By Dianne L. Beetler       The poinsettia, a popular Christmas gift and decoration, was unknown in the United States until almost two hundred years ago. It is believed that Joel Poinsett introduced the plant to the U.S. from Mexico.  In 1825, Poinsett accepted appointment as the first U.S. minister to Mexico. During four turbulent years in that country, he spent […]

Let’s also remember that Hanukkah, known as the Festival of Lights, runs until December 6th this year. The Hanukkah celebration revolves around the kindling of a nine-branched menorah, known in Hebrew as the hanukiah. On each of the holiday’s eight nights, another candle is added to the menorah after sundown; the ninth candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to […]

 Hotel de Paris Museum in Georgetown invites you to take your holiday pictures in front of their themed trees.  See Hotel de Paris Museum decked in festive Victorian style decorations. Self- guided tours and terrific photo opportunities in front of their themed trees are offered. It is all hosted by The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in […]

By Robert Reed  The grand holiday of Thanksgiving has been celebrated in many ways over the decades, and a surprising amount of it remains in memories of paper.  Trade cards, holiday postcards, magazine covers, menus, and colorful decorations have all faithfully carried the enduring Thanksgiving theme nationwide.  Historians have long noted that President George Washington delivered an address proclaiming the […]