DarkIn the 1930's, American track star Jesse Owens used to race against horses and dogs to earn a living.591k17 years ago
FunnyWhen pirate Jean Lafitte saw the governor advertising a $500 reward for his capture, Lafitte offered $5,000 for the capture of the governor.514k11 years ago
Mind-BlowingIn 1799, a boy found a 17lb. rock in a creek in North Carolina and used it as a doorstop. It was actually gold.322k12 years ago
Mind-BlowingIn 2011, a couple bought a box of textbooks for $10. Inside, they found a 25-cent bill signed by the president of the Republic of Texas, Sam Houston, and subsequently sold it for $63,250.132k12 years ago
InterestingIn 1869–1870, boosters called Washington vulnerable and pitched St. Louis as the nation’s natural center, even hosting a Capital Removal convention.3 months ago
Mind-BlowingIn 1930, six anonymous Chicago businessmen formed a secret vigilante organization to take on the city's rampant crime. They investigated bombings, kidnappings, and bank robberies — and Al Capone himself said they were responsible for bringing him down.3 months ago
InterestingMichael Sparks paid $2.48 at a Nashville thrift store for a yellowed scroll he thought was an engraving. It was one of only 200 official copies of the Declaration of Independence, printed for John Quincy Adams in 1823. The previous owner had donated it by mistake after his wife cleared out the garage. It sold at auction for $477,650.18 days ago
InterestingSears sold up to 75,000 complete houses by mail-order between 1908 and 1940. You picked a model for $360 to $2,890, and a railroad boxcar arrived with 30,000 pre-cut pieces, 750 pounds of nails, 27 gallons of paint, and a 75-page manual. An estimated 70% are still standing, built by the company that later failed to adapt to e-commerce.2 hours ago
TrendingInspiringHarley-Davidson was bought in 1969 by AMF - a company best known for bowling equipment. They nearly quintupled output. Oil leaks, bad welds, and faulty electrics became routine. Riders called them "Hardly Ableson." Harley's market share fell from 80% to under 20%. In 1981, 13 executives led an $81.5 million buyout - and rode their Harleys to Milwaukee to celebrate. They rebuilt the American icon.4 days ago