1886 – Author Rex Stout was born in Noblesville to Quaker parents. He served in the Navy and became a popular writer of pulp fiction. His early stories spanned genres including romance, adventure, science fiction and fantasy. He is best remembered for his Nero Wolfe detective series. During World War II he campaigned against Nazism through his work with the War Writers Board.
1927 – Indianapolis Postmaster Robert H. Bryson announced the inauguration of air mail service to the city. Postal planes would arrive daily from Cincinnati at 2:45 p.m., depart at 3 p.m., and arrive in Chicago at 5 p.m. The planes, using Wright Whirlwind Motors, could attain speeds of 135 mph and carry two passengers as well as mailbags.
1941 – The new Central Fire Station opened in Columbus. Among its unique architectural features were rounded glass corners and a circular hose tower.
1942 – Gas rationing went into effect across the nation as the government worked to conserve fuel and rubber for use in World War II. For the same reason, the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race was canceled for the duration of the war.
1954 – The Indianapolis city purchasing agent approved a new car for Mayor Alex M. Clark. After reviewing several models, the group selected a 1955 Cadillac. Specifications called for a large sedan with a 250-horsepower engine with a 129-inch wheelbase. The car was equipped with power steering, power brakes, windshield washers, fog lights, two spotlights, and a radio. The cost was $2,886.
1962 – Over 10,000 people gathered on Monument Circle in Indianapolis to see Mayor Albert Losche dedicate the lights on the “World’s Largest Christmas Tree.” Nearly 6,000 bulbs cast a glow over the Circle for the inauguration of a holiday event which has become an annual tradition.