Lisa Waller Rogers
Hi, I’m Lisa Waller Rogers and I write the blog, Lisa’s History Room.
“Oh, no! Another history blog?” you might say.
Yes, another history blog – and yet not – because this one’s different in a very special way. You see I don’t think of history the way many historians do, as a dull-as-dirt list of male U.S. presidents interspersed with big wars. While I might mention World War II or the Galveston Hurricane of 1900 in my blog, I will primarily write about people – fascinating people, people you can lie awake at night and think about. Because it is through people that you can really love history. I agree with Ralph Waldo Emerson who said, “There is properly no history; only biography.”
It was my mother who nurtured this world view. Growing up, she spoke to me about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor as familiarly as if they were neighbors. She trained me to view an adult’s behavior through the lens of his or her childhood.
The Duchess and Duke of Windsor
“Poor David!” she would say of the late Duke of Windsor, using his nickname. “He was always looking for a nurturer. His mother – Queen Mary – was cold, cold. She left him to cruel nannies to raise. One of his nannies would pinch him before presenting him to his parents every evening.” His father, King George V, was just as distant. In 1935, a year before his son ascended the throne of England, he told Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin, “After I am dead, the boy will ruin himself in twelve months.” The Duke of Windsor found his nurturer in the person of Wallis Warfield Simpson, a twice-divorced American socialite the Brits considered an unacceptable consort for their king. And thus we have the explanation for the 1936 abdication of King Edward VIII.
My Credentials: After receiving my history degree from UT Austin in 1978, I taught elementary school for ten years. Since 1985, I’ve consulted and edited textbooks for Harcourt Publishers. I’ve written articles for publications such as Parents, Boys’ Life, Texas Highways, and the Instructor. I collaborated on a frontier forts website for UT’s Texas Archaeological Research Lab. I received a 2003 Texas Commission on the Arts educational writing grant.
In addition, I’ve appeared as a featured writer and speaker at schools, museums, fundraisers, libraries, book and history clubs, bookstores, the Texas Book Festival, the Texas State Library Association Conferences, and on local TV, MSNBC, and Texas radio stations. I am an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers, the Writers’ League of Texas, the Western Writers of America, and Women Writing the West.
THE GREAT STORM, 2002 Western Heritage Wrangler Award Winner
I’ve published five popular children’s history books, four with the prestigious Texas Tech University Press. These books have received 2 state and 3 national honors (see “Lisa’s Books“). Newly released is a young adult novel, The Candy Ravers, available as an e-book at Amazon.
all material on this blog is copyrighted by Lisa Waller Rogers
Lisa's History Room 
Ms. Rogers,
I think this blog is FABULOUS! I find something new and juicy everytime I look! A peek at your blog each day is my treat; it is the prize in my box of Cracker Jacks! Please keep doing what you are doing, something about it is very very satisfying!
Sincerely,
Shirley Kavanaugh, RVT
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Shirley, thanks for visiting. Must you gush? Nevertheless, I will take your kudos with open arms and tired wrists. Thank you.
Word on the street is that you are steeped in Lincolnology. What pithy thing would you like to contribute on Honest Abe for our readers?
Lisa
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Are there any moving pictures of Tsar Alexander III? I have seen films of his funeral and his sons coronation but no moving film of him.
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gee, i don’t have that answer but am intrigued by the question. please update if you uncover a nugget. Lisa
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HI Lisa – I’m trying to connect with you about a writing project for the school market for the publisher — Benchmark Education. My email is below and I’d love to share more details. Thank you!
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Blogging is not easy. So many people start one and give up. My advice blog about a passion or cause that as a person’s believes in. Lisa blogs about History PS I love her blog. I write about my findings in genealogy. It’s not always easy However that is How blogging works
Jeannette
Lisa Blog is so creative she should win award because it is beautiful
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Jeannette, you inspire me! I have been working on some other projects of late and have not posted to Lisa’s History Room in some time. As for genealogy, one of the projects I took on was a genealogy of mystery writer Agatha Christie. Her father was American, her mother, British. Lisa
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Dear Lisa Waller Rogers, you seem to have infringed my rights as a creator. You have used my image of Barbara Cartland holding her pekinese dog with the watermarked copyright information cropped out. Please take down this image or talk to me about payment for useage.
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Hello, David Porter, according to your request, I have removed the image referenced. However, you should note that my site is educational. I do not sell anything from Lisa’s History Room nor do I receive proceeds from ads. Therefore, I am actually able to use your image, should I so choose, much like Pinterest is allowed to do. Cheers, Lisa
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David Porter Lisa has the most amazing blog. It’s your Misfortune that you have asked her to remove your beautiful photo. You should praise for a wonderful job. That her blog reaches a lot of people like myself. Instead your photo will get lost due stupidity. Jeannette K. Rook
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Jeannette, I apologize for not blogging recently. I have been studying Spanish. It’s so nice to know you are out there. Much love, Lisa
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Mr Porter, IMHO you erred both in the matter of rights & in your manners.
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Yaakov, thank you. Best, Lisa
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hi I was researching a distant relative wallis warfield simpson and came across your blog , I live in England and would like to speak to some one who knows more than i think i know but I believe I am her 13th removed cousin I have been told and my last name is warfield smith , if you can help I will send you my email thank you for your time , k warfield smith .
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I’m learning a lot from this site — keep it up!
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Please keep coming back. I blog faithfully M-F. I appreciate your patronage.
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hey there Lisa
Ive always liked reading about interesting charachters
came here by chance reading about julia pastrana and kept reading more
im from a smal city, Aguascalientes, which belonged to the state of zacatecas in mexico
legend says our city became free because of a kiss a noble woman gave to someone, otherwise it would have continued to be a part of zacatecas
interested yet’ hope you find the topic interesting
humberto, mexico
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Humberto, thanks for visiting Lisa’s History Room.
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My maternal grandma was Edith WALLER, b. 1896 in Columbus, KS, m. Loyd Childers. Her father was Elton (Elta?) Areleas WALLER, b. 1872, and his father William A. Waller.
Could we perhaps be relaqted?? Laura K. llklure@att.net
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Laura, that’s very interesting. I have not done genealogy studies for the Wallers although I prize that family line. Best, Lisa
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I and another birder were discussing the spectacular attributes of ravens; somewhere in the recesses of my brain, I recalled a famous person who had a raven as a family companion– Google-time! What a great essay on Dickens’ raven and the connection to Poe. Thanks so much. I think I’m hooked on your site!
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Birdie, I am delighted that you visited Lisa’s History Room. I am trying very hard to keep my readers informed yet entertained. Would you leave a comment about what you know about ravens? I know that they are spectacularly smart and like to collect shiny things. I saw one at the Grand Canyon who was trying to befriend me.
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Hi, Lisa.
Just saw your blog for the first time and am amazed at your range of interests and obvious dedication. And likewise the super technology you your blog exhibits. I think you’re providing a real public service in grand style.
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Nicolai, how wonderful to hear from you. Thanks for the kudos. I cannot help myself. I am constantly thinking about history. I believe you are currently reading a lot of Russian history, right?
Keep coming back and check out what I’m writing. Any comments would help my readers.
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Not living in an area where ravens are found, it is always a pleasure when I find myself in company with them. Well, not “in company” but rather a happy observer — much like the throngs of onlookers along the red carpet on Oscar night. A memory, now decades old, that remains vivid is a trip I took to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, where a ranger directed me to a specific ridge to “watch the ravens playing.” Looking over the edge, I watched these powerful and agile birds riding the updrafts then plummetting down, only to “catch the next wave.” I can only imagine the exhiliration and cameraderie of it all. It was a privilege and testament to the wonders this world holds.
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Now that you mention the ravens catching the updraft, that’s what the raven at the Grand Canyon was doing as well.
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hi LISA IAM DIANA i love ur book of the Angel of the Alamo FAN OF LISA DIANA
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HI, Diana. Thanks for the compliments!
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In high school in the 70s, I briefly dated Melinda and my sister dated my buddy Dan. Dan and Melinda found each other and are now married. My sister got married and her daughter, Pace, made friends with a young lady who she met in high school, Lizzy, who is Dan’s niece. Pace and Lizzy became good friends, but knew nothing of our families’ history. Through my niece, Pace, I have become friends with Lizzy and Lizzy and I are now friends on Facebook. Reading Lizzy’s profile this morning I read your post and that has led me here.
I suppose that’s a brief history of intertwined lives leading to a new friend. I’m not sure what your relationship is to Lizzy but no matter. I’m very impressed by your blog and I expect to return and catch up on new stories.
A songwriter friend has these lyrics in a love song:
“Throughout our histories.
Some nights are mysteries,
I don’t know why, but it’s true…”
I appreciate your approach of stories about people…
Great blog. Thanks.
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Chris, I’m so glad to hear from you. Lizzy is related to me through my mother. Thank you for visiting Lisa’s History Room. Please come back again and tell me what’s on your mind. Lisa
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Lisa, just reading about your credentials and your blog’s philosophy is FABULOUS already (I’m borrowing Shirley’s description). And I haven’t even read any of your posts! Which is because I don’t have enough time right now. But I promise to be back and often.
I hope you’ll have posts on the Philippines aside from the Marcoses. Anything about national heroes, Dr. Jose Rizal and Gat Andres Bonifacio will really be FABULOUS!
Thanks for being a force on the blogosphere and God bless!
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It’s just awesome to have you visit Lisa’s History Room. I will visit your site and remember your request. Please come back.
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Wow … what an amazing blog! I originally intended to read just one story of interest, but it was so fascinating, I couldn’t resist reading all of them. Your stories are as addictive as potato chips … you can’t enjoy just one. You have really made history come alive and I look forward to each exciting new entry. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your love of history with us.
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Well, thank you for visiting Lisa’s History Room. I hope you will keep coming back. I look forward to your comment on today’s post, “Imelda Marcos Almost Gets the Beatles Killed.”
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dear Ms Lisa
iam diana a huge fan of ur book i think they are fantastic and the have lots of GOOD FACTS
if u want to reply me back go to my e-mail ok i love ur book even chapter books
😀 P.S DIANA OROZCO
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Diana, how nice to hear from you.
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Hi Lisa,
It was great to see you today and share parts of the home tour. I love your history blogg. Fun! I did make it over to the house on 12th and it was amazing. The grotto with the plant-covered rocks and fountain was really nice… wish we could build something like that at my house. Besides the weirdiswonderful.com site, I also use .Mac and have a page at http://homepage.mac.com/cemgilbert/Menu1.html I’m using iWeb to create my web page at weirdiswonderfu and am still having problems getting the pages I create to look on the web exactly like they look in iWeb. There seems to be a lot to learn about doing web pages yourself. Maybe the blog templates like you have are a lot easier.
I’ve been working on some family history…
When I’ve got your email address, I’ll send you a photo of Jonathan.
Christine
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Hi, Christine, my email address is listed on my blog – on the page “About Lisa Waller Rogers”: lisarogers224@austin.rr.com. Please send me photos!
Tom and I scootered down to the Pecan Street Festival. We are so tired! I will check out your site and blurb.com.
WordPress.com is the sponsor of my blog. I find it supereasy. I was going to set up a website but find blogs more interesting for what I’m trying to accomplish.
Lisa
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Your watercolors are so pleasing. Katie and I love the elephants. Wonderful. Lisa
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Last night my son, who is a freshman in high school, bravely approached me with some bad news. He had submitted a character analysis to his English teacher last week, and when the graded papers were distributed to the students yesterday, my son was taken to the hallway and accused of plagiarism. He was told that he downloaded his paper from the internet, and that he would not be given credit for the work. He adamantly denied the accusation, as it is completely untrue and out of character, and told the teacher that he would need to speak with his parents. I was shocked by the news, and readied myself for the inevitable confrontation.
Today, my husband, my son and I promptly entered the high school at 8 a.m. and waited for our meeting with the teacher and the principal. Once seated around the tiny table in the uncomfortably warm conference room, I proceeded to ask the teacher how he substantiated his claim for plagiarism against my son; what website had he seen the work previously published? With obvious embarrassment, he explained that he and another teacher had searched online for over half an hour, and found no supporting evidence for his claims. I explained to him that I knew that would be his answer, because my son did not plagiarize; I knew this because I had assisted him in the composition of his paper. The teacher continued to explain that the paper was just too good for a freshman paper; I replied that I felt it unnecessary to dumb his paper down and that he should be submitting college level work if he is capable of it. After speaking with us, he knew that my son had done the work, and apologized to him. Not only did he accept the paper, but asked if he could use it as a teaching tool for his class.
You see, my son is following in my own footsteps, he had found the one subject in school that didn’t bore him….Shakespeare. His character analysis was on Mercutio from Romeo and Juliet. I took great pride and joy in explaining to his English teacher that I had been blessed to have the most wonderful teacher in the world in 5th grade, I had Ms. Waller.
I had a teacher who had the bravery to not teach me the standard curriculum for language arts, and instead challenged her class to learn Shakespeare…Romeo and Juliet to be exact. We not only read the play, we understood it, we became passionate about it, and we even performed it. I played Lord Capulet, and I will never forget it. My fondest memories of my education are studying Shakespeare in Ms. Waller’s 5th grade class with Strawberry Fields Forever playing in the background. To this day, I love the Beatles, and Shakespeare, and because of her creativity, belief, and support, I am a writer. I was the news editor for both my high school and college newspapers, and though I have a boring day job, I am a freelance writer on the side….which is my true passion.
Ms. Waller changed my life for the better, and instilled in me a love of art, culture and creativity that I would not otherwise have. I think of her when I write, I think of her when I am at the opera, and I thought of her today as I sang her praises, and realized once again how lucky I am to have had her influence in my life. I am sad to say, I am not a huge history buff, but my husband is almost maniacal about it, and is doing his best to convert me into an amateur historian. Wish him luck. I love you Ms. Waller.
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My gosh! As I read through this paper before reaching its astounding ending, I kept thinking, who is this fabulous writer??? Rachel Lucio, reveal your maiden name –
May I just say that my jaw remains dropped. I just can’t believe the praise. I am so happy that you found joy where I did. I wanted to create a fairyland of learning for my students. I hated textbooks and loved lit and history. Please write back and tell me more. Love, Lisa
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Maiden name is Patrias. Was in your 5th grade class in I believe 1983-84. I moved to Round Rock after 5th grade, and we ran into each other in the hall at my middle school when I was in 8th grade I believe (CD Fulkes Middle School). It stuck with me because I called out your name in the crowded hall, and you immediately turned around and recognized me. With an enthusiastic hug, you exclaimed that you had had a dream about my class a few nights before, and there we were, talking in the hallway. Strange how the world can be so big, yet so small at the same time.
Anyway, you were really on my mind yesterday with the meeting that I had at the school, so I looked you up. Why I hadn’t until now truly escapes me, nevertheless I found you.
I decided to post my story about you, because if people are reading a section titled About Lisa Waller Rogers, they should know that she didn’t just teach elementary school for 10 years, she made a difference and changed at least one life in the process.
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Rachel! Of course I remember you. On my email, can you send me an old and new photo of you?
Thank you so much for blowing wind in my sails. I use my blog to try to interest others in history- History is just one big People magazine, in my opinion.
Love you, Miss Waller
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Lisa,
Earlier this evening I was sufing the web looking for material for the 5th grade class that I will be teaching next year, when I ran across your wonderful site. I am now sitting here with tears streaming down my cheeks after reading the post from last May written by one of your former students.
I have been an educator for more than 30 years. The first 20 years were largely spent teaching 4th or 5th grade where I felt just as you, I truly loved history and literature and also taught my students Shakespeare. The play I love to teach and have them perform was Midsummer Night’s Dream.
A little over 10 years ago I left the classroom and began work as a staff developer and consultant. It was a wonderful experience and I have many great friends all over the country from that time.
A year ago I decided to come back to classroom teaching and was assigned to teach 2nd grade. I have been coaching teachers about best practices and I wanted to see if I could “put my money where my mouth has been”. I put in about 80 hours a week to get back into it, spent a small fortune gathering materials and loved every minute of it. I had a dream class, wonderful students, great supportive parents, and an appreciative administrator. So appreciative that she came to me at the end of the year and asked if I would please move to 5th grade and take the gifted class next year. After much reflection I said yes.
Since then I have really flown wildly from thinking what the heck have I done to, I could teach Shakespeare again – but underneath it all I have been scared to death. I have spent days haunting the local bookstores to build a classroom library, searched the internet for resources, read a truckload of professional books, and sat thinking about how to set up the room.
Your former student has reminded me once again the real reason why I took the plunge and decided to go back into the classroom. I want to share the same joy and thrill with my students that I have when I read a great book. I want to share with them the great stories about the lives of the people that make up our history.
I wanted both you and Rachel to know that your inspiration marches on. I look forward to coming back to your site time and again for further inspiration.
Wish me luck!
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Ann, you don’t need luck. Your positive attitude will carry you forth. Love that Bard! Thanks for writing and please come back to Lisa’s History Room.
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Well, i just found this blog randomly the other day! I was fascinated! I have to tell, you have kept my interest alive, i want to read more and more! Well done and keep going!!
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Bonita, how nice you are. I visited “Flying Bricks” and wanted to read your posts but don’t know your language.
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oh, you’re sweet! yes, you couldn’t understand my language because it’s greek! anyway, my blog is a personal one about my thoughts on lots of things, mostly my “black” thoughts..! well, it doesn’t matter you can’t follow, me i will definetely follow you 🙂
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Bonita, I wish I could read Greek. I had the most wonderful female Greek ESL student one semester. I actually have a Greek/English dictionary but don’t know any Greek. How smart you are to know Greek and English. Keep coming back & thanks!
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i love your blog…i’m from philippines and a college student…your blog informs and educates me…i have a huge passion for history too…the world is so full of stories waiting to be told…wish you all the luck with your career and hope you continue inspiring people especially the youth like me…
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Aren’t you nice? It’s nice to know that my posts are pleasing to you. Please come back to Lisa’s History Room.
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What a beautiful blog! Thanks for doing it.
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Thank you so much. I aim to please – plus, I love passing on interesting stories about real people.
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Hello
I´ve just found your blogg, and i am facinated whit all the work you have done, it´s great.
I have a huge intresst in the assinations of JFK and RFK, but also in the Kennedys as a family, their succes and tradgedy.
Thank you for all your work 🙂
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Aren’t you nice! Please keep coming back to Lisa’s History Room. I will try to keep you entertained.
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hi there lisa,
Call it “accidental” but I’m glad to come across your history blog. I have enjoyed reading your article about (imeldific?), and what really fascinates me is the way you describe the very nature of imelda marcos. I would like to drop the subject about her being infamous, I am more interested with some of your world views such as the intriguing life of the British monarchy. Keep it up, Lisa!
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Hi, Shinigwa, thanks for visiting Lisa’s History Room. I think that Imelda Marcos will continue to be a subject of interest for many years. She will see to that!
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Dear Lisa,
http://www.muetterschreibenfuermuetter.de (mothers write for mothers) is a German blog for mothers on everything and anything mothers deal with in everyday life.
We are two mothers with three kids each and live in Munich / Germany and are currently expanding into a lifestyle magazine for mothers.
In this context we came upon your lovely website, e.g. the article focussing on Jackie Kennedy’s motherhood: “Why Jackie Kennedy married Ari Onassis”.
Here is our question: Could we rent your article for a limited period of three months?
Hoping to hear from you soon,
we remain sincerely,
Annette and Vanessa
P.S. More information about us:
Last year we published our first book titled “Schnuller, Sex und Selbstbewusstsein” which can be translated as “Pacifiers, Sex and Self-Confidence”.
The book is a guide for mothers on the first year of motherhood – dealing with practical issues such as sleeping babies, nursing and also partnership as well all the self-confidence issues mothers come up against when they become just that.
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Hi, Annette and Vanessa, I’m so glad you visited Lisa’s History Room. You will find several articles dedicated to motherhood – Queen Mary of Teck as a mother, Ethel Kennedy as a mother, etc. You are welcome to post a link to any of my blog posts to your blog. When you mention renting my blog, though, what do you mean? Best, Lisa
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cool nice site
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Lisa,
It was a pleasure to meet you the other day. I saw Crystal today and told her all about you. 🙂
Wow, this is quite an impressive blog. You are an inspiration as I try to find my way to a new adventure.
Best wishes,
Erin
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Hey, Erin, so I went to my regular stylist and had him cut my hair like yours. It turned out great. I added some dark highlights so the blond wasn’t so stark. Thanks for the tip on Crystal; I’ll keep her in mind. I also appreciate the compliments on Lisa’s History Room. My blog doesn’t get the attn. it deserves as my time is diverted to Spanish studies more these days. God bless you in your job-hunting efforts. My email is lisarogers224@austin.rr.com. Keep in touch.
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Dear Lisa,
We always get a fresh view of history when we delve into your rich online chronicles. There is one subject that I haven’t seen you address, and hope I might suggest it to you here. Could you look into the life of Pamela Harriman? I think of her as a “20th Century Courtesan,” but wish I knew more about the influences and pressures that her motivated her odd life. Somehow I think all the marriages were a desperate attempt to distance herself from her somewhat distasteful maiden name of “Digby.” However, that does not provide a reason for her multitudinous affairs…. What do you think?
Just curious.
Thank you,
Shirley
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Shirley, your input is always valued. I have indeed read a bio on Pamela Digby Churchill Harriman; I believe I borrowed it from my mother. Yes, I can see the motivation for her to move away from Digby roots. I’ll see if I can find the book and find just the right story that captures her essence….
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Hi Lisa,
I was just reading everything you’ve posted about Frida Kahlo, I just visited an exhibition of her work (prints) here in Montreal until the 10th.
Thank you for the interesting stories and photos. The exhibition was in French so I didn’t understand all of it (shame on me, I’ve lived here all my life!)
I will definitely come back and read some more!
Lori
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Lori, how jealous I am. I have only seen one original Kahlo. It is here at the Univ. of Texas at Austin: “Self-Portrait with Hummingbird Necklace.” I have gone to the campus to see it many times since it returned from touring. I am so glad you are finding articles of interest here at Lisa’s History Room. Keep coming back (and I can’t speak French at all!)
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Lisa: I’m making a short (10 Minute.) iMovie on my computer. Can you refer me to the person who took the photo of the Filipino prisoners with their backs to the camera…I want to obtain copyright use to insert the photo for 3 seconds of my film.
Many Thanks for any help you might provide. I saw the image on Google Images. Thanks, James L. Weaver, MFA- Freedom, CA
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James, I’m not aware of who owns that photo. It may take some digging.
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Hi Lisa, about how often do you update your information? I just discovered your site last week, the current tidbit being Shakespeare. As time is so limited, even for those sites I really love, just wondered so as to become more efficient. Thanks.
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Patricia, my son married on Saturday so I have not been as faithful to my website posting as usual. Check out my calendar to see what I mean!
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Thanks for checking out my little blog. Enjoyed your entry of Victoria & Albert’s jewels.
Thiswritelife
MJ Gibson
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Your blog is elegant.
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Hi Lisa!
Love everything I’ve discovered through your writing. Quick question re: your wonderful Roy Rogers post from awhile back. Any idea where Dusty’s quote about his mom sleeping with one eye open (joking about her fear of being stuffed like their animals) is from? I’m trying to find the original.
Thanks!
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You know, I should have documented that quote. I am so sorry. I have looked on the Internet and have been unable to find where I got it. Good luck.
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Hello Lisa,
I have just recently discovered a person, Rosa Rio.
If you did not know of her, I thought you might be interested and want to add her to your abundant personal knowledge base as I have.
links:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/15/arts/music/15rio.html?ref=obituaries
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosa_Rio
I realize the comments area may not be the most appropriate place to share, but ’tis the best I could do.
I enjoy your history blog.
You share such fascinating tidbits!
Winston
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Thanks for the tip, Winston. I look forward to hearing from you again.
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Lisa,
Thanks so much for your blog. Fun and informative! Please keep up the good work.
“Hook ’em horns”
Frank
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I’m so glad you like Lisa’s History Room, Frank. Hook ’em right back at you!
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Hi Lisa!
I just found your blog. It’s really great! I could read it all day!
How do you find so much stuff? Do you spend all day every day reading, reading, reading, and reading?!
You do a great job! Is it time consuming? Or have you just amassed a wealth of knowledge over the years?
Thanks!
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Terri, thank you, thank you. I love to tell stories that give people a glimpse of the real person. I read and read and read until I find something I think my readers will be fascinated by. Then I research it to death, using quality resources, so you can depend upon the info I present. Please keep coming back to Lisa’s History Room!
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I THINK THAT LISA IS SO PRETTY YOURE DOING SUCH A WONDERFUL JOB.IVE BEEN TRYING 2 SEND MY COMENTARIE 2 MICHAELS BLOGG THEY SAY COMENTARIE CLOSED SO I DECIDED 2 SEND MY COMENTARIE 4 YOU 2 SAY THAT YOUR JOB IA WONDERFUL. 4ROM.OLIVIA EDUARDA 2 LISA WALLER ROGERS
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Dear Lisa, your blog is great. I am a fashion historian – I love it!!
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Bronwyn, thank you. Please look through my categories and find an article of interest. Leave a comment. Your insight will be invaluable to the readers.
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Hello, Lisa!
I stumbled upon your blog by chance while doing some internet reading. Fascinating! Thank you for bringing history to life in the anecdotal tales of some “larger-than-life” and some “everyday” people.
Your blog is a treat I allow myself to read for a bit every morning with my coffee. Eventually, I will have devoured every article here! I had my history-buff husband start reading the blog last night. He, too, is fascinated!
I laughed at your description of your mother…mine was very, very similar! I think in those days, with the proliferation of “movie mags”, “gossip-queens” and the publics’ need for American royalty to glamorize in such hard times (The Great Depression, WWII), that a lot of women felt a strange “kinship” with the movie stars and renown figures. My brother and I were the same ages as John-John and Caroline Kennedy, I was the same age as Princess Caroline and my mother had me feeling as if we were practically cousins LOL. A different time, for sure!
We are looking forward to every article. Again, we are enjoying every word here!
Regards,
Lisa V.
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Lisa, may I thank you for taking the time to compose such a kind and meaningful letter. I am so glad you are finding pleasure in these little posts. They are my joy. It’s interesting how we connect on a personal level with people of the past. Please keep coming back to Lisa’s History Room.
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Hi Lisa,
History is a collection of recorded facts, which at times are mysterious and seem stranger than fiction. No wonder, someone called history as ‘mystery.’ Logically, it should attract all and sundry.
But, thanks to dry approach of its writers, many among us have developed an aversion – instead of craving – for it and term it boring.
However, your blog on the subject is an exception. Here, one can learn lucid facts without getting bored.
Regards,
Nripane
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Nripane, I hope you find many posts of interest here at Lisa’s History Room. Thanks!
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Hey Lisa! Thanks again for continuing to write the interesting, important, and, sometimes, fun things! Your blogs never disappoint!
If you’re looking for a topic, please consider writing about Doris Duke. She had a fascinating life and her death was awful. She took her father’s warning to “trust no one” right up till the end. If you’re not very familiar with her story, I can give you more to start with if you’re interested.
But, again, Thank You for such great information! Awesome Blog!!
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Vonya, thanks for the Doris Duke tip. I remember that story well. She trusted her butler too much!
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[…] upon a terrific blog, one that you can tell the author puts his or her heart and soul into. Lisa’s History Room is one of those blogs. I first found the blog when Google-ing information about Marilyn Monroe for […]
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Aren’t you sweet –
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Read with a smile your account of pioneer women/children collecting buffalo chips for fuel. I remember my younger sister once asking my mother if Buffalo Chips was any relation to us (my maiden name was Chipps). My mother replied, “Only on your father’s side.”
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That is hilarious!
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http://www.blogger.com/profile/14572769919449479855
My blog site that I would like to share. Tantalizing Tastebud. I couldn’t read your hand writing to email you directly, I anticipate sinking my teeth into your words and wiping my mouth with my sleeve. Talk with you soon.
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Liesa, thanks for writing. I will check out Tantalizing Tastebud today!
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Please…keep writing! These blogs are immensely enjoyable to read and invigorates history in a most fascinating manner. Thank you!!!
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Thanks, Jenny. Tell your friends.
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Lisa,
I enjoyed your history lessons in the 5th grade as one of your students, and look forward to continuing my education ~ 20 years later. Keep up the great work!
Trent
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Hey, Trent, wonderful to see you the other day. I hope you find something to read here.
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Hello Lisa,
I love the word pictures you paint, it is like I am there in the middle of the action. I was going to look at the book you’ve posted, but Chapter 1 is a list of links to blog posts. Could you put Chapter 1 back in? I look forward to reading the book.
Thank you,
Tom Perry
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Hey, Tom, thanks for the kudos. I will check out what’s wrong with the book posting. Please keep coming back to LIsa’s History Room.
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Lisa,
Seeing that you are from Texas and you have “Waller” in your name, are you descended from the Edwin Waller that was an early pioneer in Texas and signatory of the Texas Declaration of Independance, a planner of the city of Austin? I am an avid Waller researcher – have a collection of Waller coats of arms – http://www.flickr.com/photos/47367337@N06/sets/72157623344925067/
Love the discussion on your blog – history can be alive!
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Hi, Thom! We are not direct descendants of Edwin Waller but are proud to share his name. Our Waller family comes from Crockett, Texas, and from Spotsylvania and Pittsylvania Counties in Virginia. Thanks for the compliment. Keep coming back!
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Lisa just found your blog and its fantastic !!!!!
Eleanor England
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Eleanor, thanks so much for the compliments. Tell your friends about Lisa’s History Room.
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Be careful what you convey as true stories of history they are often not…double investigate the source!
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Always a good plan.
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Hi there, Googled Mark Twain’s Bed and your site came up. My mom recently told me that her father bought Mark Twain’s bed from the estate (it might have been his wife’s or kids) at the time when the Nook Farm house was sold and she remembers playing with it and the hidden compartments as a child. She says that when a group organized to buy back the house and establish the museum by grandfather donated the bed back. I’m proud to say my grandfather slept in Mark Twain’s bed! Fred
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What a great story. I wish I knew more about the hidden compartments. Tell us more.
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Hello (again) Lisa! I feel like I should be eligible for frequent reader points as often as I visit your site!
I hope you’ll indulge a bit of rambling (yep, again)….I recently got to speak with my fourth-grade teacher, a man I’d been searching for since Google came into my life–suffice it to say it was a LONG search. Of all my former teachers and professors, I’ve only searched for two, him and my HS journalism/creative writing teacher. (I found her not long before reaching him and I’m so happy she and I are also corresponding now!) Mr. Neiss was a phenomenal teacher and he knew I was shy and embarrassed because of a screwed-up home life. He inspired me to read and taught me to love books because they opened up the world so I could “escape”. (He’d met my grandparents and knew why they were raising me, but he never made me feel it was my “fault” or that I should be ashamed–he never embarrassed me–he seemed protective of me and I knew I could trust him. He was such an inspiration that I’d even stop in to see him while I was in HS.) He read Laura Ingalls-Wilder books to us every day and even arranged for her grand-daughter to visit us at the end of the school year. (I thought it was amazing because she brought us gingerbread she’d made using Laura’s recipe–and then gave us copies of the recipe!! Fourth graders used to be SO easily impressed, huh?) He is the reason I STILL have Laura Ingalls-Wilder books–and I don’t even have any kids! I think she was a fascinating woman, and her “Little House” books are a very important link to America’s history. I’d love to see you discuss her someday! The messages and morals in her stories are just as relevant today….or, at least, they should be! I’m not a parent, and I don’t feel I’m prudish in any way, but I think the “Little House” stories are more appropriate for kids than a LOT of the things on so-called “family” networks/television shows in production now! I hope you’ll consider writing about her.
Thank you again for such a great resource and so many wonderful opportunities to escape into our history! I enjoy your blog very much and look forward to reading more! I hope you’re well and wish you the very best!
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Vonya, thanks for the uplifting teacher story – and good to hear from you. Lisa
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Hi Lisa! I forgot to mention this in my last comment–Since you’re also a horse person, check out the story of “Sgt. Reckless”, a decorated “war hero” from the Korean war! It’s an AMAZING story about a brave little mare who hauled ammo to American Marines through rice fields in full view of enemy troops–and she also stole, and ate their food, poker chips, and anything else she could reach. (That part reminds me of my bratty paint stallion…He’s dubbed “Fidgee Man” for a reason.) Since I’m not certain whether links are appropriate in comment posts, you can Google “Sgt Reckless” and you’ll find the story. I saw the story in a magazine several months ago and I’ll never forget it! I hope you have a chance to check it out sometime–let me know what you think. Thanks!! Hope you have a great day!
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I’ll save that search for some fun. Thanks, Vonya.
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Dear Lisa! I am writing from Estonia. Wonderful blog and really new way of thinking about old things 🙂 Very very interesting. Thanks.
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Many thanks, Laine. My middle name is Layne.
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:Lisa, I am new to blogging and have recently been nominated for a Liebster Blog award which suggests that I recommend other blogs that I like. I hope you do not mind that I will be listing yours. I know that you do not need the traffic, but yours was one of the first I started following and thought it should be shared. I will be posting about it soon.
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Soooo nice of you. Happy blogging!
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[…] History Room https://lisawallerrogers.wordpress.com/about-lisa-waller-rogers-2/ Lisa’s blog probably has plenty of traffic without my small mention, but it is […]
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Hi Lisa, I came across your AMAZING blog doing research on the Texas State Lunatic Asylum for a book I’m currently writing. I’m a pre-published fiction author down here in South Texas. Your blog robbed me of an hour and a half of prime research time because I couldn’t stop reading your articles! I suppose I’m as interested in the same kind of history as you are! Love what you do!
Annette
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Annette, thanks for the kudos and good luck on your projects.
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Lisa: Great site! I’m a history nut, journalist since 1966 (5 dailies, including 14 years at the L.A. Times and almost 10 at The Milwaukee Sentinel) , book reviewer, etc. My work is mostly for http://www.huntingtonnews.net, based in Huntington, WV….we live in Port Lavaca TX, far away from winter! We’re watching “The King’s Speech” and your site popped up when I Googled “the year of the 3 kings” 1936.
David M. Kinchen
I also have a WordPress blog…check it out
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What a great blog (for this former History major)! Now the strict Germanic philosopher of history in me wants to argue with your possible implication that history writing is/should be about people, but since, upon rereading, I see that you never really said that, and since your ‘social history’ is very interesting, the psychologist in me will tell the philosopher to shush up and will happily acquiesce in reading and consuming the fascinating biographical material you provide….
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My step father known as Marcel ( his salon was at 14 east 56 st ) in manhattan, NYC was the person that did Jackie’s hair at her wedding, and I have searched in vain for evidence of this on the Internet, but no luck. Marcel Eichi died Feb 1956
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Hi Lisa,
I am so sorry you haven’t been posting, I really, really love your blog and think it is one of the better history blogs out there. I do hope you are all right. Just want you to know you are missed.
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Here’s a link to “A Dove for Peace,” a poem I wrote using your September 26, 2011 blog on “Picasso’s Peace Dove.” I have given you credit for illustration and information and linked back to your page, so I hope you like it. If you have concerns, please let me know: http://susanspoetry.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-dove-for-peace.html
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I am glad a search on Lincoln produced one of your writings, and the pleasure of your sensitive historical sense. I am a historian myself (PhD UChicago) and I never felt really comfortable writing the kind of history that is so popular, or shall we say, so unpopular. You mind is sharp and your spirit is tender in compassion for the dead. J
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Your blog is beautiful
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Many thanks, Jeannette.
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Lisa
My area is genealogy and I love Genealogy especially the challenges. So yes your Blog is great and it helped me in a couple of areas. Now I know more about Tamara Jean Rotolo.
Name: Albert Alexandre Louis Pierre Grimaldi
Born: 14 Mar 1958 Prince’s Palace, Monaco
Died:
Spouse: Charlene Lynette Wittstock
Partners: Tamara Jean Rotolo 1st
Nicole Coste 2nd
Parents: Rainier Louis Henri Maxence Bertrand De Grimaldi
Grace Patricia Kelly
Occupation: Economic Entrepreneur
Accession to the Throne: 6 April 2005
Cause of Death:
Age at Death:
Interment:
Name: Tamara Jean Rotolo
Born: 15 Oct 1961 Santa Clara County California
Died:
Spouse:
Partner: Albert Alexandre Louis Pierre Grimaldi [1991]
Occupation: Waitress, Realestate
Cause of Death:
Age at Death:
Interment:
California Birth Index
http://www.californiabirthindex.org/birth/tamara_j_rotolo_born_1961_7793503
Here parents are:
Father
Name: Salvatore “Sam” Rotolo Jr.
Born: 15 Jan 1930 Santa Clara California
Died:
Spouse: Camellia Jean Pires “Pierce”
Parents: Salvatore Sam Rotolo Sr.,
Catherine Intravia
Occupation: Retired Auto Worker
Cause of Death:
Age at Death:
Interment:
Note: He is of Italian Descent
Mother
Name: Carmelia Jean Pires “Pierce”
Alias: Camellia
Born: 21 Nov 1932 Santa Clara County California
Died: 20 Jan 2001 Fremont Alameda County California
Spouse: Salvatore “Sam” Rotolo JR.
Parents: Joe Cardoza Pires, Emily Elizabeth Ennes
Occupation:
Cause of Death: Record Pending
Age at Death: 68 years, 1 months, 30 days
Social Security #:
Interment:
Note her mother was a twin. Her father was from Portugal His surname was Pire. Somewhere along the line it was changed to Pierce.
Tamara Jean Rotolo parents had for Children:
Robert Henry Rotolo
Salvatore “Sam” Rotolo 3rd
Catherine E. Rotolo
Tamara Jean Rotolo
I do have very detail files in the genealogy sense: So if you would like them I would email them to you.
jeannetterook@yahoo.com
Jeannette K. Rook
PS. I love the your segment on Edith Head. I was in total awe of the part.
http://www.jeannettestakeonlife.blogspot.com
My site is pure genealogy.
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Thank you for all the info, Jeanette.
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Lisa I have a copy of Elizabeth Taylor’s birth record I have quite a bit of family genealogy on her. my email jeannetterook[at]yahoo.com
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Jeannette, thank you for the offer!
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Enjoying greatly your selections and topics. Love the blog you have built.
Will return and am following to see what you are doing next.
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My mother, who died at 98 a few years ago (had me at 42) and who was a war work in Ottawa hated King Edward and Wallis Simpson. Remember their Nazi sympathies. Not nice people. I’m sure he suffered the cold neglect that was the lot of children in aristocratic British households (guess it was better to be middle-class, or skilled working class, as the poor fared even worse) but no, I do not think that excused his wilful blindness.
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dear Lisa, the picture of Burton and Taylor “infamous kiss” on a yacht in Ischia, 18 june 1962 was shooted by Marcello Geppetti. We managed the image and right of Geppetti archive. Plese change caption in Photo: Marcello Geppetti – (c) Marcello Geppetti Media Company and delete (c) Quinto Because is a false.
We reaserve any legal action. more information at info@marcello geppetti.com
Thanks
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Andrea, Look again. I have not posted that picture. Lisa
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I love your Blog. I look forward to your postings. Its filled with my favorite subjects Especially old Hollywood. Oh by the way now on YouTube the Mating Season with Thelma Ritter is on youtube.I would love to see you work on Thelma Ritter. She was a great Actress. That is my request.You do such great work and you should ask your readers what they like to see in your blog There a lot of them out there however I love yours because of the History. Especially when you bring up Old Hollywood When you do bring actor or actress up I always tell what movie I like them in.Jeannette PS I am looking forward to your next subject To: Lisa’s History RoomSubject: [New comment] About Lisa
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Lisa,
Like you, I am fanatical about the past. Without it, as I know I don’t have to tell you, there is no present, let alone future which, I find, many people tend to be more fascinated with. I was looking for information on Sarah Furgeson and Google brought up your website as one place to look. At first glance, I immediately knew I had to bookmark it as a favorite. You really do put a fresh spin on tried-and-true topics! I look forward to spending much time on it!
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John, keep coming back!
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Your wall is different. I love your wall. I love the way you write and I love the pictures you come up with. Its a beautiful combination.
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Jeannette, you are always so complimentary. I have slacked off here and must get back to blogging. I’ve been studying Italian! Hope all is well with you. Best, Lisa
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Dear Miss Lisa, my name is Dario Oldani, i’m from Italy.
Could you please send me your email address? I have to write to you something interesting about The Cremlin and Czar Nicholas II.
Thank you very much, best regards.
Dario Oldani
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Dario, write to me here. Best, Lisa
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I love the way your write biographies. It’s very refreshing. I never understood the cold, cut and dry, date-filled 600 page books that professors publish.
About 2 years ago I discovered memoirs and autobiographies, and I haven’t read a fiction book since. (The reason being is I’m young and kind of obsessed about how I will lead my life, and by reading real stories by real people, it kind of relieves that anxiety).
During this time biographies repelled me because they lack the romantic touch, but I feel like you restore some of that in the way you write. Please keep it up!
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J: What a kind letter! I, too, am sold on real-life stories. Fiction is a pallid imitation of what really goes on! Thanks for writing. Please return to Lisa’s History Room! Best, Lisa
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I wish she would do segments on youtube that would be neat.
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Jeannette, what a neat idea. I would have to learn a whole new set of skills! Best, Lisa
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Hello, Lisa!
Let me add my kudo or three for your fine blog. I hadn’t realized until I saw the film Frida that she had been intimate with Trotsky. I have had the pleasure of meeting the man who stood watch over Trotsky’s body after the great man’s death at the hands of Ramon Mercador. You bring a whole new perspective to American and other inspired historiography. Continued success in your unique work.
Sincerely,
Allan Levine, Ottawa, CANADA.
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Allan, what a nice letter! I am so glad you found something here to enjoy. Frida mixed with such a variety of world figures. Best, Lisa
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Hello Lisa!
You have in your Blog a Picture of Liz Taylor aand Richard Burton kissing on a Boat. This Picture was shooted by Marcello Geppetti, no other one shooted this picture. (It is one of most famous scoop in history of photography). We ask you remove this picture with false attribution. We can sends to you a correct one if you want. info@marcellogeppetti.com
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Thank you for your help. I have added a Marcello Geppetti credit to the image. I apologize for any trouble this may have caused. Lisa
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Hello Lisa-
I am a high school student in Connecticut and I am taking an online course in Film & Literature. I would like to ask your permission to use the image of the crowned Romanovs from your post on Nicholas and Alexandra. It can be found at this link: https://lisawallerrogers.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/the-crowned-romanovs3.jpg I will cite the photo and give credit. Please let me know if this would be okay with you.
-Annabel Devault
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Annabel, hello, I do not own the rights to this image. You are free to use it in your class. When you are using it in a not-for-profit and educational manner, you need not worry about rights and reproduction issues. All the best to you, Lisa
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Hello Lisa.
I just now found my way to your blog via a link. From the very little I’ve read in here, I can surely say that I will return soon. I have bookmarked it. Thank you for your work. I wish you all the best.
Greetings from Norway.
Sincerely,
Per U. Lund.
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Thanks for visiting.Lisa
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Great stuff, Lisa! Read your bio on Frida K while we watched the Frida movie on netflix in Del Mar last night. Check out my new book BREAKPOINT from Yale: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300179392/breakpoint . But not enough bio in it, clearly, too much analysis!
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Steve, great work on your new book. Best to you, Lisa
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Hi Lisa, I am working on a documentary about Kaiser Wilhelm II and wondering where you acquired all the great images you have on the blog – none of them seem to be attributed to a source/supplier. Any assistance would be most appreciated. We are keen to show images of Kaiser Wilhelm as a child. Warm regards, Miriam (let me know if you do not receive my email address).
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Henry Guttmann/Getty Images is a good place to start, Miriam. It is very hard to find provenance for Internet images. I wish you the best of luck finding them. Lisa
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So happy to have stumbled onto your fascinating writings. I come from a large family of Waller’s in Louisiana and perhap’s as Queen Victoria would say “ One must stick together !”
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Just love that you are a Waller! Our Wallers came from East Texas; I imagine you and I are somehow related. Best, Lisa
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Edifice complex or not, the Philippine Heart Center still benefits thousands of Filipinos every year.. So do a lot of Imelda Marcos’s other projects.
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Hello Lisa, wonderful blog, very well researched. I’m wondering if you might help me with the source of 2 photos of Lady Diana Spencer, one with her reading Barbara Cartland novels and the other of a young Diana with Raine Spencer and a friend? Any advice would be much appreciated. Have searched high and low for them and no luck. Regards Kate Norton
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These days, Getty is the place to start.
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I read your article about the Beatles’ chaotic, unprovoked visit to Manila, Philippines. It’s so reinforcing, in a rather personally unique way …
As a Filipina myself, I generally (and I mean GENERALLY) am not fond of my own heritage, especially because I had this childhood of being literally forced to “sweep things under the rug,” so to speak.
Just a word of kind and resilient advice: Don’t listen to the person, whose name goes by “JC.” He/she/they are probably obviously a Marcos/Duterte fan … and such people just LOVE to incite politics or other impertinent topics. But you know what they say: “Haters gonna hate.”
I love your blog, ma’am. So rather eclectic ^_^
Keep up your awesome talent …
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