Constitutional Convention Convenes
1787

(Stay tuned for a write-up on this event.
On the other hand, if you'd like to try writing
one  ... send it in! )

England Restores Monarchy
1660

(Stay tuned for a write-up on this event.
On the other hand, if you'd like to try writing
one  ... send it in! )

First Telegraphed Headlines
1844

(Stay tuned for a write-up on this event.
On the other hand, if you'd like to try writing
one  ... send it in! )

Babe Ruth Hits Last Homer
1935

It was on May 25, 1935 that George Herman "Babe" Ruth -- the Bambino -- hit the final home run of his long (21 years) and illustrious baseball career.

The Babe was playing for the Boston Braves when he smacked his final whopper against the Pirates at Pittsburgh's Forbes Field. Ruth's career total of 714 homers stood until 1974, when Hank Aaron -- of the Atlanta Braves -- topped it.

The Bambino also held the record for the most homers in a single season, set at 60 in 1927, until it was broken by Roger Maris in 1961. In another coincidence, both Ruth and Maris were playing for the New York Yankees.

JFK Kicks Off Moon Race
1961

(Stay tuned for a write-up on this event.
On the other hand, if you'd like to try writing
one  ... send it in! )

St. Louis Dedicates "Gateway to West" Arch
1968

(Stay tuned for a write-up on this event.
On the other hand, if you'd like to try writing
one  ... send it in! )

Memorial Day

In 1868, General John Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic ordered that May 30 be a day on which the graves of the fallen should be decorated -- thus the holiday's original name, Decoration Day.

The idea was readily adopted in patchwork style across the country, with the South setting aside an earlier day, in April, and calling it Memorial Day in honor of the Confederate dead.

Whatever its name, the holiday's breadth has expanded with every war to honor the ever-increasing roll of those who have fought and fallen for freedom.

And for the convenience of those who have not, more recently the date was made variable and assigned to a Monday. We fear that by so concocting a three-day weekend, the holiday becomes more apropos to parties and barbecues than for its original, solemn purpose.

The actual date is unimportant. But put down your burger for a moment, and remember those who died to make this life possible.