📅 On This Day - June 17th
June 17th plunges us deeper into the summer in the upper hemisphere, and it’s also a big day for celebrating liberty, exploration, and toothy critters. Don’t believe us? All the facts are right here for you to sample below…
On this day
Francis Drake landed in California.
Back in 1579, famous English navigator Francis Drake landed on the coast of California - at Drakes Bay to be more precise - which he gave the name New Albion. It wouldn’t be too long before the English started to journey over to the New World and initiate the United States of America.
Mumtaz Mahal passed away.
If you have never heard of Mumtaz Mahal, you have very likely heard of her memorial! Following her death in childbirth in 1631, Shah Jahan, Indian Emperor and Mahal’s husband, dedicated the next two decades to building her tomb. The name of the tomb might be familiar - it’s the majestic Taj Mahal. What a celebration of life!
Lady Liberty made her way to the US!
Back in 1885, today was the date that the Statue of Liberty finally arrived in New York City! Traveling via the good ship Isere, Lady Liberty was a French gift from one nation to another, and it’s now known as one of the most iconic American landmarks of all time.
Amelia Earhart made history!
In 1929, today was the date that Amelia Earhart made history by becoming the first woman passenger to ever fly over the Atlantic! The airplane was piloted by Wilmer Stultz and left from Newfoundland. Of course, Earhart made plenty of her own piloting firsts, too!
Dolly Parton made our hearts sing.
In 1973, Dolly Parton first presented her song “I Will Always Love You” to the world However, it’s a rare case in that a cover version is arguably better known - as the late Whitney Houston put her own spin on the tune for the soundtrack to classic 90s movie The Bodyguard.
Special Days Falling on June 17th
Let’s put the history books away for now and focus on the present! Today’s a great day to celebrate our refuse collectors, sample some strudel, and even embrace a croc or two (not literally!).
National Apple Strudel Day
There's something sweet and warming about apple strudel, even if you choose to enjoy it cold! June 17th is the official "day" of the Austrian dessert classic, and it's easy enough to make at home with some apples, brown sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, cinnamon, and flour!
Global Garbage Man Day
Garbage people are genuine unsung heroes of the modern age. Who deals with all our waste once we throw it out? The garbage man - and today’s the day to show your local refuse collector some appreciation. They’ve got to really love what they do - right?
World Croc Day
No, not the cult footwear - the animal! World Croc Day is all about learning more about what makes crocodiles tick, and how we can all do our bit to help protect their habitats. Did you know that crocodiles are some of the oldest animals on Earth? Rumor has it they were left over from the age of dinosaurs - and were protected underwater when the extinction event took place!
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This page was last modified on July 29, 2023. Suggest an edit
This month in history
The first-ever drive-in movie theater opened! Arguably, one of the best things about the summer is driving up to a movie in a big parking lot, getting to spend the evening with friends in the comfort of our own cars, with movie snacks and a great classic on the silver screen in front of us. As it happens, this awesome tradition began back in 1933 in Camden, New Jersey!
Famous Birthdays on June 17th
James Weldon Johnson, American Harlem Renaissance poet, lyricist, civil right activist, and leader of the NAACP, born 1871
Harold Gillies, New Zealand plastic surgeon, born 1882
Barry Manilow, American singer and pianist, born 1943
Venus Williams, American tennis player, born 1980
Kendrick Lamar, American hip hop artist, born 1987
If you were born on June 17th…
…you’re a Gemini! You’re a devoted friend and partner, insatiably curious, and never one to turn down a challenge. You’re also pretty popular thanks to that keen insight of yours! Learn more about Geminis on our Gemini facts page!
