A blog on 18th & 19th century New York & other distractions.
A Profile on Perukes
Wigs were a big deal beginning in the 17th century. This fashion held until about 1800, which is a very long time for a trend to run its course. What happened in the intervening years? And what made all those men flip their wigs?
Inventing 18th Century Spectacles
Are you one of millions of eyeglasses wearers who are thankful there is more than one style to chose from? Personally, I love the cat eye look, but they don’t look good on me. Neither do round frames, but that was the only shape available for a very long time. When the 18th century hit,…
Writing the 18th Century
If the smell of fresh pencils makes your heart quiver, that’s one more thing you have in common with Jane Austen…Maybe. I actually have no idea. But it could be true.
Slips on the East River
During the early days of New Amsterdam, when a ship arrived, it anchored off the East River. Small boats which could handle the shallow river’s muddy edge conveyed the cargo and passengers to shore.
Guy Fawkes Day In America
Was Guy Fawkes ever celebrated in America, or is it purely a British holiday? You’ll be as surprised as I was to learn the truth!
Colonial Theatres
As soon as professional actors came to the colonies, the first playhouses were built. Which NYC theatre did George Washington visit? Hint: It wasn’t on Broadway.
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