MAY 4 | Birthdays and Events

Notable Birthdays for May 4

William H. Prescott (1796-1859) - Considered to be the first American to be a scientific historian.

Julia Gardiner Tyler (1820-1889) - The 11th First Lady of the U.S. (President John Tyler).

John Whiteaker (1820-1902) - The first Governor of Oregon.

Lincoln Kirstein (1907-1996) - Co-founder of the New York City Ballet.

Richard Proenneke (1916-2003) - Hermit who lived alone for nearly 30 in the mountains of Alaska.

Dick Dale (1937-2019) - Pioneer of surf music and known as the "King of the Surf Guitar."

Jackie Jackson (1951-Still Living) - Founding member of the Jackson 5.

David Guterson (1956-Still Living) - Author who wrote Snow Falling on Cedars.

Mary Elizabeth McDonough (1961-Still Living) - Actress best known for her role as Erin in The Waltons.

Memorable Events for May 4

1776 - Rhode Island becomes the first American colony to renounce allegiance to King George III.

1878 - Thomas Edison's phonograph shown for the first time at the Grand Opera House.

1927 - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is incorporated.

1942 - Food is rationed for the first time in the U.S. in response to show support during WWII.

1953 - Ernest Hemingway wins the Pulitzer Prize for his novel The Old Man and the Sea.

1959 - The first annual Grammy Awards are held.

1973 - The Sears Tower (Chicago) becomes the world's tallest building (1,451 feet).