Author: Jayda

The History Mom

Petersburg National Battlefield (Virginia)

There are over 100 Civil War battlefields in Virginia, and almost 50% of the total number of battles in the entire war were fought here.  One of the easiest battlefields to visit during the heat of the summer and during this time of social distancing is the Petersburg National Battlefield.  Most of the battlefield can be seen during a driving tour, with stops along the way at various interest points.  If you’re looking for a new place to take a drive with the kids, Petersburg National Battlefield is a great choice. Read my new review today!

Hamilton sites (United States/Caribbean)

With the resurgence of interest in Alexander Hamilton, thanks to the popular Hamilton the Musical’s recent release on Disney+, many families would like to plan trips to take their little Hamilfan to Hamilton-related sites. My new post is a comprehensive list of Hamilton sites in several states and the Caribbean. Read it and plan your in person or virtual visit today!

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

As I stated in my review of Yellowstone last year, national parks are wonderful places to combine history education with outdoor activities.  Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many families are not able to travel to the best known national parks this year.  However, right now is the best time to begin planning for summer 2021.  Many of the hotels, restaurants, and activities sell out 9-12 months in advance so you will want to start planning your dream trip today!

Year of Historical Reading – June Update

July 1st marks the halfway point of 2020, and while this year hasn’t gone according to plan for anyone, I am making good progress on my goal to read 100 books and to keep my reading around 85% historical fiction and nonfiction. Read my new post about the June update to my Year of Historical Reading and see what changes I am making to my reading for the rest of the year.

Outdoor Virginia Presidential Sites (Virginia)

The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have prevented me from traveling to any new Presidential sites this month. However, several of my previously reviewed Presidential sites in Virginia have reopened their extensive hiking trails and gardens. With many parents looking for a place to let their children play in the outdoors, these sites make a perfect place to visit during the pandemic! Read my new review today to plan a safe and fun visit.

Henricus Historical Park (Richmond)

Henricus Historical Park near Richmond is the site of one of the oldest settlements in America.  The site was founded in 1611 by English colonists as the second settlement in Virginia (the first was Jamestown).  Today the site is a living history museum with recreated English and Native American structures.  It has reopened after being closed for the coronavirus pandemic, and since it is mostly outside, it is a great place to visit with your family. Read my new review today!

National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis)

One way to learn more about the history of the Civil Rights struggle in America is to visit the moving National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. The museum is built beside the preserved Lorraine Motel, which was where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his last night. The museum is an important and must-see site for families, especially with the current challenges facing our country. Read my new review today!

Travel with Books

I am starting a new video series on social media, highlighting books for kids, teens, and adults that help them travel through history.  I hope to virtually take you to the very places that are featured in the book and when possible, interview the authors to learn more about their book and its place in history. Read my new post today!

National D-Day Memorial (Virginia)

The little town of Bedford, VA lost the most soldiers proportionally of any town in America during the storming of the beaches at Normandy during World War II.  That is why you will find the National D-Day Memorial in this small town that isn’t near an interstate.  Thousands of people flock here every year to pay their respects to all of the soldiers who didn’t make it back home from the attacks.  The memorial usually has a moving ceremony on June 6th, the anniversary of the attacks, but this year, the celebration will be virtual, which means that you and your children can watch from anywhere! Learn more about it in my new post today!