What Happened on November 12?

November 12 is World Pneumonia Day — raising awareness for lung health — on the same date Columbia flew STS-2 in 1981, Ellis Island closed in 1954, the Holland Tunnel opened in 1927, and Philae landed on a comet in 2014.

• 1927 — The Holland Tunnel opens between New York and New Jersey

  On November 12, 1927, the Holland Tunnel opened, letting cars drive under the Hudson River between New York and New Jersey. Read the full story →

• 1954 — Ellis Island closes as a U.S. immigration station

  On November 12, 1954, the last detainee left Ellis Island, ending its era as America's busiest immigrant gateway. Read the full story →

• 1980 — Voyager 1 makes its closest approach to Saturn

  On November 12, 1980, Voyager 1 flew closest to Saturn, returning stunning images of rings and moons. Read the full story →

• 1981 — Space Shuttle Columbia flies STS-2, the first reused orbiter mission

  On November 12, 1981, Columbia launched on STS-2 — proving a winged spaceship could fly to orbit more than once. Read the full story →

• 1990 — Emperor Akihito is enthroned in Japan

  On November 12, 1990, Japan formally enthroned Emperor Akihito in centuries-old ceremonies. Read the full story →

Famous birthdays

Elizabeth Cady Stanton (1815–1902) · Grace Kelly (1929–1982) · Neil Young (1945) · Nadia Comăneci (1961)

Days & observances

World Pneumonia Day · National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day · National Happy Hour Day · Chicken Soup for the Soul Day