There's Gold In Them Thar Hills
 JANUARY 24, 1848 - While constructing a hydro-powered sawmill for John Sutter, near the town of Coloma, California, James W. Marshall noticed several shiny flecks in the stream bed. Upon further examination Marshall determined it was gold. Shortly thereafter news of his discovery spread worldwide, and the California Gold Rush began. Marshall never became wealthy, but the gold rush he sparked brought over 300,000 fortune seekers to the California territory from 1848-1855.
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It's Getting Hot In Here
 JANUARY 27, 1984 - While filming a Pepsi Cola commercial at a simulated concert in the Shrine Auditorium Michael Jackson's hair caught fire when a pyrotechnics set went off prematurely. Jackson suffered second-degree burns to his scalp and later had to undergo surgery to hide the scars. Pepsi and Jackson settled out of court and Jackson donated his entire $1.5 million settlement to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, California, which now has a "Michael Jackson Burn Center" in honor of his donation. Pepsi never aired the commercial, but you can view video footage of the King of Pop's flaming fro here.
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JANUARY 28, 1965 - Our neighbors to the North finally got a banner to call their own when the Canadian Parliament officially adopted the flag of Canada. Prior to raising the Maple Leaf standard, folks above the 49th Parallel saluted the Canadian Red Ensign, which had been used since 1946 to replace the Union Jack but was never officially adopted. We think Canada's current flag looks swell. So put on your toque and let's go grab some poutine and back bacon, eh? |
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"I have found it," I said.
"What is it?" inquired Scott.
"Gold," I answered.
"Oh! no," replied Scott, "That can't be."
I said,--"I know it to be nothing else."
- James W. Marshall,
upon discovering gold at Sutter's Mill.
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