This week in Indiana’s history …
1839 – Indiana Governor David Wallace proclaimed Thursday, Nov. 28, 1839, to be an official Thanksgiving Day for the state. In his proclamation, the Governor asked citizens to show gratitude for their good harvest and health. One hundred years later, some Indiana communities celebrated two Thanksgivings.
1899 – Howard Hoagland “Hoagy” Carmichael was born in Bloomington. He earned a law degree from Indiana University, but his interest in music led him to a legendary career as composer, singer, and actor. He starred on the stage, radio, movies, and television.
1903 – George Ade’s County Chairman opened at Wallack’s Theater in New York. One of the most popular playwrights of his era, Ade at one time had three plays running simultaneously on Broadway. Born in Kentland, Ind., he was always loyal to his alma mater, Purdue, and helped build the university’s football stadium.
1920 – Gaston Chevrolet, the winner of the most recent Indianapolis 500, was killed during a race at the Los Angeles Speedway. He and his brothers, Louis and Arthur, lived in Indianapolis where they operated a car dealership and repair garage. Louis was one of the founders of the car company which bears the family name. All three brothers are buried at the Holy Cross and St. Joseph Cemetery on the south side of Indianapolis.
1942 – Indiana placed fifth out of the 48 states in the national scrap metal drive. Over six million tons of iron and steel were collected across the country. Indiana’s contribution amounted to over 213,000 tons, or 125 pounds per person. The material would be used to make tanks, ships, planes, and guns as the United States was rapidly ramping up its military after entry into World War II.
1963 – Governor Matthew E. Welsh proclaimed a 30-day mourning period for Indiana following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The Governor and his wife Mary attended the President’s funeral in Washington on Nov. 25. The same day, Lieutenant Governor Richard Ristine placed a wreath on the steps of the Indiana World War Memorial while 3,500 military personnel stood at attention.