After the Seminole Wars ended, American migration to Florida began in earnest. And in its early days as a US state, the primary attraction lay in the area’s large herds of cattle. Cattle had been introduced to Florida by the Spanish settlers back in the 16th century. These were Andalusian longhorns, the same hardy breed … More 1852 Florida Cracker House

Whatever winter holiday it is that you choose to celebrate. 🙂

One of Tampa Bay’s earliest industries was the mining of phosphates for fertilizer.

Although it looks like there’s now light at the end of the covid tunnel, it’s still gonna be a few months before it’ll be possible to take up road-traveling again. So in the meantime, I’m gonna post some photos taken during previous travels, overseas and in the US, that I did before I began vandwelling. … More Previous Travels: Costa Rica

Some more critters seen in Florida during my daily walks.

This is another one of the very nice parks in Pinellas County FL. Abercrombie Park is on the site of several Native American “midden mounds” dating to both the Weeden Island Culture period  (140 to 565 CE) and the Safety Harbor Culture period (890 to 1390 CE). The mound remains are legally protected. The park … More Abercrombie Park

A brief history of some British idioms. So a friend of mine in London emailed me a little while ago and, while referring to a particular British politician and the Brexit mess, declared, “He’s pants”. It made me laugh out loud, because the very first time I had heard that expression was with that same friend many … More Some British Idioms

A variety of critters seen during my daily walks. Most of these are at Sawgrass Lake Park, with a few other parks and preserves thrown in too.

Built as part of the 1920s Florida land boom, the Vinoy Hotel was the most luxurious hotel in Tampa Bay until it folded in the 1970s. Today it has been fully restored. The First World War, which raged from 1914-1918, was a defining event that determined the course of the entire 20th century. In the political … More The Vinoy Hotel

It’s been awfully cold here lately, but I braved the Arctic conditions to take a few walks outside. 😉