Forerunner to New York Stock Exchange Formed
On May 17, 1792, the Buttonwood Agreement was signed, laying the groundwork for the New York Stock Exchange. Today, it’s the world’s largest stock exchange.
This Day in History
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First Transatlantic Flight
On May 16, 1919, Albert Cushing Read departed Newfoundland, beginning the first transatlantic flight. On May 27, he touched down in Portugal, successfully crossing the Atlantic.
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Formation of WAAC
On May 15, 1942, the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was established. The women of the WAAC filled important noncombatant jobs, freeing up thousands of men for combat.
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Discovery of the Inverted Jenny
On May 14, 1918, stamp collector William Robey discovered the rare Inverted Jenny error sheet. One of the most famous US stamp errors, he found the only known sheet to reach public hands.
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First Successful Wireless Communication Over Water
On May 13, 1897, Guglielmo Marconi sent the world’s first wireless communication over open sea. For his pioneering work, Marconi later received the Nobel Prize in Physics.
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Start of Scenic American Landscapes Series
On May 12, 1999, the USPS introduced a new series of Airmail stamps – the Scenic American Landscapes. These were the final Airmail stamps. issued through 2012.
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The Rural Electrification Administration
On May 11, 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt signed legislation establishing the Rural Electrification Administration (REA). The REA brought power to millions on remote farms.
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The Capture of Fort Ticonderoga
On May 10, 1775, Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold led a small colonial militia to capture Fort Ticonderoga from the British.
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Happy Birthday J.M. Barrie
James Matthew Barrie was born on May 9, 1860, in Kirriemuir, Angus, Scotland. His most famous work was Peter Pan, which was turned into an animated film in 1953.
