America’s Lost Funeral Trains | The Forgotten Tradition

The Brewster-Douglass Housing Projects in Detroit, constructed between 1935 and 1955, were among the first federally funded public housing projects in the United States. Initially intended to provide decent, affordable housing for African American families, they symbolized hope and progress during a period of rampant racial segregation and economic disparity. Named after prominent African American figures, these projects were once a thriving community that included notable residents such as Diana Ross and the Supremes. However, over the decades, the Brewster-Douglass homes fell into decline due to economic downturns, neglect, and systemic issues within public housing administration. By the early 2000s, the deteriorated conditions led to the demolition of the buildings, marking the end of an era for a significant piece of Detroit's social and architectural history.

29 Juni 202413min

Discovering American Heritage Through Tales of Urban Decay.

22 Juni 202411min

The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, commonly known as the Santa Fe Railway, was chartered in 1859 to serve the rapidly expanding western United States. Its initial goal was to link Atchison and Topeka in Kansas with Santa Fe, New Mexico, facilitating commerce and settlement. Under the leadership of Cyrus K. Holliday and later William Barstow Strong, the railway expanded significantly, becoming one of the largest rail networks in the country. It played a crucial role in the development of the American Southwest, promoting tourism with its iconic Super Chief passenger train and fostering economic growth through freight services. In 1995, the Santa Fe Railway merged with the Burlington Northern Railroad to form the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF), one of the largest freight railroads in North America.

20 Juni 202421min

Saltair was a resort built on the southern shore of the Great Salt Lake in Utah, first opening its doors in 1893. It was conceived by the Mormon Church and local businessmen as a place for wholesome recreation and quickly became a popular destination, renowned for its massive dance floor and scenic location. The original resort was destroyed by fire in 1925 and was rebuilt only to suffer repeated setbacks, including further fires, economic difficulties, and fluctuating lake levels. A second version of Saltair opened in 1931 but also burned down in 1933. The third iteration, opened in 1981, struggled with flooding and financial issues. Despite its storied past and periods of popularity, Saltair never fully recaptured its early 20th-century glory, leaving behind a legacy as a cherished but troubled landmark.

15 Juni 202411min

The Texas City Disaster, one of the worst industrial accidents in U.S. history, occurred on April 16, 1947, when a fire on the SS Grandcamp, docked in the Port of Texas City, caused its cargo to explode.The blast triggered a chain reaction, causing further fires and explosions on nearby ships and in industrial facilities. This tragic event highlighted the dangers of transporting hazardous materials and led to significant changes in regulations and safety practices in the chemical industry.

13 Juni 202413min

In 1960, a significant mid-air collision occurred over New York City, involving two commercial airliners. The incident took place on December 16th when United Airlines Flight 826, traveling from Chicago to New York City, and TWA Flight 266, en route from Ohio to New York City, collided in mid-air. The United Airlines flight subsequently crashed in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, while the TWA aircraft fell in Staten Island. The tragedy resulted in a high number of casualties, including both passengers and people on the ground. The event led to major changes in air traffic control procedures to enhance aviation safety and prevent future accidents.

8 Juni 202410min

The Lucin Cutoff Trestle Bridge, an engineering marvel of its time, was completed in 1904 by the Southern Pacific Railroad to provide a more direct route across the Great Salt Lake in Utah. Designed to replace the original rail route that circumnavigated the lake, the trestle was a significant infrastructure project, stretching over 12 miles across the lake's western edge. This wooden trestle significantly shortened the travel distance and time for trains between Ogden, Utah, and Lucin, Nevada, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. However, the trestle required constant maintenance due to the harsh, saline environment. In the mid-20th century, it was replaced by a more durable causeway, leaving the original structure to become a historical relic, a testament to early 20th-century American railroad ingenuity.

3 Juni 202415min

San Francisco's docks have a rich history that began during the California Gold Rush in 1849 when the city's natural harbor became a bustling gateway for ships carrying prospectors and goods. Rapid growth ensued, and by the late 19th century, the waterfront was lined with piers and warehouses, supporting the booming trade and industry. The docks played a crucial role in World War II, serving as a major hub for military operations and shipbuilding. Post-war, the decline in shipping led to economic struggles, but revitalization efforts in the late 20th century transformed the area into a vibrant commercial and recreational district, epitomized by landmarks such as Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building. Today, the docks reflect a blend of historic significance and modern redevelopment, integral to San Francisco's cultural and economic landscape.

1 Juni 202420min