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:
1787 – The Constitution of the United States of America was signed by 39 delegates at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, PA. This monumental document established the framework of the United States government and is considered one of the most important legal documents in history.
1796 – President George Washington’s Farewell Address was read before the U.S. Congress.
1814 – Francis Scott Key finished his poem “Defence of Fort McHenry”, which would later become the lyrics to “The Star Spangled Banner”.
1862 – The Battle of Antietam, also known as the Battle of Sharpsburg, occurred on September 17, 1862, during the American Civil War. It was the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with over 22,000 casualties. The battle marked a strategic victory for the Union and led President Abraham Lincoln to issue the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.
1872 – The sprinkler system was patented by Phillip W. Pratt.
1908 – The Wright Flyer, flown by Orville Wright, with Lieutenant Thomas Selfridge as a passenger, crashed in Fort Myer, VA, killing Selfridge. He became the first airplane fatality.
1911 – The first transcontinental airplane flight started. It took pilot C.P. Rogers 3 days, 10 hours to fly from New York, NY to Pasadena, CA.
1920 – The American Professional Football Association was formed in Canton, OH. It was the precursor to the National Football League.
1930 – Construction on Boulder Dam (now called Hoover Dam) began in Black Canyon, near Las Vegas, NV.
1931 – RCA Victor Records demonstrated the long-playing (LP), 33-1/3 RPM phonograph record.
1932 – Sir Malcolm Campbell set a speed record when he reached 276.27 mph over a half mile.
1937 – Abraham Lincoln’s face was dedicated at Mt. Rushmore, in South Dakota.
1947 – James V. Forrestal, the first U.S. Secretary of Defense, was sworn into office.
1953 – Ernie Banks became the first black baseball player to wear a Chicago Cubs uniform. He retired in 1971 known as ‘Mr. Cub’.
1953 – The Ochsner Foundation Hospital in New Orleans, LA, successfully separated Siamese twins. Carolyn Anne and Catherine Anne Mouton were connected at the waist when born.
1961 – The world’s first retractable-dome stadium, the Civic Arena, opened in Pittsburgh, PA.
1961 – The Minnesota Vikings debuted as a new National Football League team.
1962 – U.S. space officials announced the selection of Neil A. Armstrong and eight others as new astronauts.
1963 – The television show “The Fugitive” premiered on ABC.
1964 – TV’s “Bewitched” debut on ABC.
1965 – “The Smothers Brothers Show” premiered on CBS.
1965 – “Hogan’s Heroes” premiered on CBS-TV.
1966 – “Mission Impossible” debuted on CBS.
1968 – The first episode of “Julia” debuted on NBC. On the TV series, Diahann Carroll portrayed a widowed nurse raising a young son.
1972 – The TV series “M*A*S*H” premiered on CBS and ran for 11 seasons.
1973 – Illinois becomes the first state to make Martin Luther King Junior’s birthday a holiday.
1976 – NASA unveiled the first Space Shuttle, Enterprise, at ceremonies in Palmdale, CA. Although it never flew in space, the Enterprise was used for atmospheric test flights and helped pave the way for the operational shuttle fleet.
1983 – Vanessa Williams (Miss New York) became the first black Miss America, a title she is later forced to resign after naked photos of her surfaced.
1983 – Johnny Bench, of the Cincinnati Reds, retired after 16 years as a catcher.
1984 – 9,706 immigrants became naturalized citizens when they were sworn in by Vice President George Bush in Miami, FL. It was the largest group to become U.S. citizens.
1984 – Gordon P. Getty was named the richest person in the United States His fortune was $4.1 billion.
1984 – Reggie Jackson hit his 500th career home run. It was exactly 17 years from the day he hit his first major league home run.
1988 – The cartoon “Garfield & Friends” premiered on television.
1991 – The TV show “Home Improvement” debuted on ABC. It ran for 8 years. The series launched Tim Allen’s acting career.
1992 – “The Cosby Show” aired for the last time on NBC.
1994 – Heather Whitestone of Alabama was crowned Miss America and became first deaf woman to win the title.
2001 – Wall Street trading resumed for the first time since the September 11th terrorist attacks. It was the longest shutdown since the Depression. The Dow lost 684.81 points — its worst-ever one-day point drop.
2010 – The soap opera “As the World Turns” ended its 54-year run.
2011 – The Occupy Wall Street movement began in Zuccotti Park in New York, NY.
2013 – The video game “Grand Theft Auto V” earned more than half a billion dollars on its first day of release.
2014 – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at an all time high of 17,156.
BIRTHDAYS:
Chuck Grassley – 92 years old (1933) – Lawyer and politician
Bobby Wine – 87 years old (1938) – Baseball player and coach
Carl Dennis – 86 years old (1939) – Poet and educator
Shelby Flint – 86 years old (1939) – Singer-songwriter and voice actress
Robert Graysmith – 83 years old (1942) – Author and illustrator
Jean Taylor – 81 years old (1944) – Mathematician and academic
Phil Jackson – 80 years old (1945) – Basketball player and coach
Gail Carson Levine – 78 years old (1947) – Author
Fee Waybill – 75 years old (1950) – Singer-songwriter and producer
Cassandra Peterson – 74 years old (1951) – Actress, television host, and producer
Kermit Washington – 74 years old (1951) – Basketball player
Harold Solomon – 73 years old (1952) – Tennis player and coach
Rita Rudner – 72 years old (1953) – Actress, comedian, and screenwriter
Bill Irwin – 71 years old (1954) – Wrestler
Scott Simpson – 70 years old (1955) – Golfer
Charles Martinet – 70 years old (1955) – Actor
Mike Parson – 70 years old (1955) – Politician, 57th Governor of Missouri
Thad Bosley – 69 years old (1956) – Baseball player and coach
Kevin Clash – 65 years old (1960) – Puppeteer
John Franco – 65 years old (1960) – Baseball player
Jim Cornette – 64 years old (1961) – Wrestling manager and sportscaster
Ty Tabor – 64 years old (1961) – Rock singer-songwriter and guitarist
Paul Feig – 63 years old (1962) – Director, producer, and screenwriter
Dustin Nguyen – 63 years old (1962) – Vietnamese-American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter
BeBe Winans – 63 years old (1962) – Singer-songwriter and producer
Masahiro Chono – 62 years old (1963) – American-Japanese wrestler and manager
James Urbaniak – 62 years old (1963) – Actor, producer, and screenwriter
Kyle Chandler – 60 years old (1965) – Actor
Guy Picciotto – 60 years old (1965) – Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer
Bryan Singer – 60 years old (1965) – Director, producer, and screenwriter
Doug E. Fresh – 59 years old (1966) – Rapper and producer
Michael Carbajal – 58 years old (1967) – Boxer
Malik Yoba – 58 years old (1967) – Actor
Anastacia – 57 years old (1968) – Singer-songwriter
Cheryl Strayed – 57 years old (1968) – Author
Matthew Settle – 56 years old (1969) – Actor
Paul Varelans – 56 years old (1969) – MMA fighter and wrestler
Nate Berkus – 54 years old (1971) – Interior designer and television host
Bobby Lee – 54 years old (1971) – Actor and comedian
Nona Gaye – 51 years old (1974) – Singer, model, and actress
Rasheed Wallace – 51 years old (1974) – Basketball player and coach
Jimmie Johnson – 50 years old (1975) – Race car driver
Sam Esmail – 48 years old (1977) – Screenwriter
Akin Ayodele – 46 years old (1979) – Football player
Billy Miller – 46 years old (1979) – Actor
Dan Haren – 45 years old (1980) – Baseball player
Casey Janssen – 44 years old (1981) – Baseball player
Mary DeScenza – 41 years old (1984) – Swimmer
Danielle Brooks – 36 years old (1989) – Actress
Kate Deines – 36 years old (1989) – Soccer player
Marcus Semien – 35 years old (1990) – Baseball player
Alfonzo McKinnie – 33 years old (1992) – Basketball player
Danny Ramirez – 33 years old (1992) – Actor
Denyse Tontz – 31 years old (1994) – Salvadoran-American actress and singer
Patrick Mahomes – 30 years old (1995) – Football player
Slayyyter – 29 years old (1996) – Singer and songwriter
Auston Matthews – 28 years old (1997) – Ice hockey player
TODAY IS:
- Smithsonian Day: On Smithsonian Day, also known as Museum Day, museums across the United States offer free admission to visitors with a special ticket. Hundreds of institutions take part, including science centers, history museums, art galleries, and zoos. Each guest can visit one participating location of their choice at no cost. This...
- International Country Music Day: Kick up your heels and get ready to sing along to the sounds of the heartland. Catchy lyrics and twangy guitars await!
- World Manta Day: World Manta Day, celebrated annually on September 17th, is a special occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the conservation status of manta and devil rays. These beautiful, mysterious ocean giants captivate us with their grace and size, but they face significant threats that require our attention and action. How to Celebrate...
- World Patient Safety Day: Patient harm is often caused by adverse events and it stands as one of the leading causes of patient mortality and morbidity all over the world. Many of these deaths due to adverse events are preventable with improved education and care. With the purpose of increasing local and global awareness...
- Responsible Dog Ownership Day: Responsible Dog Ownership Day is a celebration that highlights the importance of proper dog care. This day encourages dog owners to reflect on their responsibilities towards their pets and ensure that their dogs live healthy, happy lives. Whether it’s keeping up with regular vet visits, feeding a balanced diet, or...
- National Apple Dumpling Day: Getting tired of apple pie? Try apple dumplings instead, a delicious apple-filled treat containing cinnamon, nutmeg, and perhaps cloves or lemon zest.
- National Pet Bird Day: Bird lovers and pet lovers can find plenty of reasons to celebrate and enjoy National Pet Bird Day! History of National Pet Bird Day Birds make wonderful pets! They are easily integrated into families and they are typically fairly easy to care for and don’t require a great deal of...
- Australian Citizenship Day: Australian Citizenship Day is a special time to celebrate what it means to be an Aussie. This day shines a spotlight on the values that unite the nation. It’s a day full of pride and community spirit. People mark this day to honor those who have become new citizens. It's a...
- National AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day: Having a dog is a rewarding experience that brings joy and companionship. National AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day is a special occasion that celebrates this bond while highlighting the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. This event encourages dog owners to learn about the best practices in pet care, ensuring...
- National Professional House Cleaners Day: National Professional House Cleaners Day lights up our calendars on September 17th. This day honors the hard-working individuals who keep our homes sparkling clean. From mopping floors to dusting shelves, their work goes far beyond simple tasks. Each home presents its unique challenges, requiring specific knowledge and skills to ensure...
- Time’s Up Day: Time's Up Day, celebrated on September 17th, encourages us to rise above our differences and mend fences. It's a reminder that life is too short to hold onto grievances and that making amends can lead to a happier life. On this day, reach out to those they've disagreed with to...
- National Table Shuffleboard Day: Find a local bar or rec center with a shuffleboard table and watch a tournament or learn to play the English game that dates back to the 15th century.
- National School Backpack Awareness Day: National School Backpack Awareness Day is a reminder to students, parents, and teachers about the hidden risks of improperly carrying backpacks. Many students unknowingly strain their backs and shoulders by overloading or wearing backpacks incorrectly, which can lead to pain and even long-term issues. The day focuses on teaching kids...
- National Monte Cristo Day: A classic Club sandwich dipped in French Toast batter and crisped to perfection, try a Monte Cristo Sandwich at home, or visit a fancy restaurant.
- National Arielle K. Sterrett Day: National Arielle K. Sterrett Day celebrates a girl who showed how much kindness can change a life. Arielle supported others, gave generously, and never hesitated to lend a hand. Her compassion sparked something greater, something lasting. This day carries that spark forward. It pushes people to pause, look around, and...
- National Uniform Day: Honoring the service and dedication of the tens of millions of people across the world who wear uniforms as part of their daily work, National Uniform Day celebrates and recognizes the unwavering commitment of these important workers! Why Celebrate National Uniform Day? More than just an outfit to wear to work, a...
- Constitution Day: Learn about the true origins and content of the United States Constitution to both honor the history of the nation and consider the values it was founded on.
- National Neonatal Nurses Week : Providing compassionate care to newborns and support for families, these healthcare heroes play a crucial role in healthcare.
- 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...
- Fiesta de San Pacho: Fiesta de San Pacho is a vibrant celebration that fills the streets of Quibdó with music, dance, and color. The festival honors Saint Francis of Assisi, blending Catholic traditions with Afro-Colombian culture uniquely and joyfully. As the day unfolds, the city becomes a stage where people showcase their rich heritage...
- National Jeans for Genes Day: National Jeans for Genes Day brings communities together for a common cause. People wear jeans to raise awareness about genetic disorders, and the day focuses on the struggles and stories of those affected. By simply wearing jeans, participants can show support and solidarity with the cause. This small gesture has...
- Healthcare Environmental Services Week: Healthcare Environmental Services Week honors the crucial role of EVS professionals in keeping healthcare spaces clean and safe. These skilled workers use careful cleaning and disinfection to stop harmful pathogens. Their efforts help prevent infections that could harm patients, families, and staff. This week highlights their daily dedication, commitment, and...
- National Coding Week: National Coding Week is a time to celebrate and explore the world of coding. It brings people of all ages together to discover the creative and problem-solving power of programming. The week focuses on the skills needed in today’s digital world. It's an opportunity to unlock potential and encourage everyone...
- Biscuits and Gravy Week: National Biscuits and Gravy Week offers a perfect opportunity for lovers of this delicious dish to pay it some well-deserved respect, or for some of the more inexperienced to learn more and discover some new flavors! History of National Day A decidedly American dish, biscuits and gravy are believed to have...
- Small Pet Rodent Awareness Week : Embracing a tiny companion, discover joy in caring for a pocket-sized friend, adding warmth to daily life.
- 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.
- World Mitochondrial Disease Week: Mitochondrial diseases are a group of rare genetic disorders that impact the way the mitochondria in a person’s cells produce energy. While there is currently no cure for this range of conditions, the hope is that raising awareness and improving support will help provide care for those who need it...
- National Construction Appreciation Week : While construction workers have sometimes gotten a bad rap for being a bit rough around the edges, this is the industry that builds the nation's cities and towns from the ground up. With a whopping 8 million employees in the construction industry throughout the United States, this is a sector...
- National Parent Teacher Home Visits Week: Building bridges through educator and family interactions, strengthening support networks to nurture student growth and achievement.
- Thinking of You Week: Surprising a loved one with heartfelt words in the mail can uplift spirits and remind them they're cherished beyond measure.
- Housekeepers Week: Housekeeping is tough and often thankless work, so make sure to give a big thank-you and even a small gift to the housekeepers who keep hotels and the like clean.
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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.
