1. Grain Exchange Begins Trading (1881)
On May 15, 1881, the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce began trading on the Minneapolis Grain Exchange. This opened up new opportunities for traders and farmers to sell their crops and played a major role in the economic growth of Minnesota.

2. Statehood Day (1858)
May 15 is recognized as Statehood Day in Minnesota, as it was on this day in 1858 that Minnesota became the 32nd state in the United States.

3. Successful Loon Reintroduction Program (1965)
On May 15, 1965, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources began a successful loon reintroduction program on Lake Carlos in Douglas County. The program helped to bring back these beautiful birds to areas where they had previously disappeared.

4. First Performance at the Guthrie Theater (1963)
On May 15, 1963, the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis opened with its first performance, “Hamlet”. The theater quickly became a cultural hub in the Twin Cities and has hosted numerous world-class productions in the decades since.

5. Birth of Jesse Ventura (1951)
Jesse Ventura, the former Navy SEAL, professional wrestler, actor, and politician, was born on May 15, 1951, in Minneapolis. He served as the Governor of Minnesota from 1999-2003 and has remained active in politics and public life since leaving office.