Faroe Islands celebrate Olaifest, a national holiday. The islands, located between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Home to 49,000 people, the islands are about eight times the size of Washington, DC. Torshavn is the capital, and fishing is a major industry. Children can learn more at: Faroe Islands.
Hurricane sank ten Spanish treasure galleons off the coast of Florida in 1715. The ships, laden with silver, were returning to Spain. About 700 sailors died, but a few survived by finding lifeboats. Experts state that every once in a while silver coins from the fleet still find their way to shore.
Hawaii’s first sugar plantation was started in 1835. Kamehameha III helped Ladd & Company buy land and start the sugar cane plantation. Sugar production in Hawaii peaked around 1970. Then sugar production in Hawaii decreased as other countries increased their production. The last sugar production facility in Hawaii closed in 2016. Older children can read about the history of sugar production in Hawaii at: Hawaii Sugar.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was created in 1958 when President Eisenhower signed the act. The Mercury Seven were the first group of astronauts. The number of astronauts peaked at 149 in the year 2000. Currently 41 active astronauts serve our country. Children can learn more at: NASA.