1. In 1825, the first Indiana State Fair was held in Indianapolis. The fair was originally intended to showcase agricultural products and machinery, but it has since evolved into a diverse celebration of Indiana culture, traditions, and entertainment.
2. The famous Hoosier poet James Whitcomb Riley was born on October 19, 1849. Riley, known as the "Hoosier Poet," wrote numerous poems in the dialect of the common people of Indiana, earning him fame and recognition as one of the most beloved poets of his time.
3. On October 19, 1906, the Indiana University School of Music was established. The school has since produced countless talented musicians and performers, including jazz legend David Baker, composer Claude Baker, and opera singer Angela Brown.
4. Notable Indiana basketball coach Bob Knight achieved his 800th career win on October 19, 1996. Knight is famous for leading the Indiana Hoosiers to three NCAA championships and is considered one of the greatest college basketball coaches of all time.
5. On October 19, 2011, former Indiana governor and U.S. Senator Evan Bayh announced that he would not run for re-election in 2012. Bayh had previously served two terms as governor of Indiana and two terms in the U.S. Senate, and his decision not to seek re-election was seen as a surprise by many.