Alabama used to be covered in grassland.

When the first Europeans came to Alabama, it looked so very different from how it does today. Once the early settlers arrived, they cut down the trees and burnt off the grass to turn it into farmland. Originally more than half of the state was covered in grasslands, wetlands, and open grassy woodlands. Of all the prairie land there was originally, sadly, only about 1 percent now remains.

It was in Alabama that Rosa Parks started a civil rights movement by refusing to give up her seat to a white man.

Referred to as the “Mother of civil rights movements,” Rosa Parks played an incredibly important part in American history.At a time when public buses were still segregated into zones for white or colored people, Rosa stood up for her rights. On December 1, 1955, Rosa refused to give up her seat in the colored area to a white man when the white zone’s seats were full.

The first Europeans to find Alabama were Spaniards, but it was settled by the French.

A Spanish expedition led by the Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto first passed through parts of Alabama in the 16^th century. Hernando wasn’t interested in founding any settlements, though – he was in search of gold, as well as a passage through to the Pacific coast.

Alabama is home to the largest cast-iron statue in the world.

In 1904, the city of Birmingham, Alabama, constructed a 56-foot (17 m) statue of the Roman god of fire and forge Vulcan. Once completed, the statue was shipped to St. Louis as Birmingham’s entry into the 1904 World’s Fair.

Alabama’s first permanent state capital is now a ghost town.

After Alabama was admitted into statehood, a site for a state capital had to be chosen.On November 21, 1818, the site of Cahaba (also known as Cahawba) was chosen. The capital was planned out, plots of land were auctioned off, and the town was up and running by 1820.

Cahaba was Alabama’s state capital for a very short time, though, from just 1820 to 1825, before it was relocated due to frequent floods. The town never really recovered from this, and after another severe flood in 1865, it was all but abandoned. By 1880 Cahaba had been removed from the US census rolls.

The first civil aviation school in the United States was opened in Alabama.

Orville and Wilbur Wright, more commonly known as the Wright Brothers, opened the very first US civil aviation school outside of Montgomery, Alabama. The Wright Brothers were famous for many things, but their greatest legacy is being the fathers of flying itself.

One of Alabama’s nicknames is “The Yellowhammer State.”

While Alabama’s state bird is the Yellowhammer, this isn’t the direct cause of its nickname. The origins are said to lie with the Civil War. A uniform worn by a company of soldiers from Huntsville, Alabama, had yellow trim, and thus they were nicknamed “Yellowhammers.”

Alabama is home to the only bookstores in the world that only sells signed copies.

Hidden away on a dead-end street in Birmingham, Alabama, lies a bookstore with a unique twist. Jacob Reiss, the owner of Alabama Booksmith has been in the business of selling books for 25 years. Originally selling rare and used books, it was only in 2012 that Jacob made the change to selling signed-only copies.

The first successful heart surgery on a live patient was in Alabama.

Dr. Luther Leonidas Hill Jr, a doctor from Montgomery, Alabama, was the first to achieve this impressive feat. It all started when a 13-year-old boy by the name of Henry Myrick was involved in a fight and stabbed through the heart. What’s even more impressive, though, is that the operation wasn’t even performed straight away – Myrick had been stabbed the previous afternoon!

Alabama is the most religious state in the US.

According to research from the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan fact tank that conducts research into demographics and public opinions, Alabama comes up as the most religious state. According to their data, 86% of the state’s residents are Christian, with 49% of those being Evangelical Protestants.

The first operational windshield wipers were invented in Alabama.

Mary Anderson, an Alabama native, is credited for the invention back in 1903. This was way back in the day when automobiles were starting to really gain some popularity, just before the famous Ford Model T was released. She tried to sell her patented invention to a number of companies, but they rejected the idea as they thought it would be too distracting to drivers.

Montgomery, Alabama, was the capital of the Confederate States of America.

Alabama seceded from the United States on January 11, 1861.

In February of the same year, Alabama and 6 other states (South Carolina, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Louisiana) formed the Confederate States of America, an unrecognized republic in the lower southern region of the now USA.These states were pro-slavery and relied heavily upon African American slaves for their vast agricultural industries.

The first-ever submarine to sink an enemy ship was constructed by Confederates in Alabama.

In its first test run, it sank, killing 5 crew members, and its second trial saw it sink again, killing all 8 crew members. Undeterred by the rising body count, the Confederates raised the submarine to the surface and tried again. The H.L. Hunley finally saw success in 1864, yet it was to be a bittersweet victory. On one hand, it was able to torpedo the United States Navy’s sloop-of-war, the USS Housatonic, sinking it. On the other hand, due to damages suffered during the attack, the H.L Hunley sank again, killing all crew members, again.

Alabama is the home of the longest NASCAR oval in the USA, if not the world.

The Talladega Superspeedway, previously known as the Alabama International Motor Speedway, has a NASCAR oval with a length of 2.66 miles. This Motorsports complex is located just outside of Talladega, Alabama, where it was built on the site of a former air force base in 1969. In its many years of operation, the track has been home to countless broken records, as well as first-time winners. The speeds at this track often reach a whopping 200 mph or more!

There actually is a sweet home in Alabama.

Here’s one for you if you’re a fan of the song Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd. In 1906 a man by the name of H.W. Sweet had a home built for him in the town of Bessemer, just outside of Birmingham, Alabama. Sweet had his home built for $10,000 US, which is the equivalent of about $266,000 dollars today. Talk about a sweet deal!

An important date for one of the best states in the country is here — and you might not even know about it.

National Illinois Day, on Dec. 7, commemorates the history, art and culture owed to the iconic Midwest state. Here’s some information – both vital to know and amusing to share – about the state so you can think about what Illinois means to you.

Here are some facts about Illinois history and iconic culture:

In 1818, Illinois was admitted as the 21st state in the Union.

An 1874 state law forbade segregation and the Illinois Civil Rights Act of 1885 banned discrimination in public areas.

Four former-U.S. presidents have roots in Illinois: Ronald Reagan was born in Illinois; Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant both moved to Illinois; and Barack Obama lived in Chicago for most of his life and served as an Illinois senator.

The origin of the term of Chicago as the “Windy City” is disputed by scholars, but it has been used to describe bloviating politicians, in addition to the weather. Interestingly, Chicago does not even rank in the top 10 of The Weather Station Experts’ list of the windiest U.S. cities – Amarillo, Texas, comes in first.

The Illinois state flower is a violet. The state bird is the cardinal. You probably didn’t know that the Illinois state snack is popcorn, and that the state pet is shelter dogs and shelter cats.

O’Hare International Airport consistently ranks in the top five, if not first, in lists of the busiest airports in the world.  

Native American history

Hunter-gatherers from various nations first came to Illinois around 12,000 years ago, according to History.com. Illinois is named after the French settlers’ pronunciation of the Illiniwek Nation which was initially comprised of 12 smaller nations including the Cahokia, Peoria and Kaskaskia Nations.

The state of Illinois rests on the lands of the Peoria, Kaskaskia, Peankashaw, Wea, Miami, Mascoutin, Odawa, Sauk, Mesquaki, Kickapoo, Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Chickasaw Nations. When Illinois became the 21^st state in December of 1818, Native nations still legally owned a large portion of the state’s territory, according to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Set in the Deep South of the United States, Mississippi is a fascinating state to visit. It is known as much for its literature and music as its rich and at times raw history and heritage. While traveling around, visitors will come across everything from beautiful beaches and verdant fields and hills to glitzy casinos, college towns, and Civil War Battlefields.

Dominating the state and defining its western border is the mighty Mississippi River that flows to the glittering Gulf of Mexico. In its delightful delta region, the beautiful music style known as the blues was developed.

Vicksburg

Perched atop a prominent bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the small city of Vicksburg is set in a scenic spot. Located in the west of the state on the border with Louisiana, it is famed around the country for being the site of a long siege and battle that swung the American Civil War in favor of the North. While General Ulysses S. Grant’s infamous victory is still commemorated in its artworks, museums and traditions, there is much more to Vicksburg for visitors to enjoy. Besides this unique history and heritage, it also has a wonderfully well-preserved center full of beautiful old buildings and attractive streetscapes, as well as a handful of magnificent museums. Visitors to Vicksburg can also take a romantic carriage ride around its historical center or a delightful boat ride down the river, while some quality hiking can be had in the surrounding forests and hills.

Tunica

Long one of the most impoverished places in the whole of the US, the town of Tunica is nestled in the northwest of the state, just an hour’s drive to the south of Memphis, Tennessee. Following the introduction of gambling in the 1990s, its fortunes dramatically changed. People now flock to what is the third-largest gaming market after Las Vegas and Atlantic City. The popular resort town now boasts a wealth of grand and glamorous casinos, home to a myriad of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. Each has an extensive array of rooms and suites for visitors to stay in, with everything from swimming pools and spas to gourmet restaurants and golf courses on offer.  While most if not all people who visit Tunica come for its glitzy casinos and Las Vegas-style shows, the nearby Tunica RiverPark is home to some superb scenery, nature, and hiking trails. In addition, Memphis isn’t far away should you want a change of scene.

Oxford

As picture-perfect as they come, the pretty and pleasant city of Oxford lies amid the dense forests of Mississippi’s North Central Hills region. Named after the prestigious seat of learning in the UK, life in the town is dominated by the University of Mississippi and its large, lively student body.While the state’s most famous college town certainly has a wild side, it is also noted for its scenic and sophisticated central square and sweet Southern charm. As well as being home to lovely oak-shaded neighborhoods, the city showcases some astounding old architecture and historical sights, with many treasures found on its sprawling university campus. Due to its sizeable student population, Oxford also hosts a staggering array of concerts, conferences and cultural events, with new shows and performances taking place all the time. On top of this, The Square has plenty of great restaurants and bars where you can sample the town’s famous nightlife.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

Set just to the south of both Mississippi and Florida, the Gulf Islands National Seashore are a series of beautiful barrier islands. Home to lots of wonderful white sand beaches and wilderness, the breathtaking scenery offers untold outdoor recreation opportunities. Due to their serene and secluded settings, the islands are delightfully undeveloped and unspoiled, with stunning sands lying next to wild wetlands and intriguing forests. While the islands of Horn, Sand, Petit Bois, and East Ship boast the loveliest landscapes, they are also the toughest to get to: guests need to charter a boat to them before camping overnight amid the dunes. Thanks to the park’s pristine and protected nature, there are loads of excellent outdoor activities to enjoy, with hiking, cycling, and swimming particularly popular. Besides this, visitors can go snorkeling in the glittering Gulf of Mexico or snap photos of the diverse bird species inhabiting the barrier island.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Encompassing everything from steamy swamps and boggy bayous to epic overlooks, Indian burial mounds, and lots of exceptional scenery, the Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most popular places to visit in Mississippi. Stretching from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi, the 715 kilometer-long national parkway is fabulous to hike, cycle, or drive along, with lots of spectacular sights to stop off at on the way. Winding through wonderful woods and wilderness and past roaring rivers and reflective lakes, the scenic route follows what was once a Native American footpath. Later used by explorers and Ohio Valley farmers, it has been in use since pre-Colonial times. As such, numerous historic sights dot the route, with age-old battlegrounds and burial mounds found alongside marvelous monuments and museums. Besides its rich history, heritage, and culture, the Natchez Trace Parkway has sublime scenery, with sparkling waterfalls, phenomenal views, and dramatic landscapes all on show. Along the route in Mississippi, there are also some great towns and cities for visitors to stop off at, such as Tupelo, Jackson, and Natchez.

Tupelo

Lying in the northeast of the state, the small, sleepy city of Tupelo is primarily known for being the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous pop icons – Elvis Presley. While most of its main sights relate to ‘the King’, the town is a perfectly pleasant and peaceful place to visit, particularly if you’re traveling along the Natchez Trace Parkway. In the center of the city, visitors will find a thriving restaurant scene to delve into, as well as some magnificent murals that have added some much-needed color and life to the downtown area. Besides the Birthplace of Elvis Presley, there is also the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo to check out, while a fun and festive flea market takes places the second weekend of every month. Just outside the city are a couple of American Civil War battlefields well worth visiting, as well as the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, which can point you towards all of the route’s most scenic tourist attractions.

Natchez

Set in the southwest corner of the state, Natchez lies perched atop a prominent bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Lying on the border with Louisiana, the small city boasts a beautiful historic center full of astounding old antebellum homes that evoke images of the Old South. Before the Civil War, the small settlement was an important center of trade. As such, wealth and riches poured into its scenic streets. Nowadays, its charming center is a delight to visit, with horse-drawn carriage rides one of the most memorable ways to take in its grand collection of elegant homes and historical landmarks. While history and heritage are on show wherever you go, Natchez is very much a living city with a fun party atmosphere on the weekends. Besides stopping by its numerous bars and live music venues, the final stop of the Natchez Trace Parkway also has lovely nature and scenery for visitors to enjoy nearby.

Biloxi

Situated along the state’s scenic and sun-kissed shoreline, Biloxi is a popular place to visit due to its beautiful beaches and oceanfront casinos. While it can appear brash and blingy at first sight, the city has numerous sides to it, with a delightful historic center for visitors to explore. Most people, however, come for its glut of glitzy casinos, which look out over the glittering Gulf of Mexico and are home to innumerable slot machines and table games. Many of them have cowboy, tropical, or live music themes, with plenty of restaurants and entertainment also on offer. Besides gambling, gaming, and reveling in the city’s lively nightlife, visitors can also relax on the golden sands or enjoy sailing and watersports along the seafront. In addition, New Orleans is just an hour away should you want to combine your trip to Biloxi with a visit to ‘The Big Easy.’

Jackson

Although tourists often overlook it, Mississippi’s capital and largest city, Jackson certainly has enough going for it to warrant a visit. Set on the banks of the Pearl River, it boasts a brilliant live music scene and a handful of excellent museums and historic buildings. Its two main tourist attractions are the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. While the former offers a fascinating look at the state’s history and culture, the latter highlights the fight for racial equality in Mississippi. Besides the magnificent museums, there is also the artsy Fondren District with all its boutiques and coffee shops to explore. As ‘The City with Soul’ is Jackson’s slogan, it should come as no surprise to learn that there’s a load of great live music to discover in its numerous bars and venues. Weekends are a particularly good time to visit: this is when blues, folk, and jazz can be heard on every street corner.

Clarksdale

Set on the banks of the Sunflower River, the small and slightly dilapidated city of Clarksdale has long been popular with tourists as it lies at the heart of the Delta blues scene. In the early 20th century, many African-American musicians developed the blues here before migrating north and performing in cities such as Chicago and New York. This captivating past is now explored in depth at the delightful Delta Blues Museum, while markers and monuments relating to the mesmerizing music and its most-distinguished musicians can be found around town. In addition, big-name blues acts regularly perform in the scattering of bars and clubs, while a handful of cultural events and festivals take place during the year. As it lies just a couple of hours’ drive from most of the main blues sights, Clarksdale also makes for a great base if you want to explore the Mississippi Blues Trail. On top of this, both the lively college town of Oxford and the major city of Memphis aren’t far away if you want to explore the rest of what the region has to offer up.

SOURCE: TOUROPIA.COM

(I would have scheduled this for the 11th, but Veteran’s Day is more important in my opinion.)

November 11 is annually observed as National Indiana Day, and we are here to help make it a delight. Indiana ranks seventeenth in population and thirty-eighth in area within the United States of America. The state of Indiana is home to numerous industrialists, entertainment professionals, laborers, and farmers, with Indianapolis serving as its capital. National Indiana Day was established to honor the state of Indiana and its indigenous people, the “Hoosiers.” It is a day to honor their accomplishments and positive attitude.

National Indiana Day 2023: History

It is believed that the Paleo-Indians were the first to settle in Indiana in 8000 B.C., when the glaciers began to melt during the final phases of the Ice Age. Numerous implements and weaponry unearthed in 5000 B.C. during the Archaic Period are believed to have been manufactured by the ancient Indiana civilization.

During the 1500s, when Europeans first settled in the Americas, substantial human settlements had already formed. French exploration began in the 1600s, and trading facilities were established by the 1700s. Beginning in the 1760s, the French-Indian War ensued. The French Canadians were on the side of the indigenous nations of Indiana. In 1763, the British defeated the enemy. Following the American Revolution in 1783, the Northwest Territory, subsequently referred to as Indiana, was delineated by the United States.

Indiana exerted significant influence throughout the Civil War by enlisting more than 7,000 soldiers in the Union Army. In Indiana, numerous new industries emerged in the postwar period. The prominence of industries such as industrial machinery, agriculture, and mining increased. Steel and pharmaceutical companies proliferated throughout Indiana following World War II.

Today, Indiana is regarded as a center of culture. Literary works such as “The Gentleman from Indiana” and “The Hoosier Schoolmaster” serve as reflections of the socio-cultural milieu that molds the state of Indiana. Additionally, Indiana is renowned for its football, basketball, and NASCAR programs. The State has constructed an extensive system of railways, seaports, and roads. In addition to being the birthplace of numerous renowned politicians, musicians, and poets, Indiana is renowned for its “Hoosier hospitality.” The purpose of National Indiana Day is to honor the state of Indiana and its citizens.

History, 5 Facts About Indiana

It hosts its largest race events.

Indiana is renowned for hosting one of the world’s largest racing competitions.

From “who’s here” emerged the word “hoosier.”

The etymology of the name Hoosier is allegedly derived from the proverb “who’s here” spoken with an accent from Indiana.

Santa Claus is a municipality.

Santa Claus is the name of an Indiana municipality.

The birthplace of baseball was Indiana.

In 1871, the inaugural baseball contest was conducted in Indiana.

There are numerous covered bridges.

Indiana is reputed to have the greatest number of covered bridges and is considered the capital of covered bridges.

Here are some fun facts about Ohio—The Buckeye State (including what the heck a “buckeye” is!).

Ohio is derived from the Iroquois word “oyo,” meaning “great river.”

Seven U.S. presidents were born in Ohio: Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William H. Taft and Warren G. Harding.

The burgee-shaped Ohio flag is the only non-rectangular state flag in the country.

You may hear “Hang On Sloopy” whenever you go to Ohio State football games. The song is the state’s official rock song.

Ohio is known as the Buckeye State, but what is a Buckeye? The buckeye tree bears fruit that contains a large nut. The tree got its name because it is dark brown with a light spot, resembling the shape and color of a deer’s eye.

Ohio hosts teams in all five major professional sports leagues, including

Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians (MLB)

Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati (MLS)

Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)

Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns (NFL

Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)

Ohio has two world-class theme parks – King’s Island in Mason, and Cedar Point in Sandusky – and more than a dozen smaller amusement parks that are local favorites. There are also indoor and outdoor waterparks around the state.

The state beverage is tomato juice.

The state slogan is “Ohio, The Heart of It All.”

The biggest city in the state is Columbus. 

SOURCE: 10tv.com

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, stands as a staple in the history of contemporary America with its reputation as the city of steel. It has another reputation intertwined with its glorious past, however. Spirits of the dead linger around every corner of this towering city, speaking tales of tragedy, suffering, and murder. 

There is one such location in the Manchester neighborhood of Pittsburgh whose name sends a shiver down locals’ spines to this day: the Congelier House. It no longer stands, covered by a highway, yet this once-grandiose home held a reputation so gruesome it’s believed the evil that once dwelled within left a mark on the city to this day. That’s why locals still believe the Congelier House was built by the devil himself. 

What is the story behind the Congelier House?

The infamous Congelier House has held a notorious reputation in the city of Pittsburgh for two centuries. So much so, in fact, it’s debated among locals whether the now demolished house ever even existed, but one thing is for sure if it did. The Congelier House was, without a doubt, the most haunted location in America. 

History of the Congelier House 

The most accepted timeline for the Congelier Mansion shows that it was built in the 1860s by Charles Congelier. A wealthy businessman, Congelier moved to Pittsburgh after the Civil War and had the elaborate home built for him, his wife, Lyda, and their maid, Essie. 

Life for the Congeliers was as good as it could get in the booming city of Pittsburgh. That all changed one day in 1871 when Charles’s wife, Lyda, heard noises from the maid’s quarters. It was Charles and Essie making sounds together that, let’s just say, made Lyda’s heart shatter. Grabbing a knife and a meat cleaver, Lyda returned to Essie’s bedroom and butchered them both.

A friend and neighbor of the Congeliers visited the house after seeing no one come or go for the next several days after the murders. The house was filled with the stench of decaying flesh. He then came upon the haunting sight of Lyda, covered in blood and sitting in a rocking chair, humming a lullaby as she cradled Essie’s severed head.

The Congelier House’s Later Years

The mansion sat abandoned for two decades before it underwent a series of ownerships. First, it was bought by a local railroad company in 1892. Then, in 1900, it was bought again by a reclusive doctor named Adolph Brunrichter. Finally, it was owned by the Equitable Gas Company until November 1927, when an explosion two blocks away completely demolished the Congelier Mansion. 

Today, the site of the grandiose Congelier House is covered by a highway and a nefarious enigma as well. Did this infamous mansion actually exist? If so, is there a shred of truth to the ghostly tales and the history surrounding it? For those who believe, the house didn’t just return to hell but was, as some call it, the “House the Devil Built.”

Hauntings Overview

The Congelier House was converted into apartments for railroad workers when it was purchased in 1892 by a local railroad company. However, what the company didn’t know was that evil was lying dormant in its walls all that time. 

Workers felt a general sense of unease and heard scratches coming from within the walls. Demonic voices echoed through the halls, and someone humming a lullaby could be heard. They also spoke of a deep hissing sound that seemed to emanate from everywhere in the house at once. 

The most unsettling experience involved several complaints workers submitted about their foreman. According to them, the foreman—who lived in his own private residence at the time—checked in on the men too often. This was a violation of privacy, as he lurked in the hallways at odd hours, watching them come and go. 

It seems like a logical complaint, except the foreman insisted he wasn’t visiting the house during those times; his wife and children vouched for his whereabouts. 

There was even one night when the apparition was seen at the house while the foreman was out having drinks with one of the railway’s vice presidents. The activity became so intense that these hardened blue-collar workers eventually refused to stay another night in the house.

The house sat vacant once again and was later purchased by the Equitable Gas Company. Its rooms were used to house immigrant workers, but they, too, found themselves hearing demonic voices throughout the home. 

Things became downright terrifying for them when the bodies of two workers were later found murdered in the basement. Only to make it stranger, there was nowhere in the basement for the killer to escape. The horrified remaining workers immediately moved out of the house never to return. 

The Mad Doctor

The only thing as disturbing as the story of the Congelier House’s first owners is the story of Dr. Adolph C. Brunrichter. He purchased the home in 1900 upon his immigration to America and never left or socialized with his neighbors. Blissful obscurity seemed to be the fate for the good doctor until August 12, 1901.

The neighbors were startled by a woman’s blood-curdling scream followed by an explosion of light from within the home. The police arrived and discovered a woman’s decapitated body, eerily similar to the house’s first crime it had ever witnessed. 

Upon further investigation, they also found a hidden laboratory with the heads of five more women. There were also notes left behind suggesting the doctor had been performing experiments to keep the heads alive even after decapitation. 

The doctor was nowhere to be found until 1927 when a man was arrested in New York claiming to be Adolph Brunrichter. He was drunk and told police about the experiments he performed in Pittsburgh, as well as the location of several other bodies. 

Police searched the locations, but there were no bodies, forcing them to deem the man harmless and release him. This odd figure referenced in the newspapers as the “Pittsburgh Spook Man” was never seen or heard from again. 

Haunted Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich history forged in the steel that built America. Stories of its past echo through Its cobblestone streets and towering skyscrapers and are carried away on the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers. 

However, a darker undercurrent travels through the city, filled with death and agony, giving rise to its haunting tales. They’re whispered in the shadows of Pittsburgh where the dead linger, refusing to let the past of this great city remain buried. 

The infamous Congelier House is a haunting example. A once-grand residence, it soon became a house of terror that met a destructive end. Though it may be long gone, the chilling legend of the Congelier family continues to plague Pittsburgh’s collective memory.

Tales of a jealous wife, a brutal double murder, and a mad doctor have embedded the Congelier House’s place as America’s most haunted house. It also adds credence to its spine-gripping reputation as the “House the Devil Built.”

Pittsburgh is riddled with ghosts lurking in the shadows at every turn. Come and see them firsthand with Pittsburgh Ghosts! Book an unforgettable ghost tour on our website today while there’s still room.

SOURCE: PITTSBURGHGHOSTS.COM

Trundle Manor is the private home of Mr. Arm and Velda Von Minx and is located in the Swissvale neighborhood in east Pittsburgh. It describes itself as “The most unusual tourist trap in the world meets the most bizarre private collection on public display”, which seems like a quite fitting description for this unusual residence.

The homeowners opened their home to tours in 2009 and offer a peek into their very unusual and eclectic collection of items by appointment. Since this is a private residence, don’t just show up here and expect a tour. Make sure to reach out to them via their website as early as possible to arrange a time to visit (typically on weekday evenings and on weekend afternoons).

Trundle Manor is definitely a bizarre collection of items ranging from 100-year-old taxidermy to meat cleavers, handmade robots, and even a singing tumor (more on that later).

What’s even more incredible is that many of the items on display were created by Mr. Arm and Velda Von Minx themselves, though they make sure you know that they did not kill or torture any of the animals that they have taxidermied themselves. However, they do have their own deceased cat and a friend’s deceased dog on display after preservation.

Tours last about 45 minutes and take you through four rooms on the lower level of the home. While there are no steps on the tour, note that there are a fair number of steps to get into the home.

The rooms on the tour of Trundle Manor are chock full of items. In fact, you could probably spend all day here and still miss something.

Display cases are overflowing, decades-old taxidermied items are stacked multiple layers deep throughout the space, and a myriad of items also hang from the walls and over doorways. Somehow, though, the collection keeps growing as new items are found, made, or donated to Trundle Manor.

During your tour, one of the homeowners guides you through the space offering stories about various pieces and interesting tidbits (such as the fake and creepy dog made by Mr. Arm when he was a child). Visitors are also welcome to ask about items they find interesting, and if you love the strange and macabre, you are sure to find plenty of things to ask questions about during your visit.

One of the most unusual pieces is Olivia’s Singing Tumor, which is located just inside the main entrance to the home.

This is an actual benign tumor that was removed from a friend’s body and has been given a place of honor inside a glass jar. It has been rigged to lights and music to create one of the most interesting displays you’ll ever see. It’s even said that the woman who donated the tumor comes by the visit it from time to time.

The largest room in the space is the home’s main parlor. This room is not just full of more unusual displays but also serves as their personal living room, complete with a hidden video game system and projector screen.

In this space, you can find their now-deceased pet cat, which has been freeze-dried and placed in an enclosure, right next to a giant painting that features its likeness, and a collection of meat cleavers in case of a zombie attack (Pittsburgh is the birthplace of zombies after all!)

Tours end with the chance to go through a hidden doorway into the home’s kitchen, which is also filled with incredible items and is one of the most unique spaces in the home. There is also a small gift shop here with everything from stickers to homemade Halloween costumes.

Through the back door, visitors can also see the homeowners’ cars, including one that has been modified to shoot flames six feet into the air. While they don’t demonstrate the flames, the modifications on this car are really interesting to look at.

It’s worth noting that there is no specific charge to tour Trundle Manor. However, donations are accepted, and they have a jar near the door for those with cash. They also accept strange oddities as a donation and some of the items pointed out during my visit were donated by past visitors, which really adds a unique twist to the collection here. They also accept non-beer alcohol as a donation as well, according to their website.

Overall, Trundle Manor is one of the most unusual places I’ve ever been, and to think that this doubles as someone’s private home is truly mind boggling.

The collection here is one of the most eclectic you’ll find anywhere and probably isn’t for everyone (including young kids who like to grab things and the easily squeamish).  However, for those who enjoy strange oddities, unique art, and simply exploring the unusual, this is definitely a stop you won’t want to miss in Pittsburgh.

SOURCE: UNCOVERINGPA.COM

The Background of National Tennessee Day

The past of Tennessee has been tumultuous. Asian ancestry is the prevailing belief regarding the initial migrants, who traversed the Bering Strait land bridge approximately 20,000 years ago. In the seventeenth century, English forces succeeded Spanish explorers who had left in search of gold in 1540. Chickasaws and Cherokee constituted the preeminent indigenous tribes of this era. “Tennessee” is derived from the Cherokee settlement known as “Tanasi.”

Tennessee contributed significantly to the Creek War as volunteers, operating under the leadership of Andrew Jackson at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in Alabama from 1813 to 1814. The volunteers rushed to the aid of Muskogee communities that were devastated as a result of the Creek warriors’ assault on Fort Mims, Alabama.

The United States government forcibly evicted the Cherokee of East Tennessee from the area between 1838 and 1839 despite their concerted efforts to blend into the local culture. Along with other indigenous American communities, they were led to Oklahoma via the Trail of Tears.

In contrast, Tennessee initially supported the Union during the American Civil War in 1861, but subsequently voted secession and allied with the newly formed Confederate States of America. By 1864, having won the majority of their engagements in Tennessee, the Union army had occupied the majority of the state. Tennessee emerged as a significant arena for racial segregation demonstrations following the Memphis sanitation workers strike of 1968 and the Nashville sit-ins for the civil rights movement from 1959 to 1961. On April 4, while in Memphis to support sanitation workers, Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated.

Participation in National Tennessee Day Events

Explore the natural beauty of the province

Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Radnor State Park are both excellent locations for a trek. Observe the undulating hills while taking pleasure in the scenery.

Play rural music

Bristol has earned the moniker “country music’s birthplace.” In addition to housing the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is commonly referred to as “Music City.” Country music should be listened to in observance of this musical state.

Eat Nashville spicy chicken

Nashville spicy chicken is a specialty of Tennessee and is renowned for its fiery flavor. Join your companions in celebrating the occasion with this piquant treat.

Five Fascinating Details About Tennessee

Since 1925, The Grand Ole Opry from Nashville has been broadcast every weekend.

The 1811 Real Madrid earthquake was responsible for the creation of Reelfoot Lake.

Centennial Park in Nashville features a life-size replica of the Parthenon.

In the Great Smoky Mountains, over thirty species of Salamandra can be found.

Graceland, Elvis Presley’s estate located in Memphis, ranks as the second most-visited residence in the United States.

The Bluegrass State, the Horse Racing Capital of the World, Bourbon Country – Kentucky goes by many names, but for those who live there, we’re happy calling it home.

National Kentucky Day is held on Oct. 19 every year and honors Kentucky’s recognition as a state.

Here are some fun facts about Kentucky that you can share at your next Derby party:

1. Kentucky received its statehood on June 1, 1792, after it split from Virginia. The first governor of the state was Isaac Shelby, a military veteran from Virginia.

2. Kentucky’s state motto, adopted in 1942, is “United We Stand, Divided We Fall.”

3. Kentucky has 120 counties. The largest is Pike County and the smallest is Gallatin County, but Jefferson County has the highest population.

4. The highest point in Kentucky is Black Mountain at 4,145 ft. The summit is located in Harlan County near the Virginia border.

5. Nearly half of the state (roughly 48%) is made up of forestland, according to the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet.

6. Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave is the largest cave system in the world. In Sept. 2021, an additional eight miles of passages were discovered, bringing the total to 420 known miles.

7. While the state is known for horses more than cows, Kentucky’s official state drink is milk.

8. Take note! The 3M plant in Cynthiana, Kentucky accounts for nearly all of the world’s production of Post-It Notes.

9. About half of the United States Treasury’s stored gold is kept at Fort Knox. The book value of the gold currently stored there is more than $6.2 billion.

10. According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, there are more bourbon barrels than people in Kentucky. Bourbon is a $8.6 billion industry in the state.

11. The largest fireworks display in North America happens every year in Louisville. Thunder Over Louisville has served as the official kickoff to the Kentucky Derby season since 1988.

SOURCE: WHAS11.COM

The background of National Vermont Day

National Vermont Day originated in 1791, the year Vermont formally commenced its annexation to the United States as the fourteenth state. Additionally, it was the first state to ratify the Union following the initial thirteen states. This event marked a zenith in the chronicles of the Green Mountain State, which had been ruled for decades by the British and the French.

Since its incorporation into the Union, Vermont has made consistent progress. It was among the initial republics to formally outlaw slavery. The Act to Secure Freedom For All Persons Within the State was signed into law on November 25, 1858, which was thirty-five years prior to the American Civil War. Amid the Underground Railroad, fugitive slaves were provided sanctuary and sustenance by Vermonters. Additionally, Vermonters have a reputation for resiliency. Notwithstanding its recent establishment, the state dispatched troops to engage in the Civil War and maintained an unwavering opposition to slavery.

National Vermont Day provides Vermonters with an opportunity to commemorate the state’s historical significance while also engaging in a celebration of their state’s independence. Preeminent is the observance of the valiant men and women who helped shape Vermont into the state it is today. Present-day Vermont is situated amidst a verdant and picturesque mountain backdrop. Although the state itself is beyond picturesque, its rich history provides the backdrop for its splendor. National Vermont Day is observed during this time of year.

Participation in National Vermont Day Activities

Explore the verdant mountains and picturesque vistas

Vermont, being the “Green Mountain State,” lives up to its moniker. Experiencing the state’s captivating natural beauty and picturesque vistas is highly recommended. National Vermont Day is a time when camping, trekking, and hiking are popular ways to commune with nature.

Pay homage to historical locations and museums

For an engaging and enlightening National Vermont Day experience, historical sites and museums are essential destinations. Visit Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, the Shelburne Museum, and the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium to gain a deeper understanding of the state’s history.

Prepare confections using regional maple syrup.

Vermont is renowned for producing its own maple syrup. Prepare a delectable spread of delights for your loved ones by simply rolling up your sleeves and preparing your baking equipment.

5 Interesting Vermont Facts

Vermont is where notable films such as “What Lies Beneath,” “Me, Myself, & Irene,” and “The Cider House Rules” were produced.

Vermont has one of the greatest human-to-cow ratios in the United States, at 0.41.

Vermont is the second least populous state in the United States as of 2022, trailing only Wyoming.

In 1981, the renowned Ben & Jerry’s ice cream was first produced at a service station along Route 7 in Shelburne, Vermont.

Vermont, along with Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine, is one of four jurisdictions in the United jurisdictions that prohibits billboard advertising.