For a while it seemed like the world split into two different types of people. Those who enjoyed books, the handmade, history, ideas, nature, and libraries… you know, the old world. Then there were those who loved their computer, wore the upcoming fashion, had the latest palm sized gadget, and thrived off the ideas of the new world. It is almost like the difference between stone-faced stucco buildings and stainless steel. There always seemed to be the divide between preserving the old in the face of emerging modern lifestyles.
Lately it seems impossible to feel like a traitor to the old world and our history. Apps for smartphones are constantly created allowing you to dive deeper into the world of history that surrounds us whether living in Chicago, travelling to London, or going to school in Boston. History buffs now have the chance to interactively explore their location using the hand held device coveted by the new world.
Say goodbye to the days of boring family vacations to Gettysburg with wacky tour guides and the highlight of the trip was seeing a patch of grass where some war veteran died. Yawn. Hello vacations to Boston with your smartphone and the app that allows you to be a part of the Murder at Harvard case, stringing you along the investigation and leading you to important parts of historical landmarks that were part of the case.
Next time your family suggests a week long vacation to their favorite historic landmark, grab your smartphone, search for apps, and refuse to read another metal plaque hammered to the side of a building, unless of course the engaging app leads you there.
