1840 – William Henry Harrison, former Governor of the Indiana Territory, was elected President of the United States. An Army General, he had been appointed Minister to Colombia after serving in both the United States House and Senate. His term as President was cut short after one month when he died of pneumonia in the White House.
1877 – There were two telephones in use in Indiana, only one year after Alexander Graham Bell received a patent for the device. The phones were demonstrated at the Indiana State Fair and then put into operation at Wales and Company, an Indianapolis coal dealer.
1903 – The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) was organized by high school principals across the state. Their objective was to promote wholesome sports which would contribute to the total education of all students.
1941 – Japanese planes attacked Pearl Harbor. This “day of infamy” led to World War II. More than 400,000 Hoosiers went into uniform. Over 11,000 were killed and 17,000 wounded.
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.” Thousands of colorful lights cast a glow over the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument as the city began a holiday event which has become an annual tradition.
1983 – President Ronald Reagan spoke at the Indiana Convention Center on the topic of public education. The Warren Central High School band played “Hail to the Chief” as the President made his way to the podium.