Travelrific® Travel Journal
Picture postcards in prose.™ Check out the blogroll on the front page for official merchandise and other resources!Archive for July, 2017
A Mecca for Music Lovers
By Linda Tancs
The National Music Museum in Vermillion, South Dakota, is a menagerie of melodious merriment. Carved crocodile zithers. Goldfish-shaped harmonicas. Strutting stringed peacocks. It’s all there, in addition to the oldest known harpsichord, rare Adolphe Sax-made saxophones, the rarest European pianos and other treasures. Lauded as one of the largest and most important collections of historical instruments in the world, the museum publicly displays 1,200 of its 15,000-strong collection, representing American, European and non-Western instruments from virtually all cultures and historical periods. Open year round, state residents enjoy free admission on federal holidays and summer Sundays.
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Prehistoric Life in Pennsylvania
By Linda Tancs
Just minutes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a National Historic Landmark—the site of the oldest human habitation in North
America. Known today as Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, artifacts unearthed there have confirmed a campsite for prehistoric hunters and gatherers that existed 16,000 years ago. Excavations have revealed 10,000 artifacts as well as more than 950,000 animal bones and more than 1.4 million plant remains. An enclosed observation area provides visitors with a unique, never-before-seen perspective into the oldest and deepest parts of this internationally-renowned archeological excavation. The site is open May through October.
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The Hudson River School
By Linda Tancs
The Hudson River School was an American art movement of the 19th century, a group of New York City-based landscape painters that emerged about 1850 under the influence of the English émigré Thomas Cole. Cole’s artistry was inspired by the Catskill region, a place he visited for the first time in 1825 on a sketching trip. His home, Cedar Grove, is a National Historic Site located in the beautiful Hudson Valley in the Village of Catskill, New York, right near the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. Open May through October, his home and studios offer sweeping views of the Catskill Mountains.
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Silver Capital of the World
By Linda Tancs
More than 1 billion ounces of silver were mined in 100 years in the historic mining town of Wallace, Idaho. No wonder it’s called the Silver Capital of the World. And they’re not resting on their laurels; silver production is still a part of the economy. So is skiing and other outdoor recreation. But this time of year it’s the blues festival that draws crowds downtown, where every building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Wimbledon of the West
By Linda Tancs
Southwest of Charles City, Iowa, is a patch of bent grass called the All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club. If that term sounds vaguely familiar, then you’re probably thinking of the All England Club—that venerable institution in London hosting Wimbledon each year. Affectionately referred to as the Wimbledon of the West, the Iowan equivalent was conceived by Iowa farmer and tennis lover Mark Kuhn, who developed a faithful replication of Centre Court at the All England Club. Unlike its British counterpart, you don’t even have to be a pro to play. Just make a free reservation. The grounds are open from Memorial Day through September.
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Rendezvous in Canada
By Linda Tancs
On July 1, 1867, Canada was born when the British North America Act of 1867 put into effect a union of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and the Province of Canada (comprising Québec and Ontario). This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Confederation, prompting a yearlong, countrywide celebration. For instance, more than 40 tall ships will be sailing Canadian waters to mark the occasion during Rendez-vous 2017, which began on June 30 and ends on August 20, 2017. They’re scheduled to stop at host ports in Ontario, Québec and the Maritimes, including a grand celebration at the Port of Québec from July 18 to July 23.
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Food and Drink in Brooklyn
By Linda Tancs
Ever consider the art—and science—of food and drink? You’ll find thought-provoking answers and engaging exhibits at the Museum of Food and Drink in Brooklyn, New York. At the facility’s inaugural design studio and gallery space located in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, you can participate in cooking classes, guided tastings, hands-on workshops, science demonstrations, discussions and seminars. Now there’s plenty of food for thought.
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