First appendectomy was performed in 1885 in Davenport, Iowa. Dr. William West removed Mary Gartside’s appendix; she lived for at least another 30 years.
Jan 042025
Feb 212025
Rappelling on Washington Monument to Assess Earthquake Damage
Washington Monument was dedicated in 1885. The first plans for the Washington Monument were quite elaborate, including a likeness of Washington in a chariot. Ultimately the plans were simplified to a plain obelisk. Construction began in 1848, but the Civil War and lack of funds stopped work. After the War, construction began again. Children can learn more at: http://www.nps.gov/wamo/index.htm.
Jul 062025
Antirabies inoculation was administered safely for the first time by Louis Pasteur in 1885. He saved a child who had been bitten by a rabid dog.
Sep 052025
Gasoline pump was operated for the first time in 1885. Created by Sylvester F. Bowser of Fort Wayne, Indiana, it could hold a barrel of gasoline. Automobiles were not invented then, so why a gasoline pump? He was using it to measure and sell kerosene. Later, he adapted it to measure automobile gasoline.