Famous Americans

Sculptor Louise Nevelson was born Leah Berliawsky on September 23, 1899, in Pereiaslav, Poltava Governorate, Russian Empire. She was a prolific artist who specialized in using found materials and public art commissions.

On September 22, 1981, the USPS inaugurated its Sports Series (sometimes called the American Sports Personalities Series), honoring some of America’s most notable athletes. 

Inventor Jan Matzeliger was born on September 15, 1852, in Paramaribo, Dutch Guyana (present-day Surinam).  He invented a device that is considered “the most important invention for New England” and the “greatest step forward in the shoe industry.” 

John Joseph “Black Jack” Pershing was born on September 13, 1860, in Laclede, Missouri. He led the American Expeditionary Forces in WWI and is the only person to be promoted to the Army’s highest rank (General of the Armies) during his lifetime

On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy delivered one of his most famous and stirring speeches, to generate support for the Apollo program.

On September 11, 1777, George Washington’s forces lost the battle of Brandywine. It was the largest battle of the war, involving over 30,000 troops between both sides, and it was the second-longest single-day battle, lasting 11 hours.

After eight years of tinkering, Elias Howe was awarded the first US patent for a practical lockstitch sewing machine on September 10, 1846.

Claude Denson Pepper was born on September 8, 1900, in Chambers County, Alabama. Representing Florida in the House and Senate for over 40 years, he was instrumental in the passage of numerous important bills.

On September 7, 1927, inventor Philo T. Farnsworth made his first successful presentation of the “image dissector,” a crucial part of the first televisions.