Marines Ordered to Guard Mail
On November 7, 1921, President Warren G. Harding ordered 2,200 Marines to guard the mail in the wake of a series of daring mail robberies.
Transportation
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George Washington Bridge
On October 24, 1931, the George Washington Bridge was dedicated, officially opening to traffic the next day. One of the world’s busiest bridges, the George Washington Bridge is also the world’s only 14-lane suspension bridge.
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Highway Beautification Act
On October 22, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Highway Beautification Act into law. The law had been spearheaded by his wife, and was even nicknamed after her, called “Lady Bird’s Bill.”
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The Granite Railway
On October 7, 1826, the Granite Railway opened in Massachusetts. Built to carry granite for the Bunker Hill Monument, it’s been called the first chartered and commercial railroad in the United States.
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America’s First Superhighway
On October 1, 1940, the Pennsylvania Turnpike opened to drivers. Measuring 160-miles at the time of its opening, it’s considered the first superhighway in the US and helped inspire other state turnpikes and America’s Interstate Highway System.
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Pioneers of Aviation Series
On September 23, 1978, the USPS issued the first stamps in its Pioneers of Aviation Series. The series would span more than 20 years and include 18 stamps honoring some of America’s most legendary aviators and their aircraft.
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The Empire State Express
On September 14, 1891, the Empire State Express became one of the world’s first high-speed passenger train, traveling 436 miles between New York City and Buffalo in 7 hours, 6 minutes. It averaged 61.4 miles per hour and reached a top speed of 82 miles per hour.
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Reopening of Sunshine Skyway Bridge
On April 20, 1987, the second Sunshine Skyway Bridge opened. It was rebuilt following a 1980 accident. Considered a symbol of Florida, it’s also the longest cable-stayed concrete bridge in the world.
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London Bridge Moves… to Arizona
On April 18, 1968, American entrepreneur Robert P. McCulloch purchased Britain’s famed London Bridge and relocated it to Arizona. Though it was dubbed “McCulloch’s Folly,” it turned out to be a successful gamble and became one of Arizona’s most popular attractions.
