Queen Victoria introduced Hogmanay to England, bringing with it many a bizarre superstitions and cultural rituals from the Scottish new year celebration.
Carnivale
While the history of carnival celebrations can be traced across the globe over many centuries, the modern-day carnival concept was truly a 19th century invention, originating at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Shortly thereafter, carnival companies began touring the nation, performing at county fairs and civic events. They lured in the crowds with their tantalizing... Continue Reading →
A Door Step Party
No doubt, summer is the most social season the year. It is a time for block parties with the neighbors, family vacations, camping trips, evenings spent in the company of friends on the back deck. Door-step parties were a favorite summer pastime for the Victorians. The Beard sisters described such an event vividly in their... Continue Reading →