Virginia Becomes 10th State
On June 25, 1788, Virginia ratified the US Constitution and was admitted as the 10th state of the Union.
Government
Death of President Grover Cleveland
America’s 22nd and 24th president, Grover Cleveland, died on June 24, 1908, in Princeton, New Jersey. He was America’s first president to serve two non-consecutive terms and was known for his honesty and integrity.
Last Stamp Issued by the Post Office Department
On June 23, 1971, the Post Office issued its last commemorative stamp as a cabinet-level department. It was reorganized as the United States Postal Service, a corporation-like independent agency of the federal government.
Department of Justice Established
On June 22, 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a bill into law creating the US Department of Justice. While the position of attorney general had existed in a part time capacity for decades, it was elevated to a full-time position as head of the new Department of Justice with increased responsibilities.
West Virginia Becomes 35th State
On June 20, 1863, West Virginia joined the Union as the 35th state. It had formed from the western counties of Virginia which disagreed with the state’s decision to secede during the Civil War.
The First Juneteenth
On June 19, 1865, slaves in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom by the Emancipation Proclamation (issued two years prior). The day the last American slaves were freed has become a federal holiday observed across the country.
William Penn Founds Philadelphia
On June 18, 1682, William Penn established Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It would quickly grow into a major city because of Penn’s vision.
Arlington National Cemetery
On June 15, 1864, Arlington National Cemetery was officially established. It has since become the final resting place for over 420,000 military servicemen and women.
Virginia Declaration of Rights Ratified
On June 12, 1776, the Fifth Virginia Convention unanimously ratified the Virginia Declaration of Rights. It provided inspiration for other notable documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.