1. In 1949, the deadliest tornado in the history of Minnesota struck the western part of the state on February 14. Known as the Truman tornado, it killed 11 people and injured over 80.

2. On February 14, 1895, Minnesota became the first state in the U.S. to establish a state bird sanctuary. The sanctuary was located on the shores of Lake Mille Lacs and was later renamed the Mille Lacs National Wildlife Refuge.

3. In 2002, a record-setting snowstorm hit Minnesota on Valentine's Day, dumping over 19 inches of snow in some areas. The storm caused widespread power outages and travel disruptions, but no fatalities were reported.

4. On February 14, 1855, the Minnesota Territory was officially established by the U.S. Congress. The territory encompassed all of present-day Minnesota as well as parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

5. In 1980, the first Winter Carnival ice palace was built in St. Paul on February 14. The ice palace, which stood over 100 feet tall, was constructed entirely out of ice blocks and was a centerpiece of the annual Winter Carnival festivities.