Late 20th Century

Named for the “Empire state,” New York’s nickname, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world for almost 40 years. It was designed in the Art Deco style, a style popular during the 1920s.   Fun Facts The site of the Empire State Building was a farm…

Since 1800, the White House has served as both a home and an office to U.S. presidents and their families.   Fun Facts John Adams was the first U.S. president to live in the White House. George Washington lived in two homes in New York, followed by a home in…

Since the building’s completion in 1753, Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has been the site of numerous important meetings.   Fun Facts Craftsmen built the State House between 1732 and 1753, working only when the Pennsylvania congress was able to provide funds. The red brick building served as Philadelphia’s state…

Sitting atop the eastern point of Long Island, Montauk Point Lighthouse has guided ships for more than 225 years. It is a National Historic Landmark.   Fun Facts President George Washington ordered the lighthouse’s construction in April, 1792. It was completed in November, 1796. The U.S. Lighthouse Service and the…

One of the most iconic buildings in New York City, the Flatiron Building was named because of its triangular shape that resembles an old-fashioned cast iron flatiron. The Flatiron Building is a New York City Landmark as well as a National Historic Landmark.   Fun Facts In 1857, Amos Enos…

Today Times Square is known for its lighted billboards, theatres, shops, and of course, its New Year’s Eve celebration. But originally, the area was farmed by Dutch settlers who appreciated its access to three streams and the Hudson River.   Fun Facts Times Square is one of the most popular…

Built in 1680, the Paul Revere House is the oldest remaining home in downtown Boston and a National Historic Landmark. It was almost demolished in 1902.   Fun Facts The home was built in 1680. Previously, Cotton Mather’s (Salem Witch Trial) parish home was on the site, but burned in…

Trinity Church in Boston houses one of the oldest Episcopalian congregations in the area, dating back to 1733.   Fun Facts Construction for Trinity Church began in 1872, after the original church burned down. It was completed in 1877 and is made of granite. Over 4,000 households belong to the…

The San Miguel Mission in San Miguel, California is one of the oldest missions in California. Its main purpose 200 years ago was to teach Catholicism to the Salinans, native people who had lived in the region for many years.   Fun Facts The San Miguel Mission was named for…

Thomas Jefferson’s beloved Monticello is one of the most well-known properties in America. On it, Jefferson tested and refined his ideas about science, education, agriculture, and architecture.   Fun Facts Thomas Jefferson was born in 1743 in central Virginia. His family was one of the most influential families in Virginia.…