1. On September 13, 1814, a fire swept through Portsmouth, New Hampshire, destroying over 500 buildings and leaving more than 2,000 people homeless. The fire burned for three days, with heavy winds fanning the flames and causing widespread devastation. Despite the enormity of the disaster, only two people lost their lives.

2. September 13 marks the birthdate of New Hampshire native John Langdon, who was one of the signers of the United States Constitution, a two-term governor of New Hampshire, and a US Senator. Langdon was instrumental in securing the ratification of the Constitution, and his legacy still influences American politics today.

3. On September 13, 1972, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Over the years, the shipyard has played a vital role in America's national defense, having built or repaired some of the US Navy's most important vessels, including nuclear submarines.

4. September 13 marks the anniversary of the founding of the University of New Hampshire in Durham. Established in 1866 as the New Hampshire College of Agriculture and the Mechanic Arts, UNH has grown into a major research institution and one of the leading universities in the Northeast.

5. On September 13, 1783, the first recorded hot air balloon flight in the United States was made by French balloonist Jean-Pierre Blanchard. Blanchard launched his balloon from a field in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and flew for about 45 minutes before landing safely. The flight was considered a major accomplishment in the history of aviation and helped pave the way for future developments in air travel.