1849 – James Whitcomb Riley was born in Greenfield. Beginning as an itinerant sign painter and musician, he became the “Hoosier Poet” and one of the most famous people of his time. His poems, like “When the Frost is on the Punkin” and “Little Orphant Annie,” captured the childhood memories of an entire generation and appealed to people of all ages.
1888 – Construction of the new Indiana Statehouse was completed. The books were closed at a final cost of $1,989,969.
1944 – Wendell Willkie died in New York at age 52. Born in Elwood, he became a corporate lawyer. In 1940, he waged a highly spirited campaign for President of the United States from his national campaign headquarters in Rushville. His book One World was a best-seller.
1958 – Legendary vocalist Ella Fitzgerald performed at the Murat Theater in Indianapolis. Appearing with the Oscar Peterson Trio, she entertained the sold-out crowd with jazz and American songbook selections.
1959 – Evangelist Billy Graham was in Indianapolis for a 26-day crusade at the State Fair Coliseum. He was welcomed to the city by Governor Harold Handley and Mayor Charles Boswell. Graham preached a different sermon each day and was accompanied by a large choir representing many local churches.
1976 – The Indianapolis Children’s Museum opened at its new location at 30th and North Meridian streets. With nearly 500,000 square feet inside and the 29-acre Sports Legend experience outside, it is the biggest and best children’s museum in the world.