National American Red Cross Founder's Day

On May 21st, National American Red Cross Founder's Day celebrates the founding of the American Red Cross. Clara Barton started the American Red Cross in 1881 and became its first president. She led the group for the next 23 years.

The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian group that helps people in the United States. It is part of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Services Offered

Headquartered in Washington D.C., the American Red Cross is run by volunteers. Besides disaster relief, it provides:

• Community services for those in need
• Communication services and comfort for military members and their families
• Blood collection, processing, and distribution
• Educational programs on preparedness, health, and safety
• International relief and development programs

Clara Barton's Contribution

During the American Civil War, Clara Barton (1821-1912) helped by nursing wounded soldiers. After the war in 1869, she went to Europe and volunteered with the International Red Cross during the Franco-Prussian War. When she returned to the U.S., she wanted to bring the Red Cross here.

To Observe

Learn more about the American Red Cross, its founder, and its volunteers. Explore local Red Cross history and its impact on your community.

Use #AmericanRedCrossFoundersDay on social media to share your thoughts.

History of the Day

National Day Calendar is still researching the origins of this Red Cross holiday.

May 21st Celebrated History

1819

The Evening Post reports that the velocipede (now known as a bicycle) appeared in New York City, invented by Karl Drais. This invention seemed to lower horse prices.

1881

After working with the International Red Cross in Europe, Clara Barton founded the American Association of the Red Cross. Today, it is known as the American Red Cross.

1901

Connecticut passed the first speed limit law, setting limits of 12 mph in cities and 15 mph in rural areas.

1929

Sutro and Company of New York installed the first automatic electric stock quotation board. Despite this, the ticker tape machine was used for over 30 more years.

May 21st Celebrated Birthdays

Mary Anning - 1799

In 1821, she found a complete Ichthyosaurus fossil. Two years later, she discovered a complete Plesiosaurus skeleton.

Glenn Curtiss - 1878

The American aviation pioneer advanced aircraft development. Curtiss built motorcycles, planes, and other machines, including bicycles, which led him to aviation.

Regina Anderson - 1901

A New York Public Library librarian, Anderson was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance. She wrote plays and co-founded the Harlem Experimental Theatre.

John C. Allen - 1907

The American engineer became known in the 1960s for designing wooden roller coasters.

Mr. T - 1952

"I pity the fool!" ~ Mr. T

Born Lawrence Tureaud, the actor and wrestler became famous in the 1980s, especially for his role as B.A. Baracus in The A-Team. He also starred in several films.