1. On January 16, 1786, the town of New London was incorporated. Located on the Thames River, New London played an important role in the history of Connecticut as a hub for shipbuilding, trade, and maritime commerce. Today, the town is home to the United States Coast Guard Academy and Connecticut College.
2. In 1901, on January 16th, actor Danny Thomas was born in Deerfield, Michigan. Thomas would go on to become a prolific television and film actor, known for his roles in shows like "Make Room for Daddy" and "The Danny Thomas Show". He also founded the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
3. January 16, 1919 marks the date of the infamous Boston Molasses Disaster. While not in Connecticut, the disaster had a significant impact on the region. A storage tank containing 2.3 million gallons of molasses ruptured, causing a wave of sticky syrup to flood the streets and buildings of Boston's North End. 21 people were killed and over 150 were injured in the disaster.
4. On January 16, 1920, the prohibition era began as the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution went into effect, banning the production, sale, and transport of alcohol. While the amendment was eventually repealed in 1933, Connecticut played a role in enforcing the law during this time period.
5. January 16, 1951 saw the first episode of "The Guiding Light" air on CBS television. The soap opera, which followed the daily lives of characters in the fictional town of Springfield, became the longest-running drama in television history, with over 72 years on the air before its final episode in 2009. The show was created by Connecticut native Irna Phillips.
5 Fun Facts About January 16 In Connecticut History
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