History Buff

12/07/2024

At the age of 67, Emma Rowena Gatewood told her adult children she was going out for a walk. Little did they know that her “walk” would make her the first woman to hike the 2,168-mile Appalachian Trail from Mount Oglethorpe in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine solo, and in one season. She was a farmer’s wife from Ohio, a mother to 11 children who gave her 24 grandchildren, and a survivor of domestic violence.

12/07/2024

Before Sam Elliott became the gravel-voiced icon of Hollywood, he was just a young boy growing up in Sacramento, California, dreaming of a life that seemed as distant as the stars themselves. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the influence of family, and the deep-seated values that carried him from the quiet neighborhoods of Portland to the glitzy streets of Los Angeles.
Elliott was born into a family with deep roots in Texas. His mother, Glynn Mamie, was a Texas state diving champion, a woman of strength and determination who later became a physical-training instructor and high school teacher. These roles shaped her as a person and deeply influenced her son, who would carry her discipline and resilience into every aspect of his life. His father, Henry Nelson Elliott, was a predator-control specialist for the Department of the Interior, a man of practicality and hard work. Henry’s realism and strong work ethic were instilled in young Sam, becoming the foundation upon which he would build his life and career.
When Elliott was 13, his family moved from California to Portland, Oregon. This move was more than just a change of scenery; it was a turning point in young Sam’s life. The lush, green environment of Portland was a stark contrast to the sun-soaked landscapes of Sacramento. In Portland, Sam found himself navigating a new world, one that was both exciting and challenging. It was here that he began to forge the character that would later become the essence of his on-screen persona.
Sam spent his teenage years in northeast Portland, where he attended David Douglas High School. Those years were formative, shaping him into the man who would later captivate audiences with his rugged charm and unmistakable voice. At school, he wasn’t just another face in the crowd; he was actively involved in various activities, laying the groundwork for his future in the performing arts. His interest in acting was beginning to take root, although it would be several years before he fully embraced this calling.
After graduating from high school in 1962, Elliott enrolled at the University of Oregon, majoring in English and psychology. His time at the university was brief—just two terms—but it was a period of exploration and self-discovery. However, the academic path wasn’t the right fit for him, and he soon dropped out. This decision was the first of many significant choices that would shape his future. After leaving the University of Oregon, Sam returned to Portland, where he attended Clark College in nearby Vancouver, Washington.
At Clark College, Elliott’s passion for acting began to blossom. He was cast as Big Jule in a stage production of "Guys and Dolls," a role that brought him his first taste of the spotlight. His performance was so compelling that the local newspaper, The Vancouver Columbian, suggested he had the potential to become a professional actor. This was a pivotal moment for Elliott, one that planted the seeds of a dream that would soon grow into a reality.
Despite his growing interest in acting, Elliott’s path was not without its challenges. After completing a two-year program at Clark College, he re-enrolled at the University of Oregon, where he joined the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. But tragedy struck when his father died of a heart attack, prompting Sam to drop out of college once again. This loss was a heavy blow. Henry Elliott had always been a voice of caution in Sam’s life, advising him against pursuing an acting career. "You've got a snowball's chance in hell of having a career in Hollywood," his father would say, urging him to choose a more practical path.
But despite his father’s warnings, or perhaps because of them, Sam was more determined than ever to follow his passion. In the late 1960s, he made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, the heart of the entertainment industry. It was a risky move, but one that was fueled by a deep-seated belief in his own potential. In Los Angeles, he worked in construction to make ends meet while studying acting, a testament to the work ethic his father had instilled in him. During this time, he also served in the California Air National Guard's 146th Airlift Wing at Van Nuys Airport, an experience that further shaped his character and instilled in him a sense of discipline and duty.
Elliott’s early years were marked by determination and resilience. He was a young man driven by a dream, willing to face any obstacle to achieve it. His journey from Sacramento to Hollywood was not a straight path, but rather a winding road filled with challenges, losses, and hard-won victories. It was these experiences that shaped him into the actor we know today, a man whose presence on screen commands attention and respect.
As we reflect on Sam Elliott’s life, it’s clear that his story is one of perseverance, grounded in the values he learned from his parents and the experiences that shaped his early years. From the boy who grew up in Sacramento and Portland, to the young man who found his way to Hollywood, Elliott’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.
And it all began on August 9, 1944, when Samuel Pack Elliott was born

12/07/2024

Judy Garland arriving at London’s Heathrow Airport on May 21, 1969.Judy Garland’s life was a captivating journey filled with immense talent and deep struggles, a narrative that seemed destined for both stardom and heartbreak. Her story begins not on the silver screen but on a vaudeville stage. Born Frances Ethel Gumm, her parents ran a movie theater that featured vaudeville acts. It was on one of those modest stages in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, that the young Judy, at just two-and-a-half years old, performed “Jingle Bells” with her sisters. The performance marked the beginning of a life dedicated to entertaining audiences, though it foreshadowed a childhood defined by relentless work and stifling expectations.
By the time she was 13, Garland signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), but even with her undeniable talent, the studio executives quickly targeted her appearance. They nicknamed her “the little hunchback” due to her height, and efforts were made to change her appearance. From wearing restrictive corsets to altering her teeth, MGM transformed Judy to fit Hollywood’s beauty standards. They also controlled her weight, going so far as to enforce a grueling diet regime, which often consisted of chicken soup, black coffee, and appetite-suppressing pills. These pressures contributed to a lifelong struggle with self-image and dependency on stimulants and depressants.
Despite these harsh conditions, Garland’s talent was undeniable. In 1939, at the age of 16, she achieved stardom in "The Wizard of Oz." Her portrayal of Dorothy Gale and the heartwarming rendition of "Over the Rainbow" resonated with audiences around the world, cementing her status as a beloved icon. Behind the scenes, however, life was anything but magical. MGM’s executives, desperate to keep up Garland’s energy and control her weight, reportedly provided her with amphetamines to work long hours and sleeping pills to rest. This cycle would become a harrowing pattern throughout her life, leading to addiction.
As the years passed, Garland continued to prove her versatility as an actress and singer. Movies such as “Meet Me in St. Louis” (1944), “The Harvey Girls” (1946), and “Easter Parade” (1948) showcased her magnetic on-screen presence and remarkable voice. However, the demands of her career and the control exerted by MGM took a heavy toll on her physical and mental health. By the early 1950s, her erratic behavior, worsened by substance abuse, led to MGM terminating her contract.
Garland faced financial instability, multiple failed marriages, and ongoing health issues, yet she never lost her passion for performing. In 1954, she staged a career comeback with the film “A Star Is Born.” Her portrayal of a struggling performer mirrored aspects of her own life, and it earned her an Academy Award nomination. Critics praised her performance, and the public adored her once again. Despite this, Garland’s personal life remained tumultuous. Her marriage to producer Sid Luft, who had managed her career during her comeback, ended in divorce. The couple had two children together, Lorna and Joey, adding to the pressure of balancing motherhood and a career marred by setbacks.
Financial woes continued to plague Garland. Despite earning large sums during her peak, her spending habits, unpaid taxes, and mishandled funds left her in debt. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, she took to the stage in live performances, including a now-famous concert at Carnegie Hall in 1961. The concert, often referred to as “the greatest night in show business history,” demonstrated her enduring appeal and her ability to connect with audiences, even amid personal struggles.
Garland’s later years were marked by a battle with addiction, health issues, and unstable relationships. She married five times, with each marriage bringing hope but often ending in heartbreak. Despite these challenges, her children, particularly Liza Minnelli from her marriage to Vincente Minnelli, adored her. Garland’s influence on Minnelli’s career and their deep bond remain significant aspects of her legacy.
In 1969, Judy Garland’s life came to a tragic end. At just 47 years old, she was found dead in her London home from an accidental overdose. Her death symbolized the crushing weight of fame, the demands placed upon child stars, and the dark side of Hollywood’s golden era. Though her life was filled with immense challenges, Garland’s legacy endures. Her performances continue to captivate audiences, her voice remains unforgettable, and her resilience has inspired countless artists and admirers.

12/07/2024

On June 7, 1884, ace pitcher Charley Sweeney set a major league record that would stand for 102 years, when he struck out 19 batters in a single game. After this game, however, arm trouble put him on the bench, putting the bulk of the Providence Grays' innings on the back of Old Hoss Radbourn, who was the Gray's only other pitcher of note. Radbourn complained, and eventually Sweeney was forced to take the mound again. What followed is possibly the most old-timey baseball story in existence.
After a game in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, Sweeney got drunk and elected to stay in Woonsocket with a lady friend. Waking the next morning (still drunk) and realizing that he had to start in Providence, he rushed out the door. With an already-tight pitching staff, the Grays had no choice but to put the visibly hammered Sweeney on the mound.
They tried to pull him after five effective innings, but Sweeney was having none of it. This was a time where pitching anything less than a complete game brought your very manliness into question. He pitched another two against the wishes of his manager. When again they tried to pull him before the 8th, with the threat of a $50 fine, Sweeney told them to stuff their $50 fine and his whole contract. He walked off the field and watched the rest of the game with a woman in each arm, presumed to be prostitutes. This not only got him kicked off the team, but thrown out of the entire National League.
And that only sets up the final twist of the story. With the Grays being extremely understaffed, Old Hoss Radbourn offered to pitch the remaining games of the season for a small pay bump and an exemption from the reserve clause. He started 40 of the remaining 43 games in the season, and won 36 of them. His arm became sore enough that he couldn't raise it over his shoulders, and he had to warm up for hours before gametime just to get the ball to the plate. Just to add to his spectacular feat, Radbourn started and won every single game of the 1884 "World Series".
After an incredible 678.2 innings pitched, Radbourn amassed an official 59 wins for the season (sometimes reported as 60), an impossible record that will never be touched. And it's all because a man named Charlie Sweeney got laid on July 21, 1884.

12/07/2024

This close-up image shows the "dipper" or bucket of a 50 Cubic Yard Electric Shovel, used at the Georgetown No. 12 Mine of the Hanna Coal Company. The dipper was capable of removing an enormous amount of earth and rock overburden from the coal seam, up to 1,600,000 cubic yards or about 2,400,000 tons in just one month. If this material were loaded into open railroad cars, it would fill approximately 48,000 cars. The scale of this operation illustrates the massive scale of coal mining during the era and the technological advancements in heavy machinery designed to handle such immense workloads.
The electric shovel itself weighed 1,750 tons and was powered by 4,160 volts of electricity supplied through flexible cables. The operation of this shovel was an impressive feat of engineering, with just one operator controlling the entire machine. The operator used a combination of foot treadles, hand levers, and a whistle cord to manage the shovel's functions. These controls allowed the worker to move the shovel's dipper, scoop massive amounts of material, and even transport it from one location to another in the vast mining site.
In addition to the specialized controls for excavation, another control system was used for relocating the shovel itself within the mine. This system allowed for efficient movement of the large machine across the site, ensuring continuous operation without the need for disassembly. The electric shovel at Georgetown No. 12 Mine exemplified the industrial strength of the era and the critical role of machinery in large-scale mining operations, helping to fuel the growth of the coal industry and its role in powering the nation's economy during the early to mid-20th century.

12/07/2024

Nikola Tesla registered more than 700 patents in 35 countries of the world, and many of those inventions brought progress and prosperity to mankind. However, Tesla, when he died in New York, was penniless, and if he wanted money he would be one of the richest in the world.
“Scientia potestas est.”
Nikola Tesla 1st Electric Car in 1918 That Regenerate Electricity from the Earth.
This is Nikola Tesla's 1921 Pierce-Arrow electric car, powered by pure etheric electricity. It is a self-charging car; it does not run on batteries, oil, or gas.
Electric cars have been around much
In 1931, Nikola Tesla presented and tested a new automobile. Tesla had developed it with his own personal funds.
The motor had been removed, leaving the clutch, gearbox and transmission to the rear wheels uninterrupted. The power receiver (gravity energy converter) had been built by Tesla himself. It was installed in front of the control panel. A heavy antenna, approximately 1.8 meters long, protruded from the converter. This antenna apparently had the function as that of the moray converter (radiant energy!).
"Now we have power," said Tesla? he said there was enough power in the converter to light an entire house, plus run the car's motor. The car was tested for a week, reaching a top speed of 144 km per hour effortlessly. Someone commented that no gases were coming out of the tailpipe. Nikola Tesla replied, "We have no motor."

12/07/2024

John Wayne's Last Public Appearance: A Poignant Farewell at the 1979 Academy Awards
John Wayne, known to many as "The Duke," remains one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history. On April 9, 1979, the legendary actor made his final public appearance at the 51st Academy Awards, a night that would be remembered for its emotional weight and significance. Though weakened by illness, Wayne’s presence at the ceremony was a heartfelt farewell to the industry and fans who had adored him for decades.
Wayne had been battling stomach cancer since 1978, a diagnosis that left his public appearances scarce. Despite his declining health, he agreed to present the Oscar for Best Picture, honoring the request of the Academy. It was a momentous occasion that showcased the indomitable spirit of the man who had starred in over 170 films, from Westerns to war dramas, earning a special place in the hearts of moviegoers worldwide.
When John Wayne stepped onto the stage at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the audience erupted into a thunderous standing ovation that lasted several minutes. The Duke, visibly touched by the overwhelming reception, acknowledged the applause with a humble smile. Dressed in a black tuxedo, his frame visibly thinner, Wayne exuded the same commanding presence that had made him a silver screen legend. It was a bittersweet moment, a reunion of sorts between Wayne and the film community, who knew they were witnessing a farewell from one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
In his brief yet heartfelt speech, Wayne thanked the audience and his fans for their unwavering support. "Ladies and gentlemen, that's just about the only medicine a fella could ever really need," he said, his voice carrying the same warmth and gravitas that had captivated audiences for decades. His words were filled with sincerity and an understanding of the magnitude of the moment. Though his health was failing, Wayne’s spirit remained unbroken, and his love for his craft and the people who supported him shone through.
As he presented the Best Picture award to *The Deer Hunter*, Wayne’s final words on that stage echoed the grit and resilience of the characters he portrayed. His presence at the 1979 Oscars was not only a tribute to his career but also a testament to his personal strength in the face of adversity.
Sadly, John Wayne passed away just two months later, on June 11, 1979, at the age of 72. His death marked the end of an era in Hollywood, but his legacy as one of the greatest actors in cinema history endures. His final public appearance at the Academy Awards serves as a poignant reminder of his impact on the world of film and the hearts of those who admired him.
Wayne's lasting impression on that night, his gratitude, and the enduring connection with his fans and peers left a legacy that will forever be cherished. It was a farewell befitting a man of his stature—a Hollywood giant who rode off into the sunset with grace, courage, and an unforgettable

12/07/2024

The 'Leaning Tower of Caerphilly' leaned a LOT more in the past.
The 13th century structure began tilting after being deliberately damaged in the English Civil War, a process known as 'slighting' - a tactic used to prevent castles from being used in further conflicts.

12/07/2024

This is Mrs. Elizabeth Hanbury, one of the very few people from the 18th century to have lived in three centuries. She was born Elizabeth Sanderson on the 9th of June, 1793 at Devonshire House, Leadenhall Street, London. At the time of Elizabeth's birth, both of her parents were 44. Her parents were Quakers - John Sanderson (1749-1816) of Armthorpe, Yorkshire and Margaret Shillito (1748-1795) of Holborn, London.
They married in Devonshire Square, London on the 8th of February, 1786. Elizabeth was only 19 months old when her mother died on the 31st of January, 1795. A record of Elizabeth's birth was made at the parish of All Hallows-on-the-Wall.
She was well-known in her own right, other than being a notable centenarian. Elizabeth married Cornelius Hanbury (1796-1869) in Bristol, Gloucestershire on the 21st of November, 1826. In the following years, they had three children, one son Cornelius, and two daughters; Charlotte and Elizabeth, who were all born on Gracechurch Street, London.
Throughout Elizabeth's long life, she witnessed so much English history. She was already 45-years old when Queen Victoria's coronation took place in 1838. Elizabeth, having been the eldest subject of the Queen, died in Richmond on the 31st of October, 1901, at the age of 108. She was almost 26-years older than the Queen and she witnessed the Queen's entire 63-year reign, and outlived her by 9 months. At the time of Elizabeth's death, she was the oldest person in the United Kingdom, and one of the last surviving people from 18th century England

12/07/2024

This photograph, taken around 1900, features Wilfred and Ruby Westwood, a brother and sister duo. At the time, Wilfred was just three years old, while Ruby was seven. The image captures a moment from their childhood, offering a glimpse into the lives of children from that era.
The siblings appear together in this timeless photograph, dressed in the typical clothing of the late 19th and early 20th century. Their expressions, frozen in time, tell a story of innocence and the simplicity of a bygone era.
The Westwoods' photo, though simple, serves as a reminder of the past, reflecting the early years of a family at the turn of the century. It is an intimate snapshot of childhood, offering a rare look at the lives of everyday people during that period.

12/07/2024

A beautiful lady driver in 1970

12/07/2024

12/07/2024

Einstein’s letter to Curie when she was facing relentless attacks on her personal life, saying that she “tarnished the good name” of her late husband, Pierre Curie.
She was denied a seat in the French Academy of Sciences in January 1911 for reasons that probably included gender and religion.
Prague, 23 November 1911
Highly esteemed Mrs. Curie:
Do not laugh at me for writing you without having anything sensible to say.
But I am so enraged by the base manner in which the public is presently daring to concern itself with you that I absolutely must give vent to this feeling. However, I am convinced that you consistently despise this rabble, whether it obsequiously lavishes respect on you or whether it attempts to satiate its lust for sensationalism!
I am impelled to tell you how much I have come to admire your intellect, your drive, and your honesty, and that I consider myself lucky to have made your personal acquaintance in Brussels. Anyone who does not number among these reptiles is certainly happy, now as before, that we have such personages among us as you, and Langevin too, real people with whom one feels privileged to be in contact. If the rabble continues to occupy itself with you, then simply don't read that hogwash, but rather leave it to the reptile for whom it has been fabricated.
With most amicable regards to you, Langevin, and Perrin, yours very truly,
A. Einstein
P.S. I have determined the statistical law of motion of the diatomic molecule in Planck's radiation field by means of a comical witticism, naturally under the constraint that the structure's motion follows the laws of standard mechanics.
My hope that this law is valid in reality is very small, though

12/07/2024

The Pacific Highway, which officially opened on January 29, 1915, was a monumental step in connecting the western United States and Canada by automobile. As more people began traveling by car in the early 20th century, automobile clubs in Washington, Oregon, California, and British Columbia came together to form the Pacific Highway Association. Their goal was to create a marked North-South route using existing roads, which would allow travelers to journey along the Pacific coast. While the road was officially designated, much of it remained unpaved, especially outside of major cities, making travel a challenging and adventurous undertaking.
This photograph, taken south of Seattle in 1915, captures a group of motorists from Tacoma as they drive along the newly designated Pacific Highway. The image reflects the optimism and excitement of the era, as cars were becoming more accessible and the idea of long-distance travel by automobile was becoming a reality. The scene highlights not only the growing popularity of the automobile but also the rough and often unfinished state of many roads in the region. Despite the challenges, this new highway represented a significant advancement in transportation infrastructure.
The opening of the Pacific Highway helped lay the foundation for the development of a more interconnected and accessible West Coast, fostering tourism, trade, and economic growth. The work of the Pacific Highway Association and the motorists who braved these early roads helped shape the future of the U.S. highway system and contributed to the car culture that would come to define much of 20th-century America.

12/07/2024

Bethnal Green in 1950 was a preview of post-war London, a local area actually recuperating from the obliteration of The Second Great War. The region, known for its common roots, was set apart by a blend of strength and difficulty as inhabitants explored the difficulties of modifying their lives. The roads were loaded up with movement, and the structures, however giving indications of wear, held the tales of many years of working families who had called Bethnal Green home.
The everyday existence of Bethnal Green during the 1950s was portrayed by a feeling of solidarity among its inhabitants. Individuals buckled down, frequently in manual or production line occupations, as they gradually changed in accordance with another time of harmony following quite a while of wartime severity. The roads were fixed with customary shops, nearby organizations, and local area center points, with an energetic environment that mirrored the local's rich history and its job in the more extensive social texture of East London.
Bethnal Green's change during the 1950s would make way for the later advancements of the twentieth 100 years. While the area actually confronted monetary battles, the ten years denoted the start of recovery endeavors that would go on before very long. The personality of the area, saturated with common pride and versatility, would stay a characterizing component of Bethnal Green all the way into what's in store.

12/06/2024

Pictured above is a portrait of Daniel Lambert who was at one point considered to be the heaviest person in human history. At the age of 18, Lambert began working as a prison guard and was much respected for his ability to befriend and help rehabilitate many of the prisoners.
He once walked 7 miles (11 km) from Woolwich to the City of London "with much less apparent fatigue than several middle-sized men who were of the party". In terms of strength, Lambert was able to easily carry 560 lbs. (254 kg) and had the ability to stand on one leg.
In 1805, Lambert decided to put himself on exhibition and charge people a shilling to visit him in his home at 53 Piccadilly. He worked 5 hours a day, talking to nearly 400 daily visitors on a variety of topics concerning dogs and sports.
Lamber also enacted a rule that everyone who entered his home needed to remove their hats. When one visitor reportedly refused to remove his hat "even if the King were present", Lambert gently replied, "Then by G-, Sir, you must instantly quit this room, as I do not consider it a mark of respect due to myself, but to the ladies and gentlemen who honor me with their company."
Lambert suddenly passed away in 1809 at the age of 39. His coffin was so large that it needed to be pulled by 20 men.
At the time of his death, he weighed 335 kg (739 lb).

12/06/2024

In this 1922 photograph, a fashionable couple is seen cruising through the streets of Paris in a sleek two-seater car, embodying the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. The couple’s leisurely drive through the bustling city streets likely takes them past the cafés, parks, and vibrant boulevards that characterized Paris at the time. The open-top car reflects the growing popularity of personal automobiles, particularly among the city’s elite, who were embracing the freedom, luxury, and modernity that came with owning a car. This image captures a moment of urban sophistication, where the car becomes not just a mode of transport but a symbol of status and a reflection of the modern lifestyle emerging in Paris during the early 20th century.
The couple’s attire further emphasizes the social changes of the period. The woman’s cloche hat and elegant coat, paired with the man’s sharp suit, showcase the fashion-forward trends of the time, epitomizing the 1920s sense of style and urban sophistication. The 1920s, often described as a time of cultural liberation and transformation, saw traditional social norms being questioned, especially in cosmopolitan cities like Paris. The couple’s fashionable appearance and their open-top car highlight the growing influence of modern European fashion and the increasing importance of automobiles as symbols of wealth and status.
Paris in the 1920s was a city of reinvention, rejuvenated after the First World War and once again becoming a global center for art, culture, and innovation. The rise of the automobile industry was a key element in this transformation, turning cars into essential components of urban life. No longer exclusive to the wealthy, cars became accessible symbols of personal freedom and independence. In this photograph, the sleek design of the two-seater and the couple’s modern style capture the essence of the era—a time when Paris, as the cultural heart of the world, embraced the automobile as both a practical and symbolic representation of progress, mobility, and modern elegance.

12/06/2024

A Filipino-American family posing for a family portrait, Philippines (1912).