THE MAMMOTH CHEESE

            After Jefferson’s inauguration, Elder John Leland encouraged his Baptist congregation in Cheshire, Massachusetts to present a gift to the new president. It was to thank him for his republicanism and his support for religious liberty.  But what would be appropriate?   A “mammoth cheese”!  The congregation was encouraged to contribute Read more…

SURUS

            The use of war elephants probably began in Ancient India.  The weapon gradually moved westward.  Darius III had some at the Battle of Gaugamela (Arbela), but they did not have an impact on the result of the battle. Alexander the Great prevailed.  He met elephants again in India at Read more…

THE HISTORY OF BEER

                Beer is one of the oldest man-made beverages.  It may have first been produced in Ancient China as early as 7,000 B.C.  Archeologists have found beer residue in pottery from that time period.  It was more like mead than beer and had rice, honey, or fruit as ingredients.  The Read more…

ZOPYRUS

                Here is a story from Herodotus.  In the 6th Century B.C., the city of Babylon rebelled against Persian rule.  When Darius I approached the city to restore control, the city gates were closed to him and he had to begin a siege of the city.  The Babylonians were confident Read more…

THE HUMAN TUGBOAT

                Charles Jackson French was born in Arkansas.  He learned to swim in the Red River when he was 8.  In 1937, at age 18, he enlisted in the Navy.  He served four years on the USS Houston.  After getting out, he reenlisted after Pearl Harbor.  He was on board Read more…