The entire world is listening to podcasts these days, aren’t they? Because I enjoy outdoor fitness so much and because my favorite subject is history, I have been excited to find so many history-related podcasts out there, and all for free with my Spotify subscription. Things have flipped for me now and instead of making [...]
By Janice Formichella When the Recollections team heard from a customer how thrilled she was with her new blouse and that it was the perfect touch for her Mrs. Claus portrayal, we just had to learn more. We were intrigued when we learned that Mrs. Claus is the star of the show for the entire [...]
Is it surprising that the carol is thousands of years old? The first carols were not related to Christmas, however. Carols, or circle dances of praise and joy, were originally associated with pagan celebrations throughout the four seasons. With the advent of Christianity, winter solstice celebrations took on a more singular religious meaning. One of [...]
Theresa looked forward to attending the Colfax Annual Ice Cream Social with her grandmother each year. It was an opportunity for her to participate in this sweet treasured tradition, and it was held at the 1886 Victorian home known as the Perkins House. Theresa Fitzerald-Dale loved history and things of old since she was a [...]
The Origins of the Tournament of Roses Parade What do you do when the “flowers are blooming and the oranges are about to bear” and it’s cold and snowy in Chicago and New York? Well, if it is 1890 in southern California, you have a “festival to tell the world about your paradise!” – Charles [...]
If it’s November, it’s time for Dickens fairs! These mid-Victorian London-inspired events pay homage to 19th century author Charles Dickens and the wonderful characters he created. The fairs are popular throughout England and the USA. Each one has its own signature, but all embody the spirit of the time. Here are a few Dickens Fairs [...]
See part one of The 1920s Woman The Flappers emerged onto the American scene in the Roaring 20s and will forever be associated with freedom and fun. The term ‘flapper’ has roots in post-World War I Great Britain. Originally, it referred to “a young girl, still somewhat awkward in movement and who had not yet [...]
When we think of the fashion and attitude of the 1920s woman, the Flapper is what comes most to mind. But, is that all there was to a decade that defined a generation? Come with us on a journey through the 1920s. Let’s explore the fashions and the defining moments that lead to the changes [...]
The legend continues You’re probably familiar with the story of Santa Claus and how his presence and presents have changed over the years. The origins of his wife, on the other hand, are less known. Here’s what we know. As early as the 16th century, ‘Yule and his wife’ would join local public officials in [...]