It’s time to celebrate February Birthdays! To all those born in February, may your month be filled with joy… Enjoy!
This Month in History
- 1862 – The Legal Tender Act of 1862 made paper notes (greenbacks) legal tender for the first time.
In 1879, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was awarded a U.S. patent for his design of the Statue of Liberty.
- 1895 – William George Morgan, invented mintonette – later to be known as volleyball.
- 1903 – The teddy bear was created in tribute to U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt who, during a hunting trip, refused to kill a bear that was tied to a tree. Morris and Rose Michtom created the toy.
- 1914 – Charlotte May Pierstorff was shipped via Parcel Post 73 miles to her grandparents’ house. She was 4 years old and chaperoned while “mailed” by train. Her notable adventure inspired a children’s book.
- 1962 – John Glen became the first American to orbit the earth.
In 1971, Apollo 14 arrived in the Fra Mauro region of the Moon for field geography investigations, collection of surface material samples, and deployment of scientific instruments.
- 1979 – Curtis Sliwa formed the Guardian Angels, a non-profit volunteer organization. Today, their safety patrol efforts span worldwide.
- 2005 – Ellen MacArthur broke records as she sailed solo around the world in 71 days.
The Story of Valentine
During the 490s, the feast day was declared for the saint who was executed because of his opposition to Emperor Claudius II. The emperor did not want young soldiers getting married because he believed single soldiers were the best fighters. In time, February 14th expanded as a day to celebrate love.
Art Festivals
February birthdays can include a trip to the nearest art festival.
In various states across the U.S., fine art, art & craft, sound, and shopping events are planned at cultural centers, neighborhood venues, historic locations, downtown streets, shopping centers, even at golf clubs. Taking time to pause and explore might be a nice addition to your birthday festivities. Check your local listings.
