August 07

In 1679, the French brigantine Le Griffon, built under the direction of explorer René-Robert Cavelier de La Salle, embarked on its maiden voyage. It successfully traversed Lake Erie and reached Lake Huron before venturing to Lake Michigan. Le Griffon’s crossing opened vital fur trade routes and expanded geographic knowledge of the region. Its mysterious disappearance on the return trip sparked legends and subsequent search expeditions. The voyage marked a landmark achievement in colonial navigation and Great Lakes history.

In June 1909, 22-year-old Alice Huyler Ramsey set out from Manhattan, New York, in a Maxwell automobile with three female passengers. Over 59 challenging days, the group traversed rough roads, mountains, and deserts, relying on maps and roadside help. They faced mechanical breakdowns, river crossings, and unmarked trails, pioneering a new era of motor travel. Their achievement demonstrated women’s capabilities in endurance, navigation, and technical problem-solving. Ramsey’s journey inspired greater acceptance of women drivers and contributed to the American automobile culture. Today, Ramsey is celebrated as a trailblazer in both automotive history and the women’s rights movement.

Constructed as a symbol of goodwill between Canada and the United States, the Peace Bridge spans 5,800 feet over the Niagara River. Designed by architects James L. Haim and Richard M. Damon, it featured dual roadways and footpaths for pedestrians. Upon opening, the bridge immediately boosted commerce, tourism, and family connections across the border. Its name reflects the close diplomatic and cultural ties between the neighboring nations after World War I. The structure has undergone expansions and renovations but remains a vital international crossing. The Peace Bridge stands as an enduring landmark of North American cooperation and engineering achievement.

On August 7, 1947, the Bombay Municipal Corporation formally took over the operations of BEST, the city's electric supply and tram services. The move centralized public transit under municipal management ahead of India's independence. BEST had been privately operated since the early 20th century, providing electrical power and bus services. Municipal control aimed to improve efficiency, expand routes, and standardize fares for Bombay's growing population. The transition laid the foundation for what would become one of Asia's largest public transport networks. Today, BEST remains a vital part of Mumbai's transportation infrastructure, serving millions daily.