Solution and Last Chapter portions of the exhibit for an all-encompassing look at one of the most violent, inhumane and horrific acts of hate to ever consume a global community.  With artifacts such as actual railcars that shuttled Jews to concentration camps, the Holocaust Museum seeks to realistically remind visitors of a time and place where hate superseded freedom, and to help us prevent future genocide for generations to come.

Insider Tip: Although the museum provides an in-depth look at an important historical event, please note that the museum does not recommend exposing children under the age of 11 to the graphic nature of the museum.

Fresh Entertainment at Historical DAR Constitution Hall

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Only in town for a bit?  Get a double dose of Picture 32history and quality entertainment at DAR Constitution Hall – DC’s largest concert hall.  Host to a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, operas, high-profile lecturers and comedians, Constitution Hall is no stuffy federal building.  As a Registered National Historical Landmark and owned by the elite Daughter’s of the American Revolution organization, this gorgeous venue has hosted every US President since Calvin Coolidge with performers from across the map – from Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Duke Ellington to Billy Joel, U2, Aerosmith and Jimmy Buffet.  Needless to say, for such a prestigious structure, the entertainment factor is definitely not lacking.

Insider’s Tip: Purchase all DAR tickets through ticketmaster.com, as the DAR does not handle ticket sales.

Betsy Ross House Showcases a US Leading Lady

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Picture 8Betsy Ross was one pretty powerful woman in the making of our country, she is responsible for creating that beautiful work of art known as the American flag, and seeing her home puts it all into perspective. The Betsy Ross House in the Old City section of Philadelphia is bustling with the sights and sounds of the 18th century and is decorated in the style, adorned with artifacts from the era.

The home is open for guided tours year round, showing the workroom, two bedrooms, and kitchen of the most famous seamstress in our country. Throughout the summer months there’s something for the whole family to enjoy with historical plays, magic shows, music, and appearances by Betsy and other revolutionary icons of the time. Betsy Ross is even buried beneath the giant elm and sycamore trees that shade the courtyard. The house is now over 250 years old and is managed by a private nonprofit organization, Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

1 The Marade: The Largest MLK Celebration in U.S. 1/18/10

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Other cities have Martin Luther King parades, but in Denver, they have a marade. One part march, one part parade, the annual MLK Marade is one of the largest celebrations of the civil rights leader- even beating out Washington D.C.!
One of the coolest aspects about this celebration is that everyone can join. Participants just have to meet at memorial at City Park at 9am, the marade begins at 10, and after reaching the Civic Center Park everyone is served cake.
The Marade is both in the spirit of MLK’s nonviolent change and of sweet celebration.