Debut of World’s First Jukebox
On November 23, 1889, the world’s first jukebox was displayed and used at the Palais Royale Saloon in San Francisco, California.
Technology
Birth of Wiley Post
Wiley Hardeman Post was born on November 22, 1898, Van Zandt County, Texas. A world-renowned aviator, he pushed the limits of early aviation technology to break the ’round the world record twice!
Birth of Robert Fulton
Engineer and inventor Robert Fulton was born on November 14, 1765, in Little Britain, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He’s best known for developing the first commercially viable steamboat, though he also patented several other inventions during his lifetime.
Completion of Transcontinental Telegraph
On October 24, 1861, Western Union joined the eastern and western lines in Salt Lake City, Utah, completing the Transcontinental Telegraph. Soon, intricately engraved stamps were produced for the different telegraph companies to show that messages had been paid for.
Microprinting in US Stamps
On October 22, 1992, the USPS issued its first stamps that incorporated microprinting in the design. These were also the first stamps to have microprinted text. Today, most US stamps include microprinting as a security feature.
America’s First Automated Post Office
On October 20, 1960, America’s first automated post office opened in Providence, Rhode Island. Issued that same day, this stamp was so popular it inspired the Post Office to continue producing stamps with postal themes.
Birth of President Eisenhower
Dwight Eisenhower was born October 14, 1890, in Denison, Texas. After serving as Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in WWII, he was elected America’s 34th president.
Launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis
On October 3, 1985, the Space Shuttle Atlantis made its maiden flight. Atlantis remained in service for 26 years, flying 33 missions, including the final space shuttle mission in 2011.
First Official U.S. Airmail Flight
On September 23, 1911, Earle Ovington made America’s first airmail delivery between Garden City and Mineola, New York. Staged as part of the International Aviation Meet, he flew more than 43,000 letters over the course of a week.