Today in history

Today is Thursday, July 13, the 194th day of 2017 and the 24th day of summer.

On this date in the SCV: In 1933, The Signal reported that O. Bercaw, Jr. of Saugus, son of the late O. W. Bercaw, was the youthful builder of an “automobile” of unique construction. It is a “kiddie car” with power attachment, and a new idea in steering apparatus. The machine had a wheelbase of about six feet, the frame being of wood. The motive power was a small electric motor, attached near the rear axle, and with a chain wove belt to drive the machine. Current was supplied by a heavy storage battery, attached under the seat. On the frame in front of the driver were the starting and control switches, while a cord, rigged on a shaft operated by an ordinary steering wheel, gave control of the machine. Young Bercaw rode the machine in the Fourth of July parade, and attracted much attention.

Today’s Highlights in History:

In 1863, draft riots began in New York City. An estimated 1,000 people were killed or wounded. In 1973, Alexander Butterfield, deputy assistant to President Richard Nixon, revealed the existence of the “Nixon Tapes” to a senatorial committee investigating the Watergate scandal. In 1977, a 25-hour blackout hit the New York City area, leaving some 9 million people in darkness and resulting in looting and disorder.

Today’s fact: Presidents Washington, Adams, Jefferson and Madison all proposed that Congress pass some form of mandatory military conscription or registration, but none of the proposals succeeded.

Today’s sports: In 1930, France defeated Mexico 4-1 and the United States defeated Belgium 3-0 in the first World Cup soccer matches, held in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Today’s number: 1.9 billion – estimated global audience (in 150 countries) that watched the Live Aid concerts, broadcast on this day in 1985 to raise money for African famine relief.

Today’s moon: Between full moon (July 8) and last quarter moon (July 16).