Fountain Pen Patent
Fountain pen improvement was patented by William B. Purvis in 1890. His improvement, patent number 419,065, provided an ink reservoir inside the pen so that writers did not have to carry a bottle of ink around. Children can check out his design at: William B. Purvis.
Idaho Flag
Idaho became the forty-third state of the United States in 1890. Its name translates as “gem of the mountain.” It is the fourteenth largest state, but it is the thirteenth least populated state. Boise is the state capital, and main sources of income are lumber, potatoes, and mining. Idaho was explored during the Louis and Clark expedition. It experienced a gold rush in 1860. Children could visit an Internet site at: Idaho. Idea: Idaho is known for its potatoes. Children could investigate why and how Idaho grows so many potatoes. They could also make potato pancakes.
Wyoming Flag
Wyoming became the forty-fourth state of the United States in 1890. The state is ninth in size, but it is fiftieth in population. Even Alaska has more people than Wyoming. Its name is derived from a Delaware phrase maugh-wau-wa-ma, meaning great plains. Cheyenne is the state capital. Cattle ranching and uranium mining have provided considerable income to the state. Lately large reserves of petroleum and coal are helping the economy. Two tourist draws are Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Old Faithful Geyser is located in Yellowstone National Park and erupts on a fairly regular basis. Children can view a webcam of Old Faithful Geyser at: Old Faithful. Children can visit an Internet site about Wyoming at: Wyoming. Idea: Children could calculate the population density of various states. How does Wyoming compare to the other states?
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park was created in 1890. Located in central-southern California, the park encompasses over 400,000 acres. Known for its magnificent sequoia trees, the park is also home to Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States. Children can visit the park’s website at: Sequoia. Children could compare the sequoia to other types of trees.
Peanut Butter Sandwich
Peanut butter was invented, legend has it, on this day in 1890 by an unknown doctor. You can make your own peanut butter. Pour into a blender about three cups shelled and roasted peanuts. Add the cover and blend until smooth. Add a bit of vegetable oil if necessary to increase smoothness. Children could discover some great peanut butter facts and activities at: Peanut Butter.