Split Rock Lighthouse got added to our list of must sees after an enthusiastic suggestion from our üCamp friends, Pam & Mike. Our excitement about it elevated to the next level when we pulled in and discovered that it is a Minnesota Historical Society site. Ever since we visited the Oliver Kelley farm we’ve been big fans of MNHS and the quality of historical interpretation they offer, so of course we signed up for the guided tour. Our guide gave us the history of the 1905 Storm of the Century that led to the building of the lighthouse and details of the equipment Of course we geeked over the clamshell shaped Fresnel lens and the fact that all the lighthouse equipment is original and in working order but we also loved the details in the keeper’s house even down to the hand stitched quilts in the bedrooms. And of course there’s the incredible views and the spectacular setting!
London’s Imperial War Museum in Southwark founded even as the First World War raged offers insights into the myriad costs of the wars of the 20th and 21st Centuries. It was a most disquieting but valuable reminder of the myriad costs of war.
The two of us have long been fascinated with the history of canals and their role in the history of transportation, industrialization, and more recently recreation. This stay in London has given us new opportunities to explore and learn more about how canals contributed to the growth of this great city and how they are being used and preserved today.
It was a most educational visit to the newly renovated National Portrait Gallery at Trafalgar Square in Central London. We were intrigued with the contemporary approach to presenting British History.
One for my bucket list. Beautiful picture!