“You’re going to the beach with us. Period.” This came from my father in a firm and direct tone. “Please, Dad! No! I’ll do anything! I promise! Anything!” When he disregarded me, I knew my pleading would get me nowhere. I took a deep breath and tried the calm, cool, and collected approach. “Dad. I really think that you and Mom are just overreacting.” He said nothing. I took this as a good sign. “I already explained that all this,…
Little River South Carolina is one of the oldest communities in Horry County. This quaint fishing village dates back to the early 18th century and derives its name from what local Indian tribes called “Mineola,” meaning “little river.” Early fishermen and farmers, dating back even further to the late 1600s and 1700s, utilized the narrow waterway that empties into the inlet and onto the Atlantic Ocean. Being somewhat of a secluded port, Little River, as legend has it, was known…
Every historic property holds its own fascinating story. Whether it’s a residence, hotel, a gathering hub, or any other structure that has managed to withstand multiple decades, or in some cases centuries, not to mention countless generations, these captivating relics deserve their earned appreciation. But of all the fabulous architectural gems out there, and the extraordinary stories they tell, none can compare to the most bewitching of them all: an epic Victorian mansion located in San Jose, California. Known as…
At 207 East Charlton Street, just across the way from the beautiful Lafayette Square in Savannah, Georgia, sits a quaint 19th century Greek Revival townhouse that’s more than one hundred and sixty years old. Being somewhat of an aficionado of old homes, I often reflect on their history, thinking about the people that have passed through their thresholds and the lives they’ve nurtured day after day, year after year, within their brick and mortar confines. But this particular home, here…
Located just off the beaten path, about ten miles away from the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, stands an arched stone tunnel at the tranquil end of Warner Road. Nestled deep in the hillside, embraced with overgrown mosses, vines, and vibrant autumn foliage, this one hundred and twenty-ish-year-old limestone passageway sits as if it were waiting for an artist to appear with palette and canvas in hand. Although constructed for The Grand Trunk Railway, an early Canadian railway line incorporated…
At the end of Commerce Street and along the historic James River Waterfront sits a most unique hotel in Lynchburg, Virginia. While the historic buildings that make up this hotel originated back in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it has only been hotel-hospitable to guests since 2007. Once upon a time, in this very spot, stood one of the largest shoe companies in the world. The Craddock Terry Hotel, now a 44-room boutique hotel and event center, shares the…
Savannah, Georgia, is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in America, and rightfully so. Established in 1733, Savannah’s haunted history includes secrets of sea-weary pirates, romantic tales of forbidden lovers, and prominent inhabitants that simply refuse to leave their gorgeous Georgian mansions. Fairly harmless and “Casper-friendly,” right? Right. Or so I thought. Within the city’s beautiful backdrop of brick-paved streets, breathtaking architecture, moss-draped oaks, and perfectly polished squares harbor quite an eccentric past. You’d be hard-pressed not…
The tranquil peace one experiences when taking an early morning walk through a cemetery is often hard to describe. Perhaps it’s the pleasant solitude and serenity that only a resting garden can encapsulate as it softly quiets and dissolves the busyness of life around it. If you happen to visit Savannah, Georgia, Bonaventure Cemetery is an absolute must, and far from your typical cemetery. The enigmatic and seductive charm of Savannah certainly carries over into this unmatched sanctuary. Located a…