This Day, That Year – February 17

Baron Karl von Drais de Sauerbrun patented an early bicycle called the “draisine” on this day in 1818.

Did you know that:

• René Laennec, a French physician who invented the stethoscope, was born on this day in 1781
• Chester Stone patented a washing machine on this day in 1827
• Michael Jordan is an American businessman and former professional basketball player born on this day in 1963