This is a project that students in Maine did in partnership with the local historical society and museum. Vicki Davis pointed to this and asked why we don't see more of this. I agree.
This is great for all students, but pay particular attention to the section on learning. I am going to highlight the section on "Thinking like a genius."
I used this site when I taught English in Ramsey to provide students with sound basis for arguments in class. At the very least it can provide you with a host of topics for students to write about and discuss.