1. On October 24, 1881, the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral occurred in Tombstone, Arizona Territory, just a few miles from the New Mexico border. This event is notable in New Mexico history because many of the participants were well-known figures in the region, including Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.

2. On October 24, 1974, New Mexico became the first state to recognize the value of the solar energy industry by passing the Solar Energy Standards Act. This legislation required utilities to offer incentives to customers who installed solar panels and other renewable energy systems.

3. On October 24, 1987, one of the most famous UFO sightings in history occurred in the town of Socorro, New Mexico. Police officer Lonnie Zamora reported seeing an unknown craft land in a remote area, and the incident remains a subject of controversy and speculation to this day.

4. On October 24, 2005, the National Museum of the American Indian opened its doors in Washington, DC. While not directly related to New Mexico, this museum celebrates the rich cultural traditions and contributions of Native Americans throughout the US, including many tribes that call New Mexico home.

5. Finally, on October 24, 2012, the New Mexico Museum of Art celebrated its 100th anniversary. Founded in 1912, this museum has helped preserve and promote the state's unique artistic heritage for generations, showcasing everything from traditional Native American art to contemporary works by local and international artists.