Sunday, Nov. 14, was National Pickle Day, recognized at the Laurels of Mount Vernon with not only pickles, but also a handout on the pickle's history.

According to the handout, pickles trace their origins to 2400 B.C. when the first pickle was allegedly brined, and the likes of Cleopatra and Julius Cesar used them for everything from cosmetics to strength boosters for the army. Curious fact: In Russia, pickle juice is thought to cure hangovers, as the salty liquid encourages high water intake, thus helping to flush the body of alcohol.