ON THIS DAY

On this date in 1654, America's first toll-bridge opened.

• People crossed for free, but there was a charge for animals. Of course, needless to say, animals didn't usually have the correct change.
• Most people weren't that upset about it, because they never used it. They felt they'd cross that bridge when they came to it.

In 1830, the steam train service was available for the first time. Passengers could reach their destination while getting the wrinkles out of their clothes and cooking rice.

On this date in 1919, the first airline passenger service began. You could buy a ticket, hop on board a plane and enjoy non-stop service for up to 735 feet.

In 1921, West Virginia became the first state to charge an income tax. So, we can blame them. Owners of boats with sails were extremely upset until the concept was properly explained.

On this date in 1944, meat rationing ended in the United States. That's when the phrase, "Beef -- it's what's for dinner" returned. During the rationing, the phrase was changed to "Beef -- in your dreams!"