1. Boston’s first fire department is formed: On January 30, 1678, Boston established the first fire department in the United States, called the Boston Alewives Company. Its members were fishermen who were trained to fight fires.

2. The USS Gudgeon is launched: On January 30, 1939, the USS Gudgeon was launched at the Fore River Shipyard in Quincy. It was the lead ship of a series of submarines that would play a critical role in World War II.

3. The Great Blizzard of 1966: On January 30, 1966, one of Massachusetts’ worst blizzards hit the state. Over two feet of snow fell in some areas, causing widespread power outages and transportation disruptions.

4. Jet engine inventor is born: On January 30, 1888, Frank Whittle was born in Coventry, England. He would go on to invent the jet engine, which would revolutionize air transportation.

5. African-American regiment fights in Civil War: On January 30, 1863, Massachusetts’ 54th Regiment, the first African-American regiment in the Civil War, was mustered into service. They would go on to fight in battles in South Carolina and Florida.