Henry Hudson Sails the Hudson River
On September 12, 1609, explorer Henry Hudson reached the river that would bear his name.
American History
The Battle of Plattsburgh
On September 11, 1814, American forces won an important victory at the Battle of Plattsburgh (also known as the Battle of Lake Champlain).
Happy Birthday, Roger Maris
Baseball player Roger Eugene Maris was born on September 10, 1934, in Hibbing, Minnesota. He went on to break Babe Ruth’s home run record – and his own record stood for over 35 years.
The “United Colonies” Become “United States”
On September 9, 1776, the Second Continental Congress declared that the United Colonies would now be known as the United States.
Star Trek Premieres
On September 8, 1966, the first episode of Star Trek premiered on television. While the original series only lasted three seasons, it developed a cult following, leading to movies, several new series, comics, games, and more.
First USS Constellation Launched
Ordered by a Congressional Act in 1794, the first American ship to be christened the Constellation was launched on September 7, 1797. It was the first ship commissioned into the United States Navy; the first put to sea; and the first to fight, defeat, and capture an enemy vessel.
First Modern Grocery Store
On September 6, 1916, the first self-service grocery store as we know it today opened in Memphis, Tennessee. The store was Piggly Wiggly, and it revolutionized the way people bought groceries.
First U.S. Labor Day Parade
On September 5, 1882, the first Labor Day parade in the United States was held in New York City. A little over a decade later, Labor Day became a Federal holiday.
World War II 50th Anniversary Stamps
On September 3, 1991, the USPS issued the first of five souvenir sheets (later classified as commemorative sheets) honoring the 50th anniversary of America’s entrance into World War II.