Jonathan Corwin was a highly respected judge who presided over the Salem witch trials in 1692. His former home, now called the Witch House, remains a popular tourist attraction in Salem, Massachusetts. 

Public Domain:310 Essex Street. Photographer Frank Cousins. Phillips Library at the Peabody Essex Museum, adapted by Wandering Educators

I've got such an interesting, important biography to share with you today. Women's Crusader: Catharine Beecher's Untold Story, by R. Lee Wilson, is an insightful look into the life of a woman I didn't even know existed.

Once I started reading, though, I was so very grateful that Wilson has brought Beecher to life for us. Her story is fascinating; Wilson's deep dive into primary source materials is extraordinary. This is a book about women's rights, women's education, and a very personal life and love story.

A holiday meant to mourn and honor fallen soldiers has turned into a way to ring in summer each year. This holiday, of course, is Memorial Day.

The holiday of Memorial Day began after the Civil War as a way to honor the 750,000 lives lost to the war.

It has turned into a day to remember all those who have served and lost their lives since that conflict ended over 150 years ago. 

Old Fort Niagara is a significant military stronghold that has centuries-old history.

Located at the mouth of the Niagara River, the fort is one of the oldest structures in the Great Lakes region. The fort has well-preserved 18th century buildings, which include the French Castle, soldier barracks, powder magazines (gunpowder storage), and a lighthouse overlooking Lake Ontario. 

Gladys Mae West, also known as Gladys Mae Brown, paved the way for the world's current GPS (global positional system). We use GPS daily, whether on a road trip or traveling on an airplane. 

Photo: Adrian Cadiz, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons