South Carolina Admitted to the Union
On May 23, 1788, South Carolina ratified the Constitution, making it America’s eighth state.
American History
Lewis and Clark’s Journey Begins
On May 21, 1804, Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery departed St. Charles on the Missouri River to begin their exploration of the American West.
Happy Birthday Dolley Madison
Our nation’s third First Lady was born Dolley Payne in Piedmont, North Carolina, on May 20, 1768.
Establishment of Glacier National Park
On May 11, 1910, an act of Congress officially created Glacier National Park in Montana.
Happy Birthday Gary Cooper
Actor Frank James Cooper was born on May 7, 1901, in Helena, Montana.
“Freedom Riders” Bus Trip
On May 5, 1961, the “Freedom Riders” began their highly publicized ride through the south to protest segregation laws.
Pan-American Exposition & Stamps
The Pan-American Exposition opened to the public on May 1, 1901, in Buffalo, New York. That same day the set of six Pan-American stamps went on sale.
The Great Locomotive Chase
On April 12, 1862, a group of Union sympathizers stole a Confederate train, leading to a daring eight-hour chase.
Happy Birthday Bette Davis
Actress Ruth “Bette” Elizabeth Davis was born on April 5, 1908, in Lowell, Massachusetts.