Hermitage Museum opened to the public in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 1852. Catherine the Great created the museum in 1764. One of the oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage houses nearly three million artifacts. Children can participate in a virtual tour or see virtual exhibits at the museum’s very interesting website at: Hermitage Museum.
Catherine the Great
Catherine the Great (born Stettin, now Szczecin, Poland, 1729; died St. Petersburg, Russia, November 17, 1796) was Empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796. She is credited with making Russia into a modern state.
Elijah McCoy
Elijah McCoy (born Colchester, Ontario, Canada, 1844; died Eloise, Michigan, October 10, 1929) was an inventor. The son of runaway slaves, he patented over 50 inventions. His most famous invention was a way to lubricate train engines as they worked. His inventions were so reliable that people did not want to buy imitations. Thus, his name is honored with the phrase, “the Real McCoy.” Children can learn more at: Elijah McCoy.
Mary Quattlebaum (born Bryan, Texas, 1958) has written at least 23 books for children. Her books include the Jackson Jones series and A Year on My Street.
Susan Richards Shreve (born Toledo, Ohio, 1939) writes books for children and adults. Her books include the Joshua T. Bates series and The Lovely Shoes. Her book Lucy Forever and Miss Rosetree, Shrinks received the Edgar Award in 1988. Children could visit her website at: Susan Shreve.