Category: Modern History 1500 CE-PRESENT

1500 CE – Present. Modern history – After the post-classical era

Contemporary history 1945 CE-PRESENTHistoricIndustrial Age 1760-1970 CELate modern period 1500-1945 CEMachine Age 1880-1945 CEModern History 1500 CE-PRESENT

The Oregon Trail

I remember growing up hearing about the Oregon Trail as a video game, then come graduation I drove part of it when I headed to the West Coast. The Oregon Trail is a pioneer trail that extends approximately 2,170 miles from the Eastern to the Western United States. It was used by large-wheeled wagons by primarily Euro-American settlers heading West before the railways were built. It was originally carved by trappers and fur traders from 1811 until 1840, only passable by horseback and foot.
AmericanaArchitectureContemporary history 1945 CE-PRESENTHistoricModern History 1500 CE-PRESENT

Teapot Dome Service Station

What do you get when political scandal meets roadside charm? A giant teapot, of course. The Teapot Dome Service Station in Zillah, Washington, isn’t just a fun photo op—it’s a quirky nod to one of the biggest political scandals in U.S. history. Built-in 1922, this novelty gas station serves up equal parts history and whimsy, making it a must-see for fans of Americana and oddball landmarks alike. Whether you're cruising the highway or brushing up on your history, this little teapot packs a fascinating punch.
ArchitectureHistoricModern History 1500 CE-PRESENT

Fred G Redmon Memorial Bridge / Selah Cliffs

Tucked away in Yakima County, Washington, the Fred G. Redmon Memorial Bridge stands as more than just a passage across Selah Creek. This twin-arch concrete marvel, once the longest of its kind in the U.S., merges human engineering with breathtaking scenery. Towering 325 feet above the rugged Selah Cliffs, it offers travelers unparalleled views while carrying Interstate 82 traffic daily. Whether you're drawn to its architectural significance or its dramatic backdrop, this landmark is a striking blend of functionality and beauty.
BlogContemporary history 1945 CE-PRESENTFolkloreMagical Springs

Stratton Spring (Manitou Springs, CO)

Stratton Spring was drilled in 1936 by the Myron Stratton Foundation., The soda-type spring has a controlled flow of two gallons per minute and is drilled to a depth of 167 feet. This site was the junction of early Indian trails and several major mineral springs. Later it became the major access to the Mount Manitou Incline and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and was the loop were Stratton's Trolley Line reversed to return to Colorado Springs.
BlogContemporary history 1945 CE-PRESENTFolkloreMagical Springs

The Magic and Minerals of Manitou Springs

The little touristy village of Manitou Springs is most famous for its mineral springs, which well up through eight fonts (previously ten fonts, upwards of 50 springs) peppered throughout the town. These springs are free to visit, and each holds its own variation of minerals, magic, folklore, and healing properties that visitors have sought throughout the ages. Each has its unique flavor, natural carbonation, and effervescence.
BlogContemporary history 1945 CE-PRESENTFolkloreMagical Springs

Lithia / Twin Springs (Manitou Springs, Co)

This is one of the more popular springs along Ruxton Avenue due to its high Lithium content. Two springs combine into one, pouring through this font. The water is very sweet, high in lithium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and a top-rated water source for making sweet carbonated lemonade water. Others describe the taste as sweet, tangy, and minerally. Of all the Manitou Springs, it has the highest concentration of magnesium. The font is located outside a storefront entrance.