Search Results for: history

In 1664 English naturalist, Robert Hooke, predicted a fiber “if not fully as good, nay better” than the silk fiber

The dollhouses of our youth allowed us to play “house.” Like a modern SIMS game, our dollhouses let us practice

Ginger root was first cultivated in ancient China, where it was commonly used as a medical treatment for stomach ailments.

Mistletoe comes from two Anglo Saxon words ‘mistel’ which means dung and ‘tan’ which means twig or stick. Translated, mistletoe

The brown paper bag is often taken for granted. Before the invention of the sewing machine (1850s), goods were transported

The critical issue for glass is the ability to adjust to temperature changes. Glass expands at different rates resulting in

Almanacs are known for predicting astronomical events, supplying historic climate information, forecasting weather patterns and recommending when farmers and gardeners

In ancient times sickness was terrifying because it was unpredictable and often deadly. Myths from the devil to God and

From human beginnings, swimming and bathing were done naked. During the 1500-1700s, swimming was considered immoral and had to be

The can opener has its own unique history, but first, the can. Last month’s column reviewed its evolution but in

Over two centuries ago, the first cans were designed to sustain military campaigns. In 1772, the Dutch Navy carried salmon

A new type of fastener, VELCRO, was marketed in 1955. It revolutionized the fastening industry. VELCRO is the Brand name

The roulette wheel is a spinning horizontal wheel divided into 38 or 39 numbered and colored slots. The bowl, traditionally

I was recently asked if the Dunce Hat was real. Here is the answer: Originally the Dunce hat was a

The European holiday customs centered around St. Nicholas; a charitable Catholic Turkish Bishop born in the 4th century. St. Nicholas

What do we know about the trinkets and treasures of the Christmas holiday season? When did all this hoopla happen?

In 1892, John Froelich of Girard, Iowa, introduced the pioneering 2-cylinder gas powered tractor engine capable of propelling the tractor

Cave people may have played with small round balls. Clay balls have been found in the tombs of Egypt, in