J R Philp

The Best of America News!

America’s Oldest City Isn’t the One You Think!

It’s often assumed that Jamestown, Virginia is the oldest city in the US, but in fact it was just the first permanent colony established by the English in May 1607. The oldest city accolade goes instead to St Augustine, Florida, which was founded by the Spanish in 1565. Aside from a brief interlude under British rule, it remained the capital of 'Spanish Florida' for more than 250 years.

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There’s More Than One Statue Of Liberty!

Nothing says 'welcome to America' like the first glimpse of New York's Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to celebrate friendship between the two countries, dedicated on 28 October 1886.

But Lady Liberty is not alone, in 1889, Americans living in Paris gifted France a quarter-sized version to mark the centenary of the French Revolution, and it still sits at Pont de Grenelle. There are several other replicas around France including at the Musee d’Orsay and in Colmar, home of the statue's sculptor, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi.

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Alligator in the East Wing

That wouldn’t be the last time a deadly creature was let loose in the presidential residence. Legend has it that John Quincy Adams was given a pet alligator by the Marquis de Lafayette and put it in the East Room bathtub to give unsuspecting visitors a scare.
Historians are skeptical, although First Families have since kept sheep, a dairy cow, a badger, a parrot and plenty of cats and dogs, so perhaps it's not such a stretch after all.
(Widely reported, but likely a myth!)

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Jefferson Kept Pet Bear Cubs in The White House!
Did you know one former president kept two grizzly bears on the front lawn of the White House? In October 1807, explorer Captain Zebulon Pike picked up a pair of cubs and sent them to President Thomas Jefferson, who planned to donate them for display at Peale’s Museum.
They apparently spent two months on public view in a cage in front of the White House, leading political opponents to nickname it the 'bear garden' after the rowdy venues of the Elizabethan era.
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George Washington Delivered the Shortest Inaugural Address - By Far!
If you’ve ever zoned out while watching a presidential inauguration, you might wish that modern politicians would take a leaf out of George Washington’s book.
His second inaugural address in 1793 is the shortest on record at just 135 words - barely more than the oath of office itself - with some speculating that his lifelong dental troubles and ill-fitting dentures may have made speaking difficult. The longest address was by William Henry Harrison in 1841, at 8,445 words.
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The Symbol of US Independence Was Made in Britain!
The Liberty Bell is a must-see attraction in Philadelphia – a city often called the 'birthplace of America', as it’s where the Founding Fathers met to sign the Declaration of Independence and, later, the Constitution.

This symbol of American independence was among the bells rung on 8 July 1776, as the declaration was read out to the public. But despite its association with freedom from Britain, the bell was actually forged at the Whitechapel Foundry in London in 1751, the same place Big Ben was made.

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The Best of Fun (Vol. 3): Celebrating the Joy of Play and Imagination

Part 3 of the heartwarming Best of Books series, The Best of Fun (Vol. 3) captures the laughter, curiosity, and delight that fill a child’s world. From birthday cakes and splash pools to clay creations and red wagons, each page reminds young readers that every day is filled with something new to enjoy.

Through playful storytelling and bright illustrations, this cheerful book celebrates the simple moments that make childhood magical, where even everyday things like tacos, tadpoles, and wagons become part of life’s greatest adventures.

Perfect for family reading, classrooms, or bedtime smiles, The Best of Fun (Vol. 3) helps children see that joy can be found everywhere when we look through the eyes of wonder.

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The Best of America: Celebrating the Spirit That Makes Our Nation Great!

America The Beautiful! Part of the inspiring Best of Books series, The Best of America reminds young readers what makes our country truly special; faith, family, freedom, and friendship.
Through simple words and vivid illustrations, this book introduces children to the heart of America; a place built on courage, kindness, and gratitude.

From small-town smiles to shared dreams, The Best of America helps kids see that greatness isn’t about wealth or fame — it’s about character, unity, and love for one another.

A timeless story that celebrates both national pride and personal values, perfect for classrooms, families, and every child learning what it means to be their best self.

🌟 Why Families Love This Series

Wholesome stories built on timeless virtues

Easy-to-read text for children ages 3–10

Gentle rhythm that inspires gratitude and respect

Perfect for home, classrooms, or patriotic holidays

Promotes faith, family values, and love of country

Get your Copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dpUtPp

Memorial Day

Today we pause to remember the men and women who gave everything in service to our country. Freedom has never been free, and behind every flag, every folded uniform, and every empty seat at the table is a story of courage, sacrifice, and love of country.

As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day weekend, may we never forget those who laid down their lives so that we could live ours in freedom. Their sacrifice deserves more than a moment of remembrance: it deserves a lifetime of gratitude.

Take a moment today to honor the fallen, pray for the families they left behind, and reflect on the blessings we too often take for granted.

May God bless the memory of our heroes, and may God continue to bless the United States of America.