1. The first Earth Day was celebrated in Minnesota in 1970 on April 16. The day was organized by Senator Gaylord Nelson to promote environmental awareness and activism across the country.

2. On April 16, 1857, the city of Owatonna was officially incorporated. Owatonna was a major hub for transportation and commerce in southern Minnesota during the mid-1800s and has since become known for its architecture and historic downtown district.

3. The Great Hinckley Fire broke out in Hinckley, Minnesota on September 1, 1894, but it was on April 16, 1895 that the Minnesota State Legislature passed a law mandating the creation of a state fire department. The department was tasked with ensuring the prevention and management of forest fires across the state.

4. On April 16, 1972, the Minnesota Vikings drafted quarterback Fran Tarkenton. Tarkenton played for the Vikings for two separate stints throughout his career, and is still regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in team history.

5. The Minnesota Twins played their first game at Target Field, their current home stadium, on April 16, 2010. The game, against the Boston Red Sox, was attended by over 38,000 fans and marked the beginning of a new era in Twins baseball.