CelebrateBoston

26/01/2024

An AI painting, whereabouts unknown. No rain or snow though. Happy Friday!

12/01/2024

An AI swamp. It's a pretty scene, but I bet the mosquitos are the size of hummingbirds!

05/01/2024

Random AI Street Art. Ms. AI has some pretty good fashion sense. Happy Friday!

25/12/2023

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Wishing everyone Good Health and Prosperity during these difficult times!

23/12/2023

Follow up from yesterday...more daylight today!

21/12/2023

It's the winter solstice, the days are getting longer!

12/12/2023

Boston's North End from the roof of the Lincoln Power Station (c.1903). The Old North Church is located in center. Barely visible on the upper left is the old North Station, and on the right is the Charlestown Bridge with the old Orange Line Elevated Railway crossing over it. Also on the right are tree-tops which mark Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Notice all the white on the rooftops, that's clothes air-drying the old fashioned way! The power station building is a condominium today.

02/12/2023

Scollay Square in 1907 from Court Street. The original Tremont Street Subway kiosk (Green Line) and Governor Winthrop Statue stand in the center at the south corner of the square. The row of brick buildings in back were all demolished (as well as the West End) in an urban renewal project in the early 1960s. The crescent-shaped Center Plaza building replaced them. At the corner on the right is where the Giant Tea Kettle from the old Oriental Tea Company now hangs above the Starbucks store. Out of view on the right is Boston City Hall, and the huge brick plaza. Of note, the statue of Governor Winthrop was moved to the First Church in the Back Bay. In 1968, Winthrop had his head knocked off by a collapsing wall during a fire, and was repaired and re-installed in 1975.

01/12/2023

AI photo tribute to Colleen Moore, famous silent film star and fashion hipster who popularized the bobbed haircut style during the 1920s. Later in life she said the style was inspired by Japanese Dolls that she had collected.

"Colleen Moore (1899–1988) was an American actress and one of the most popular and highest-paid stars of the silent film era. Born Kathleen Morrison on August 19, 1899, in Port Huron, Michigan, she adopted the stage name Colleen Moore early in her career.

Moore began her acting career in the early 1910s, working for the Gaumont Film Company in Chicago. She gained recognition for her work in films like 'The Bad Boy' (1917) and 'Little Orphant Annie' (1918). However, it was her role in 'Flaming Youth' (1923) that catapulted her to stardom. The film, based on a novel by Samuel Hopkins Adams, is often credited with popularizing the image of the rebellious and independent 'flapper' in the 1920s.

Colleen Moore became an icon of the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties, known for her distinctive bobbed hairstyle and fashionable wardrobe. She was a trendsetter in terms of fashion, and her on-screen style greatly influenced the fashion trends of the time. The flapper image she portrayed in films became synonymous with the modern, liberated woman of the 1920s.

In addition to her acting career, Colleen Moore was a savvy businesswoman. She negotiated her contracts to become one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. She also invested wisely and accumulated significant wealth.

Moore continued to act in both silent and early sound films, but as the film industry transitioned, her popularity waned. She retired from acting in 1934 after starring in over 60 films. In her later years, Colleen Moore focused on philanthropy and collecting dolls. She wrote an autobiography titled 'Silent Star' (1968), where she shared insights into her life and career.

Colleen Moore's impact on fashion and her portrayal of the flapper archetype made her an enduring figure of the 1920s. Her contributions to cinema and her influence on style have left a lasting legacy in the history of film and fashion."

29/11/2023

Photo of Washington Street from Bromfield in 1907. This portion was the top end of the Shopping District, with Raymond's Department store on the right. I believe the store closed in the late 1960s. This is also the start of the old Newspaper Row, with the Boston Transcript Building standing on the right just before the church. Just past the former church or Old South Meeting House today (out of view), was the headquarters for the Boston Globe and Boston Post on the left and the Boston Journal on the right. Before the internet, some newspapers had multiple editions during the same day, and that's how important news was disseminated. Read It, Read It, Read All About It! as the newsboy used to shout. The last edition of the Boston Evening Globe was published in 1979.

28/11/2023

Throwback Tuesday, here's an AI rendition of silent era film star Rudolph Valentino. He was was a flapper heart-throb during the Roaring 20s, but tragically died from a ruptured ulcer at age 31.

"Rudolph Valentino was an Italian actor and one of the biggest silent film stars of the 1920s. He was born on May 6, 1895, in Castellaneta, Italy, and his full name was Rodolfo Alfonso Raffaello Pierre Filibert Guglielmi di Valentina d'Antonguolla.

Valentino immigrated to the United States in 1913 and initially worked various jobs, including as a dancer and taxi driver, before finding success in Hollywood. His breakthrough role came in the film 'The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' (1921), which made him a star and established him as a symbol of romantic leading men in silent cinema.

Some of Valentino's other notable films include 'The Sheik' (1921), 'Blood and Sand' (1922), and 'The Son of the Sheik' (1926). He was often cast as a passionate and exotic lover, and his on-screen persona contributed to the 'Latin Lover' archetype in Hollywood.

Rudolph Valentino's popularity was immense, and he became a s*x symbol of the Roaring Twenties. However, his career was tragically cut short when he died at the age of 31 on August 23, 1926, due to complications from peritonitis, which was caused by a ruptured ulcer. His death led to an outpouring of grief from fans around the world, and he remains an iconic figure in the history of cinema."

28/11/2023

An AI Portrait of Samuel Adams, American Patriot.

"Samuel Adams was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a key figure in the American Revolution. He was born on September 27, 1722, in Boston, Massachusetts, and died on October 2, 1803. Adams was a skilled political organizer, statesman, and a passionate advocate for colonial independence from British rule. Here are some key points about Samuel Adams:

• Early Life: Samuel Adams was born into a prominent family, and his father was a successful brewer. Despite coming from a relatively well-off family, Adams became known for his public service and political activism.

• Political Activism: Adams played a crucial role in the early resistance against British taxation and policies that were perceived as oppressive. He was a vocal critic of British rule and became involved in various political organizations, including the Sons of Liberty.

• Boston Tea Party: Adams was one of the organizers of the Boston Tea Party in 1773, a protest against the British Parliament's Tea Act. This event involved colonists, disguised as Mohawk Indians, throwing crates of tea into Boston Harbor in protest of taxation without representation.

• Continental Congress: Adams was a delegate to the Continental Congress and played a significant role in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence. He signed the Declaration and actively supported the revolutionary cause.

• Massachusetts Constitution: After the Revolution, Adams became involved in the drafting of the Massachusetts State Constitution. He served as the lieutenant governor and governor of Massachusetts.

• Legacy: Samuel Adams is remembered as a staunch patriot and a key figure in the early years of the United States. His contributions to American independence and his dedication to the principles of liberty have earned him a lasting place in American history.

• Beer Legacy: It's worth noting that Samuel Adams is also associated with the Samuel Adams beer brand, named in his honor. The beer brand was established in 1984 in Boston and has become one of the leading craft beer producers in the United States.

Overall, Samuel Adams played a vital role in shaping the political landscape of early America and in laying the foundation for the principles of independence and self-governance."

21/11/2023

It's Throwback Fashion Tuesday. This AI rendition is incorrect. During the 1920s, Flappers or young women emulated a boyish look. The dress is fitted here which it shouldn't be, and there's a low neckline instead of high or V-neck. The hem was usually just above the knees, which also isn't the case. It appears that AI was thinking vaudeville or cabaret in style.

"Flapper fashion of the 1920s was a revolutionary departure from the conventional styles that characterized the preceding decades. Embodying the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, flapper dresses were known for their loose and straight silhouettes, in stark contrast to the fitted and corseted looks of the past. These dresses hung straight from the shoulders, creating a more boyish and relaxed appearance, and their length daringly rose above the knee. The abandonment of the traditional hourglass figure was evident as the waistline dropped to the hips or even lower, contributing to the overall shift towards a more liberated and carefree aesthetic.

The fabrics and embellishments of flapper dresses further emphasized the dynamic and modern feel of the era. Lightweight materials like silk, chiffon, and crepe allowed for a fluid and graceful movement, perfect for the energetic dances that became a hallmark of the time. Elaborate details such as fringe, beading, sequins, and embroidery adorned these dresses, adding a touch of glamour and creating a sense of movement, particularly under the lively lights of dance halls. Accessories played a crucial role in completing the flapper look, with headbands adorned with feathers and beads, long beaded necklaces, and the iconic cloche hats all contributing to the distinctive style.

The rebellious spirit of flapper fashion extended beyond clothing to include beauty standards. The bob haircut became a symbol of modernity and independence, as women embraced shorter hairstyles, often styled with finger waves or curls. Makeup also took on a more prominent role, with bold eye makeup, including kohl-rimmed eyes, and the distinctive 'Cupid's bow' lipstick shape, marking a departure from the more subdued cosmetic styles of earlier decades. Flapper fashion, with its emphasis on freedom, movement, and a rejection of traditional norms, remains an iconic representation of the dynamic cultural shifts that defined the 1920s."

21/11/2023

AI renditions of Pacohontas, famed Native American Woman who promoted peace between the Powhatan Confederacy and English Colonists at Jamestown, Virginia.

"Pocahontas was a Native American woman known for her association with the colonial settlement at Jamestown, Virginia. Her birth name was Matoaka, and she was the daughter of Powhatan, the paramount chief of a network of tribal nations in the Tidewater region of Virginia. Pocahontas's real-life story has been romanticized and popularized in various ways, including through literature, plays, and films.

In 1607, English settlers arrived at Jamestown, and Pocahontas became involved in interactions between the Native Americans and the colonists. She is perhaps most famous for reportedly saving the life of Captain John Smith. According to Smith's account, he was taken captive by the Powhatan Confederacy, and Pocahontas intervened to prevent his ex*****on.

Pocahontas later married John Rolfe, a to***co planter, in 1614. The marriage was seen as a way to promote peace and understanding between the English colonists and the Native Americans. Pocahontas and Rolfe had a son named Thomas.

In 1616, Pocahontas and John Rolfe traveled to England, where she was presented as an example of the "civilized savage" and met with members of the English aristocracy, including King James I. Tragically, Pocahontas died in England in 1617 at the age of 21. The exact cause of her death is uncertain and has been the subject of speculation, with theories ranging from pneumonia to poisoning.

Pocahontas's life and the encounters between Native Americans and English settlers during the early colonial period have been the subject of much historical interest and interpretation. It's important to note that historical accounts of her life may vary, and some aspects of her story have been romanticized or embellished over time."

15/11/2023

An AI rendition of the Headless Horseman from the classic novel of 1820.

"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is a short story written by Washington Irving. The story is set in the Dutch settlement of Tarry Town, New York, and it revolves around the character of Ichabod Crane, a schoolteacher who encounters the supernatural figure of the Headless Horseman.

The Headless Horseman is said to be the ghost of a Hessian soldier who lost his head during the American Revolutionary War. According to the legend, he roams the countryside at night in search of his lost head. The climax of the story occurs when Ichabod Crane, after attending a party in the town, encounters the Headless Horseman while riding home through the dark woods. The Horseman throws a flaming pumpkin at Ichabod, and the schoolteacher disappears, leaving behind only his discarded hat.

The ambiguity of the story leaves it open to interpretation whether the encounter with the Headless Horseman was a supernatural event or a prank played by someone in the town, possibly Brom Bones, a local man with whom Ichabod is in competition for the affections of Katrina Van Tassel.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a classic piece of American literature, known for its blend of humor, horror, and folklore, and it has become a popular Halloween tale."

14/11/2023

Throwback Tuesday, here's some groovy 1960s fashion courtesy of AI. No, this isn't the old pier at Revere Beach or the North End. Long and straight hair, with a paisleyesque psychedelic pleated dress.

"In the mid-1960s, fashion underwent a radical transformation, and one distinctive element was the prevalence of long, straight hair. Women embraced a natural and free-spirited look, often letting their hair fall effortlessly down their backs. This style, influenced by the counterculture movement and the growing popularity of bohemian aesthetics, symbolized a break from traditional norms. Long, flowing locks became a symbol of youthful rebellion and a rejection of the more structured hairstyles of previous decades.

Bold colors and patterns were at the forefront of mid-60s fashion, reflecting the vibrant energy of the era. Psychedelic prints, including the iconic paisley pattern, became emblematic of the psychedelic movement. Dresses adorned with these bold and intricate patterns were a visual representation of the cultural shifts taking place. The use of vibrant colors, often in unconventional combinations, added an element of excitement and playfulness to the fashion landscape. Women embraced the opportunity to express themselves through clothing that was as dynamic and unconventional as the times themselves.

Pleats became a fashionable detail in dresses during the mid-60s, contributing to the overall sense of movement and fluidity in fashion. Pleated skirts, in particular, added a touch of sophistication to the playful and bold aesthetic of the era. Whether incorporated into mini or midi lengths, pleats provided a structured yet lively element to dresses, enhancing the overall silhouette. The combination of long, straight hair, bold colors and patterns, and pleats created a distinctive and memorable look that defined the mid-1960s fashion landscape, capturing the spirit of a generation in the midst of social and cultural change."

14/11/2023

Simulated oil painting of a lighthouse during a gale. Just a remembrance of mariners of the past, they were the life-blood for old New England.

13/11/2023

A rendition of Phillis Wheatley using AI. Wheatley was sold into slavery in Colonial Boston in about 1761, and eventually became a renowned poet and free woman.

"Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753 – December 5, 1784) was an African American poet who gained fame as a writer during the 18th century, particularly in colonial America. She was born in West Africa, likely in present-day Gambia or Senegal, and was enslaved and brought to America at the age of seven or eight.

Wheatley was purchased by the Wheatley family of Boston, who recognized her intelligence and potential. They provided her with an education, teaching her to read and write, and she quickly learned English. She also studied Latin and classical literature. Phillis Wheatley became the first African American and one of the first women in the colonies to publish a book of poetry.

Her collection, 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral,' was published in 1773. In this work, Wheatley addressed themes such as Christianity, morality, and the struggle for freedom. Her poetry often reflected the neoclassical style popular at the time, and she drew inspiration from both her personal experiences and classical literature.

Wheatley's accomplishments were significant given the social and racial challenges of her time. Her work demonstrated the intellectual capabilities of African Americans and challenged prevailing stereotypes. Despite her achievements, she faced financial difficulties, and she died in poverty at a young age.

Phillis Wheatley's legacy is remembered not only for her literary contributions but also as a symbol of the strength and resilience of enslaved individuals who, against all odds, pursued education and made meaningful contributions to American culture and literature."

12/11/2023

Rendition of Hester Prynne (AI), the main character in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter."

"Hester Prynne is a fictional character and the protagonist of Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, "The Scarlet Letter," which was first published in 1850. The story is set in 17th-century Puritan Massachusetts Bay Colony and explores the consequences of adultery and the rigid moral and social norms of the time.

Hester Prynne is introduced to the reader as a woman who has committed the sin of adultery and becomes pregnant while her husband is away. She is publicly shamed and forced to stand on a scaffold for hours, holding her infant daughter, Pearl, as punishment for her sin. Throughout the novel, Hester is marked by her conspicuous scarlet letter "A" that she must wear on her chest as a symbol of her adultery.

Despite facing harsh judgment and social isolation, Hester remains strong and resilient. She becomes a skilled seamstress and lives on the outskirts of the town, eking out a living while raising her daughter. Throughout the story, Hester grapples with the consequences of her actions, the expectations of society, and her own sense of morality.

Hester Prynne is a complex character who evolves over the course of the novel. Despite the hardships she faces, she emerges as a symbol of strength, independence, and resilience. "The Scarlet Letter" explores themes of sin, guilt, redemption, and the hypocrisy of a judgmental society."

10/11/2023

"The Boston Terrier is a small and muscular dog breed with a friendly and affectionate nature. Originating in the United States, these dogs are characterized by their well-proportioned physique, standing between 15 to 17 inches tall and weighing between 12 to 25 pounds. Their smooth, short coat comes in brindle, seal, or black-and-white color patterns, and they are known for their large, round, dark eyes set wide apart on a square-shaped head.

In terms of temperament, Boston Terriers are recognized for their gentle and sociable disposition, often referred to as "gentlemen" or "ladies." They are intelligent and easily trainable, making them suitable as family pets. While generally good with children and other animals, early socialization is advisable.

Regarding exercise needs, Boston Terriers have moderate energy levels, and regular walks and playtime typically suffice. Due to their brachycephalic facial structure, they may be sensitive to extreme temperatures, requiring care during hot or cold weather.

Health considerations include the breed's susceptibility to respiratory problems due to their brachycephalic nature. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are crucial for their overall well-being.

The Boston Terrier's history dates back to the late 19th century in the U.S., resulting from the crossbreeding of a Bulldog and a White English Terrier. Initially bred for ratting and companionship, Boston Terriers gained popularity rapidly and received recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1893.

Boston Terriers are renowned for their charming personalities, making them favored companions and family pets. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments, is attributed to their moderate size and exercise requirements."

30/06/2019

The train house of the old Boston and Providence Railroad depot in about 1890. The huge station was located in Park Square. When South Station was opened in 1899, railroad operations were centralized there. The Park Square building became known as the Park Square Coliseum, and was eventually torn down and replaced by the Statler Office building in 1927.

27/06/2019

Here's a MBTA map from 1966, just after the rapid transit lines were color coded. Along the Blue Line, Atlantic Avenue station is called Aquarium today, and Devonshire is now State. The Orange Line is completely different. The old elevated sections to Everett and Forest Hills have long since been demolished. Worth noting are the original station names that were based on the nearest northbound/southbound streets: Ess*x/Boylston (Chinatown), Summer/Winter (Washington), State/Milk (State), Union/Friend (Haymarket). With the Green Line, the Arborway Branch only goes to Health today, and the Watertown Branch was abandoned in 1969.

27/06/2019

A photo of the Revere House that stood in Bowdoin Square. The upscale hotel had opened in 1847, and burned down on January 15, 1912. Some of the famous guests include Jenny Lind (1850), Daniel Webster (1850), and The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII (1860). Note the stage coach parked in front of the hotel that probably shuttled passengers to/from the railroad depots, and the horse drawn streetcar tracks in the foreground.

23/06/2019

A view of Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market in 1907 from atop the Ames Building. Most of the warehouse buildings behind Quincy Market were demolished to make way for the "modern" Central Artery highway in 1951-2. Christopher Columbus Park (1977) is located today along the waterfront on the east side of Atlantic Avenue. Here's a strange story about the Ames Building: http://www.celebrateboston.com/strange/kaiser-in-adams-square.htm

22/06/2019

The Boston, Winthrop, and Point Shirley Omnibus in the 1880s. It's the ancient equivalent to an MBTA bus. In winter, the "stage" left Point Shirley in Winthrop at 6:45 am, 12:30 pm, and 4:00 pm, and later left Winthrop Centre at 7:45 am, 1:00 pm, and 4:30 pm. The horses couldn't trot, so it took nearly an hour to get to Orient Heights (Winthrop Junction) in East Boston to connect with the Metropolitan Railroad "rapid transit" cars.

17/06/2019

A fun house at Old Revere Beach. People would walk onto two long wooden planks, which would move quickly in opposite directions. You'd have to walk across them without falling down. When you lost your balance, there was a brass railing to grasp, but it was lightly electrified and uncomfortable to grab onto! There was one such amusement in existence in about 1970, possibly at Lincoln Park.

17/06/2019

Does the Hub of the Universe marker still exist that was located at the old Filene's flagship store? http://www.celebrateboston.com/culture/the-hub-origin.htm

11/06/2019

Who's old enough to remember The Rings?

10/12/2016

Throwback photo: January 20, 1978, the big storm before the Blizzard of '78. 20" of snow fell, and then another 27" on February 6 & 7.

22/07/2016

The International Sand Sculpting Festival is took place [last] weekend is at Revere Beach, July 22 through 24. The Fireworks Extravaganza [took] place on Saturday night July 23!

Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival, the annual contest where sand sculptures are rated for the most creative and most original work of art.