Today in 1965, the Beatles play two shows at the Sam Houston Coliseum.
Today in 2008, the Astros retire Craig Biggio's number and jersey.
Today in 2005, following years of lobbying by preservationists, Houston’s first Protected Landmarks are designated by the city.
Today in 1925, the Sam Houston equestrian statue is unveiled at the Sunken Gardens (current Mecom Fountain). It is later moved to the entrance of Hermann Park.
Today in 1849, Houstonians assemble at Allen’s Landing to greet the first steamboat from New Orleans.
Today in 1836, General Sam Houston is nominated for President of the Republic of Texas. He would eventually serve two, non-consecutive terms.
Today in 2014, Dylan Park, featuring the nation's largest skatepark and dedicated to special needs children, opens in Greenspoint.
Today in 2001, Enron CEO Jeff Skilling resigns so he can spend more time with his money.
Today in 1837, Houston holds its first election, with James Holman winning mayor by one vote.
Today in 1957, Rice Institute opens its first residential college -- Baker College. @RiceUniversity
Today in 1926, the City of Houston opens an enclosed reservoir on the north bank of Buffalo Bayou in the former Sixth Ward, holding 15 million gallons of water, and later dubbed the Cistern.
Today in 1856, the Texas legislature passes a bill making Houston, instead of Galveston, the center of the state’s railroad system.
Today in 1978, voters approve the creation of Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, funded with a 1% sales tax increase. Metro took over bus service from the city-owned HouTran, and would commence management of the 400-bus fleet the next year.
Today in 1956, City Council allows historic buildings to be moved to Sam Houston Park for preservation.
Today in 2009, Free Press debuts the Free Press Summer Fest at Eleanor Tinsley Park.
Today in 1973, Houston Heights serial killer Dean Corll, repsonsible for 28 murders, is killed by his accomplice Wayne Henley.
Today in 1908, the Ship Channel Turning Basin is widened to 600 feet.
Today in 1950, singer/songwriter Rodney Crowell, the Houston Kid, is born.
Today in 1965, Judge Roy Hofheinz buys out Bob Smith’s shares in the Houston Sports Association, becoming sole owner of the Astros.
Today in 2026, Astros DH Yordan Alvarez wins his second American League Player of the Month honor of the season, and the fourth of his career. #ChaseTheFight #MVP
Today in 1983, singer/songwriter Kat Edmonson is born in Houston. @katedmonson.bsky.social
Today in 1962, Dr. Denton Cooley registers the charter for the Texas Heart Institute with the State of Texas.
Today in 1895, flags are lowered to half-staff following the death of Charlotte Baldwin Allen, the Mother of Houston.
Today in 1976, Hermann Hospital’s emergency service Life Flight, a small helicopter equipped to hold a patient, a pilot, a flight nurse, and a surgical resident, debuts under the leadership of Dr. Red Duke.
Today in 1973, the infamous La Grange Chicken Ranch closes following Marvin Zindler’s crusading TV reports.
Today in 1968, pro football debuts in the Astrodome when the Houston Oilers host a preseason game.