On This Day - July 16
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let's look back at some of the most significant events in history that happened on this day, starting with...
1935: First Parking Meters Installed
Oklahoma City became home to the world’s first parking meters, introduced to curb downtown congestion and regulate car turnover—a landmark moment in urban planning.
1945: First Atomic Bomb Tested
In the New Mexico desert, the United States detonated the first nuclear device under the top-secret Manhattan Project. The Trinity test marked the dawn of the atomic age.
1951: Catcher in the Rye Published
J.D. Salinger’s coming-of-age novel hit bookshelves, introducing readers to the disenchanted voice of Holden Caulfield and reshaping American literature for generations.
1969: Apollo 11 Launched
A Saturn V rocket lifted off from Kennedy Space Center, carrying Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins on humanity’s first mission to land on the moon.
1990: Into the Night Premiered
Rick Dees launched his late-night variety show on ABC-TV, blending celebrity interviews, musical guests, and comedy in an attempt to rival existing late-night giants.
1999: JFK Jr. Died in Plane Crash
John F. Kennedy Jr., along with his wife Carolyn and her sister Lauren Bessette, tragically died when their plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean en route to Martha’s Vineyard.
2004: Millennium Park Opened
Chicago unveiled Millennium Park, a $475 million architectural and artistic marvel featuring works like the Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), marking a new era for urban public spaces.
Do you remember any of these events? Or do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
