First U.S. Nickel Minted
On May 16, 1866, a bill was passed to produce a new nickel 5 cent coin. The first design was a shield on the obverse side and the words "In God We Trust" with the year. The reverse had a large 5 encircled by 13 stars. These coins were know as Shield Nickels and were made with 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighed 5 grams.
- Counting Pennies and Nickels
- Counting Dimes, Quarters and Half-dollars
- Creative Ideas for Teaching Money
First Woman to Climb Mount Everest
On May 16, 1975, Junko Tabei of Japan became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Fifteen women began the expedition in early May, but their camp was overcome by an avalanche. She was injured but able to continue on, reaching the summit 12 days later. Mount Everest is located in the Himalayas in Asia.
- Mount Everest Coloring Page
- Mount Everest: Highest Mountain in the World - Fast Facts by Stewart Green, About.com Guide to Climbing
Biographers Day
It was May 16, 1763, when Samuel Johnson first met his biographer, James Boswell. The Life of Samuel Johnson is said to be one of the best biographies ever written. Who was Samuel Johnson?
For May 1-15, go to May Events 1st - 15th
For May 16-31, hover over the squares below to see the date, then click.
For an overview, go to May Fundays Calendar
