1. Harry S. Truman Library: On May 16, 1957, the Harry S. Truman Library was formally dedicated in Independence, Missouri. The library houses the papers, photographs, and other important documents of President Truman and his administration.

2. Missouri River Flood: In 1993, the Missouri River flooded and caused extensive damage throughout the state. On May 16 of that year, the flood waters peaked in St. Louis, reaching a level of 49.6 feet, which was 19 feet above flood stage.

3. Missouri Statehood: On May 16, 1822, President James Monroe signed the bill granting Missouri statehood. Missouri became the 24th state to join the Union on August 10, 1821.

4. First Daily Newspaper: The first daily newspaper in Missouri, the St. Louis Daily Missouri Republican, was published on May 16, 1822. The paper later became the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, which is still in circulation today.

5. First Professional Baseball Game: On May 16, 1878, the first professional baseball game was played in Missouri. The St. Louis Brown Stockings (now known as the Cardinals) played against the Chicago White Stockings (now known as the Cubs) at the Grand Avenue Ball Grounds in St. Louis. The Brown Stockings won the game 2-1.