1. In 1865, Juneteenth was celebrated in New Jersey as news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached the state. The holiday commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

2. On June 19, 1936, the George Washington Bridge connecting New Jersey and New York was opened to traffic. At the time, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world.

3. June 19, 1961 saw the opening of Six Flags Great Adventure, the largest amusement park in New Jersey. The park boasts over 480 acres and features a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.

4. In 1979, New Jersey passed legislation allowing for the establishment of Atlantic City as a gambling resort. This paved the way for the numerous casinos that now operate in the city.

5. On June 19, 1990, the driver of a tanker truck lost control of the vehicle on a New Jersey highway, causing a massive explosion and fire. The incident resulted in the deaths of three people and the closure of the highway for several days.