Historic places that are known and some that maybe are not so well known.
Let’s face it—life is unpredictable. One minute you're running errands, and the next you're detouring to a scenic overlook, a pop-up food truck fest, or a hiking trail you never knew existed. Wouldn’t it be nice to be ready for those moments? Absolutely! Keeping a day trip bag in your vehicle is akin to always being for a spontaneous side trip full of adventure.
Linda and I discovered the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House through a friend of ours who was living in Shirley, Indiana a few years ago. He called me one day and told me that he had something to show to us that he thought we would appreciate seeing, but he wouldn't say what it was. Since I'm always up for a road trip to see something new, we headed his way. This is what he had to show us.
Linda and I stumbled upon the Barberville Yard Art Emporium purely by chance one sunny afternoon. Tucked away at the crossroads of State Road 40 and U.S. 17, in the heart of tiny Barberville, Florida, this colorful roadside attraction took us completely by surprise.
Imagine standing on a piece of history so grand it once carried the weight of an entire community's progress. Linda and I recently discovered the historic Medora Covered Bridge in Indiana, not just a picturesque relic, but the longest historic covered bridge in the US. Our visit unveiled its 19th-century engineering marvel and the captivating stories whispered by a local, making this unassuming structure a vibrant link to the past and a vital part of the region's identity.
"Nice pig, Doc." Recognize that line? If you don’t, don’t worry—this is a bit of a trick question. The line comes from the movie Doc Hollywood and is repeated by several quirky residents of the fictional town of Grady. It’s a running gag in the film and part of what gives the movie its endearing, small-town charm. But who is "Doc"? That would be Dr. Ben Stone. And the movie? You guessed it—Doc Hollywood.
Have you ever seen a structure so grand it takes your breath away? For many years, I’ve known about an amazing landmark nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, near the charming towns of Solsberry and Tulip. There stands the majestic Tulip Trestle, a towering railroad bridge. Officially called Bridge X76-6 (though some records say X75-6), and also known as the Greene County Viaduct or Tulip Viaduct, this bridge is more than just a way for trains to cross a valley. It's a piece of history, an incredible feat of engineering, and a landmark that continues to impress.
Stepping through its door feels like entering another era. There’s a quiet energy in the air—familiar smells of snacks, tools, and something older: history. But to truly understand the Richloam General Store, you have to know where it came from—and the people who kept it alive.