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64th National Spelling Bee: Joanne Lagatta wins spelling 'antipyretic'

The 64th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held in Washington, D.C. at the Capital Hilton on May 29–30, 1991, sponsored by the E.W.

The 64th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held in Washington, D.C. at the Capital Hilton on May 29–30, 1991, sponsored by the E.W. Scripps Company.

The winner was 13-year-old Joanna Lagatta of Clintonville, Wisconsin, spelling "antipyretic" for the win. Second place went to 11-year-old Maria Mathew of Sterling, Illinois, who missed "inappeteance". The final two girls competed against each other for almost 90 minutes before a winner emerged.

There were 227 spellers this year, 113 girls and 114 boys, from age 10–15. Six were appearing for at third time, and 35 were appearing for a second time.

The first place prize (in addition to non-cash prizes) was $5,000. Second place received $4,000.

As of 2016, Lagatta has been the only bee winner from Wisconsin.

Historical Significance

The 64th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held in Washington, D.

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  3. NFL coach Jimmy Johnson (46) divorces Linda Kay Cooper after 26 years of marriage

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  4. John McEnroe becomes the first player to be expelled from the Australian Open

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  5. Actor Michael Keaton (38) divorces actress Caroline McWilliams (44) after 7 years of marriage

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Events After

  1. Grace Hopper dies

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  4. American record producer Lou Adler (58) weds American actress Page Hannah (27) (Daryl's sister)

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  5. NHL players begin first strike in 75-year history; 10 day action earns large playoff bonus increase, more control over l

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on May 30, 1991?
The 64th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held in Washington, D.C. at the Capital Hilton on May 29–30, 1991, sponsored by the E.W. Scripps Company.
Why is 64th National Spelling Bee: Joanne Lagatta wins spelling 'antipyretic' significant?
The 64th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held in Washington, D.

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May 30 in HistoryYear 1991