Travel Into History: The Website

I have an abiding interest in American history. I also like to travel. So I’ve combined the two and launched a new website: https://travelintohistory.com

Troubling incidents

Given the fervor for tearing down statues of Confederate soldiers and even those of former U.S. presidents, I have become increasingly concerned about the blossoming interest in rewriting the history of our country. If you are a parent with children in grade school, are you concerned, too?

We know that certain facts are glossed over or purposely left out of the history books students are required to read these days. I see “man on the street” segments on TV in which reporters ask questions—simple questions—about American history. Some of the college kids they interview are bright and give the right answers. But most simply have a dazed look in their eyes. They don’t have a clue.

Learning about our past

When I was 12  years old, my parents took me to Williamsburg, VA. My dad said he could think of no other place where I could better “experience” the 18th century and learn about the events that led up to the founding of our country. I loved the homes, shops and taverns. I loved seeing the Governor’s Palace and the Capitol. I was enchanted by the whole look and feel of the Historic Area. Years later, I would actually live nearby and become a proofreader for the wonderful books published by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

Country-wide destinations

So that brings us to Travel Into History. History is everywhere, in big cities, in small towns and in geographical areas you may never even have heard of. The blogs on my new website fall under South, West, Midwest and Northeast. For example, you’ll find Willliamsburg, VA, the opening blog, under “South.” The number of blogs will grow steadily. So, if you’re planning a vacation with your family and you’re interested in a destination with history to explore, keep checking back. New blogs will be available weekly, perhaps even more often. In addition to a brief discussion of area history, each article will include suggestions on how to get there, where to stay, where to eat and more.

Providing inspiration

Learning about your past can be inspiring. Find out about the people who created our country, who fought for us so we could enjoy the freedom we have today. Seek the truth, not someone’s biased interpretation of American history. The facts aren’t always comfortable, but they’re woven into the tapestry of a magnificent nation. Admittedly, Travel Into History leans toward the more positive aspects, but those are nonetheless important. After all, you and your family might as well have fun while you go exploring, right? And when you do, you’ll come away with a greater appreciation for the life you have in the United States today.

“You can’t really know where you are going until you know where you have been.” — Maya Angelou.