1. Maine was admitted as the 23rd state in the Union on March 15, 1820. However, it wasn't until May 5 of that same year that President James Monroe officially signed Maine into statehood.
2. On May 5, 1866, the Great Fire of Portland swept through the city, destroying more than 1,500 buildings and leaving 10,000 people homeless. Despite the devastation, the city was able to quickly rebuild and implement higher safety standards for construction.
3. In 1919, Maine became the first state in the country to establish a presidential primary election. The first primary was held on May 5 of that year, and it remains an important part of the state's political process to this day.
4. On May 5, 1920, Mainers saw the arrival of the first of many steam-powered ships from the Grand Trunk Railway Line. These ships played an important role in transporting goods and people to and from the state for many years.
5. May 5, 1984, marked the opening of Maine's first licensed casino, the Penobscot Bingo Palace in Old Town. While casino gambling has remained a controversial issue in the state, the industry has grown over the years to include several other establishments.