Every state has its own unique history and events that shaped it from its humble beginnings until its current status today. While some states have colorful pasts that include gun fighters and gold rushes others have interesting stories to tell regarding the first settlers or that batch of mail order brides.
Some states are known for their food, others for their heroes, and still others for their villains. Learning some of the interesting facts about the state you live in will not only make you feel more a part of the states continuing history, but also may give you some interesting tidbits of conversation for that next together.
Surprisingly, much of the most interesting stories about your state's history won't be found in a book, but rather in old newspaper archives or small town or county museums. These small little insights into the people and events that helped build your own community and others communities that make up your state is an interesting blend of colorful characters, natural disasters, and just plain dumb luck. By exploring the history of your state you can discover not only things about the past, but also things about your own ancestors, your neighbors, and even yourself.
Better yet, poking around those old ghost towns and forts, Checking out that music hall or fame or standing on the ground where a famous battle was fought can make for a great family outing and give you a sense of the roots that were put down years and perhaps a century or two before you born. There is a certain sense of pride in visiting a place where the first car was built or to see the first house had indoor plumping. It gives one bragging rights about the place you live in which you feel pride. Learning about your state history can be a fun and rewarding experience and bring you closer to this place you call home.
