Founding of Columbia University
On January 4, 1754, King’s College (later Columbia University) was founded in New York. It’s the oldest university in New York and the fifth oldest in the US.
Revolutionary War
Betsy Ross Stamp
On January 2, 1952, the US Post Office Department issued a commemorative stamp honoring Betsy Ross, one day after her 200th birthday. The stamp pictures Ross presenting the flag to George Washington and the Flag Committee.
Birth of Paul Revere
Paul Revere was born on January 1, 1735, according to the modern calendar in the North End of Boston. In 1775, he went on a famous ride to warn of the arrival of British troops. After the war, he earned a name for himself as a silversmith.
New Jersey Becomes 3rd State
On December 18, 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the Constitution and join the Union.
Birth of Artist Gilbert Stuart
On December 3, 1755, Gilbert Stuart was born in Saunderstown, Rhode Island Colony. A prolific American artist, he painted more than 1,000 people, including our first six presidents. Several of his portraits have appeared on US stamps – and even the $1 bill!
Founding Of The U.S. Marine Corps
The forerunner of the United States Marines was established on November 10, 1775, in the midst of the American Revolutionary War. The Marines have fought in every major US-involved war since, making over 300 landings on foreign shores.
John Hanson Elected President
On November 5, 1781, John Hanson was elected president of the Continental Congress. He was the first president to serve a full one-year term under the Articles of Confederation – a which has led some to call him the first president of the United States.
Birth of Molly Pitcher
On October 13, 1754, one of the women that inspired the nickname, “Molly Pitcher,” was born near Trenton, New Jersey. She took over her husband’s artillery when he was injured and was later made a noncommissioned officer.
Battle of Valcour Island
On October 11, 1776, the Continental Navy participated in one of its first naval battles of the Revolutionary War at Valcour Bay. While they were forced to retreat, they succeeded in delaying British plans for the upper Hudson River valley.