February 22

On February 22, 1881, the ancient obelisk known as Cleopatra's Needle was unveiled in Central Park, New York City. Gifted by the Khedive of Egypt, the 69-foot granite monument was originally erected in Heliopolis around 1450 BC and transported through a complex sea journey. Engineers and laborers employed a custom-built ship and heavy-lift mechanisms to deliver and erect the 200-ton monument. The installation reflected 19th-century fascination with Egyptology and became a popular landmark. Today, it stands as one of Central Park's most iconic artifacts, bridging ancient history and American urban culture.

On February 22, 1983, 'Moose Murders' debuted at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre in New York City and became a cultural footnote by closing that same evening. Written by Arthur Bicknell, the play was marketed as a campy murder mystery comedy but was met with harsh reviews from critics and audiences alike. Its rapid closure highlighted the risks and unpredictability of Broadway production. Over the years, 'Moose Murders' has gained notoriety as a classic example of a theatrical flop, often cited in discussions of the most infamous failures in show business. The play's brief run has inspired retrospectives, satirical references, and stage myths. Despite its failure, it remains a curious chapter in Broadway history.