Republican senators eagerly agreed to a conference to discuss the Panama Canal Treaty, the Arizona Republic reported Feb. 18, 1903, bringing Sen. Matthew Quay’s dream of Panamanian statehood one step closer. Quay hoped to carry the statehood bill through an appropriations bill. “It is said tonight that the consent of the senators without committing themselves […]
School Kids in 1903 Explain Why Thanksgiving Turkeys are Important
“Kids Say the Darndest Things” may be a television show, but kids have been saying what’s on their minds – and amusing adults – for centuries. In 1903, the Sioux City Journal in Iowa asked the city’s school children to pen an essay on Thanksgiving turkeys. A sampling of the essays were published on Nov. […]
Yes, There Really Was Cocaine in Coca-Cola
We don’t call the soft drink Coca-Cola “Coke” for nothing. The original formula contained cocaine, but how much is debatable. The beverage’s syrup was manufactured with the extract of coca leaves – the leaves contain cocaine – and the caffeine rich kola nut. The beverage was one of several coca drinks on the market in […]
Bathroom and Kitchen Tech at the Turn of the 20th Century
In real estate, bathrooms and kitchens often make or break a sale. In the late 19th century, indoor plumbing was becoming commonplace, and homes were increasingly becoming electrified. This meant that kitchens and bathrooms were, perhaps for the first time, an important consideration when buying or renting a home. Bathroom Tech When bathing and toilet […]