Tag: Washington

Crossing of the Delaware

Crossing of the Delaware

RJ Walters

2018-02-13_10-07-26.pngOne of the first things that most school children are taught about American history is Washington’s crossing of the Deleware River.  Since it happened in the dark of night the day after Christmas in 1776 it was a rather dramatic event.  It was also an important victory for the fledgling American army who had suffered mostly defeats up till then.

If you are ever near Trenton New Jersey you should stop in at the Washington Crossing Historic Park and hear the full story.  The museum there is full of artifacts. Nearby is also the Old Barracks Museum showing things about military life during that period. Both are well worth your time.

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A New Start…

A New Start…

RJ Walters

Trenton, NJ — Crossing the Delaware

The picture above hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The victory at Trenton signaled a new life for the War for Independence. Likewise it signals a new direction for this blog. Not only will I be giving you quick one-shot glimpses of what I found to be the heart of America, I will also be putting up detailed reports to my visits to several places around the country. These visits will be accessed by clicking on the button selections at the top of the home page.  I will announce each new entry with a blog post here.

The Resignation…

The Resignation…

RJ Walters

Washington DC – Resigning His commission

Lets finish up this year with the famous picture as described below. It hang in one of the many galleries in DC.  Here is what the government website says about it:13

The painting General George Washington Resigning His Commission by John Trumbull is on display in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. This painting depicts the scene on December 23, 1783, in the Maryland State House in Annapolis when George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. The action was significant for establishing civilian authority over the military, a fundamental principle of American democracy.

Wilber and Orval…

Wilber and Orval…

RJ Walters

Smithsonian Institute, Washington DC

The plane that Wilber and Orval Wright used to push us into the 20th century is located in the Smithsonian along with many other historical items. This institution is preserving the artifacts that make up the heart of America. If you are even in the area you must brave the horrendous traffic to visit the Smithsonian.

George's Home…

George's Home…

RJ Walters

Mount Vernon, VA – First Presidential Home

I have visited Mount Vernon on three separate occasions now and I think I see something new each time.  This time they provided more info about the slaves of the estate.  It is nice to see that done. Yes, many of our founders were from Virginia and all of them had slaves even Thomas Jefferson who at least via his writings believed in the equality of man.  Until recent time presidents were left on their own after they vacated the Oval Office. There was no pension, secret service agents or such….