Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in History for Dec. 14: In 1503, French physician and prophet Nostradamus was born. He remains famous today for his book “The Prophecies,” which was first published in 1555.

Today in History for Dec. 13: In 304, St. Lucy is said to have cut out her eyes and sent them to a persistent but unwelcome suitor who said he was haunted by them.

Today in Music History for Dec. 9: In 1934, bluesman Junior Wells was born in West Memphis, Ark. He replaced harmonica player Little Walter in Muddy Waters’ band in the early 1950s. His most famous recording is "Hoodoo Man.

Today in Music History for Dec. 13: In 1835, Phillips Brooks, American Episcopal clergyman and hymn writer, was born.

Today in History for Dec. 9: In 1608, English poet John Milton was born in London. In 1755, the first post office in Canada opened in Halifax.

Today in Music History for Dec. 12: In 1792, 22-year-old Ludwig van Beethoven paid the equivalent of 19 cents for his first lesson in music composition from Franz Joseph Haydn in Vienna.

Celebrity Birthdays for Nov. 29: Actress Diane Ladd is 89. Musician Chuck Mangione is 84. Singer-keyboardist Felix Cavaliere of The Rascals is 82. Rock guitarist Barry Goudreau, formerly of the group Boston, is 73. Actor Jeff Fahey is 72.

Today in History for Nov. 29 On this date: In 1530, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, adviser to King Henry VIII of England, died.

Today in Music History for Nov. 29: In 1880, the 1,100-seat Grand Opera House opened in Hamilton, Ont. It gave the city a proper auditorium for theatrical and musical presentations, and attracted top North American touring companies.

Celebrity Birthdays for Nov. 28: Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. is 95. Gary Troxel of the '50s pop group The Fleetwoods is 85. Singer-songwriter Bruce Channel is 84. Singer Randy Newman is 81. Movie director Joe Dante is 78.