Author: James Breig

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Bio
James Breig is a veteran author who specializes in history. His most recent book is “Star-Spangled Baseball: True Tales of Flags and Fields” about the links between the sport and flags. He is also the author of a nonfiction book about WWII, "Searching for Sgt. Bailey: Saluting an Ordinary Soldier of World War II" and co-author of "The Mystery of the Multiple Mothers," a novel. All three are available at www.amazon.com. His articles have appeared in newspapers and national magazines, including the Colonial Williamsburg Journal (search for them at www.history.org/journal) and History Magazine. He has won many national awards for his opinion writing, media columns and feature articles.
History Lessons

Of firemen, a blind man and an American flag

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Frank Auburn’s life was a classic American story that included an American flag waving from a staff, thanks to friendly firemen. In 1911, Auburn graduated from the Illinois State School for the Blind. Along with this peers, he was warned by the school that “the greatest problem that confronts the blind is…securing employment after their… continue

History Lessons

With American flags, a nation bids Lincoln farewell

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Through the closing days of April 1865 and into the opening days of May, a train adorned with American flags and signs of deep mourning moved north from Washington, D.C. It would eventually turn west to Springfield, Illinois. It bore the body of Abraham Lincoln. Stopping in many cities along the route, the train gave… continue

History Lessons

Three American flags tied to Lincoln – or not?

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This 1865 sheet music features a praying angel, mourning woman and Lincoln. (Library of Congress)

Last week’s article focused on the many flags associated with the assassination of Abraham Lincoln 150 years ago this month. Three American flags that may have been involved with major events in his life and death reside around the U.S. – maybe. FLAG #1: Three score and four stars One of the most famous speeches… continue

History Lessons

A night of horror and a night of flags

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Leaping from the scene of his crime, Booth catches his spur on a flag. (Library of Congress)

The story of the assassination on Abraham Lincoln, 150 years ago, is the story of American flags, blood-stained, ripped and draped with black ribbons. On April 14, 1865, joyous over the recent end of the Civil War, when Confederate flags had been folded in defeat at Appomattox, Lincoln had an idea. He invited his wife… continue

History Lessons

Amid flags, president set baseball precedent

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In stadiums around the U.S., as well as one in Canada, these words will soon resound: “Play ball!” Those venues will be draped with bunting and topped with American flags as the 2015 baseball season debuts. More than a century ago, a tossed baseball set a precedent that endures. It was established by President William… continue