First United States mint was established in Philadelphia in 1792. It produced silver half-dismes and dismes (now spelled dimes). The mint is still active, and other mints are functioning in Denver and San Francisco. Children could visit the mint’s website, particularly the games section, at: usmint.gov/kids. Idea: Children could debate the idea of eliminating the production of the penny.
Mount Rainier
Captain George Vancouver located and named Mount Rainier in Washington in 1792. Mount Rainier is a stratovolcano that last erupted a thousand years ago. Children can learn more at: http://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm.
New York Stock Exchange was created in 1792. Approximately 20 businessmen would meet under a buttonwood tree on Wall Street in New York City and trade stock. If the weather was bad, they met in a coffeehouse.
Kentucky Flag
Kentucky became the fifteenth state of the United States in 1792. It probably got its name from either the Iroquois word Kenta-ke, meaning meadowland, or the Wyandot word Kah-ten-tah-teh, meaning land of tomorrow. Its state song is “My Old Kentucky Home.” Kentucky ranks 37th in area and 25th in population compared to all the states. Tourist attractions include Mammoth Cave National Park. Frankfort is the capital, and Louisville is the largest city. Children could visit an internet site at: Kentucky.
Great Seal
Congress adopted the Great Seal in 1782. The seal, housed with the State Department, is used to authenticate federal documents. Three committees contributed their ideas until the final choice was made. The seal has at least five symbols that have thirteen of that object. For example, the eagle holds thirteen arrows. Children can learn more at: Great Seal.
White House
White House Cornerstone was placed into position in 1792. Completed in 1800 and restored several times, the White House contains more than 130 rooms. Children could learn more at: White House.