1. Thomas Edison's First Successful Test of the Electric Lightbulb. On October 3, 1879, Thomas Edison successfully demonstrated his electric lightbulb for the first time in his Menlo Park laboratory in New Jersey. This groundbreaking invention revolutionized the world and established Edison as one of the most important inventors in history.

2. First Trolley Line in New Jersey is Opened. On October 3, 1887, the first electric trolley line in New Jersey was opened in Trenton. This innovative new transportation system quickly became popular, replacing the old horse-drawn carriages and helping to usher in the modern era of transportation.

3. New Jersey Ratifies the U.S. Constitution. On October 3, 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, after Delaware and Pennsylvania. This important event helped pave the way for the creation of a strong, unified American government.

4. First Professional Football Game Played in New Jersey. On October 3, 1920, the Columbus Panhandles and the Dayton Triangles played the first professional football game in New Jersey in West Orange. This historic event helped set the stage for the future growth and success of professional football in America.

5. Walt Whitman Publishes Leaves of Grass. On October 3, 1855, celebrated American poet Walt Whitman published the first edition of his landmark book Leaves of Grass. This influential work helped establish Whitman as one of America's greatest poets and helped pave the way for the modern poetry movement.