1. On October 8, 1869, the New Hampshire State Board of Agriculture held its first annual meeting in Concord. The board was established to promote agriculture in the state and to provide assistance to farmers. Today, the board continues to offer educational resources and programs for the agricultural community.

2. In 1871, on this day, a fire broke out in the Merrimack River Mills in Manchester, resulting in significant damage to the building and equipment. The mills were quickly rebuilt and continued to be a major contributor to the city's economy for many years.

3. On October 8, 1947, the Keene State College Owl mascot made its debut at a football game against the University of Vermont. The owl has since become a beloved symbol of the college and is featured in many of its sports and campus events.

4. In 1956, on this day, the town of Franconia was transformed into "Hollywood North" for the filming of the movie "Peyton Place." The movie, based on the controversial novel by Grace Metalious, was a huge success and put Franconia on the map as a destination for movie production.

5. On October 8, 1995, New Hampshire native Alan Shepard was inducted into the International Air and Space Hall of Fame. Shepard was the first American astronaut to travel into space and is considered a pioneer in space exploration. He was born in Derry, New Hampshire, in 1923 and passed away in 1998.