On this day: May 27
1927 Diphtheria Antitoxin Tragedy: Early Mass Poisonings Tied to Contaminated Alcohol
In late May 1927, a batch of diphtheria antitoxin contaminated with wood alcohol (methanol) caused widespread poisoning among recipients — an early documented mass toxicological event linked to alcohol contamination in medical supplies.
Panic at a 1952 3D Screening Sparks Public Alarm
A May 27, 1952 public screening of an early 3D film reportedly triggered panic when audiences reacted negatively to the novel stereoscopic effects; contemporary reports show confusion, discomfort, and disruptions as people adjusted to the new cinematic technique.
Misdirected Panic at a 1952 3D Screening Causes Public Alarm
A 1952 New York screening of a 3D film briefly sparked public alarm when binocular-like projection effects and confusion about on-screen imagery led some audience members to believe real danger was present; the episode highlighted early public unfamiliarity with 3D exhibition techniques.
1912 Paper Reveals First Documented Case of Staged Scientific Fraud
On May 27, 1912, contemporaneous reporting exposed a case in which data and specimens had been intentionally manipulated to support a scientific claim, prompting debates about research integrity that predate modern misconduct policies.
Northgate Center opens: an early model of the modern shopping center
On May 27, 1954 Northgate Center in Seattle opened to the public, offering a planned cluster of retail stores with shared parking — an early example of the postwar modern shopping center that influenced suburban commercial development in the United States.
The 1927 Diphtheria Antitoxin Tragedy: One of the Earliest Mass Poisonings Linked to Alcohol
On May 27, 1927, a batch of medicinal alcohol used to produce diphtheria antitoxin in Argentina was contaminated with wood alcohol (methanol), causing one of the first well-documented mass poisonings associated with adulterated therapeutic alcohol; dozens died and many were blinded.
Golden Gate Bridge Opens to the Public, May 27, 1937
On May 27, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco opened to the public after four years of construction, marking the completion of what was then the world’s longest suspension span and a transformative feat of engineering and urban connectivity.
Dense smog begins to form over Donora, Pennsylvania
On May 27, 1948, a heavy industrial smog began settling over Donora, Pennsylvania, blanketing the river valley and disrupting daily life as pollutant-laden air accumulated under a temperature inversion.
Golden Gate Bridge Opens to the Public on May 27, 1937
On May 27, 1937, after years of construction, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco opened to the public with a day-long celebration that allowed pedestrians to cross the new suspension span ahead of vehicle traffic.