History lessons is a grouping of historical stories and tidbits. The topics range from the American Civil War through interesting items from around the world. Please use the comments area to ask questions and make suggestions for future topics.
A rare flag with deep roots in the history of New York State, the ‘Down with the Rent’ Flag features a man with a horn, a small tomahawk and an Indian headdress beside the words, “Down with the Rent”. It is a lasting symbol of the Anti-Rent Movement of the 19th century, when peasant farmers… continue
V-J Day, short for “Victory Over Japan” Day, is the day that Japan surrendered, effectively ending World War II. The term is used interchangeably for August 14-15, 1945, on which Japan ceased fighting and the White House announced their surrender, and September 2, when Japan’s formal surrender was made in Tokyo Bay onboard the U.S.S…. continue
Fought between the Americans and the British in the Great Lakes Region of New York State during the War of 1812, the Battle of Plattsburgh has all the makings of a great movie plot. Especially if (spoiler alert) you like when the underdog wins. It has intrigue, strategy, an interesting cast of characters, and even… continue
One of the ways family and friends honor fallen members of the military is by placing a veteran grave marker or medallion at their grave site. While the design varies, these military grave markers are typically made of bronze, aluminum or hard plastic, and are mounted on a ground stake, or rod. Many also include… continue
Distinguished by its alternating red-and-white stripes and thirteen white stars arranged in a circle on a blue canton, the Betsy Ross Flag is one of the earliest recognized designs of the American flag. In use since 1777, the flag is named for Philadelphia upholsterer and flag maker Elizabeth “Betsy” Ross, but its true origins remain… continue