Today in history

Today is Friday, January 26, the 26th day of 2018 and the 37th day of winter.

On this date in the SCV: In 1940, The Signal reported that an unknown motorist saved a whole carload of people from monoxide poisoning two miles west of Acton junction. It was a party of hunters from Pasadena and Eagle Rock, three women and three men, who stopped for a nap in the early morning cold, the unknown hero awakened three of the party and dragged the other three from the car. They were treated by the county fire department inhalator squad and taken to Palmdale.

Today’s Highlights in History: In 1802, Congress passed a bill that established the

position of Librarian of Congress. In 1837, Michigan was admitted as the 26th U.S. state. In 1950, the Indian Constitution went into effect, marking

the birth of the Republic of India. In 1998, President Bill Clinton denied allegations of an

extramarital affair during a televised speech. In 2015, Libby Lane became the first woman to be appointed as a bishop by the Church of England,

Today’s fact: The first Library of Congress was burned (along with the rest of the Capitol building) by British soldiers in 1814, and its 3,000 books were destroyed. The library was rebuilt in part through the purchase of President Thomas Jefferson’s personal library of 6,487 books in 1815.

Today’s sports: In 1986, Chicago crushed New England 46-10 in Super Bowl XX, as the Bears’ renowned defense held the Patriots to seven yards rushing.

Today’s number: 1.37 – weight (in pounds) of the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. The 3,106.75-carat gem was discovered in the Premier Mine near Pretoria, South Africa, on this day in 1905.

Today’s moon: Between first quarter moon (Jan. 24) and full moon (Jan. 31).