America The Land We Live In - Explore America’s Hidden Treasures and National Wonders Through The Lens of a 19th-Century Travelogue


 Terri and I stumbled upon a really great travel show last night called America The Land We Live In. The show centers around two New Yorkers named Doc and Sophia who travel across the country trying to find locations that were featured in William Cullen Bryant's 19th century book Picturesque America. The premiere episode really pulled on Terri's heart strings a bit, because the first half of the episode was filmed in North Carolina.

From PBS:

AMERICA: THE LAND WE LIVE IN takes viewers on a modern-day adventure to rediscover America’s hidden treasures, forgotten national wonders and rich history through the lens of a 19th-century book, Picturesque America. Hosts Scott “Doc” Varn and Sophia Michelen follow the clues in the epic tales and intricate engravings of this masterpiece to retrace the steps of the early adventurers who created America’s first travel guide. AMERICA: THE LAND WE LIVE IN is part of special programming premiering on PBS stations beginning Friday, February 23, 2024 (check local listings) and streaming on PBS.org and the PBS App.

Picturesque America (Volume 1): Or, The Land We Live In Paperback Book - $15.99 @ Amazon.com - Order Here

With no GPS coordinates to guide them, Doc and Sophia begin their treasure hunt in the majestic mountains of North Carolina, where they seek out guidance from locals, historians and river guides to find locations along the French Broad River — from rocky outcroppings and sweeping vistas to a mysterious old farm and a needle in a haystack “mountain island.” Here, they venture off the beaten path on rugged adventures that take them whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and fly fishing. 





The journey continues in South Carolina, just a few hours away but worlds apart, where Doc and Sophia search for treasures among Charleston’s preserved architecture and polished gardens. They experience Lowcountry traditions and hunt for one of the most impressive, giant live oak trees east of the Mississippi. Along the way, they visit a world-famous artist’s studio, meet basket weavers who share their inherited craft, and explore the coastal waterways with a Gullah Geechee fisherwoman. With a new twist around every corner, Doc and Sophia’s treasure hunt across America uncovers the “then and now” of each 150-year-old location while also discovering the culture, history, and beauty in each place.

Terri and I really found the show interesting, so we are really looking forward to future episodes!

Check Out:

Winston-Salem North Carolina - Images From A City Founded Upon Cooperation

Several years ago my future wife and I spent a magical day exploring Winston-Salem North Carolina. She had lived in the city for several years and she took me to all of the local historical attractions and the best places to eat in town. If you are interested in visiting some amazing perfectly preserved locations from our country's colonial past, than a trip to Winston-Salem is a must.



In Mary Lynn Richardson Park, see sculpture and stroll the walkways around the Francis McNairy House, originally located near today’s Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Inside, discover furnishings and decorative arts from the late 1700s and early 1800s. Built as a log house, it has been covered with clapboard siding and looks much as it would have in the 1820s.



South Carolina has 46 counties, 71 cities, and 200 towns. Within this southern state, you will find hidden gems of quaint neighborhoods, charming downtowns, and lovely scenery. Check out these 12 must-visit small towns in South Carolina and learn about their locations, amenities, and unique characteristics.

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