History Archives | Wisdom Harbour

Our Animal Reserves

Betcha didn’t know some animals serve their countries better than most humans! From a polar bear promoted for ambassadorial excellence to a knighted penguin (yes, really), and even a misbehaving goat who head-butted his way to demotion—these military mascots have colorful careers. And let’s not forget the mule accused of homicide! Join Jimmy Yeary as he shares tales of courageous, quirky, and sometimes chaotic animals who’ve worn military ranks with honor…or hilarity. Betcha Didn’t Know loyalty could look like this!

The World of Pasta: Shapes, Sauces, and Surprises

by Emily Isbell | Betcha Didn't Know

Is spaghetti singular or plural? Surprise—it’s plural! Dive into the fascinating (and delicious) world of pasta with Emily Isbell as she uncovers the meanings behind quirky pasta names (like strozzapreti, aka “priest stranglers”), the four main pasta categories, and the ultimate sauce pairings. Plus, discover record-breaking feats like an 11,000-pound lasagna and a hilariously “serious” BBC documentary about…spaghetti trees? Don’t noodle around—this Betcha Didn’t Know is pasta-tively fun!

How Military Research Spawned the Internet Age

by Armon J. Newton | Betcha Didn't Know

Betcha Didn’t Know that the internet you’re using right now began as a military project to survive nuclear war! Armon Newton uncovers how a Cold War-era communication experiment grew into the global phenomenon we know today. From the first email (sent between two side-by-side computers!) to the invention of the World Wide Web, this episode will have you marveling at the internet’s evolution—complete with coffee pot webcams, dial-up screeches, and even a near miss with the name “Cadaver.”

Garbo, the Spy Who Fooled the Nazi’s

by Jeff Allen | Betcha Didn't Know

Betcha didn’t know that the most celebrated double agent in WWII went by the code name ‘Garbo’ and worked both sides so well, he was awarded medals from both the British and the Nazis! Jeff Allen takes you on a hilarious journey into the world of Juan Pujol García—a man who convinced Hitler’s regime he had a full spy network when, in reality, his “agents” were all in his head! Buckle up for one of the greatest cons in history… one that fooled even the Führer!

The Alchemy of Color: How Medieval Artists Made Paint

by Andy Andrews | Betcha Didn't Know

Join Andy Andrews as he reveals the fascinating history of paint, from egg-based “illuminations” in medieval manuscripts to Tyrian Purple—a dye so rare it was reserved for emperors! Discover how crushed beetles, tree resin, and sea mollusks created iconic colors, why the White House wasn’t always white, and the story behind the Golden Gate Bridge’s “International Orange.” This Betcha Didn’t Know brushes up on the colorful evolution of paint through the ages!

What Was Dr. Seuss Doing During World War II?

by Andy Andrews | The Way I See It

Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, was an editorial cartoonist from 1941 to 1943, creating over 400 political cartoons during World War II. These cartoons criticized America’s enemies, encouraged patriotism, and addressed issues like frugality, blackouts, and recruitment. Now part of Wisdom Harbour’s Forgotten History exhibit, these original cartoons are displayed to spark thought and discussion about their powerful messages.

Wartime Cartoons

by Andy Andrews | The Way I See It

1942 was the year of the first 4th of July after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour. That month, every magazine in the United States featured the American flag on its cover. Can you imagine what it must have been like to live in a society where most everyone agreed on the direction of our country? Citizens of the world were fighting the Axis powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—and it seemed, everyone did their part. Books, television, movies….all joined the fight to win the hearts and minds of good people the world over. Amazingly, that effort included cartoons for children. Today, Wisdom Harbour looks back in time to some works most have forgotten. Enjoy these five examples—all from Walt Disney—as Mickey, Minnie, and Donald work to further the effort to win World War II.

Lights, Camera, Trivia: Surprising Tales from the World of Film

by Andy Andrews | Betcha Didn't Know

Betcha Didn’t Know the first motion picture was just two seconds long! Join Andy Andrews as he takes you on a journey through fascinating film trivia, from Louis Le Prince’s groundbreaking 1888 short to today’s cinematic masterpieces. Discover how a barista’s mistake led to a Star Wars planet name, how Chewbacca was inspired by a dog, and how Toto from “The Wizard of Oz” earned more than some actors! Packed with surprising stories, this episode shines a spotlight on the hidden tales of film history!

Lady Spies of WWII: Phyllis “Pippa” Latour

by Briley Crisafi | Betcha Didn't Know

Betcha Didn’t Know a WW2 spy outwitted the Nazis with… knitting! Join Briley Crisafi as she unravels the tale of Phyllis “Pippa” Latour, a British secret agent who used knitting to hide secret codes. Disguised as a young girl on a bicycle, Latour transmitted 135 vital messages to aid the Allies during D-Day preparations. Discover how this courageous woman evaded capture, all while wielding her knitting needles as a tool of espionage. This episode is threaded with thrilling history!

Goats & Coffee

by Briley Crisafi | Betcha Didn't Know

Betcha Didn’t Know that coffee was discovered by goats! Join Briley Crisafi as she spills the beans on the legendary origins of our favorite brew. From an Ethiopian goatkeeper’s curious discovery in 850 AD to how these energizing berries became the global drink we know today, this episode is brimming with fascinating coffee facts. Learn how a simple berry transformed into the world’s second most traded commodity, fueling revolutions, philosophies, and even world records. This episode is a jolt of java history!

Playing Cards

by Armon J. Newton | Betcha Didn't Know

Did you know that forging an Ace of Spades in the American colonies was a hanging offense? Join Armon J. Newton as he deals out the fascinating history behind playing cards. From the British Empire’s taxation during the Seven Years War to the evolution of playing card suits from medieval society, this episode is packed with intriguing facts. Discover the historical figures depicted as Kings, Queens, and Jacks, and learn how playing cards were used in World War II to aid American soldiers. Plus, explore the materials and symbolism behind your favorite deck. It’s a full house of fun facts in this Betcha Didn’t Know!

Fireworks

by Andy Andrews | Betcha Didn't Know

Ignite your curiosity with Andy Andrews in this explosive Betcha Didn’t Know! From a 22-hour firecracker marathon in Hong Kong to the vibrant world of pyrotechnics, learn about the science, art, and even the quirky side of fireworks. Why do people shout “Tamaya!” and “Kagiya!” during a fireworks display in Japan? And what unusual hobbies did Elvis Presley have? This video is a blast—don’t miss out!