September birthdays share interesting moments in history, including the record set by astronaut Frank Rubio, use of electricity, the writing of the U.S. national anthem, and more.
This Month in History
In 1814, Francis Scott Key watched the Battle of Baltimore from a guarded vessel. What he saw inspired him to write a poem which later became the U.S. national anthem.
In 1882, Thomas Edison created a viable use for electricity when he serviced 59 New York homes.
- 1882 – The first Labor Day celebration took place in New York, where up to 20,000 people paraded through lower Manhattan.
- 1890 – Sequoia National Park was established and became the second government park in the United States.
In 2023, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio spent 371 days in space aboard the International Space Station, the longest single spaceflight by a U.S. astronaut.
History of Labor Day
More than 140 years ago, a movement began to recognize American workers.
Workplace conditions, compensation, and regulation inspired a move to honor the contributions of American workers. In 1882, the first Labor Day celebration took place in New York. By the late 1880’s, more than half of the states across the country passed laws to officially recognize the day. The first Monday of September became a national holiday, in 1894, when U.S. President Grover Cleveland signed it into law.
Beautiful Autumn Leaves
September brings the beginning of autumn. A time of transition when nature seems to prepare for hibernation. Shorter daylight hours cause the colors of leaves to change, when trees stop producing chlorophyll (a green pigment). It is during this time, when chlorophyll fades that other pigments are seen. Vibrant shades often considered the colors of autumn.
Celebrating birthdays this month can include a trip outdoors to view the changing color of leaves. Across the United States, an array of beautiful colors can be found in various areas. For example, higher elevations like the northern Rockies will likely be among the first places to see autumn colors. Peak season for places like northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan may occur toward the end of the month.
