The Feast of St. Brigid is a celebratory time whose exact origins are lost to time. February 1st is the Feast of St. Brigid. It is also Imbolc, the Gaelic fire festival. So, are we celebrating a Catholic saint, a pagan goddess or both? Let’s explore the tangled history of Ireland’s famous female patron saint. …
The Sunday Market at Cambria City takes place the last Sunday of the month from May through October. Chestnut Street is blocked off and a variety of vendors set up their tents. Three Sunday Markets have already come and gone, but don’t worry! There are three more Sunday Markets. Vendors While every Sunday Market is …
This weekend Country Fox visited the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site for their Living History Day. We visited the museum first to brush up on the history of the Allegheny Portage Railroad. Then we headed down to the Living History encampments and checked out the Engine House 6 Exhibit and the Lemon House. The …
This week we explore the history and mystery of ‘The man they could not hang’. Michael “Mickey” or “Smitty” Smith lived in the Johnstown area. After killing a man, he was found guilty and sentenced to hang. Then, he disappeared. Smitty was never heard from again. Before Incarceration Michael Smith had several nicknames, his most …
This week Country Fox explores 7 things to do on Earth Day. Most people have heard about Earth Day, but do you know the history of Earth Day? If you have never participated in Earth Day activities, I have some suggestions for those interested in participating. Creation of Earth Day The 1960’s was a decade …
Origin Story of the Easter Bunny is a long and winding tale of how a simple down to earth rabbit becomes a springtime version of Santa. (Cue dramatic superhero music.) What shady government/military science created this egg delivering mammal? Why are the eggs various colors? How can it hop around the world in one night? …
While it may be snowing outside right now, nice weather is just around the corner. Country Fox is here to suggest 7 Springtime Amusements. Read on through to start planning some fun spring and summer activities. 1. Gardens at St. Francis The Shrines and Sunken Gardens at Mount Assisi are located on what used to …
Country Fox is back from her Winter hibernation with her trip to Alchemie, The Magic of Mixing and Mingling. Located at 512 Chestnut Street in Cambria City, Alchemie is a unique place to stop and get some unique drinks. Alchemy: Noun According to the Merrian Webster Dictionary, alchemy is the medieval science and philosophy which …
November 26th is Small Business Saturday, and Country Fox is bringing you 13 Local Small Businesses you will want to check out. This day helps our local “Mom and Pop” type shops, craftspeople, and artists by bringing attention to their services. With holiday season around the corner, here is a list of unique places to …
We are only a few short days away from All Hallows Eve, or Halloween. This week’s blog explores some ancient All Hallows Eve divination practices. Read on to find out more about apple bobbing, tarot cards, hazel nuts and candles. All Hallows Eve: Ancient Practices Samhain was celebrated at the end of October and beginning …