1. On August 12, 1835, a massive hurricane hit the coast of North Carolina, causing widespread destruction and claiming dozens of lives. Known as the Great Carolina Hurricane of 1835, it was one of the most powerful storms to ever hit the state.

2. In the early morning hours of August 12, 1949, a massive fire broke out at the W.J. Cash and Company furniture factory in High Point. The blaze quickly grew out of control, consuming the entire building and leaving more than 100 people homeless.

3. On August 12, 1976, the North Carolina Museum of History opened its doors to the public for the first time. Located in Raleigh, the museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the state’s rich history and cultural heritage.

4. In 2003, North Carolina governor Mike Easley declared August 12 as "Elvis Presley Appreciation Day" in honor of the legendary singer's contributions to music and culture. The proclamation was made on the anniversary of Elvis's death in 1977.

5. On August 12, 2015, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission announced that a pair of red wolves had successfully bred in the wild in the state for the first time in more than a decade. The red wolf is a critically endangered species that is native to the southeastern United States.