A quick look at Today in History, check out some Celebrity Birthdays, and find out what Days of the Year to celebrate.
TODAY IN HISTORY:
1692 – The Salem witch trials ended with a letter from Massachusetts Governor Sir William Phips.
1773 – America’s first insane asylum opened.
1792 – The first celebration of Columbus Day was held in New York, NY.
1892 – The Pledge of Allegiance was first recited by students in many U.S. public schools, as part of a celebration marking the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ voyage.
1901 – President Theodore Roosevelt officially renamed the “Executive Mansion” to “The White House”.
1920 – Construction of the Holland Tunnel began. It opened on November 13, 1927. The tunnel links Jersey City, NJ and New York City, NY.
1926 – John Phillip Sousa played in Grand Rapids, MI at the G.R. Armory.
1928 – An iron lung respirator was used for the first time at Children’s Hospital in Boston, MA.
1933 – The U.S. Department of Justice acquired Alcatraz Island from the U.S. Army.
1938 – Filming began on “The Wizard of Oz”.
1966 – Jimi Hendrix, Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell officially performed for the first time as The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
1969 – The “Paul is Dead” craze began when a radio DJ played “Revolution #9” backwards.
1973 – Gerald R. Ford was nominated to replace Spiro Agnew as Vice President of the United States.
1979 – “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”, the first of five books in the comedy science fiction series by Douglas Adams was published.
1983 – Karen Carpenter received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
1989 – The House of Representatives approved a statutory federal ban against destroying the American flag.
1994 – NASA lost radio contact with the Magellan spacecraft as the probe descended into the thick atmosphere of Venus.
1998 – Matthew Shephard, a gay student at the University of Wyoming, died five days after he was beaten, robbed and left tied to a wooded fence post outside of Laramie, WY.
1998 – The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Online Copyright Bill.
1999 – Rob Reiner received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
2000 – The U.S.S. Cole was badly damaged in Aden, Yemen, by two suicide bombers. The blast killed 17 crew members and wounded at least 39.
2001 – Responding to a request by President George W. Bush, “America’s Most Wanted” aired a special episode about terrorists.
2005 – It was announced that Daniel Craig would become the sixth “James Bond.”
2006 – The Dow Jones industrial average advanced over 11,900 for the first time.
2007 – Former Vice President Al Gore was named a Nobel Peace Prize winner for his work on global climate change.
2019 – The Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans, LA, which was under construction, collapsed, killing two and injuring 20.
BIRTHDAYS:
Robert Coles – 96 years old (1929) – Psychologist, author, and academic
Ned Jarrett – 93 years old (1932) – Race car driver and sportscaster
Richard Meier – 91 years old (1934) – Architect, designed the Getty Center and City Tower
Tony Kubek – 90 years old (1935) – Baseball player and sportscaster
Robert Mangold – 88 years old (1937) – Painter
Drew Edmondson – 79 years old (1946) – Politician
Chris Wallace – 78 years old (1947) – Journalist
John Engler – 77 years old (1948) – Businessman and politician, 46th Governor of Michigan
Barclay Shaw – 76 years old (1949) – Artist
Susan Anton – 75 years old (1950) – Actress and model
Dave Freudenthal – 75 years old (1950) – Economist and politician, 31st Governor of Wyoming
Sally Little – 74 years old (1951) – South African-American golfer
Ed Royce – 74 years old (1951) – Businessman and politician
Michael Roe – 71 years old (1954) – Singer, songwriter, and record producer
Steve Austria – 67 years old (1958) – Lawyer and politician
Jeff Keith – 67 years old (1958) – Rock singer-songwriter
Anna Escobedo Cabral – 66 years old (1959) – Lawyer and politician, 42nd Treasurer of the United States
Steve Lowery – 65 years old (1960) – Golfer
Carlos Bernard – 63 years old (1962) – Actor and director
Chris Botti – 63 years old (1962) – Trumpet player and composer
Deborah Foreman – 63 years old (1962) – Actress and photographer
Chris Chandler – 60 years old (1965) – Football player
Scott O'Grady – 60 years old (1965) – Captain and pilot
Brenda Romero – 59 years old (1966) – Game designer
Becky Iverson – 58 years old (1967) – Golfer
Bill Auberlen – 57 years old (1968) – Race car driver
Leon Lett – 57 years old (1968) – Football player
Martie Maguire – 56 years old (1969) – Singer-songwriter, violinist, and producer
José Valentín – 56 years old (1969) – Baseball player, coach, and manager
Kirk Cameron – 55 years old (1970) – Actor, screenwriter, and Christian evangelical/anti-evolution activist
Tanyon Sturtze – 55 years old (1970) – Baseball player
Charlie Ward – 55 years old (1970) – Basketball player and coach
Tony Fiore – 54 years old (1971) – Baseball player
Marion Jones – 50 years old (1975) – Basketball player and runner
Cristie Kerr – 48 years old (1977) – Golfer
Bode Miller – 48 years old (1977) – Skier
Jordan Pundik – 46 years old (1979) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Tom Guiry – 44 years old (1981) – Actor
Giuseppe Lanzone – 44 years old (1981) – Rower
Brian J. Smith – 44 years old (1981) – Actor
Michelle Carter – 40 years old (1985) – Shot putter
Tyler Blackburn – 39 years old (1986) – Actor
Josh Hutcherson – 33 years old (1992) – Actor and producer
Olivia Smoliga – 31 years old (1994) – Swimmer
Iris Apatow – 23 years old (2002) – Actress
Darci Lynne – 21 years old (2004) – Ventriloquist
TODAY IS:
- National Farmers Day: Without farmers, we’d all starve. Visit a farmer’s market, take a trip to a farm, or reenact how farmers used to live and grow with old-fashioned tools.
- National Pulled Pork Day: Gather friends and family and make pulled pork together, a delicious and filling cut of meat is sure to please, or go out and enjoy professionally made pulled pork.
- National Gumbo Day: Learn more about the flavors that are all wrapped up in this one little dish that hails from the cultures of Africa, France and the United States. It’s time for National Gumbo Day! History of National Gumbo Day While many think that everything coming from New Orleans has a French...
- National Savings Day: Spending is fun but saving is even better! There is little that’s more satisfying than working hard toward a savings goal and then getting to make that purchase that has been in your dreams for a long time. National Savings Day is here to help everyone be a bit more...
- National Heritage Day in the Turks and Caicos Islands: National Heritage Day in the Turks and Caicos Islands is a vibrant celebration of the country's rich cultural and historical legacy. It replaced Columbus Day in 2014 to honor the island's unique heritage rather than European discovery. The day shines a spotlight on local traditions, music, and the contributions of...
- World Arthritis Day: Educate yourself on arthritis, consider taking steps to prevent it, and raise awareness to guide policy in order to help those who suffer from this condition.
- National Kick Butt Day: National Kick Butt Day is all about motivation. It's a day designed to push you into action, encouraging people to tackle their goals head-on. If there’s a project or task you’ve been putting off, this is the perfect opportunity to dive in. Whether it’s finishing a home project, committing to...
- International Moment of Frustration Scream Day: Ever felt like you were one spilled coffee away from losing it? Not just annoyed—but ready to yell into a pillow, a wall, maybe the sky? There’s a day for that, and it doesn’t involve breathing exercises or polite journaling. It’s called International Moment of Frustration Scream Day, and it’s exactly...
- National Vermont Day: National Vermont Day shines a spotlight on the Green Mountain State, inviting everyone to explore its unique charm. Known for breathtaking landscapes, Vermont captivates with rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque towns. The state's vibrant culture is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Famous for producing exceptional maple syrup...
- Día de la Raza: Día de la Raza marks the meeting of Indigenous cultures and Spanish influence across Latin America. The name translates to “Day of the People,” and it centers on how those cultures mixed, clashed, and created something new. Instead of focusing on one version of the past, the day recognizes many lived...
- National Online Bank Day: What once used to be a trip to the bank, waiting in line, and filling out forms has turned into a tap and swipe. National Online Bank Day celebrates this major shift. You no longer need to plan around business hours or rush to a branch before it closes. With...
- National Freethought Day: Encouraging free thinking that is based in logic and rationale, National Freethought Day celebrates the date that the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts finally ended in 1692. How to Celebrate National Freethought Day Get ready to open the mind and think freely and rationally in celebration of National Freethought Day! Try...
- Lady of Aparecida: Our Lady of Aparecida, known as Nossa Senhora Aparecida, is a beloved figure in Brazil. Revered as the country’s patron saint, she holds a special place in the hearts of many. The day dedicated to her is a national holiday, celebrating her as more than just a religious figure. She...
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Coming together to honor and learn from the rich heritage and wisdom of those who've lived on American soil for generations.
- Canadian Thanksgiving: Canadian Thanksgiving differs from the more well-known US version, but the important thing is to take time to show gratitude for the positive things in your life.
- Columbus Day: Though Columbus is a controversial figure, there’s no denying he was important in the history of America. Read up on why to understand the legacy of this holiday.
- National Day of Spain: National Day of Spain is a vibrant celebration that reflects the pride and unity of the Spanish people. The day features grand parades, colorful displays, and joyful gatherings across the country. It is a time when the nation pauses to honor its cultural heritage and the shared values that bind...
- Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity: Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity highlights the rich variety of cultures across the world. It encourages people to appreciate and honor the differences that make each culture unique. Respecting cultural differences is key to creating a more inclusive world. By embracing diversity, we learn to see the value in...
- National School Lunch Week: Fueling minds, nourishing potential—school lunches aren't just meals; they're key ingredients for young aspirations to thrive.
- Rtveli: Rtveli is a vibrant grape harvest festival celebrated across Georgia. It is a joyful blend of hard work and celebration. It's a time when people unite to collect the fruits of their labor and honor the cultural heritage of winemaking that has been cherished for generations. The festival extends beyond...
- Anti-Poverty Week: Poverty in the 21st century should not exist, yet millions still struggle daily. During Anti-Poverty Week people unite to raise awareness and seek solutions to end poverty. Communities come together to highlight the struggles faced by many and to work towards creating solutions. It's a time when the spotlight is...
- Baby Loss Awareness Week: Baby Loss Awareness Week brings light to a tender topic, uniting those touched by the loss of a baby. Celebrated from the 9th to the 15th of October every year, it offers a meaningful time for parents, families, and friends to honor and remember their dearly missed babies. This week serves...
- Haemophilia Awareness Week: Haemophilia Awareness Week plays a crucial role in shining a light on bleeding disorders. This week helps educate the public about haemophilia, a genetic condition that affects blood clotting. People with haemophilia bleed longer than usual, which can lead to serious health issues. By raising awareness, the event aims to...
- The Iris Film Festival: The Iris Film Festival is a lively celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema, bringing filmmakers and audiences together in Cardiff. This event is a significant platform for queer stories and diverse voices, showcasing a vibrant mix of short and feature films from around the globe. Attendees can enjoy screenings, panel discussions, and...
- Recycle Awareness Week: Recycle Awareness Week is an exciting time when everyone is encouraged to think more about recycling. This annual event shines a spotlight on how recycling helps the environment and reduces waste. During this week, communities and organizations join forces to promote better recycling habits and educate people on how to...
- International Cephalopod Awareness Days: International Cephalopod Awareness Days bring attention to some of the ocean’s most surprising animals. These aren’t your average sea creatures. Octopuses, squids, cuttlefish, and nautiluses all belong to this wild underwater group. They move like dancers, shift colors like mood rings, and squeeze through tiny cracks like soft-bodied escape artists. People...
- Drink Local Wine Week: Drink Local Wine Week gives small wineries a chance to be noticed. It’s when bloggers and wine writers focus on bottles made nearby. Instead of just talking about famous spots like Napa or Willamette, this week shifts attention to local vineyards. People get to read about wines made just down the...
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Join an event, forum, or exhibition for Hispanic Heritage Month, and appreciate the art, history, and cultural offerings of this rich and expansive heritage.
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For additional information check out websites like: www.on-this-day.com, www.born-today.com, www.famousbirthdays.com, www.daysoftheyear.com, and www.nationaldaycalendar.com.
