History’s weirdest and wildest eggnogs

Football stories, lucky black cats, and more.
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	December 07, 2022

Eggnog’s Wild History

If you think eggnog is tame, consider this: In 1826, cadets at West Point erupted into a riot after downing too much contraband ’nog. In the melee, cadets destroyed furniture, smashed windows, took up arms, and even shot at a commanding officer (they missed, possibly due to their level of inebriation). In the end, 19 students were expelled. History is full of accounts of eggnog shenanigans, often with riotous recipes to match. Here are a few of the world’s most interesting eggnogs and how to make them at home this holiday season.

For Sports Fans

5 Must-Read Football (or Soccer) Stories

All eyes are on the World Cup matches in Qatar, but we’re here to remind you that soccer (or football, if you prefer) is a world that transcends the pitch. From the story of an openly gay Brazilian referee who became an icon on and off the field, to the tales of the archaeologists who are hunting for the origins of the modern game, here are some of our favorite Atlas Obscura stories about the beautiful game.

London, England

Kaspar the Savoy Cat

Black cats are renowned worldwide for being the harbingers of bad luck and misfortune. However, in some cultures, they are seen as talismans or good luck charms. The latter may be said of the darkly colored feline who resides in London’s premier purpose-built luxury hotel, The Savoy. The cat’s origins date back to an incident that took place towards the end of the 19th century, involving a wealthy magnate, a superstition, and a reckless inclination to tempt fate.

Sponsored by Discover Atlanta

RONDO Distributing Co.

Rondo’s Luck Shop is an institution that has been serving Atlanta since 1944. Whether you’re suffering money trouble, unrequited love, or simply need a hex removed, Rondo’s has the candle, incense, or spell to suit a wide range of situations. There’s a reason some say you make your own luck—people have been making it at Rondo’s for quite some time.

Weird and Wonderful Gifts

The best gifts are often the ones you covet for yourself. So here’s a peek at the unique objects, unusual foods, and unexpected experiences we here at Atlas Obscura and Gastro Obscura have on our wishlists this year. There’s something for everyone in your life: the bibliophile, the DIYer, the homebody, the adventurous eater … even the aunt you almost forgot about.

See All Gifts →

London, England

Remains of the Old London Bridge

Little remains of the medieval London bridge, save for a few artifacts and the pedestrian entrance that forms part of St. Magnus the Martyr church in London. Once the key crossing point of the Thames River, the bridge was built in 1209 to replace the original Roman crossing built in 50. It remained in use for over 600 years, before being demolished in the 19th century to provide access for river traffic.

Atlas Obscura Courses

Learn the Art of Visible Mending

In this textile workshop, join maker and mender Erin Eggenburg for a step-by-step overview of the process of visible mending from start to finish. You’ll not only learn the skills to mend torn or damaged textiles, but also how to transform a mundane chore into a unique and expressive art.

Enroll Today →

Female Swindlers

The Tale of the Prussian Grifter

Bertha Heyman never stopped swindling men—even from behind bars. While serving time on Blackwell’s Island, New York, in the early 1880s, she managed to befriend and con a man out of his entire life savings of $900 (the equivalent of $20,700 today). But unlike other scammers of her day, she preferred to target those who really should know better.

José María Morelos, Mexico

Cave of the Hanging Snakes

This cave is actually known as the “Bat Cave” by the locals of the nearby village of Kantemo. This is because the cave is home to swarms of small bats that can often appear as thick as a frantic leathery cloud. In order to take advantage of this delicious flying rodent population, a population of snakes has taken to living in the ceiling and high up on the walls of the cave.

Atlas Obscura Trips

Learn the Lore of Dartmoor

Join us as we explore the myths and legends of England’s Dartmoor National Park. We’ll gaze upon its vast expanse of windswept landscapes and stroll medieval villages, sprawling moors, and Bronze Age ruins to uncover the enduring tales they’ve inspired. And of course, along the way, we’ll hunker down in cozy pubs to chat with friendly locals and special guests to discover what makes this quiet corner of southwest England so unique.

Book Your Spot Now →

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