We will be closed on Monday, July 4 in observance of the Independence holiday, and will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, July 5. Did you know this is one of only four federal holidays celebrated on the same calendar date each year? Variously known as the Fourth of July and Independence Day, July 4th has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution (1

The modern air conditioner was invented only in the 1920s, and it didn’t become a common home feature until the latter half of the 20th century. But, while some of us might wonder how our grandparents survived hot and steamy summers, the fact is those older homes had a few tricks up their sleeves. They were designed and built with features to help them stay cool without AC. Mary Wheeler Schap is a registered architect who designs and restores historic buildings to their forme