Nellie Bly Begins Record-Setting Trip Around the Globe
On November 14, 1889, Nellie Bly embarked on a trip around the globe, inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days.
Exploration
Birth of Explorer James Cook
British explorer and navigator Captain James Cook was born on November 7, 1728 (October 27 in the Old Style calendar), in Marton, Yorkshire, England.
Creation of First US National Lakeshore
On October 15, 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed legislation establishing the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the shore of Lake Superior. It was the first national lakeshore in the United States.
The Mayflower Departs England for America
On September 16, 1620, the Mayflower left England. The Pilgrims braved rough seas and a harsh winter in search of a place to build a community based on their religious beliefs. They reached America and founded the settlement of Plymouth.
Henry Hudson Sails the Hudson River
On September 12, 1609, explorer Henry Hudson reached the river that would bear his name.
First Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery
On August 30, 1984, the Space Shuttle Discovery made its first launch into space, two months later than initially planned. It would go on to make more flights than any other shuttle in its fleet.
Founding of Detroit
On July 24, 1701, French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac established a fort on the site of what would become the city of Detroit.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park was established on June 11, 1940, along the Kentucky-Virginia border. The park preserves and honors the “first great gateway to the West.”
Founding of Independence, Missouri
On March 29, 1867, Independence, Missouri, was founded. Known as the “Queen City of the Trails,” it became the starting point for several trails that carried thousands of settlers to the West.