DÃ®ner en Blanc: People will wear white and dine at a mystery location. But first, they ask questions. Some 400 white-clad diners converged in the Distillery District for a dry run last year of Toronto's own Diner en Blanc. This year's event, at a secret location, will be much larger.
Breakers can be defective and create a hazard. This can happen if the humidity is high or water has gotten into the panel. If a breaker is tripped and will not reset even with all loads removed from the circuit, it is advisable to check it with a voltmeter or replace it.
A breaker does not short circuit as you stated, when it trips. It opens the contact that is usually closed... the hot connection from the bus bar to the wire. Just FYI, the age of the house does not dictate faulty wiring, faulty outlets, or a few other possible issues.