1. On August 5, 1858, gold was discovered at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, leading to the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and the settlement of Denver.
2. In 1887, the Colorado State Capitol cornerstone was laid on August 5th, with Colorado Governor Alva Adams giving a speech on the occasion.
3. August 5, 1911 marked the opening of the Western Slope Agricultural Fair in Grand Junction, an event that drew crowds from all over the state and showcased Colorado's agricultural industry.
4. The Colorado State Fair, one of the largest and oldest fairs in the country, was officially established on August 5, 1934 by the Colorado General Assembly.
5. On August 5, 1975, an earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck the Denver area, causing minor damage and prompting increased awareness of seismic activity in the state.