Discover what happened on September 24 in history as pioneering achievements transformed transportation, cultural milestones changed entertainment, scientific breakthroughs expanded our horizons, and historic events helped shape the world we know today.
What Happened on September 24 in History?
On this day, Jimmy Doolittle completed the first successful blind instrument flight, the USS Enterprise became the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to be launched, Nirvana released Nevermind, and NASA’s OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample returned to Earth.
SEPTEMBER 24 – TODAY IN HISTORY:
1789 – President George Washington signed the Judiciary Act of 1789, establishing the federal court system and creating the original six-member United States Supreme Court.
1830 – Stephen Simmons was hanged in Detroit for the murder of his wife, becoming the last person executed under Michigan territorial law.
1869 – Wall Street was rocked by “Black Friday” after speculators Jay Gould and James Fisk’s attempt to corner the gold market collapsed, causing gold prices to plunge and producing widespread financial losses.
1902 – Cookbook pioneer Fannie Farmer opened Miss Farmer’s School of Cookery in Boston. Farmer helped transform American cooking by promoting standardized measurements in recipes.
1906 – President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed Devils Tower in Wyoming the nation’s first national monument under the Antiquities Act.
1914 – The Grand Rapids Press set up an electronic scoreboard to show play by play action of the 1914 World Series.
1929 – Lt. James “Jimmy” Doolittle completed the first successful “blind flight” at Mitchel Field, NY, taking off, flying and landing entirely by instruments without seeing outside the airplane.
1934 – Babe Ruth played his final home game as a member of the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.
1948 – Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in Hamamatsu, Japan. The young company initially concentrated on motorized bicycles and motorcycles before eventually becoming one of the world’s major automobile manufacturers.
1955 – President Dwight D. Eisenhower suffered a heart attack while vacationing in Denver, CO. He recovered and successfully sought a second presidential term the following year.
1957 – President Dwight D. Eisenhower ordered federal troops to Little Rock, AR, and federalized the Arkansas National Guard to enforce a federal court order desegregating Central High School.
1960 – The USS Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was launched at Newport News, VA. The massive carrier entered service the following year.
1961 – The Bullwinkle Show premiered in prime time on NBC. The animated adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle had previously aired on ABC as Rocky and His Friends.
1964 – The Munsters, starring Fred Gwynne and Yvonne De Carlo as the heads of television’s lovable monster family, premiered on CBS.
1968 – CBS’s television newsmagazine 60 Minutes debuted, originally anchored by Mike Wallace and Harry Reasoner.
1968 – The Mod Squad, starring Michael Cole, Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III, premiered on ABC.
1976 – Newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst was sentenced to seven years in prison for her role in a 1974 bank robbery after her kidnapping by the Symbionese Liberation Army. President Jimmy Carter later commuted her sentence.
1977 – The Love Boat began its regular ABC series run, with Gavin MacLeod starring as Captain Merrill Stubing.
1979 – CompuServe launched one of the earliest consumer online information services, allowing home-computer users to connect by telephone to access news, information, electronic mail and other services.
1988 – Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first a cappella recording to top the chart.
1991 – Nirvana released Nevermind, featuring “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The album helped bring grunge and alternative rock into the musical mainstream and eventually reached No. 1 on the Billboard album chart.
1992 – The Sci-Fi Channel, now known as Syfy, launched on cable television.
1993 – Dazed and Confused, featuring an ensemble cast that included Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck, opened in theaters.
1994 – Boy Meets World premiered on ABC, beginning a seven-season run.
1998 – The Federal Reserve began circulating a redesigned $20 bill featuring new anti-counterfeiting features.
2005 – Hurricane Rita made landfall near the Louisiana-Texas border as a Category 3 hurricane, causing widespread destruction after becoming one of the most intense Atlantic hurricanes ever recorded over the Gulf of Mexico.
2007 – The Big Bang Theory premiered on CBS. The sitcom eventually ran for 12 seasons.
2014 – India’s Mars Orbiter Mission successfully entered orbit around Mars, making India the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit and the first nation to accomplish the feat on its first attempt.
2016 – The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture opened on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., becoming the nation’s largest museum devoted to African American history and culture.
2023 – NASA’s OSIRIS-REx sample-return capsule landed in the Utah desert carrying rocks and dust collected from asteroid Bennu, completing the first U.S. mission to return samples from an asteroid.
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON SEPTEMBER 24:
Jerry Donahue – 80 years old (1946) – Guitarist and producer
Joe Greene – 80 years old (1946) – Football player, coach, and actor
Gordon Clapp – 78 years old (1948) – Actor
John Kessel – 76 years old (1950) – Author, poet, and playwright
Douglas Kmiec – 75 years old (1951) – Scholar and diplomat, United States Ambassador to Malta
Hubie Brooks – 70 years old (1956) – Baseball player
Kevin Sorbo – 68 years old (1958) – Actor and producer
Steve Whitmire – 67 years old (1959) – Puppeteer
Christopher L. Eisgruber – 65 years old (1961) – Lawyer and academic
John Logan – 65 years old (1961) – Screenwriter and producer
Nia Vardalos – 64 years old (1962) – Canadian-American actress and screenwriter
Rafael Palmeiro – 62 years old (1964) – Cuban-American baseball player
Sean McNabb – 61 years old (1965) – Singer and bass player
Janet Weiss – 61 years old (1965) – Drummer
Bernard Gilkey – 60 years old (1966) – Baseball player
Michael O. Varhola – 60 years old (1966) – Journalist and author
Shawn Crahan – 57 years old (1969) – Drummer, songwriter, and producer
Megan Ward – 57 years old (1969) – Actress
Mario Cristobal – 56 years old (1970) – College football coach
Marc Guggenheim – 56 years old (1970) – Screenwriter, television producer, comic book writer, and novelist
Michael S. Engel – 55 years old (1971) – Paleontologist and entomologist
Mike Michalowicz – 55 years old (1971) – Businessman and author
Kevin Millar – 55 years old (1971) – Baseball player and sportscaster
Eddie George – 53 years old (1973) – Football player and sportscaster
Rodrick Rhodes – 53 years old (1973) – Basketball player and coach
John McDonald – 52 years old (1974) – Baseball player
Ian Bohen – 50 years old (1976) – Actor
Stephanie McMahon – 50 years old (1976) – Wrestler and businesswoman
Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila – 49 years old (1977) – Football player
Casey Rabach – 49 years old (1977) – Football player
Drew Gooden – 45 years old (1981) – Basketball player
Morgan Hamm – 44 years old (1982) – Gymnast
Paul Hamm – 44 years old (1982) – Gymnast
Jeff Karstens – 44 years old (1982) – Baseball player
Randy Foye – 43 years old (1983) – Basketball player
Bobby Brown – 42 years old (1984) – Basketball player
Eloise Mumford – 40 years old (1986) – Actress
Spencer Treat Clark – 39 years old (1987) – Actor
Grey Damon – 39 years old (1987) – Actor
Steven Kampfer – 38 years old (1988) – Ice hockey player
Kyle Sullivan – 38 years old (1988) – Actor
Vontaze Burfict – 36 years old (1990) – Football player
Sonya Deville – 33 years old (1993) – Athlete
Ben Platt – 33 years old (1993) – Actor, singer, and songwriter
Nikolas Cruz – 28 years old (1998) – Mass murderer
DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR SEPTEMBER 24:
- World Maritime Day: Connecting markets across the world — from container ships to tankers, this vital industry keeps goods flowing and economies growing.
- Remember Me Thursday: Volunteer at an animal shelter, or take the plunge to adopt a rescue yourself on Remember Me Thursday, a day dedicated to pets in the shelter.
- World Bollywood Day: The vibrant, colorful world of Indian cinema is full of captivating music, dance, and drama that will transport you to another world.
- National Cherries Jubilee Day: Host a dinner party with friends and family, and impress them all with your dessert-making skills by serving up fresh, homemade Cherries Jubilee over ice cream.
- International Week of Deaf People: Promoting understanding and inclusion enhances communication, fosters empathy, and empowers those with hearing loss in our communities.
- National Mofongo Day: National Mofongo Day is a celebration of Puerto Rico's beloved dish, mofongo. This festive day honors the unique blend of flavors and cultures that come together in this culinary delight. Mofongo, made from mashed plantains, garlic, pork cracklings, and other seasonings, is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. This day...
- Lash Stylists’ Day: Go get your lashes styled and give your lash stylist some extra support by posting their work online and including the hashtag #lashstylistsday in your post.
- International Day of Birmingham : The International Day of Birmingham celebrates the historic alliance between the original city of Birmingham, in the United Kingdom, and the more than a dozen other Birminghams of North America, Together this group of places make up the United States of Birmingham. Official Friendship Agreements, gathered by the Lord Mayor's...
- National Day of Arts in Care Homes: Creative expression in elder care enhances emotional well-being, fosters connections, and enriches the lives of residents.
- National Punctuation Day: Let’s face it, punctuation saves lives. It may sound a little strange to say that, but when you think of the effect that just the humble comma can have on the meaning of a sentence, it becomes readily apparent that there are some really strong arguments for learning to use...
- International Age Diversity Day: Diversity is valuable, and the world is most balanced and fruitful when equal opportunities are given to everyone in the workforce, regardless of differences that may include gender, age, BAME, LGBTQ, or other factors. International Age Diversity Day seeks to bring to light the benefits of and need for working toward...
- National Horchata Day: Horchata is a sweet, creamy drink with a hint of cinnamon. It’s made from rice, almonds, or tiger nuts, depending on where you try it. Some versions are smooth and milky, others are nutty and rich. People often sip it cold on a hot day or pair it with spicy...
- Fairtrade Fortnight: Supporting Fairtrade, means contributing to a more sustainable and equitable global market. Plus, you get to enjoy some delicious products!
- Small Pet Rodent Awareness Week : Embracing a tiny companion, discover joy in caring for a pocket-sized friend, adding warmth to daily life.
- Bluebird of Happiness Day: Considered by many people to be a harbinger of joy or a good luck charm, the little blue bird carries with it bliss and jubilation. And Bluebird of Happiness Day is the best time to celebrate and enjoy this tiny creature that brings so much delight! How to Celebrate Bluebird...
- Heritage Day: South Africa has a rich and diverse background of different cultures and Heritage Day is just the time to celebrate and enjoy all of them! How to Celebrate Heritage Day Get in the spirit of South Africa’s Heritage Day with a variety of ideas for celebrating, including some of these...
- Schwenkfelder Thanksgiving: Imagine a gathering where community members come together, sharing simple foods like bread, butter, and apple butter. This tradition, known as Schwenkfelder Thanksgiving, is a heartfelt expression of gratitude among the Schwenkfelder community. Each year, they commemorate their ancestors' safe arrival in Pennsylvania after fleeing religious persecution. The modest meal reflects...
- Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week: Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week helps us imagine a new world. Picture a space where every car trip is a safe adventure - even for the tiniest tots. This is the vision that brought Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week to life. The week-long pivotal campaign raises a sad reality. We...
- National Eye Health Week: National Eye Health Week is a special event held annually to spotlight the significance of looking after our eyes. This week encourages everyone to focus on their eye health and understand the importance of regular eye checks. This observance aims to educate people about eye health and promote actions to safeguard...
- Sea Otter Awareness Week: Sea otters play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. It is so significant that a whole week, Sea Otter Awareness Week, is dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness about them. The week is packed with activities, from educational events and live streams to adoption drives and donation...
- Rtveli: Rtveli is a vibrant grape harvest festival celebrated across Georgia. It is a joyful blend of hard work and celebration. It's a time when people unite to collect the fruits of their labor and honor the cultural heritage of winemaking that has been cherished for generations. The festival extends beyond...
- Fiesta de San Pacho: Fiesta de San Pacho is a vibrant celebration that fills the streets of Quibdó with music, dance, and color. The festival honors Saint Francis of Assisi, blending Catholic traditions with Afro-Colombian culture uniquely and joyfully. As the day unfolds, the city becomes a stage where people showcase their rich heritage...
- National Older Workers Employment Week: National Older Workers Employment Week shines a spotlight on the contributions of Americans aged 55 and up who continue to make a difference in the workplace. Held annually during the last full week of September, this event calls attention to the unique skills and strengths these experienced employees bring. Many older...
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Join an event, forum, or exhibition for Hispanic Heritage Month, and appreciate the art, history, and cultural offerings of this rich and expansive heritage.
- National Indoor Plant Week : Plants have the power to bring green from the outside in, livening up almost any space and supporting a better connection between humans and nature. Enjoy and appreciate the beauty and wide variety of houseplants that can be found during National Indoor Plant Week and throughout the year! History of National...
- National Coding Week: National Coding Week is a time to celebrate and explore the world of coding. It brings people of all ages together to discover the creative and problem-solving power of programming. The week focuses on the skills needed in today’s digital world. It's an opportunity to unlock potential and encourage everyone...
- National Surgical Technologists Week: National Surgical Technologists Week spotlights a vital but often overlooked part of the medical team: surgical technologists, who work behind the scenes to ensure every procedure runs smoothly. Their tasks range from preparing the operating room to sterilizing instruments and even assisting during surgery. The week celebrates their essential role...
- Thinking of You Week: Surprising a loved one with heartfelt words in the mail can uplift spirits and remind them they're cherished beyond measure.
- World Reflexology Week: Highlighting the benefits of this holistic therapy promotes understanding of its role in enhancing well-being and relaxation.
- Farm Animal Awareness Week: Farm Animal Awareness Week highlights the importance of recognizing the lives of animals that provide food for us. This week aims to educate the public about the conditions these animals face and to promote better treatment. Many animals are kept in cramped, unsanitary spaces, which can lead to health problems...
- National Construction Appreciation Week : While construction workers have sometimes gotten a bad rap for being a bit rough around the edges, this is the industry that builds the nation's cities and towns from the ground up. With a whopping 8 million employees in the construction industry throughout the United States, this is a sector...
- Deaf Dog Awareness Week : Some estimates show that approximately 35,000 deaf dogs are living in the United States who were born deaf in both ears and more than 100,000 are deaf in just one ear. Many more will have become deaf throughout their lifetimes because of various circumstances. Deaf Dog Awareness Week is an...
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