Susan Marlene
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Timeless Significance For Every Day
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This 1885 version of BARNES'S HISTORICAL SERIES, A BRIEF HISTORY of THE UNITED STATES, published by AMERICAN BOOK COMPANY, is full of drawings, fun history, and a couple of maps, too. The brief mentions of historical events --divided into Epochs-- have numerous footnotes that give accounts never mentioned in the history books I was familiar with in school. I love the old history books because they have interesting and heroic events that are often passed over in modern history classes. 
What a great find. This one is NOT for sale, but I did see several copies listed online! 
Happy hunting for those looking for old AMERICAN history by people who lived in those times.
 

A HISTORY OF THE CIVIL WAR
BY Benson J. LOSSING LLD., ILLUSTRATED with Reproductions of the BRADY WAR PHOTOGRAPHS By Permission of THE WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C. 



My brother, Mike, collected the most interesting books during his lifetime. We called him the Junk Man because he acquired everything from historical uniforms, badges, books—anything under the sun that didn't run away! LOL. But books like this are so fun to look at. This book has so much historical information you don't find in public school history classes. Oh, the maps, photos, drawings . . . My copy was published in 1912, but the first publication was in 1895 by Charles F. Johnson. Taking a gander at history from people's perspective right after the Civil War compared to our modern-day offerings is refreshing! 
Holding the historic copy in my hand lends a certain confidence that what was printed then has not be 'adapted to modern readers'. Thus, none of the interesting stuff has been removed!   
;)

Quote from page 142 of this book.

When the vote was finally taken on the 23rd day of May, it was in the face of bayonets. Terror reigned all over Eastern Virginia. Unionists were compelled to fly for their lives before the instruments of the civil and military power at Richmond, for the "Confederate government" was then seated there. By these means the enemies of the Union were enabled to report a majority of over one hundred thousand votes of Virginians in favor of secession, the vote being given by the voice and not by the secret ballot.  

​Find your own copy of history and enjoy the depth and reality of what once was! 



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​Feeling nostalgic today and looking at a childhood book. This was published in 1927 by THE PLATT & MUNK-CO INC, New York. I’ll have to see if my grandchildren would like a sit down with Grandma soon.
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My grandparents saved this old photo from by-gone years. 
It reminds me of a memory she'd shared. 
She and my grandfather were recently
married. Friends swarmed their house
and kidnapped them
for a picnic!
What fun! 
Until
at the end of the day the
electric firetruck (this photo is 
NOT one of those) ran out
of power!
I smile to think about that
day they experienced. 
Somehow, I think
they were possibly not smiling
on their walk home. 
~



​​{M}ay  I always hear that you are following the guidance of that blessed Spirit that will lead you into all truth, leaning on that Almighty arm that has been extended to deliver you, trusting only in the only Savior, and going on in your way to Him rejoicing. Francis Scott Key, Attorney; Author of the “Star Spangled Banner”

From ORIGINAL INTENT, The Courts, The Constitution, and Religion by David Barton Pg. 143
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“The first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day is to have my soul happy in the Lord.”
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​George Müller 


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Ira Stoll, the author of SAMUEL ADAMS, A LIFE, really impresses me with his knowledge. He plunged me into the 1700 and 1800 hundreds with vivid descriptions of Adam’s family life and the political and religious upheaval of our great American history. Adam’s—one of the signers of The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, is a fascinating man.

I’m only on page 34 so far, but oh, the highlighting and underlining I’ve added to the pages. And yes, I draw eyeballs in the margins for exciting and essential information. I have several drawn, and some words like ‘Wow’ and ‘Neat’ are sprawled beside the information that compelled me to do so. LOL, we all have our quirks!

I highly recommend this historical feast concerning the times and situations that made this man, who I’d only thought was a wild brewer of beer and rebellion—the real and multilayered patriot. He loved his country and God and had the courage to stand for the rights of those who were being treated as less than English citizens.

SAMUEL ADAMS, A LIFE is loaded with a listing of the books and the pages used for research. Numerous articles, government resources, etc., and if you want to find information on people, places, and things mentioned in this book, you may find references to those in the handy Index in the back.

Bravo to Ira Stoll! I will be looking for more books and writings by this Harvard University and Worcester Academy graduate. He is the managing editor of Education Next and columnist for Algemeiner. His writings appear at The New York Sun, the New Boston Post, the Las Vegas Review-Journal, and Newsmax among other achievements.
I’m really enjoying SAMUEL ADAMS, A LIFE and I hope you will also!

​Thank you, Ira Stoll!

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THE AMERICAN STORY by David Barton and Tim Barton
 
I’ve begun reading THE AMERICAN STORY and find it stimulating and informative. The numerous footnotes listed for the Bartons’ references span the 1600s to the 1900s. (That is what I noticed when I quickly scanned the endnotes.) Though I’m only in chapter 2, I have already and eagerly enlisted the aid of my highlighters and pens to mark so many wonderful finds.

I have several books by David Barton from WallBuilder Press, and I’ve been delighted with each one. I appreciate the persistence and diligence that David Barton obviously uses to bring forth an excellent source of information about the United States’ beginnings as a nation. Unique, uplifting, and inspiring!

I recommend this read for anyone wishing to know facts over opinion concerning America and those who had influence in developing a country that many would like to storm the borders to be a part of.

​Well done, David and Tim Barton. 




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​Rose in Bloom by Lousa M. Alcott

Recently, I took this book in my hands and wondered what it was about. I actually remember my father handing this book to me after my mom had passed away around thirty-seven years ago. Since then, my father passed away, and our daughters grew up as the sands of time poured onward. Still, I’d never cracked open the cover. I wish that I had.

When I opened the pages very browned by age, I noticed there was no date printed inside. The Goldsmith Publishing Company from Chicago must not have thought that was important. Looking up the history of Louisa M. Alcott’s novel online, I discovered that this story was first published by Roberts Brothers in 1876. What a shock to find that my grandmother had given this book to my mom. Grandma Belle was a woman of few words. And wrote fewer still inside the cover of Rose in Bloom.

A simple cursive “Betty” and “Mother” spoke volumes to me. I know that as my mom and her sisters grew, they struggled as a family. Several times they had to live with family just to get by because my grandfather was out of work. My grandmother worked hard, taking in laundry and ironing clothes from home since it wasn’t very acceptable for a woman to work after she was married and had children. Times were quite depressed and coin hard to come by. What this novel spoke to me was that my grandmother offered the gift of an encouraging story to my mom during difficult years, which were labor-intensive and, no doubt, fraught with anxious pressures and lack.

Grandma Belle was a woman of strong character and prayer. She gave and served all that she could for all her life. She passed away just shy of her 103rd birthday! I’ve recently started to listen to Eight Cousins, the book that Rose in Bloom is a sequel to. Delightful, charming, and a pleasant dip into the past! I encourage you to discover some classics. There really are morals, fears, and cares that stand the test of time and are as vital as they ever were!  






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THE FIRST CONSPIRACY, The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington
by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch
 
My husband bought the audio version of Meltzer and Mensch’s novel about THE FIRST CONSPIRACY, The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington for one of my Christmas presents. This is an excellent book for those who would like to know about Washington’s struggles with rough untrained troops, disease, and lack of pay for his soldiers. The schemes and intrigues fueled by the British Governor and Mayor of New York against George Washington are revealed in detail by these authors. I’m grateful that I listened to this account, and I will listen, again and again, so I highly recommend this audio version, for Scott Brick provides an excellent reading.
Happy President’s Day to you! We have so much to be grateful for and a blessed nation despite the problems that assail us. I appreciate our freedom and prosperity that we owe in part to those who gave so much of themselves like our former
President George Washington.
 
  
 


HOUSE ON THE ROCK is such a unique place to visit. The story of the man who chased his dream and made this a wonder to behold is quite interesting. These photos are just a drop in the bucket for what is offered here. 



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Rebecca McLafferty and I stopped at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Pepin, Wisconsin, while on our way to the Northwestern Christian Writers Conference in Minnesota. We really enjoyed visiting the home that was built to represent the original location where Laura had been born. I can’t imagine living in such a small cabin. Stepping past the threshold put new meaning to an old phrase, close knit families! This museum shows authentic pieces from Laura’s time period and a large variety of her Little House on the Prairie books, and period games. Rebecca and I have always enjoyed those clean wholesome stories written by this author. Just looking at the everything used in the kitchen and the clothing they wore and even the mode of travel they used gave me pause. My but life in America has changed! 


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PINECREST VILLAGE'S JUNE EVENT 

Manitowoc Historical Society’s, Pinecrest Village, offers events that reveal past livelihoods and culture. I’m delighted to share some of the sights that I enjoyed at the beginning of June. But that isn’t all! A couple of days before this Civil War event, where I took these photos, our students accomplish community service. Their service entailed cleaning buildings and setting up chairs for an outdoor wedding celebration! I didn’t take any photos of the outdoor wedding seating or trellis since I couldn’t ask permission from the bride or groom. The couple had chosen the grounds beside the church, the one where I’d taken photos of the band playing inside the sanctuary.  All of the volunteers, actors, and musicians did a marvelous job--in spite of the fact that the rain had been persistent the night before. The grounds were damp, but the quality of sights, sounds, and teachings for this event was impressive! I enjoyed all of the period clothing that young and old wore! I would encourage anyone who is even a tad interested in history to attend their events!
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You can find out more about Pinecrest Village and their events at their website: https://www.manitowoccountyhistory.org/  Or email them at: [email protected]

​I consider myself fortunate to live near such a treasure of historic wealth! 





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​​“The Bible is…a book which teaches man his own individual
responsibility, his own dignity, and, and his equality with his
fellow man.”

​ Daniel Webster (1)


This statesman had represented New Hampshire and was called the ‘Defender of the Constitution’. Daniel Webster was a fantastic orator also. His obvious love of language benefited our nation immensely. Webster wrote the first elementary grade American Spelling Book in 1783. This was the standard book on spelling for the next 150 years in American schools. Webster was an amazing man who knew many languages. This skill no doubt aided his creating Webster's Dictionary, called "An American Dictionary of the English Language", which was first published  on April 14, 1828. Imagine, this dictionary is 191 years old this year. (2) You may read more interesting facts on the merriam-webster website below. 

1)  “Original INTENT The Courts, The Constitution, and Religion” by David Barton page 169 which was quoted from Moses Coit                  Tyler, Patrick Henry (New York; Houghton Miffflin Co., 1897), p. 365, to Archibald Blair, January 8, 1799.

2) https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/noah-webster-dictionary




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This 1890 historical recording of the heroes involved in the clash between America’s North and South holds contributions from 150 veterans. Their experiences during the Civil War range from terrible suffering to astonishing tales of courage and heroic deeds with non-apologetic patriotism. Their love of these United States shines through as their willingness to suffer for those who come after them has been recorded for anyone to read and reflect upon.

Included are engravings and colored plates scattered throughout, reminding me of the Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. Some of the depictions are simple but expressive line drawings, while others are much more detailed. Those were received with much emotion, I am sure. How rare an image was until the artists and newspaper and book sellers began to make them available.
My brother, Mike, gave this book to me. I hold it carefully for the ancient pages can crumble so easily. But oh, to read each story brings me such an awareness that I’d never had. These men, women, and well our whole country went through such terrible times. How mind boggling at best! We have so much to be grateful for concerning unity and our freedoms gained by brave men and women who fought for our nation. And yet the cost of lives and property, the heart aches and trauma that ensued are hard to fathom. Impossible to measure.
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I wanted to share that this amazing book exists so that you may look for it and benefit from the details of this second rendition of SPARKS FROM THE CAMP FIRE. These captured memories were from veterans who told their experiences of challenges and victories during a crucial time in our American history. 

SPARKS FROM THE CAMP FIRE, TALES  OF THE OLD VETERANS was Published by: Philadelphia: KEYSTONE PUBLISHING CO., 1890
SIGNING THEIR LIVES AWAY The FAME and MISFORTUNE of the MEN WHO SIGNED The Declaration of Independence by Denise Kiernan and Joseph D'Agnese
Everything about this book is unique, including the catchy title, SIGNING THEIR LIVES AWAY, The FAME and MISFORTUNE of the MEN WHO SIGNED The Declaration of Independence by Denise Kiernan and Joseph D’Agnese. The book sleeve held a delightful surprise for when unfolded one finds The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America printed on the entire inside.
I’ve been enjoying the unusual and quirky details these authors relay about the fifty-six men who signed the Declaration of Independence. A portrait of each of the signers is included with those fascinating facts about the positions these men held as well as some of their extreme trials and troubles. Of course, this is only a short account of each signer and the I’ve not read the entire book, yet I have enjoyed the wit and interesting details mentioned.

Benjamin Rush has been a favorite of mine through the last bunch of years and I’ve read other more positive accounts about him then I found here. There is a brief and watered-down version of Rush’s dream and communication with John Adams and Thomas Jefferson about their renewed friendship and their death “nearly at the same time”. These authors mention that Rush’s dream was quasi-religious, yet I have enjoyed the fuller information of Benjamin Rush’s great faith and devotion to the Lord, which earned praise and admiration from those who actually knew him.

Still, I’m amused and entertained and informed by this book and thought I’d share this gem with you. Its binding is perfectly matched to the subject for it is definitely antique looking and the inside pages sport the signatures of the signers. Well, done Denise Kiernan and Joseph D’Agnese for this peek into the lives and loss that many of these men endured! My sister, Pat, gifted me with this book and it can be found on www.quirkbooks.com.
 

Proclaim Liberty
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​…proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all its inhabitants thereof:   4 Leviticus 25:10

Liberty, so sweet to our ears and desired by almost everyone with all of our hearts. The above scripture verse is from The Pearl Reference Bible, Printers in Glasgow: William Collins, Sons, & Company 1864. I was surprised and delighted to discover that the above verse is inscribed on our country’s Liberty Bell.

This 2,080 pound bell was crafted by Whitechapel Foundry in London. The order for its creation was placed in 1751 by Speaker of the Pennsylvania Assembly, Isaac Norris. The bell would adorn Philadelphia’s Pennsylvania State House, which was later called Independence Hall. Unfortunately, the bell cracked on its first test ringing, so then it was melted down and recast by artisans, Pass and Stow in Philadelphia. Amazingly, the message quoted about liberty was inspired by the Jubilee which instructs the Israelites to return property and slaves every 50 years. The Liberty Bell became a symbol of liberty in 1830s and has been an inspiration for abolitionists desiring to end slavery as well as for Women’s’ Suffrage and Civil Rights movements. Displaying the Liberty Bell across America during the late 1800s brought comfort and encouragement from devastating loss caused by the Civil War conflict.

This symbol is a wonderful and positive visual for our nation. But have you considered how much your Father in Heaven wants liberty for your soul? He provided examples for us to identify with in the scriptures, a pure sacrifice in Jesus Christ; so that we can approach Him and the much promised Holy Spirit. The weight on our soul may seem more than 2,080 pounds. Difficulties and loss we trudge through may seem impossible to deal with. Yet when we lift our eyes up and away from our problems and seek His companionship and wisdom we may actually become an inspiration to others in need. Though the Liberty Bell cracked again in 1835, after years of constant use, it is still an international inspiration.

Whether you’re feeling cracked or misunderstood, find time with Him this day and then proclaim liberty through the land to all its inhabitants. You may be the tone of freedom others need to hear.

No free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue… It is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian forbearance, love, and charity, towards each other. The Virginia Declaration of Rights. June 12, 1776 
 
1 National Parks Service WEB  page (http://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm)
2 Family Encyclopedia of American History, Reader’s Digest Assn., Inc., New York 1975 p. 644
3 We the People, The Citizen and the Constitution, a project of the Center for                         Civic Education, Funded by the U. S. Department of Education by act of Congress p. 51
4 The Pearl Reference Bible, Printers in Glasgow: William Collins, Sons, & Company 1864

​Photos from Williamsburg

"Hope" is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul, And sings the tune without the words, And never stops at all,​  by Emily Dickinson


​Generative artificial intelligence technologies (AI) are forbidden to copy or use for training purposes and/or other purpose the writing, photography, or artwork of Susan Marlene.  No permission is granted to generate text, photography, and artwork in the same style or genre as Susan Marlene’s Work, unless express permission is granted by Susan Marlene. No permission is given to sublicense others to reproduce and/or use Susan Marlene’s writing, photography, or artwork without her permission. 

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