Lawrence Welk’s home in Strasburg, N.D., never had running water.

Romans didn’t discover pants until they conquered France, and early leg and thigh coverings (“feminalia”) were considered effeminate.

Chicken Cacciatore was first made during the Renaissance.

Harley Earl designed the Chevrolet Corvette. They are all made in Bowling Green, Ky.

Jim Beam recently filled its 9-millionth barrel of bourbon, which is equal to more than 280 million cases or more than 115 billion drinks. The barrel, currently aging in a rackhouse, will be ready to enjoy in 2006.

This article appears in January 24 • 2003.

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