March 19, 2014 (Wednesday )
On this date, March 19, in 1953, the Academy Awards were broadcast on television for the first time. Awards were given in behalf of the movies of 1952. Best picture was, “The Greatest Show on Earth.” Best actor was Gary Cooper for “High Noon” and best actress was Shirley Booth for “Come Back, Little Sheba.” Best director was John Ford for “The Quiet Man.” Bob Hope was master of ceremonies in Los Angeles and Conrad Nagel was host in New York. NBC was the network.
On this date, March 19, in 1954 the first televised prize fight shown in color was broadcast. Joey Giardello knocked out Willie Troy in round seven at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
March 19 is St. Joseph’s Day, the day that swallows return to the Capistrano in California. With a few exceptions, the birds have come back every March 19th since 1776. I remember the event because of the very popular song:
When the swallows come back to Capistrano
That’s the day you promised to come back to me
When you whispered, “Farewell”, in Capistrano
Twas the day the swallow flew out to sea
All the mission bells will ring
The chapel choir will sing
The happiness you’ll bring
Will live in my memory
When the swallows come back to Capistrano
That’s the day I pray that you’ll come back to me.”
Remember who sold the most records of this song? The Ink Spots, in 1940.
Ah, memories, sweet memories. One of the great benefits of growing old.