Record Breaking Weather — 122 Years in the Making

Take a look back at 1887

If you haven’t been outside yet -- what are you waiting for? We’re breaking records in Philadelphia.

Wednesday's temps in Philly reached 68 degrees (by 2 p.m.), the warmest it’s been on this date since February 11, 1887 when temperatures reached 66 degrees.

A lot has changed in 122 years. Let’s take a look back at just how much.

  • The US Military leased the Pearl Harbor Naval Base in January 1887.
  • Groundhog Day was observed for the first time in February 1887.
  • The Phillies, then known as the "Philadelphia Quakers" weren’t doing too badly. Their record was 75-48 and they finished second in the National League.
  • Before this date people must have had really cold ears, because Earmuffs weren’t patented until 1887.
  • Contact lenses were invented in 1887.
  • A stamp only cost two cents -- stamp prices are expected to go up two cents this May.
  • Grover Cleveland was president of the United States.
  • The Philadelphia Mayor was a republican in those days. His name was William Burns Smith.
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