Famous Birthdays
- Sir Norman Lockyer, English physicist, co-founder of helium gas, founder and editor of "Nature" magazine, born in Rugby, Warwickshire (d. 1920)
- Virginie Loveling, Flemish writer (Sophie) and poet, born in Nevele, East Flanders, Belgium (d. 1923)
- Wilhelm Steinitz, Austrian World Chess Champion (1866-94), born in Prague, Bohemia, Austrian Empire (d. 1900)
About May 17, 1836
Day of the Week: Tuesday
How Long Ago? 187 years, 11 months and 29 days
Leap Year: Yes
Star Sign: Taurus
