Cattle rancher Charles Goodnight was born on March 5, 1836, in Macoupin County, Illinois. One of America’s most famous cattle barons, Goodnight helped blaze a major cattle trail and is sometimes referred to as the “Father of the Texas Panhandle.”
Melvin Thomas “Master Melvin” Ott was born on March 2, 1909, in Gretna, Louisiana. Playing baseball with the New York Giants for his entire career, Ott was a twelve-time All-Star and six-time National League home run leader.
Doctor and research scientist Alice Hamilton was born on February 27, 1869, in Manhattan, New York. Hamilton was a pioneer in the fields of occupational health and industrial toxicology. Her extensive research and thorough reports helped improve working conditions across America.
Soldier and showman William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, was born on February 26, 1846, in LeClaire, Iowa. “Buffalo Bill” was one of the most famous figures of the Old West, gaining increased prominence and popularity for his Wild West shows.
On February 24, 1779, George Rogers Clark led the siege of Vincennes. Despite having smaller numbers and marching in the cold for 18 days, Clark managed to force the British defenders to surrender.
Artist Rembrandt Peale was born on February 22, 1778, in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He completed more than 600 paintings during his lifetime, including dozens picturing George Washington.
Photographer Ansel Easton Adams was born on February 20, 1902, in San Francisco, California. Adams was one of America’s most famous photographers, known for his photographs of American landscapes, which helped promote environmental and conservation causes.
Composer Harold Arlen was born Hyman Arluck on February 15, 1905, in Buffalo, New York. He composed over 500 songs during his lifetime, including “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz.
Minister, writer, and educator Richard Allen was born on February 14, 1760, in the Colony of Delaware. He went on to found the first independent black church in the United States, the African Methodist Episcopal Church.