U.S. Military History Archives

Robert Smalls: Born Enslaved, Trained as a Sailor, Elected Congressman

February 15, 2024February 23, 2023 by Vince DiLoreto

Historic Footnotes Podcast - Obscure and often forgotten pieces of history

Born into slavery, Robert Smalls’ determination and bravery led him to become a hero of the Civil War. Working as a pilot on a Confederate military cargo ship, he saw an opportunity to escape slavery and bring his family to freedom. Robert and his crew seized control of the ship and navigated past Confederate gun range and into Union territory. It was then that he approached Union soldiers, and said, “Good morning Sir. I’ve brought you some of the United States old guns, Sir!”

A Future President, a Future Senator, and a Duel that Echoes through History

February 13, 2024February 19, 2023 by Vince DiLoreto

If I told you two politicians were so infuriated with one another that one would challenge the other to a duel, you would be forgiven for thinking it is a recent news story. Or, if you realized that no one has publicly challenged anyone to a duel for over 200 years, you might be thinking of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. In either case, you’d be mistaken. I’m talking about President Abraham Lincoln and Senator James Shields. Of course, this was before either were elected to those offices.

The Small Museum You Can’t-Miss on the Space Coast 🚀 American Space Museum

February 13, 2024February 13, 2023 by Angela DiLoreto

Control panel in American Space Museum in Titusville FL

Embark on a journey through the history of space exploration at the American Space Museum on Florida’s Space Coast. From the women who paved the way in space to the groundbreaking Apollo missions, the museum highlights the achievements of the American Space Program. Don’t miss the chance to see historic artifacts and experience the stories behind the launchpads of the Mercury & Gemini programs. Take a tour with a knowledgeable docent or explore on your own.

This Isolated Fort, Abandoned After The Civil War, Is Great For Adventure

February 13, 2024February 10, 2023 by Vince DiLoreto

Discover the Rich History and Natural Beauty of Loggerhead Key – Explore the Westernmost Point of the Florida Keys and the Majestic Loggerhead Lighthouse, Once a Sentinel for the World’s Busiest Shipping Lanes and Today a Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Key West: When Paradise was the Front Line Between Two Nuclear Superpowers

September 26, 2023October 19, 2022 by Vince DiLoreto

Today, Key West is known as a party town without a care in the world, but for 13 days in October 1962, it very easily could’ve been the location of the first shot of the end of the world.

Warbird Museum Titusville: A Must-Visit for Aviation History Buffs

September 10, 2023August 19, 2022 by Vince DiLoreto

Located in Titusville on Florida’s Space Coast is the Warbirds Museum. Operated by the Valiant Air Command, the museum holds many artifacts. Ranging from the earliest days of crewed flight to the present day.