Paul Layendecker’s “WAY BACK WHEN” for Tuesday, August 5, 2025
1861 The U.S. levies its first income tax. During the Civil War, the U.S. government instituted a 3% tax on incomes over $800 to fund the war effort. It was a temporary measure that set the stage for future taxation.
1884 The cornerstone of the Statue of Liberty is laid on Bedloe’s Island (now Liberty Island) in New York Harbor. The statue was a gift from France and would be completed and dedicated in 1886.
1926 Harry Houdini performs his last show at the Garrick Theatre in Detroit. He died less than three months later from peritonitis.
1962 Marilyn Monroe is found dead.
The Hollywood icon was discovered in her Los Angeles home at age 36, leading to widespread speculation and conspiracy theories surrounding her death.
Music History:
1959 – The Isley Brothers recorded their energetic hit “Shout” at RCA Victor’s Music Center of the World in New York. It was covered in 1978 by Jake and Elwood, the Blues Brothers.
Notable Birthdays today:
Jesse Williams – Gray’s Anatomy 44
Maureen McCormick aka Marcia Brady 69
Loni Anderson 80 – WKRP in Cincinnati 80
Credit to:
Thisdayinmusic.com and Thisdaytrivia.com
