North America
On this day: The first train on Chicago’s ‘L’
On June 6, 1892, the first section of Chicago's iconic 'L' (elevated) transit system opened. The Chicago and South Side Rapid Transit Railroad had been constructed along an alley stretching 5.8km (3.6miles) from Van Buren St to 37th St. Thirty…
Kudzu Infestation in the United States
Introduced to the southeastern United States in the 19th century as an ornamental plant and to help fight against soil erosion, the perennial vine known as kudzu has infested tens of thousands of square kilometres in the US, wiping out forests and native vegetation while covering and engulfing entire buildings.
On this day: The Teton Dam Collapsed
June 5, 1976, was a bleak day for engineering history with the collapse of the Teton Dam. This brand new structure was built over 3 years at a cost of at least $100million, with construction pushing on despite concerns about…
On this day: Ten Cent Beer Night Riot
On June 4, 1974, the Cleveland Indians attempted to boost attendance for their baseball game at Cleveland Stadium by selling beer for only 10¢, an 85% discount. Surprisingly, the plan backfired, as the crowd - able to purchase six beers…
On this day: The only presidential marriage to take place at the White House
On June 2, 1886, Grover Cleveland became the only US President to marry in the White House when he wed Frances Folsom in the Blue Room. We can't imagine it happening today, but apparently in the late 19th century it…
On this day: The Rideau Canal Opened
On May 30, 1832, the Rideau Canal opened between Kingston and Ottawa, providing British forces with a safe supply route away from the US border. These days it is a summer boating attraction for locals and tourists, and designated a…
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