"America's Pirates & their Hidden Treasures, Vol. One, NJ, PA, DE, MD," contains first-hand accounts of the pirate's environment on land and sea. The author grew up and lived on the islands where the pirates lived and plundered. While historically accurate, the book tells exciting and entertaining stories. Sites are identified that are most likely to yield buried and hidden treasure. These sites are described more specifically than other resources, since the author, an avid sportsman, traveler and naturalist, has lived among them his entire life. Information is included on the often overlooked, pirate activity in PA and DE. This book includes specific information on pirate activity in these areas. For example, the house is identified where one of Blackbeard's girlfriends lived. The house (private residence) still stands today, in Marcus Hook, PA. Also, pirate activity in Philadelphia is included. For example, there is information on the infamous "Blue Anchor Tavern," which Blackbeard habituated. One of the line drawings shows where the tavern was located and how pirate trade from the Delaware River gained access through today's popular, Independence Seaport Museum Details are shared on the five major and two, lesser known, pirates in four states and at sea. The book tells of each pirates' exploits and how each of them came to enter the notorious profession. Also related is the potential to find their treasure in various locations where they operated. Included also, is information on the dedicated-purpose ships and unique weapons that pirates used. The often time, colorful culture of the pirate world explained in the book. This helps the reader to understand the entire scope of their behavior, from a crude form of democracy, to a formula for the distribution of captured wealth. All adults, and students of all ages, will gain an appreciation of the forces that are part of their heritage. Once these facts are recognized, they will see their area as special and through this knowledge develop respect for their environment, both past and present, cultural and ecological. The process provides a solid foundation for building self-esteem.
Lee A. Ireland grew up on an island adjacent to the Megalopolis that runs from New York City to Richmond, VA. His heritage is that of people who made their living from the waters since the 1600s. Lee started researching the history of our nation's East Coast when he was 12 years old. He has spent nearly his entire life in public safety. At first he was a hands-on firefighter who "Worked a couple of thousand fires and other emergency events." At the same time, he ran the emergency dispatch center for his town, working closely with police. After leaving government, he became self-employed as an educator of America's firefighters, military and EMS personnel. He instructed officer leadership programs for the National Fire Academy and Emergency Management Institute in every state in the nation over the next 27 years. With a Master's Degree and a Ph.D. in Adult Education, Lee is uniquely qualified to help all to re-discover their history in an enjoyable and meaningful way. Lee now writes and publishes books on American History from his home in Egg Harbor Township, NJ where he lives with his wife, Regina, and "At least two dogs."
