On this date in...

1639...Danish farmer Jonas Bronck purchases 50 acres of land just north of Manhattan. In time the Broncks' farm will become a favorite getaway for city dwellers and an outing to the area will become known as "going to the Broncks" – leading The Bronx to become the name of the whole county.

1732...The city's first two fire engines arrive from London, and the elaborate vehicles fascinate spectators. But on their first call, the house they response to burns down.

1947..."A Streetcar Named Desire" opens on Broadway, starring Marlon Brando and Jessica Tandy.