Way Back When

Big Blend Radio Network

A Big Blend Radio History Podcast Channel featuring expert interviews and conversations focusing on History, Heritage, Culture, Travel, and The Arts.

  1. 4일 전

    Jefferson Highway & Route 66: Crossroads of American History

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, who shares insights on the connections between the historic Jefferson Highway and Route 66, along with a glimpse of the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Conference in Joplin, Missouri. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. From early 20th-century road development to modern-day road trip adventures, this conversation explores how these iconic highways helped shape American travel, culture, and tourism. Roger highlights Joplin’s role as a historic crossroads, discusses the evolution of highway systems, and shares why every community along these routes has a unique story to tell. Hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving America’s historic highways. The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide website: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com

    52분
  2. 3월 17일

    Historic Detroit Mansions and the Women Behind Them

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" Podcast with travel writer Lisa Evans explores the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Detroit, spotlighting two extraordinary estates—Cranbrook Educational Community and Meadow Brook Hall. Celebrating Women’s History Month and looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday, this episode highlights the powerful legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson, whose vision and philanthropy helped shape Meadow Brook Hall and left a lasting impact on the region. Beyond the mansions, the conversation dives into Detroit’s dynamic story—from the rise of the automotive industry to the global influence of Motown Records and modern creative voices like Jack White. Discover how innovation, artistry, and resilience intersect in this iconic American city. Whether you're planning a heritage trip, exploring architectural landmarks, or seeking destinations that honor the nation’s history, Detroit offers a compelling journey into America’s past, present, and future. Lisa's Detroit Articles * Cranbrook: A Place Made by Hand: https://fwtmagazine.com/cranbrook-a-place-made-by-hand/  * The Woman Behind the Walls of Meadow Brook Hall: https://fwtmagazine.com/the-woman-behind-the-walls-of-meadow-brook-hall/  Detroit Travel Resources * Cranbrook: https://www.cranbrook.edu/  * Meadow Brook Hall: https://meadowbrookhall.org/  * Detroit Institute of Arts: https://dia.org/  * The Henry Ford: https://www.thehenryford.org/  🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596  📖 NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1

    37분
  3. 3월 13일

    Historic Fredericksburg, Virginia: George Washington’s Roots, Civil War History & Women's History

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Kathleen Walls explores the rich heritage of Fredericksburg, Virginia—making this the perfect conversation as America approaches its 250th anniversary and during Women’s History Month in March. Located along the Rappahannock River between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Fredericksburg is filled with stories that shaped early America. Kathleen shares insights into the area’s deep connections to George Washington, including his childhood at nearby George Washington's Ferry Farm. The discussion also highlights the legacy of Mary Ball Washington, George Washington’s mother, whose home and memorial in Fredericksburg offer important perspectives on women’s roles in early American history. You'll also hear about Fredericksburg’s role in the American Civil War, including fascinating sites like the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, where visitors can discover 18th-century medicine and the story of Revolutionary War hero Hugh Mercer. Along the way, Kathleen busts historical myths (including the truth about Washington’s famous “wooden teeth”) and shares practical travel tips for exploring Fredericksburg today—from trolley tours and museums to historic homes and heritage sites that bring America’s past vividly to life. Whether you're planning a heritage road trip, celebrating America’s 250th, or looking to experience history where it happened, Fredericksburg offers a powerful journey into the people, places, and stories that shaped the nation. LINKS & RESOURCES * Read Kathleen's Article on Fredericksburg: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/historic-fredericksburg-virginia  * Plan your Visit to Fredericksburg: https://fxbg.com/  * Keep up with Kathleen's Travels: https://www.americanroads.net/  * Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  * Follow this Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  * Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    35분
  4. 3월 8일

    Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum: Preserving History in New Smyrna Beach

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark explores the powerful stories preserved at the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. This special episode celebrates the second anniversary of the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast and also recognizes Women's History Month, highlighting the importance of community storytelling and the role women play in preserving cultural heritage. Founded in 1768, New Smyrna Beach is one of Florida’s oldest cities. Walking along the quiet residential streets, visitors might easily pass a small white church on North Duss Street. Yet inside the historic Sacred Heart/St. Rita Church is something extraordinary—a living archive of African American history in coastal Volusia County. Through photographs, artifacts, oral histories, and community voices, the museum shares stories of resilience, culture, and community leadership. This episode also explores the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the renowned Florida Highwaymen artists, and the power of genealogy and local storytelling in preserving history for future generations. Be sure to watch Jo’s social media channels for the upcoming launch of her new digital podcast magazine, "Have Glass Will Travel," which will feature travel stories, articles, and highlights from the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES - Learn more about the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum https://www.blackheritage.org/  - Read Jo's article: https://mainlymuseums.com/post/1421/mary-s-harrell-black-heritage-museum-preserving-history-in-new-smyrna-beach/  - Watch the New Smyrna Beach travel episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/egIxyOk8o7M?si=TpO56JJBgyT301j4  - Read Jo’s New Smyrna Beach travel article  https://recipestravelculture.com/new-smyrna-beach-endless-salty-sunshine/  - Follow Jo Clark: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/  - New episodes air every 2nd Sunday: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

    29분
  5. 3월 4일

    Trailing of the Sheep Festival: 30 Years of Idaho Heritage & Sun Valley Charm

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us to Ketchum, home of the beloved Trailing of the Sheep Festival. The conversation explores the deep-rooted history of sheep herding in Idaho and how this iconic festival celebrates ranching heritage, Basque culture, folk traditions, and the enduring importance of sheep and wool in the region. Sharon shares highlights from the festival’s parades, cultural events, and food experiences, along with insider tips on dining, shopping, and exploring Ketchum’s scenic mountain setting. Hear about outdoor adventures, hiking opportunities, and the town’s rich literary and cultural connections—including its ties to Ernest Hemingway—making Ketchum a rewarding destination well beyond festival weekend. 🐑 Learn more about the festival and plan your visit: https://trailingofthesheep.org/  📖 Read Sharon's Article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/trailing-of-the-sheep-festival  📖 Check out Sharon's new Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1  🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com  🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com  🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Wander the World with Sharon, Vacation Station, Way Back When, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    21분

소개

A Big Blend Radio History Podcast Channel featuring expert interviews and conversations focusing on History, Heritage, Culture, Travel, and The Arts.