5 Interesting Facts About October 25 in Washington History

1. On October 25, 1995, the Seattle Mariners made history by signing the first Japanese position player in Major League Baseball, outfielder Ichiro Suzuki. Suzuki made his MLB debut in 2001 and quickly became a star, winning the American League Rookie of the Year Award and the AL MVP Award in his first season.

2. On October 25, 1963, President John F. Kennedy made a historic visit to Seattle to speak at the University of Washington's dedication of the World's Fair Skyway. Kennedy's visit was part of a West Coast tour to promote the upcoming World's Fair in Seattle, which would open in 1962.

3. On October 25, 1929, the Great Depression hit Seattle hard, as the stock market crash led to widespread economic hardship and unemployment. Many businesses and individuals in the area were left destitute, and it would take years for the city to recover.

4. On October 25, 1971, the Space Needle in Seattle hosted a "Thank You Vietnam Veterans" event, honoring those who had served in the Vietnam War. The event featured speeches, music, and a pledge to never forget those who had fought in the war.

5. On October 25, 1910, the Skagit River in Washington state flooded, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The flood was caused by heavy rainfall and snowmelt, and resulted in the destruction of homes, businesses, and crops in the area.