Solo Episodes

Although President Martin Van Buren was one of the creators of the Democratic Party, some might say his son indirectly created the Republican party (perhaps by accident). Learn how the former President, his son John Van Buren...

A successful merchant once had everything, but after the Stamp Act of 1763, he risked his business, estate, and even family wellbeing years later. Learn how Francis Lewis became a target for the British and the lessons learne...

What if a Board of Education had nothing to do with education policy? At a time when party divisions saw no end, Speaker Nicholas Longworth not only became a party leader, but became the leader of the House. Learn how …

When Philip Livingston helped found the New York Society Library in 1754, he wanted to create an institution that was "useful as well as ornamental." To what extent do we see that type of ambition in today's society? Learn ho...

More than 2 years ago, Friends & Fellow Citizens made its debut on the podcast airwaves. Hear some of the interview episode highlights as we mark the two-year anniversary of the show! A very special appreciation to our Patreo...

While many of the Signers were experienced orators, some chose to be more reserved while still completing the work of the Continental Congress. Hear how William Floyd of New York served in his capacity at the legislative body...

Former New York Governor DeWitt Clinton once considered the Erie Canal a "fountain of public good and national abundance." Amid contemporary gridlock and polarization, what ideas can help spur a new generation of engineers an...

How can a delegate of the Second Continental Congress sign the document without being present at the August 2nd signing? Despite signing the document in late 1776, Dr. Matthew Thornton was elected after the Declaration of Ind...

"Robert J. Walker" may not ring a bell for most Americans today, but a highly undemocratic "constitution" for the Kansas Territory struck a chord with a once-promising politician in the Democratic Party. Although a pro-slave...

While many Signers had extensive oratory experience, some were modest in character and adept in militias. Oliver Wolcott, the final Signer from Connecticut, demonstrates the value of maximizing one's strengths for civic good ...

Almost any DC straphanger knows the Metro stop called "McPherson Square, " but who is the namesake of this public park and busy subway station? In honor of Memorial Day, learn more about the emotional legacy that Union Major ...

William Williams may not have the most original name, but his creative ways to support the Patriot cause was evident in his service to Connecticut. Learn how this Signer's family connection with a Royal Governor ultimately fo...

Over the past two years of COVID-19 relief-related spending packages, we have probably heard the word "trillion" more often than ever. Most people would call it a large number with 12 zero's, but words alone can't explain thi...

With a calm and cordial nature, Samuel Huntington may have served as a "first President of the United States." Learn how this early leader from Connecticut helped solve the more territorial disputes of the fledgling nation. S...

Sometimes, a random selection in a historical newspaper can turn into a podcast episode. While researching more about Horace Mann and the history of American education, Sherman decided to pick a page at random and see what ha...