Nacogdoches has had 10 Flags?!

Nacogdoches is a wonderful place to visit and further explore the vibrant history of Texas (I have been to this quaint town twice, once in 2019 when I presented my East Texas State Teachers College research at the East Texas Historical Association conference, and in 2021 on my honeymoon). During each visit, I have craved for more delicious, Southern food as well as time at the many historical sites the town boosts. I plan to make another trip to Nacogdoches soon... yet, the premise of this post is addressing the ongoing mystery on whether 10 flags have flown over Nacogdoches. As history tells us, Nacogdoches has had nine flags prominently displayed in its main square over 400+ years (Nacogdoches is the state's oldest town!). Spain, once Europe's prominent naval power, spread its imperialist tentacles in the New World during the sixteenth and seventeenth century, laying claim to South America, Latin America, and Southwest of the U.S., including Nacogdoches (Natives inhabited the Texas plains during most of this era). The French flag flew over Nacogdoches between 1685 and 1690 (when France and Spain entered negotiations on Texas). In early 1812, José Bernardo Maximiliano Gutierrez de Lara, a Mexican revolutionary, led an expedition through the Texas territory and claimed Nacogdoches as their own; their flag was a green backdrop. 

Stephen F. Austin State University, located in Nacogdoches, displays the town's nine flags in this logo. Photograph from SFA University website.

James Long, an American filibuster, attempted to seize control of Spanish Texas in 1819, several years after the Mexican expedition had failed. Long successfully established an independent government in Nacogdoches in June 1819, however, was defeated by the Spanish that October. Long's Republic flag, a version of the 'Stars & Stripes' with one star in the top-left corner, flew over the Texas town for less than four months. In 1821, Mexico gained their independence from the Spanish Empire, and the Mexican tri-color with the eagle, was attached to Nacogdoches' flag poles, the fifth flag to fly above the small town. Nacogdoches was host to a famously-recorded rebellion in 1826, the Fredonian Rebellion. Haden and Benjamin Edwards, a pair of American empresarios, disputed their contract land claims with the Mexican government and created their own independent republic called Fredonia. The rebels signed their own Declaration of Independence in the Old Stone Fort in Nacogdoches on December 21, 1826, and designed a bi-color flag representing the alliance between the area's Natives and Whites (although Native support ultimately did not materialize). Mexican forces crushed the rebellion in January 1827. Mexico's tenure in Texas did not last long as American settlers declared independence in 1836 and engaged in their revolution against dictator Antonio López de Santa Anna, involving a few recognizable battles such as the Alamo and San Jacinto. The Republic of Texas was created after the war and the iconic 'Lone Star' flag was flown above Nacogdoches. In 1845, the republic, led by the feisty General Sam Houston, ceased to be a nation and joined the United States of America as the 28th state, amid much celebration. The thriving town of Nacogdoches had a brief stint under another flag in the mid-ninetieth century when the insubordinate Confederate States of America succeeded from the Union in the spring of 1861 in a desperate effort to preserve slavery. Yet, the United States' flag was again raised over Nacogdoches when Robert E. Lee's army surrendered in April 1865, and has stayed there since...

The nine flags fly above Nacogdoches' City Hall in 2019. Photograph by the author.

According to an article from The Daily Sentinel, a 10th flag flew over Nacogdoches prior to the start of the Civil War. In early 1861, Nacogdoches resident Marcia Raguet and daughter Mary sewed what is believed to be Texas' first secession flag. The flag (which, reported by Dudley Mosele of the Stone Fort Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, is today unidentifiable) was raised over the Raguet family's warehouse near the historic district. Apparently, there were many citizens who complained about the flag, and Henry Raguet, although opposed to the 1861 succession movement, took up arms with his two sons and defended the flag for several days. Since the CSA was not officially established until March 4, many towns in Texas had their own secession flag (it is rumored that Raguet's flag might have been similar to Bonnie Blue Flag, modeled after the flag of the Republic of West Florida). This mystery remains unsolved, and only time will tell when Nacogdoches historians discover the truth in this rumor and adopt the town's "tenth" flag.

An exhibition of Spanish East Texas in Nacogdoches' historical museum (the town's former post office). The museum, located in the heart of the main square, boosts various exhibitions on the history of Nacogdoches, SFA, and the region. This place is well worth a visit! Photograph by the author.

Grover Cleveland's 1887 Goodwill Tour

I recently wrapped up the Gilded Age in my high school AP US History classes. For a couple of weeks, we had discussed the strength of the titans of industry (including Carnegie and Rockefeller), corruption in the government, unsanitary conditions of inner-city tenements, and daily life of those who labored for many hours in the factories yet consistently found themselves in debt. I enjoy teaching about the characters that inhabited the White House during these decades since the presidents reflected the emotions, identities, and personalities of America in their era (as scholars have recognized, the tone of a presidential administration mirrors the anxiety and hopefulness of their electorate). Today, I intend to describe Mr. Grover Cleveland's role in the Gilded Age as well as his fine ability to connect to voters in a tremendously politically-divided time in America's history.

Grover Cleveland (D), the tubby politician from New York who would later become our 22nd and 24th president. Photograph by Britannica.com.

Grover Cleveland was an unusual victor in a presidential race in late 1884. Foremost, he was a Democrat, the first standard-bearer of his party to be elected to the White House since 1856, prior to the Civil War. His political views did not align with a majority of the electorate (Republican strongholds dominated the voting patterns in the Gilded Age). Also, Cleveland was barely known outside of New York, a state he had called "home" for many years - Cleveland's previous elected offices included mayor of Buffalo and the governorship. Nevertheless, voters, eager to clean up the corruption in government, sent the middle-aged, tubby bachelor to the District of Columbia. Our 22nd president enjoyed marginal success in his first term, challenging the political power of the railroads by creating the Interstate Commerce Commission in 1887, ensuring the continuation of the Gold Standard by opposing any use of silver for money, and reaffirming liberal stances in the Judiciary by appointing two well- qualified, distinguished judges to the U.S. Supreme Court, Lucius Q.C. Lamar and Melville Fuller (who served as the Chief Justice between 1888 and 1910). Cleveland's most notable event during his first administration did not involve politics... but love! The 49-year-old married the 21-year-old daughter of a family friend, Frances Folsom in a private ceremony at the White House. The couple had five children; their eldest, Ruth is the namesake of the "Baby Ruth" candy bar, a delectable treat from the Curtiss Candy Company. Frances had a warm personality and became an immensely-popular first lady, bringing style and heart to the executive mansion that was previously incredibly dull.

Frances Folsom was a student at Wells College in New York when Cleveland began writing her letters. The couple married at the White House in a private ceremony on June 2, 1886. At 21-years-old, she was our nation's youngest first lady. Photograph by Firstladies.org.

In the summer of 1887, President Cleveland began to consider a re-election campaign. Previously, our top leaders followed a "dignified" campaign strategy, which involved greeting/shaking electors' hands on the candidate's front porch. Cleveland, willing to meet at common ground with Republican voters, proposed a grand tour of the West via railroad, where he and the first lady would take an active campaign approach. The president discussed the bold idea with his most-trustworthy "chief of staff" Colonel Daniel Lamont. Lamont had initial concerns about the 5,000 railroad cross-country tour - after the 1881 assassination of President James Garfield, many politicians and advisors became disturbed about the safety and welfare of the president. After much consideration, Lamont permitted Cleveland to embark on his "Goodwill" tour. The president enlisted the help from George Pullman, a renowned businessman, to locate a train. Since he labeled himself as a reform president, Cleveland would pay the costs from the national trip. Pullman found a train with two large railroad cars - one held a smoker, barber shop, and bathroom, while the other car had 10 open-section sleeping berths, luxury smoking room, and buffet. The cars' interior furniture was vibrant blue and copper-colored. Prior to departure, Pullman verified the railroad cars' exterior had fresh paint and gold striping (a striking train car fit for a president!).

This is the front cover of the Harper's Weekly Magazine that was published on October 8, 1887. The magazine sold for ten cents a copy. After departing the Baltimore & Potomac Railroad Station in Washington D.C., the president and his wife sat in the comfortable chairs in one of the train cars, reading the newspaper and admiring the countryside views outside the window. Photograph by Whitehousehistory.org. 

President Cleveland and his wife (who wore a stunning brown silk dress with red trimming, according to the local newspaper) departed from D.C. on September 30, 1887, with six male guests. The party was also accompanied by Arthur Wells, Cleveland's steward, and a gentleman named Tobias, a favorite cook of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. The train snaked through the cities of York, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Harrisburg; large crowds flocked to catch a glimpse of the first couple. Frances gently waved while the president bowed his head at the delightful masses. When the train passed by Indianapolis, 1,000 wishers (who had waited for hours to meet the president) remained very quiet when told that the couple were still asleep. Yet, the excited crowd did not have to wait for long... the president shook hands with more than 20,000 citizens and briefly expressed his happiness at the area's beauty, richness of soil, and industry of citizens the next day at Indiana's state capital building. At the next stop of the Goodwill Tour, St. Louis, Cleveland and Francis were warmly welcomed by a brilliantly-lit bridge across the Mississippi River and a glorious fanfare led by Mayor David R. Francis. After a pleasant night-stay at the Lindell Hotel, 24,000 schoolchildren sang beautiful choruses, bringing the president to tears. The first lady was presented with a floral shield, which would later be hung in the White House private quarters.

During the 1887 Goodwill Tour, Cleveland and Frances observed the illumination of the Bricker Natural Gas Well in Grapeville near Pittsburg, PA. Harper's Weekly depicts the event above. Photograph by Whitehousehistory.org.

In Chicago, the party saw a production at the Columbia Theater and paid respects to those who had died during the "anarchist" bombing at Haymarket Riot in the previous year. Afterwards, the train traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, where the presidential party was housed by William F. Vilas, the postmaster general. Cleveland's right hand was aching so he kept his hands behind his back during scheduled meet-and-greets and happily bowed his head instead. In Nebraska, the couple stopped at Omaha and several smaller towns, where these rural citizens had never seen such celebrities (this was Cleveland's attempt to connect with the "other side of America"). The president also lay a cornerstone for a new YMCA in Kansas City. One of the final stops of the Goodwill Tour was Nashville. The Cleveland's paid a former White House occupant a visit: Sarah Childress Polk, the widow of former President James Polk (in office, 1845-1849). The spirited 84-year-old enjoyed talking about the "old times" in the executive mansion. After the train had passed by the smaller towns and fields in Georgia and the Carolinas, the presidential party arrived back in D.C., 23 days later. The 1887 Goodwill Tour was a great success; the American public (despite differing political views) had overwhelming enthusiasm and support for the first couple. The excursion also showed scholars that Grover Cleveland had stamina (and contrary to the reports of a "lazy, unpopular occupant in the White House") and tugged at the citizens' heart strings. Although Cleveland's trip confirmed the mutual affection between president and the masses, our 22nd president lost the 1888 election. Benjamin Harrison, grandson of the short-lived 9th president William Henry Harrison (who died 30 days into office), was backed by big money and won the electoral college; Cleveland claimed the popular vote. Harrison scored 233 votes and Cleveland secured 168 votes (201 electoral votes were needed to win in 1888). The Republicans snatched the White House reins for four years.

This Harper's Weekly image depicts the Cleveland's stay in St. Louis, where the first couple were treated to a decorative parade. There was much spirit and enthusiasm in the crowd that night! Photograph by Whitehousehistory.org.

With his head held high and holding back the tears, Cleveland vowed to win re-election after Harrison's first stint in the White House. Frances reportedly told the mansion's staff to not touch any of the furniture items because she and her husband would return... four years later, Grover Cleveland strolled back into the presidential role he was most familiar with, riding on a massive blue wave of jubilance and prosperity (the only president to-date to serve two non-consecutive terms). Regardless of Cleveland's lackluster second term (which involved an economic panic in 1893), the New York tubby politician and his 1887 Goodwill Tour showed scholars that he was one of the few Gilded Age leaders to be very much in touch with the public at the end of the nineteenth century.

Two images printed in the Harper's Weekly Magazine that followed Cleveland's 1887 Goodwill Tour. The top image depicts the Cleveland's visiting Mrs. Polk in Nashville, TN, while the bottom image shows the president viewing deer at Belle Meade Park. Photograph by Whitehousehistory.org.

More Information on the 1887 Goodwill Tour:

https://www.whitehousehistory.org/president-grover-clevelands-goodwill-tour-of-1887 

FQM Donut Dollies Article

I recently had the opportunity to write about women volunteers on the front lines during WWI & WWII. The Donut Dollies were Salvation Army and Red Cross volunteers who provided sweet treats and good, 'ole company to the American soldiers. The Dollies also introduced the sugary, delicious treat known as the doughnut to a new audience (common enlistees and French villagers). I am very happy to shed light on these forgotten heroes in American military history; the article was published in the online edition of the French Quarter Magazine, which is edited by my friend Isabelle Karamooz. This is my fifth article that I have penned for the online FQM. Since I am discussing the 'Great War' in my AP United States history classes this week, I intend to show my article and introduce my high school scholars to the Donut Dollies. Check out the article below (digital link).

Donut Dollies FQM Article

Salvation Army volunteer Helen Purviance provided a delicious, sweet slice of comfort to American soldiers on the front lines during WWI (since the conditions in the trenches were horrible, the young lads in uniform loved the treats). She created the iconic doughnut circular mold in 1917. Author's collections. 

Additionally, I received my United States citizenship! After a tedious, yet rewarding process, I aced the American history/government test and took the oath to officially become a US citizen. I am glad (and relieved) that I am now able to exercise my political freedoms at the voting booth and proudly wave the 'Stars & Stripes'! God bless these United States!

I am now a USA citizen! I brought along my personal copy of the Constitution to the immigration center, where I swore my oath of allegiance. Wooooo! Author's collections.

The Riley Cemetery, Colleyville

I have always been interested in the smaller parts of history. For example, when I moved back to the City of Coppell, I was amazed to find out that the little community has a small cemetery (with only two stones) that is surrounded by modern developments, including large houses. The Historic Bethel Cemetery is a tiny piece of living history that appears to be on the edge of being engulfed by the hustle and bustle of our technological world. For this reason, one might not have been surprised that I was excited about the Riley Cemetery in Colleyville when my wife and I recently stumbled on the historic site during a house-hunting excursion.

The Riley Cemetery in Colleyville (preserved by the Carrollton Historical Society) has several graves still standing. One of these stones belongs to a Civil War veteran. Photograph by the author.

Jacob Riley (b. 1815), a resident of Indiana, moved to Texas in the 1850s for new economic opportunities. He received a land grant of 160 acres on Indian Creek in southeastern Denton County. Riley became very wealthy from cotton and other crops that grew well in Texas' warm climate. Riley's family held the land for over 100 years, and as the descendants died the bodies were buried on site. Riley's Cemetery was high enough to avoid flooding from the nearby Trinity River, and it remained undisturbed until residences were built around the site, starting in 1996. Today, Riley Cemetery remains one of the few family burial sites in the state since developers have used the lands to construct houses and office spaces to accommodate the recent influx of immigrants to Texas. I snapped a few photographs of this quaint treasure and paid respects to Mr. Riley and his family (the cemetery currently has about 8 graves). These are the living history plots that need to be saved and preserved for generations to follow us.

The Riley Cemetery is located on a hill and avoided past flooding from the neighboring Trinity River. I am really glad I stumbled on this hidden Texas treasure! Photograph by the author.

Barnett Gibbs, TX Politician

Did you know that the City of Coppell's first name was "Gibbs"?! In 1887, the farming community in North Texas was named in honor of Barnett Gibbs, a Texas senator and lieutenant governor, before the name was changed to "Coppell" in 1890, after George Coppell, a distinguished New York businessman who was closely associated with the railroads (the town's post office officially changed its name in 1892). In this blog post, I share a brief history of Barnett Gibbs, a prominent state politician in his time.

Barnett Gibbs was a tall man (standing at 6'1") and known to be very pleasant towards friends, yet blunt towards political enemies. Photograph from Texas Legislature Archives.

Barnett Gibbs, the son of a judge and schoolteacher, was born on May 19, 1851 in Yazoo City, Mississippi. The young boy excelled at his studies at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, and the University of Virginia, before attaining a Juris Doctorate from the Law School of Lebanon, Tennessee in the early 1870s. Gibbs craved for a new adventure after graduation and migrated to Dallas in 1873 - despite not having a found entrance among the city's aristocracy, Gibbs had a clear head and an indomitable ambition to rise in the world. The young attorney, skilled and possessing a charismatic yet genial personality, wooed the citizens of Dallas, who later overwhelmingly elected him city attorney. He held this role for six years. Owing to his popularity, Gibbs rose the ranks and was elected to the Texas Senate in 1882 (one of the youngest men in Texas's history to be voted into this office). In the state senate, Gibbs championed the economic liberties of the working class. Texans enjoyed Gibbs' persistence and work ethic in the Legislature and elected him to the Office of Lieutenant Governor in 1884 (today, he remains the youngest L. Gov. in state history). The governor during this period, John Ireland, frequently undertook trips out of the state, leaving Gibbs as the "acting governor of Texas". In this capacity, he earned great credit as a talented orator and compromiser. 

Photograph of Coppell's train depot after the name of the farming community changed from "Gibbs" in the early 1890s. Photograph from the Coppell Historical Society Archives.

Even after he left the lieutenant governor office in 1886, Gibbs remained a highly-sought profile within the Texas Democratic Party. Gibbs' political friends in Austin persuaded him to run for the United States House of Representatives in 1896, yet Colonel J.C. Wellborn, the Republican candidate, narrowly won the race after a shaded compromise between the two parties behind closed doors. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Gibbs continued to influence the decisions of the politicians, playing a major role in the state's prohibition campaign and assuming an active part in securing a suitable harbor on Texas' coast. He attempted to run for the Texas governorship on the Populist Party platform in 1898, but was decisively beaten by Democrat Joseph D. Sayers (71% v. 28%) - incumbent Charles Allen Culberson retired. In his twilight years, Gibbs rejoined the TX Democrat Party and invested in Mexico mining companies. He married Sallie Haynes, daughter of a prominent businessman J.W. Haynes, and the couple had two children, Sallie and Willie. The Hon. Barnett Gibbs died on October 5, 1904 in Dallas (according to the Palestine Daily Herald, the cause of death was kidney failure). Gibbs' funeral was held two days later on October 6. Reverend P.R. Knickerbocker of Dallas' Grace Methodist Church presided, and as stated by the Dallas Morning News and Palestine Daily Herald, Gibbs' "procession to Oakland cemetery was one of the largest ever witnessed in this city." In spite of being a footnote in today's history books, Barnett Gibbs was a significant activist in Texas politics.

                                                                                    ***

For more information on Mr. Gibbs: https://ioof-grand-lodge-texas-pgm.weebly.com/barnett-gibbs.html 

Cruise & Random History Facts

As 2021 closes (with positives and negatives), I look forward to 2022! I intend to start the new year as a more knowledgable, generous, and helpful teacher at Coppell High School, as well as expand my already-wide networking circle of scholars and academic supporters. I plan to draft many more engaging, student-driven lesson plans for my AP US history classes, in addition to traveling the state, either visiting archives or presenting my research to community groups. I am currently contemplating the subject my next book (either about the Titanic or a president). I am excited to see what the future has in store for me!

My wife and I recently disembarked from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. This was our first cruise and we both thoroughly enjoyed the brilliant experience. The ship's staff was very courteous and kind, the dining room food was fantastic (top-nosh food - small portions yet rich, delicious bites), and the entertainment was amazing (which included dance-parties, Bingo, trivia, and late-night music shows). Our ship docked at Cozumel, Mexico for several hours, and we were able to walk around and immerse ourselves in another vibrant culture. The weather on the cruise was gorgeous, sunny with a little breeze (yet I did not get a tan). Photographs from this terrific voyage are below. I have also put some random history facts (since we all occasionally enjoy learning about our nation's story). Bye-Bye 2021, and Hello 2022!

* Registered letters were first accepted by the US Post Office in 1855

* Colored motion pictures were shown for the first time in 1922 (the first full-length animated movie was Walt Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which was released in 1937)

* The nation's first "drive-in" gasoline filling station opened in St. Louis, MO, in 1905

* Meat was shipped in a refrigerated car for the first time in 1862 (during the Civil War)

* The first traffic light in New York City was installed in 1920 at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue

* The first Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) was awarded by Yale University in 1861. Yale permitted women to enroll in their PhD program starting in 1892

* The United States' first population census was taken in 1790 (shortly after Washington became president) - the nation's population at that time was 3,929,214

* The first non-stop flight from New York to San Francisco was in 1923 by a single-engine plane. The time of this flight: 26 hours and 50 minutes...

* Andrew Jackson was the first president to travel by railway (he was known as the "people's president")

* The first execution in an electric chair occurred in New York in 1890 (its use has recently declined)

* The first bricks made in the US were created in Baltimore in 1827. Prior to this date, bricks for construction of furnaces and houses had to be imported, mostly from England

* The nation's first transcontinental telephone was installed in 1915 (the Pony Express and later telegraph would be the principle means of rapid communication before this invention)

* The subway in New York City was constructed in the early 1860s (at the outbreak of the Civil War) and ran about one city block. The fare was only 25 cents!!

* The first presidential inauguration to be broadcasted on the radio was Calvin Coolidge's in 1924. There was a network of 24 radio stations back then

* Connecticut claims to be the first state to issue drivers automobile licenses, beginning in 1907

* Herbert Hoover, the unfortunate man who occupied the Oval Office at the start of the Great Depression, was the first engineer and Quaker to be elected president (also, Woodrow Wilson has been our only president who received a doctorate)

My wife and I wish you a very Happy New Year! Welcome, 2022!!

The cruise ship was beautiful, especially at night. It was a wonderful experience looking over the main swimming pools under the dark sky when everyone was in bed - peace and quiet!

The cruise food (breakfast, lunch, dinner) was fantastic! I ordered Eggs Benedict for every breakfast.

There were a group of specialty restaurants on the cruise ship, including Johnny Rockets (a diner where you can enjoy an 'ole-fashioned American cheeseburger and milkshake).

Our Royal Caribbean cruise ship was the Adventure of the Seas - it was a marvelous ship!

Disneyland's Proposed Liberty Street

Prior to the end of the fall semester, I discussed the dismal, rather-ineffective presidencies of Andrew Johnson and Ulysses S. Grant during the Reconstruction Era in my APUSH classes (the presidency fell into a lackluster state following Abe Lincoln's assassination in April 1865). I persuade my students to learn about the characters that once held the highest office in the land so that they will have a clearer visual timeline on American history (this categorization will assist them- and hopefully eliminate tricky chronological issues- during the AP exam). Also, since the presidents represented the attitudes and personalities of a majority of Americans during their time in office, it is easier to analyze the identities of the nation. To boot, learning about the presidents is fun and rather amusing (did you know that Andrew Jackson received a 1,200 lb lump of cheese from a New England diary farmer as an inauguration gift in 1828?). At the start of the Reconstruction lesson, I talked about one of my favorite attractions at Walt Disney World, the Hall of Presidents (a cheery subject to examine before teaching the depressing events of the post-Civil War period, including A. Johnson's impeachment and the numerous scandals in U.S. Grant's administration).

The 1956 proposal for Liberty Street at Disneyland, CA, included thirteen buildings (taverns, print shop, blacksmith, show-buildings, and a harbor with a large boat). Concept art on Disney Blog.

I thoroughly enjoy the Hall of Presidents every time I visit Walt Disney World. Not only is it an attraction on a staple in American history and government - two academic passions of mine- the ride provides its audience a refreshing, air-conditioned break from Florida's yucky humidity. An original Walt Disney idea, the Hall of Presidents opened on October 1, 1971, along with the rest of Disney's Magic Kingdom on Lake Buena Vista in Orlando. The ride is housed in a building resembling Philadelphia's Independence Hall (where the first and second Congress met to sign the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution), and suitably located in Liberty Square, a Colonial America themed-land (which includes a few replicas of the Liberty Bell and Tree). The audience is treated to a 25-minute movie on the history of the United States, which includes brief examinations on some of our greatest leaders, before introducing Disney's robotic collection of the presidents (there are 45 animatronics, depicting the men who have ascended to the Oval Office- Disney definitely did their research since some of the presidents' likeness are on point!). While each president moves their head, blinks their eyes, and makes slight hand gestures, only 3 get an opportunity to speak. Abraham Lincoln delivers his famous 1863 Gettysburg Address; the inaugural oath-taker, George Washington, repeats the 1789 oath of office; and the current president (in this 2021 case, Joe Biden) speaks on America's bright future and economic promise. In my class, I showed my students a few photographs of Disney's presidential animatronics, and we compared them with photographs of the actual presidents (some were eerily similar).

A replica of Independence Hall would be located at the end of Liberty Street and house the themed-land's main attraction (a ride similar to the current Hall of Presidents in Walt Disney World). Concept art on Disney Blog.

The Hall of Presidents is a fantastic experience, and I wish we had more of this attraction. Although I can only dream of this, it is worth noting that Disneyland in Anaheim, CA, was going to have its own version of Liberty Square. Walt Disney had always been interested in history (Main Street USA was based on historical relics from his hometown while the American frontier provided the inspiration for Frontierland). The animator-turned theme park developer created a plan to include a colonial-inspired street next to Main Street USA called Liberty Street. When this was announced in 1956, one year after the Disneyland park opened, the expansion seemed like a perfect tribute to our nation's beginnings. The concept art showcased thirteen colonial-style buildings, paying tribute to the original 13 colonies- merchants and traders in costume would loudly greet guests to another world. Guests would also have an opportunity to practice colonial crafts (such as weapon-molding and newspaper printing) before purchasing their creations from the blacksmith and print shop. At the end of the cul-de-sac, guests would enter Independence Hall and be treated to a movie presentation titled The Hall of Presidents (similar to the current attraction at Walt Disney World). Since the animatronic technology was not yet invented, the presidents were planned to be non-moving wax figures. There was also another proposed attraction- The Hall of Declaration of Independence- which told the dramatic story of the birth of the United States through 3 famous paintings.

Liberty Street was going to be placed next to Main Street USA (today, this is an area used by crew members). Notice another planned land called Edison Square was going to be located next to Tomorrow Land, but that proposal was also shelved (Edison Square was going to highlight America's top inventors). Concept art on Disney Blog.

The colonial street idea was amazing, and gathered much attention among the Disneyland Park stakeholders, however, plans went astray when other attraction projects took the spotlight. Walt Disney helped create and publicize several new attractions at the California theme park in the late 1950s, including the "highway in the sky" Monorail System, bumpy Matterhorn Bobsleds, and innovative yet costly Submarine Voyage (these were the first E-ticket rides at the original Disney park). When Walt Disney's Liberty Square opened in Florida, the plans for a Liberty Street in California were shelved (although the original park has a movie-animatronic attraction today featuring our 16th president titled Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, which I too thoroughly enjoy). Despite the Liberty Street plans never coming into fruition, I am glad that thousands of guests are able to learn, enjoy, and celebrate the lives of our nation's formidable leaders at Walt Disney World today. God bless America!

Despite the Liberty Street plans being scrapped at the start of the 1970s, Disneyland currently has a Main Street USA attraction featuring a lifelike robot of our 16th president titled Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. This is one of my favorite attractions at Walt's original theme park (it was a successful part of the 1964 World's Fair). Photograph from MickeyBlog.com.

*If you are interested in learning more about the history of Walt Disney's theme parks, I would recommend checking out the DisneyParks Blog: 

https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/ 

Our first president, George Washington, stands tall and speaks in a dignified manner during the Hall of Presidents attraction (I wonder if this robot Washington has wooden teeth?!). Presidents James Monroe and Barack Obama are in the background. Photograph by Touring Plans.

An animatronic of Donald Trump, our 45th president, looks on as his successor, Joe Biden, talks during the Hall of Presidents show at Walt Disney World. Trump made a speech during his time in office, 2017-2021. Photograph from MickeyBlog.com. 

Joe Biden joins the 44 other 'robot' presidents at Walt Disney World's Hall of Presidents attraction. Biden makes a speech during the show. Note that the incumbent is surrounded by some of his predecessors, including Ulysses S. Grant, James Buchanan, Franklin Pierce, and Andrew Johnson. Photograph from USA Today.

1st HS Semester Reflection

My first semester as a high school teacher has been fantastic!! I have thoroughly enjoyed discussing America’s history with inquisitive learners, collaborating with like-minded educators who also want to challenge their students, as well as constructing strong relationships with my talented mentees that will last a lifetime. I have also appreciated the support and constructive feedback I have received from my iTeach mentor, Roy Culberson, who has shown me how to further continue engaging students in active learning activities, in addition to pursuing new uses of instructional technology to enhance students’ experiences in my classroom. After a moment of reflection, I intend to continue to create real-world, engaging lessons in the future. 

My 2nd Period on the last day of the fall semester. My APUSH students are always happy and eager to learn about new characters and events in American history! Photograph by author.

Content Knowledge

Learning content is paramount in an Advanced Placement United States history class. Since my students are preparing to take the AP exam at the end of the academic year, it is essential that I incorporate testing strategies as well as content in my lessons. On observation day, my class and I reviewed the key concepts from the previous class (a check for understanding) prior to discussing the content of that day. During the brief lecture with a PowerPoint presentation, students were tasked to identify key themes and concepts and put those in their own words on paper. Instructional strategies used during this part of the lesson involved direct instruction and note-taking (the latter being a crucial skill to master in a college-level class). One of my learning objectives for the students was for them to acquire a preliminary knowledge of the infamous abolitionist John Brown and a failed raid on Harper’s Ferry in 1859, the election of Abe Lincoln in 1860, and the subsequent succession of Southern states in 1861 (prior to the first battles of the Civil War). I take pride painstakingly preparing for each lesson by reading scholarly books and journal articles about the concept; in doing so, I become very comfortable and confident in answering my students’ follow-up questions after the lecture so that they become more familiar on the topic (which may incite independent research afterwards). 

Most of the second-half of the observation class consisted of an activity that allowed students to further practice a skill they will need to grasp for the AP exam. Students were tasked to read and analyze a variety of primary documents (including speeches and political documents from the 1850s) using the AP ‘HAPPY’ analysis: Historical context, audience, purpose, point of view, and why is the document relevant and important to study. Students were able to easily access the documents via Schoology, the school’s data platform, and work in groups to complete this assignment, giving them the opportunity to gather feedback and other points of view from their peers. The activity focused heavily on independent learning (reading) as well as collaboration. Ultimately, the students partook in a meaningful learning experience, further developing their comprehension and investigation abilities, which they will use for a lifetime.

I was humbled to be recognized as the Social Studies Department Teacher Spotlight for the month of December. I intend to continue playing an integral role in my department's leadership team and on various committees. Photograph by author.

Communication

Effective communication plays a key role in my classroom. It is my objective that every student naturally gets excited to enter my classroom and travel back in time to eagerly learn history. To address this exhilaration, I greet each student with a bright smile and a friendly, overly-elated character. On the day of the observation, after I welcomed my field supervisor into the room, I strolled around the class, laughing and chatting with students — since the start of the year, I continue to enjoy listening to their outside-the-classroom life stories, which include discussions on evening band practices, athletic games, and the most recently-released movies on Disney+ or Netflix. These informal conversations not only give me a fantastic opportunity as a teacher to further educate myself on the hectic yet rewarding lives my students follow, but also allow the students to relax and take a deep breath before the bell rings, signaling the start of class. Since I foster a civil “thinking tank” in class, I strongly encourage my students to share their familiar knowledge, and politely criticize the opposing idea while not pointing fingers at a person. On observation day, I led a small “popcorn” discussion prior to the lecture, persuading students to look over their notes from the previous class, answer review questions, in addition to assisting others who appeared to struggle at mastering the content. 

My positivity and collaborative, welcoming classroom environment permitted quieter students to feel at ease answering the questions (at times, with assistance from peers). Also, if a student gave an incorrect answer, I praised the part of their response that was right (mentioning that their reply was “on the right path, yet not quite…”) before I offered the question again to the same student or another student who was willing to provide an answer. If the class appeared to be befuddled at the content or confused by the question’s wording, I dissected the question into smaller parts, personally navigating my students to an area where the correct answer was attainable. For example, I offered one of my students a chance to answer a question on the Compromise of 1850; the student was able to recall Henry Clay, the author of this proposal, but gave me information on the 1820 Missouri Compromise. I awarded positive feedback for the “Henry Clay” response, briefly mentioned the events of the era that influenced the law (i.e. California applying for statehood), and encouraged the student to carefully re-think the answer using the clues I had given them. Aside from the discussion, I practiced clear, precise language as well as appropriate vocabulary during the lecture. Direct instruction was also accompanied by hand gestures and a PowerPoint presentation, suitable for my visual learners. Since I taught college-level history prior to this academic year, I have had to adjust my instructional approach. To accommodate high school learning styles, I begin my lessons discussing the bigger themes prior to chunking those large ideas into smaller, detailed parts.   

I love talking about the subject I am passionate about! Photograph by author.

Professional Dispositions

My sincere enthusiasm for teaching and keen interest in American history shows students my devotion to the class (and my willingness to help them succeed). Since I am jubilant and happy at the start of class, my students’ attitudes towards school and history positively change when they walk through the door; every day, my students have appeared to own productive identities by opening their spiral notebooks without question, and excited to take notes and learn about a new era in American history. Like every other evening before the next day’s lesson, I planned an informative, interactive, and student-driven lesson outline for the observation—the lesson plan, which I talked about at the start of my observation class, consistently keeps the class on track (since the AP curriculum covers a lot of content in a short timeframe, this schedule is very important!). On top of stressing organization in class and via my daily routine, I always dress in a suit and tie and am properly groomed. Teachers and administrators are role models for their students, and should exhibit a professional appearance in the classroom (this gives me many opportunities to highlight the type of professional attire many of my students will wear when they obtain interviews and jobs). On the day of the observation, I confidently wore my suit and was punctual in meeting and exchanging pleasantries with my iTeach observer at the office.

During discussions, I stress to my students that they should listen to every viewpoint before making a comment. They should criticize the idea if they are opposed to it, and not the person making the comment. This comfortable, inviting classroom atmosphere provokes the quiet students in class to speak and share their views (without the fear of being publicly ridiculed). On observation day, I discussed the importance of Cowboy GRIT with my students; “Gratitude, Respect, Integrity, Trust” —these are the principles every student and teacher at Coppell High School follow. I emphasized the fact that honesty and valuing diversity in the world goes a long way and this ethical behavior is the civil conduct we should demonstrate every day. Since my students are heavily involved in extra-curricular activities and club projects outside of the class,  my homework schedule offers flexibility (as I was an athlete in high school, I comprehend how relieved a student becomes when their teacher extends a pressing deadline). On observation day, one of my students approached me to request an extension for the sourcing assignment on the grounds that she would have to miss the class it is due in because of her off-campus volleyball tournament. I thanked the student for telling me and approved her request. Since the observation, that student helped the volleyball team win the tournament and submitted a first-rate assignment with barely any flaws or misdirection. In a nutshell, I consistently exemplify professionalism, flexibility, and respect for others, with the intent of providing guidance and support to all my students.

In this teaching position, I have bumped into many old friends and colleagues. At a recent Coppell High School swim meet, I reconnected with one of my old swim club teammates, Trevor Doyle. Trevor teaches chemistry and is currently the head swim coach at Denton Guyer High School. Photograph by author.

Technology

I consistently utilize PowerPoint presentations with graphics during my lectures, offering my students many visuals to look at during the lectures. I believe black-and-white photographs, charts on military and political statistics, and maps of the United States assist my students in comprehending the gravity and geographic landscape of a historical situation. For example, as I discussed the presidential election campaign of 1860 in this lesson, I showed my students various political cartoons from magazines of the era, which chastised Abraham Lincoln’s anti-slavery platform, in addition to ridiculing the Republican candidate’s “ape-like” persona and Mary Todd Lincoln’s “chubby” figure. The visuals revealed the campaign to be a cut-throat and bitter crusade for the Lincoln’s, often getting horrifyingly personal. In an effort to connect this campaign with the election results, I showcased a large map on the projector, highlighting the electoral votes for each candidate and Lincoln’s failure to win a single vote in the pro-slavery Southern states. My students’ understanding of Lincoln’s struggle to political power as well as the staunch Southern opposition towards the platform of the Republican Party was enhanced by the illustrations, evidenced by the lively student-led discussions that happened later.

Towards the end of the lesson, I tasked my students to access an online collection of primary sources from the 1850s—the documents included political speeches and records that had a significant impact on the events leading to the Civil War. Students analyzed the dense rhetoric and authors’ messages of each document (using an Advanced Placement skill, ‘HAPPY’), and with their iPad Apple pencils, completed a chart that they are later going to utilize in a Socratic seminar. Also, students were able to find another digital primary source of their choice (from the decade prior to the war) and evaluate the importance of it, creating a personalized episode for my learners. The sourcing activity involved students further developing scrutinizing skills, which they will need to master for the Advanced Placement exam at the end of this academic year. Moreover, I placed emphasis on the importance of using technology effectively, indicating to students in my class which websites should be used for scholarly purposes (which does not include Wikipedia). Since citations are notably required for college-level history essays, I also showed my students the importance of quoting and recognizing their sources. Fortunately, my students were all present in class on the day of the observation, eliminating Covid-challenges, including technology issues on Zoom or Teams. Moreover, students were able to collaborate with one another, face-to-face, with or without technological devices. In sum, technology played an instrumental role in enabling my students to visualize origins and consequences in history, and further mature as digitally-competent Advanced Placement scholars.

                  ***

A Brief History of Captain LeTellier's School

I have studied and written about a number of higher education institutions in Texas during the Gilded and Progressive Eras, including Austin College (Sherman), Wesley and Burleson Colleges (both Greenville), and the College of Industrial Arts (Denton). Furthermore, I have extensively researched the history of the now-defunct North Texas Female College in Sherman (later renamed to Kidd-Key College). This school served as the stomping grounds for Sallie Brooke Capps - the subject of my recent book - who learned to appreciate music, languages, and the fine arts. Since the North Texas Female College was an academy for young girls, male students were treated to a quality education at an institution on the outskirts of Sherman that was managed by Captain John Henry LeTellier. Today, I will write a history on LeTellier's school.

Sherman was a popular place for traders to sell their products (traders traveled as far as Missouri). This 1877 photograph illustrates the beehive of activity in Sherman's town square following Reconstruction. Sherman was nicknamed the "Athens of Texas" since the quaint, rural town was home to some of the best schools in the state (including Austin College, Kidd-Key College, and Captain LeTellier's School). Photograph from Author's Collections.

Sherman's first public school for young boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 18 opened after the Civil War in the late 1860s. The Sherman Male and Female School was housed in the town's Odd Fellow's Hall and followed a rigid curriculum in writing, English grammar and composition, history, geography, science, philosophy, Latin, Greek, book-keeping, algebra, and geometry. William Pitt Petty, minister of Sherman's Methodist Church, was the school's principal. Hired teachers included J.E. Wharton, Miss Vida Younger, Bob Shannon, Miss Mollie Owen, and Capt. John H. LeTellier, a former Confederate soldier. Older high-school-aged students were taught in classrooms on the first floor of the old building, while younger pupils (including Sallie Brooke) studied on the second floor. Once the school had been established, leadership reins were turned over to J.C. Parks, a distinguished educator and textbook author from St. Louis, MO. In 1871, the academy became a school exclusively for female students. This meant there was need for a male school in Grayson County (since Austin College did not move to Sherman until 1876 - yellow fever in its old Huntsville location persuaded the Austin College Board of Trustees to move their private academy to the cooler North Texas region, and I am glad it did!). Capt. LeTellier took matters in his own hands.

John Henry LeTellier (b. January 28, 1842) was a graduate of Albernale Military College and Bethany College (both in Virginia) and enjoyed a teaching career in the Commonwealth before enlisting in the Confederate Army in 1861. He diligently served in the 24th Virginia Infantry, Company K. LeTellier took part in the battles of Manassas, Williamsburg, and Seven Pines under the command of General George Pickett prior to getting wounded in North Carolina skirmish in 1864. After the Civil War, LeTellier resumed his teaching duties and moved to Texas in February 1861. Photograph from Author's Collections.

The Confederate veteran, whose smile and calm demeanor was a favorite among students, established his school for young boys in the fall of 1871. A large frame building on South Travis Street was outfitted with classrooms and an auditorium (which Austin College and Kidd-Key College would use frequently). Since the captain was an esteemed educator and known by many, the student population swelled. Students from out of town, eager to acquire a high-caliber education, roomed with Sherman civilians. At first, tuition was only $3,000 per month (which included textbooks), but that sticker price would steadily increase as more students filtered through the doors. LeTellier enjoyed mentoring his students outside of the classroom, and was often found playing soccer and board games with the boys during the two 15-minute recess slots each day. After school, students who lingered on campus a little longer were frequently treated to a guitar and singing performance by the captain. Some recollect that his soothing voice "whistled" in the wind. The challenging curriculum included subjects taught at the female academy, in addition to military sciences and strategies (the captain intended to drill the importance of leadership in every lesson). Traditions held at the academy included a hotly-contested pecan hunt in the fall and a grand April Fool's Day trick every spring. Despite his strict Christian character, LeTellier permitted male students to congregate and dance with females from Sherman's other academies. The captain's school played host to several large dances (Austin College and Kidd-Key students enjoyed these festivities!), where a colored musician named "old Jim" beautifully played the fiddle.

A photograph of Captain LeTellier's boys, c. 1875. The captain, with his long, white beard, is on the far left. Photograph from the Ivert Mayhugh museum collection.

A popular subject among the students was mathematics since, according to alumnus J.N. Dickson, Captain LeTellier's "reputation was built on teaching business math because it was most vital in those days to be proficient in that subject." The captain's daughter, Miss Clifford LeTellier, also taught at the school (and later at Baylor University in Waco). The academy with its robust academic standards, remained popular until the death of the captain on July 18, 1913. After LeTellier's burial, the campus was razed and the old property was purchased by Levis Hall Sr. (one of the captain's former students), who built his home there. There was a class reunion on June 21, 1969 in Sherman, where a group of ex-students gathered and took a fond trip down memory lane, recollecting cheery stories of their times with Captain LeTellier. Although the captain's private academy is now a footnote in the history books (and faded from public memory since the alumni have passed on), its impact on Sherman's education was significant and should be noted so.

Captain LeTellier's ex-students reunited at Sherman's Ramada Inn in 1969. They swapped fond stories of their former principal. Photograph from Author's Collections.

*More information on the captain's school can be found in "An Illustrated History of Texas" by Graham Landrum and Allan Smith (pp. 99-100) as well as various newspaper clippings in Sherman newspapers.

While wandering around the Touch of Class Antique Mall in Sherman, I found several Austin College yearbooks. This is a page from the 1977 yearbook, depicting the college's distinguished history department. Dr. Edward H. Phillips was the dept. chair at that time. Two of my former professors and close friends, Drs. Light T. and Vicki Cummins are pictured. I love looking at these relics of the past! Photograph from 1977 Austin College Yearbook, Touch of Class Antique Mall.

CHS Sidekick Teacher of the Week

I was recently bestowed the honor of 'Teacher of the Week' by the student newspaper at Coppell High School, The Sidekick. The article is found below. I am blessed to have a fantastic job at one of the top-rated high schools in the state; my students are amazing, talented and eager to learn all areas of American history. Moreover, I have a supportive administration and APUSH team that always push me to do my best every day. I enjoy discussing my passion (history stories - including those not mentioned in the textbook: did you know that Andrew Jackson had a 'cheese-themed' party on the night of his 1828 inauguration?!) and giving students the unique opportunities to grow academically, socially, and professionally. I humbly accepted the honor with a bright smile and a tear (knowing that I am changing their lives one day at a time), and will continue to challenge and nurture the students in my classroom. As the first-half of the academic year winds down (winter break is in two weeks), I will reflect upon my classroom performance thus far over the vacation and recharge my batteries before the New Year. I am excited to see what 2022 has in store for my students and I!

Sidekick article (written by Yaamini Jois, who did an excellent job!): 

https://coppellstudentmedia.com/108823/uncategorized/teacher-of-the-week-chanin-teaching-at-chs-after-graduation-from-new-tech/ 

I feel at home in my classroom (my living-history time machine). I will continue to challenge and support my students in their academic and extra-curricular endeavors. Nandini, one of my APUSH students, took the photographs of my lecture - she is a wonderful photographer!

A flattering pose of me discussing the consequences of the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). I strive to bring cheeriness and energy to my lectures and lessons, which initiates students' excitement for learning and discovering new segments in American history.

I often flap my arms and move around the classroom when I teach so the lecture feels more fluid (and not stagnant/boring). 

I love watching my student-athletes compete on the field or in the swimming pool (these competitions remind me of my good 'ole swimming days at Coppell High). I recently watched the TISCA swim meet prior to Thanksgiving (some of the state's fastest swimmers compete at this level). One of my APUSH students, Nathan, clipped the school's 100 fly record in 51 seconds - very fast! I was there, cheering him on and nearly losing my voice in the process! I would later tell him that my brother once held that record... how time change... I am very proud of him, and intend to support my swimmers at Districts in January.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Coppell High choir's winter concert. My voice students are soaked in talent; the singing was phenomenal (I especially loved the 'Carol of the Bells' performance!). 

On a chilly night at the end of October, my wife and I watched the Coppell High band's final performance of 'Carousel' before the group headed to state. The band would place 5th in the competition. I am still incredibly proud of my band students - they practice very hard and have bright futures ahead of them!