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Great Molasses Flood: A Sticky and Deadly Situation
On this date in 1919, a massive storage tank failed, sending more than 2 million gallons of molasses through the streets of Boston, killing 21 people and injuring 150 others. Here are some things you may not have known about the Great Molasses Flood. The tank, which was owned by Purity Distilling Company was 50…
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“Today” Show: A Morning News Pioneer
Today is the 64th anniversary of NBC’s “Today” show. Here are some things you may not have known about “Today” and the morning news shows that followed. The show was created by NBC vice president Pat Weaver, who is the father of actress Sigourney Weaver. One of the proposed names for the show was “The…
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Charles Addams: A “Family” Man
Today is the 103rd anniversary of the birth of illustrator Charles Addams. Here are some things you may not have known about the creator of “The Addams Family.” Charles Addams was born in Westfield, New Jersey in 1912. Houses in his hometown were said to be the inspiration for the Addams Family mansion. A childhood…
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Golden Gate Bridge: Form and Function
On this date in 1933, construction began on the Golden Gate Bridge. Here are some things you may not have known about the bridge. Ferry service between San Francisco and Marin County started in the 1820s. The Golden Gate Ferry Company, which originated in 1867 went on to become the largest ferry system in the…
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Topsy: The Electrocution of an Elephant
On this date in 1903, Topsy, an Asian elephant was euthanized by electrocution at Coney Island, New York. Here are some things you may not have known about the incident. Topsy was brought to the United States and performed in the Forepaugh Circus, where she gained a reputation as a bad elephant after killing a…