Birth of Thomas Macdonough
Thomas Macdonough (born McDonough) Jr. was born on December 31, 1783, in New Castle County, Delaware. The town in which he was born was later named McDonough in his honor.
This Day in History
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Another Victory for Old Ironsides
On December 29, 1812, the USS Constitution scored another American victory at sea in the War of 1812.
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It’s Howdy Doody Time!
On December 27, 1947, Howdy Doody made his television debut on Puppet Playhouse. Howdy Doody was one of the first TV programs made for children and produced in color.
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Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
On December 26, 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts was founded – the first and oldest art museum and art school in the country. The Academy was the brainchild of artist Charles Willson Peale, sculptor Benjamin Rush, and other artists and businessmen.
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First Run of the Best Friend of Charleston
On December 25, 1830, the Best Friend of Charleston completed its first run.
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NORAD Tracks Santa
On December 24, 1955, NORAD’s predecessor tracked Santa Claus for the first time.
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First Non-Stop Non-Refueled Flight Around the Globe
On December 23, 1986, Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager completed the first non-stop flight around the world without refueling.
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Birth of Lady Bird Johnson
First Lady Lady Bird Johnson was born on December 22, 1912, in Karnack, Texas.
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The Navy Medal of Honor
On December 21, 1861, President Abraham Lincoln approved the Navy’s Medal of Honor, the first authorized Medal of Honor in the United States.
