The History Girl

If you’ve spent any time in southern New Jersey, chances are you’ve heard whispers about a creature lurking in the woods — half-bat, half-horse, and all terrifying. Meet the Jersey Devil , one of the state’s most enduring legends, born from a mix of family drama, Pine Barrens isolation, and a little bit of 18th-century superstition. The Birth of the Legend Most versions of the story start in Leeds Point, New Jersey, in 1735 . The tale goes that a woman named Mrs. Leeds was already the mother of twelve children when she found herself pregnant again. Frustrated or fearful, she allegedly cursed this unborn child, declaring something like, “Let this one be the devil!” When the baby was born, the story says, it transformed into a winged, hoofed, screeching creature and immediately fled into the surrounding Pine Barrens. Some versions add extra drama: Mrs. Leeds was supposedly involved in witchcraft, or the child was cursed by a spurned suitor or clergyman. Either way, the creature — wi...

As October settles over North Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore some local spooky legends—and Lydia’s Bridge in Jamestown is one that has fascinated residents and visitors for decades. The Legend of Lydia According to the historic marker placed by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation in 2023, Lydia’s Bridge has been linked to ghostly sightings since the 1920s. The marker notes: "Since the 1920s, apparition of a young woman has been seen hitchhiking here, only to disappear when drivers come to her aid." Legend has it that on rainy nights, a young woman—often described as wearing white—may appear at the bridge, silently asking for a ride. But just as mysteriously as she appears, she vanishes before reaching her destination. The Real Tragedy Behind the Legend While the ghost story has persisted for generations, there is a historical event that may have inspired it. In 1920, a young woman tragically died in a car accident near the bridge along High Point Road. Reports ...

Today, the world lost Dr. Jane Goodall, one of the most influential figures in the study of animals and conservation. She passed away at the age of 91.  Jane Goodall began her groundbreaking research in 1960 at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania. She observed chimpanzees using tools—a discovery that fundamentally changed our understanding of animal intelligence and behavior. Her work demonstrated that chimpanzees have complex social lives, strong family bonds, and individual personalities, bridging the gap between humans and animals in ways science had never seen before. In 1977, Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute, which has become a global leader in wildlife conservation and animal welfare. She also created the Roots & Shoots program, empowering young people around the world to take action for animals, the environment, and their communities. Throughout her career, Goodall received many honors, including the Kyoto Prize , the Templeton Prize , and the Presidentia...

For those who dream of owning a piece of history, a rare opportunity has presented itself in Reidsville, North Carolina. The magnificent Belmont Mansion, a testament to the grandeur of the early 20th century, is currently on the market. This isn't just a house; it's a story waiting for its next chapter, and for the right person, it's a chance to become a steward of a remarkable legacy. The Gilded Age of a Tobacco Town Belmont Mansion, also known as the Robert Payne Richardson Jr. House, was built in 1912. It stands as a stunning example of Neoclassical Revival architecture, a style that exudes elegance and opulence. The mansion was the vision of Robert Payne Richardson Jr., a prominent figure in North Carolina's tobacco industry. The Richardson family was instrumental in the growth of Reidsville, and their influence is still visible today in the city's historic architecture. The Belmont Mansion is the crown jewel of the Robert Payne Richardson Houses Historic Distr...

I’ve been working on this project for a while now, and I’m thrilled to finally share it with you! My brand-new e-book, Forgotten and Fascinating New Jersey , is now available — a 29-page guide that uncovers the hidden histories, quirky landmarks, and surprising stories that make the Garden State truly unique. This e-book is perfect for history buffs, road-trippers, or anyone who loves a good “I never knew that!” moment. From unsung heroes to mysterious events and off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s packed with intriguing facts and historical photos that will make you see New Jersey in a whole new light. Why I created this e-book: Over the years, through my work on The History Girl , I’ve uncovered so many places that don’t make it into the usual guidebooks. I wanted to create a resource that brings these fascinating destinations together — an easy, fun way to explore the Garden State’s past from your own home or on the road. Get your copy today! Forgotten and Fascinating New Jer...

From Hopewell to the Old North State: The Epic Journey of the Jersey Settlement Ever wonder about the hidden threads connecting seemingly disparate places in America's past? Today, we're diving deep into a fascinating colonial saga that links the quiet farmlands of New Jersey to the burgeoning backcountry of North Carolina. It's a story of injustice, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a better life, culminating in the establishment of a unique community known as the "Jersey Settlement." When Home Wasn't Home Anymore: The New Jersey Story Imagine building a life, tilling the land your family bought, only to have it snatched away by powerful, greedy hands. That's precisely what happened to many early settlers in colonial New Jersey. New Jersey's early days were a bit of a wild west, politically speaking. After the English took over from the Dutch in 1664, King Charles II handed vast tracts of land to his buddies, Lord John Berkeley and Sir George ...