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March 19 in History: First U.S. Bank Robbery, Daylight Saving Time Approved, and Elvis Buys Graceland

Scott Winters March 19, 2026 0 Comments

Discover what happened on March 19 in history, along with notable celebrity birthdays and fun Days of the Year to celebrate.

What Happened on March 19 in History?

Important events on this day include the first bank robbery in America, Congress establishing time zones and approving Daylight Saving Time, and Elvis Presley buying Graceland.

MARCH 19 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1628 – The Massachusetts colony was founded by Englishmen.

1822 – The city of Boston, MA, was incorporated.

1831 – The first bank robbery in America was reported. The City Bank of New York, NY, lost $245,000 in the robbery.

1855 – The newspaper, “The Grand Rapids Herald”, published its first edition in Grand Rapids, MI.

1865 – Grand Rapids, MI put their first steam fire engine into service.

1915 – Pluto was photographed for the first time. However, it was not known at the time.

1917 – The Supreme Court upheld the Adamson Act that made the eight-hour workday for railroads constitutional.

1918 – Congress established time zones and approved Daylight Saving Time.

1925 – The law was passed that required fisherman to purchase a license to fish in the state of Michigan.

1931 – The state of Nevada legalized gambling.

1931 – Alka Seltzer went on sale.

1953 – The Academy Awards aired on television for the first time.

1954 – Viewers saw the first televised prize fight shown in color when Joey Giardello knocked out Willie Tory in round seven at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY.

1954 – The first rocket-driven sled that ran on rails was tested in Alamogordo, NM.

1957 – Elvis Presley bought the mansion he would name “Graceland”, in Memphis, TN for $100,000.

1977 – The last episode of television’s “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” aired.

1979 – The U.S. House of Representatives began broadcasting their daily business on TV via the C-SPAN cable network.

1981 – The Buffalo Sabres set an NHL record when they scored 9 goals in one period against Toronto.

1984 – The TV show “Kate and Allie” premiered.

1985 – IBM announced their plans to stop making the PC jr computer.

1985 – The Senate voted to authorize production of the MX missile.

1985 – “Spin Magazine” began publishing.

1987 – Televangelist Jim Bakker resigned from the PTL due to a sex scandal involving Jessica Hahn. He handed over control to Jerry Falwell.

1988 – Michael Jackson purchased a ranch near Santa Ynez, CA, and built his own personal zoo and amusement park. He called it Neverland.

1998 – Major League Baseball approves Rupert Murdoch’s purchase of the Los Angeles Dodgers for a reported $350 million.

1999 – Johnny Carson, at age 73, underwent quadruple bypass surgery.

2000 – Vector Data Systems conducted a simulation of the 1993 Branch Davidian siege in Waco, TX. The simulation showed that the government had not fired first.

2002 – Actor Ben Kingsley was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

2003 – President George W. Bush announced that U.S. forces had launched a strike against “targets of military opportunity” in Iraq.

2004 – Paul “Peewee Herman” Reubens pleaded guilty to possessing vintage photos of naked children.

2007 – Naomi Campbell arrived at New York City’s Department of Sanitation to begin a week sweeping the building, her community service for tossing a phone at her maid’s head.

2013 – NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity discovered further evidence of water-bearing minerals.

2018 – The last male northern white rhinoceros, Sudan, died, ensuring a chance of extinction for the species.

2020 – Art Van Furniture ends it’s bankruptcy liquidation sale early to limit social contact due to COVID 19.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON MARCH 19:

Renée Taylor – 93 years old (1933) – Actress, producer, and screenwriter

Ruth Pointer – 80 years old (1946) – Musician

Glenn Close – 79 years old (1947) – Actress, singer, and producer

David Schnitter – 78 years old (1948) – Saxophonist and educator

Blase J. Cupich – 77 years old (1949) – Theologian and cardinal

Harvey Weinstein – 74 years old (1952) – Film producer and sex offender

Scott May – 72 years old (1954) – Basketball player

Bruce Willis – 71 years old (1955) – German-American actor and producer

Dudley Bradley – 69 years old (1957) – Basketball player

Andy Reid – 68 years old (1958) – Football player and coach

Neil LaBute – 63 years old (1963) – Director and screenwriter

Mary Scheer – 63 years old (1963) – Actress and comedian

Vladimir Konstantinov – 59 years old (1967) – Russian-American ice hockey player

Tyrone Hill – 58 years old (1968) – Basketball player and coach

Connor Trinneer – 57 years old (1969) – Actor

Bun B – 53 years old (1973) – Rapper and songwriter

Antonio Daniels – 51 years old (1975) – Basketball player

Derek Chauvin – 50 years old (1976) – Criminal and former police officer

Andre Miller – 50 years old (1976) – Basketball player

David Ross – 49 years old (1977) – Baseball player and manager

Virginia Williams – 48 years old (1978) – Actress

Abby Brammell – 47 years old (1979) – Actress

Sheldon Brown – 47 years old (1979) – Football player

Theo Von – 46 years old (1980) – Stand-up comedian

Casey Jacobsen – 45 years old (1981) – Basketball player and sportscaster

Jonathan Fanene – 44 years old (1982) – Football player

Landon Powell – 44 years old (1982) – Baseball player and manager

Ahmad Bradshaw – 40 years old (1986) – Football player

AJ Lee – 39 years old (1987) – Wrestler and author

Clayton Kershaw – 38 years old (1988) – Baseball player

Ben Uzoh – 38 years old (1988) – Nigerian-American basketball player

EJ Manuel – 36 years old (1990) – Football player

Garrett Clayton – 35 years old (1991) – Actor and singer

Philip Daniel Bolden – 31 years old (1995) – Actor

Yung Gravy – 30 years old (1996) – Rapper

Quenton Nelson – 30 years old (1996) – Football player

Caylee Cowan – 28 years old (1998) – Actress

Julian Love – 28 years old (1998) – Football player

Nico Collins – 27 years old (1999) – Football player

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR MARCH 19:

Oranges And Lemons Day: Oranges and Lemons Day is a cheerful, bell-ringing tradition centered on St. Clement Danes Church and a nursery rhyme that has echoed through generations. It blends two things that rarely share the spotlight: church bells and citrus fruit. At its heart, the day celebrates the sound of a particular tune played...
National Close the Gap Day: National Close the Gap Day draws attention to the stubborn health and life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, with a particular focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is a day built around a simple, practical idea: when a community can access culturally safe health care...
International Read To Me Day: International Read To Me Day, on March 19th, brings people together to celebrate the magic of reading. It's a day where kids are encouraged to ask adults to read out loud to them, spotlighting the importance of shared reading moments. This special event aims to spark a lifelong love for...
Operation Iraqi Freedom Day: Operation Iraqi Freedom Day marks a significant date in recent history. Celebrated on March 19 each year, this day commemorates the start of the military operation in 2003 when U.S. and coalition forces began their campaign in Iraq. The invasion aimed to remove Saddam Hussein from power and eliminate Iraq's...
National Poultry Day: Exploring the lively world of backyard flocks, where clucks and curious antics turn a simple coop into a feathered adventure.
National Automatic Door Day: You might never have thought about it, but automatic doors play a significant role in daily life. National Automatic Door Day celebrates these modern marvels that make entering and exiting buildings feel effortless, even when hands are full, mobility is limited, or the weather is doing its worst. Automatic doors are...
National Stretch Mark Day: National Stretch Mark Day celebrates a natural part of life, encouraging people to embrace the unique lines that tell a story on their skin. Often called "tiger stripes," stretch marks appear when the skin changes rapidly, as in pregnancy, growth spurts, or weight shifts. This day highlights that these marks affect...
National Farm Rescuer Day: National Farm Rescuer Day honors the quiet heroes who step up when farmers face the unexpected. Sometimes, all it takes is one crisis—an accident, illness, or flood—for farm work to grind to a stop. Fields wait for no one, and animals need care every single day. In moments like these...
Companies That Care Day: It's heartening to see businesses prioritize their staff's welfare over profits, nurturing them into their best selves.
National Let’s Laugh Day: Laughter boosts mood, relieves stress, and strengthens relationships. So, don't forget to laugh often and spread joy wherever you go!
Certified Nurses Day: Certified Nurses Day spotlights nurses who choose to prove their expertise the hard way: by earning a nationally recognized certification in a specialty area and then keeping it current. Certification is not the same as a nursing license. Licensure is the baseline requirement to practice, while certification is an added...
National Chocolate Caramel Day: Savoring the rich blend of smooth sweetness and chewy delight, it's a taste that captures pure indulgence in every bite.
National Backyard Day: From jumping on a trampoline to growing flowers in the garden, from a rousing game of croquet to paddling around in a kiddie pool, the backyard can be full of all sorts of adventures and activities all summer long! National Backyard Day is here to help individuals and families get...
The Feast of Saint Joseph: The Feast of Saint Joseph is a vibrant celebration honoring Saint Joseph, the spouse of Mary and the earthly father and guardian of Jesus Christ. Observed on March 19, it spotlights a figure who often stays in the background of the Gospel stories yet quietly shapes them through steadiness, protection...
International Client’s Day: Recognizing the value of those who make business thrive, showing gratitude for the partnership that grows and the trust that strengthens.
Nyepi: Nyepi, known as the Day of Silence, transforms Bali into a quiet, reflective place. On this day, the usually vibrant island pauses. Streets are empty, businesses shut, and everyone stays indoors. The focus shifts from daily hustle to inner peace. Even the skies and seas become still as flights are...
March Madness: Get your game face on for March Madness! This high-energy tournament is a slam dunk of excitement, passion, and heart-pumping action. So grab your team colors, gear up for the showdown, and let the madness begin!
National Agriculture Week: National Agriculture Week shines a spotlight on the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers who fill our plates and fuel our lives. Behind every meal and everyday product is someone who works hard, from dawn to dusk, to ensure we all have what we need. This week connects us to the...
International Teach Music Week: International Teach Music Week is a vibrant celebration that lights up every year's third week of March, and unites over 750 music schools and various organizations globally. They offer free 30-minute lessons to new students, encouraging everyone from kids to adults to explore the joy of music. It's a time when...
Global Money Week: Every year, Global Money Week (GMW) kicks off excitedly, focusing on enhancing financial awareness among the young. This vibrant event is organized by the OECD International Network on Financial Education, the launch brings together participants from around the world to share knowledge and strategies for managing finances safely and responsibly. How...
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week: While education about drugs, alcohol, and addiction has been going on for many decades, a great deal of misinformation around the topic has continued to pervade culture, particularly among young people. The aim of this important event is to bring together teens and scientific experts, working to shatter myths about...
Make Mine Chocolate: "Make Mine Chocolate" is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won't end up in shelters...
American Chocolate Week: American Chocolate Week is a delightful celebration of one of America's most beloved treats: chocolate. This week-long event allows people to indulge their sweet tooth and explore different ways to enjoy chocolate in its many forms. From creamy milk chocolate to rich dark varieties, there's something for everyone. People take the...
National Fragrance Week: Scent has the remarkable power to shape moods and spark memories. National Fragrance Week celebrates this magic by inviting everyone to explore the world of fragrance. Throughout the week, fragrance experts share insights, and companies offer special promotions, making it the perfect time to discover new scents or deepen appreciation...
Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Understanding diverse minds, embracing unique perspectives, neurodiversity celebrates the richness of human cognition and experiences.
National Clean Out Your Closet Week: National Clean Out Your Closet Week is a fun and practical event that encourages everyone to tidy up their closets. It’s the perfect time to sort through clothes, shoes, and accessories, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. This activity not only helps you organize your space but also gives...
National Animal Poison Prevention Week: National Animal Poison Prevention Week highlights the hidden dangers our pets face from everyday household items. Many substances that seem harmless to us can be toxic for our furry friends. Things like certain plants, human medications, and even some foods can cause severe health issues if ingested by pets. This week...
National Introverts Week: Introverts often have an amazing inner world — they make great listeners and thinkers, adding depth to any conversation.
National Bubble Week: National Bubble Week celebrates the joy of bubbles, offering a lighthearted break that everyone can enjoy. This fun event showcases the mesmerizing beauty of bubbles as they drift through the air, glowing in soft colors and popping with gentle splashes! How to Celebrate National Bubble Week National Bubble Week is all about...
European-wide Action Week Against Racism: European-wide Action Week Against Racism connects communities across borders to take a clear stand against hate. It’s not just a campaign—it’s a shared effort. Schools, community groups, and everyday citizens take part. They speak out in their own way, using clear messages and public spaces to reject racism. The focus stays...
Schools Library Media Center Week: Schools Library Media Center Week highlights the invaluable role of library media centers in schools across the nation. These centers are much more than book collections; they are dynamic spaces that connect students to a world of knowledge, resources, and inspiration. Through their unique blend of traditional books and digital...
National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week: National Inhalants and Poisons Awareness Week is a critical event dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of inhalant abuse and accidental poisonings. During this week, communities emphasize the risks associated with everyday household items that can be abused for their fumes. Many people don’t realize that common products like...
National Green Week: National Green Week is an exciting initiative that brings attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Schools and organizations across the country use this week to engage students in activities that promote greener living. The event aims to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly habits that can make a lasting...
AKC National Agility Championship: The AKC National Agility Championship is one of the most exciting events for dog lovers. It showcases the speed and precision of canine athletes. Dogs of all breeds and sizes compete in timed obstacle courses that test their agility, coordination, and teamwork with their handlers. The event is fast-paced and...
National Button Week: National Button Week invites people to celebrate the charm and versatility of buttons. This week shines a spotlight on these small but significant items, often overlooked in daily life. Buttons play many roles, from fastening clothing to adding a touch of style or even showing a little personality. During National Button...
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Week celebrates the remarkable work of nurse practitioners who specialize in children's health. These professionals play a unique role in pediatric healthcare, providing not only routine checkups but also managing chronic conditions, guiding families, and responding to a wide range of health issues from infancy through...
Wellderly Week: Wellderly Week is a special time set aside each year to celebrate and focus on the well-being of our senior community, and is dedicated to promoting health, happiness, and the importance of staying active and engaged, regardless of age. The celebration highlights the significant role that seniors play in our society...
National Anonymous Giving Week: National Anonymous Giving Week highlights a unique form of generosity. This week, people focus on acts of kindness without the need for public praise. The idea is simple: help others without expecting thanks. Whether it’s a donation to a local charity, food for a shelter, or funds for a community...
World Folktales & Fables Week: World Folktales & Fables Week sweeps us into the timeless magic of storytelling. This week invites everyone to dive into tales that have traveled across generations and lands, from clever tricksters to brave heroes and magical creatures. Learn More About World Folktales & Fables Week These stories capture universal ideas—love, courage...
Ramadan: During this holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, focusing on spiritual reflection and community. Ramadan is a time for self-improvement and bringing people together in celebration of faith.