1. On September 13, 1847, the first train arrived in Providence from Boston. The new mode of transportation revolutionized travel and commerce across Rhode Island and New England.

2. On September 13, 1927, Hurricane Diane battered Rhode Island with heavy rain and strong winds, causing significant damage and flooding. The storm caused widespread power outages and destroyed many farms and homes.

3. On September 13, 1959, the Newport Bridge opened to traffic, connecting Aquidneck Island to the mainland. The bridge, which spans nearly 12,000 feet across Narragansett Bay, was one of the largest suspension bridges in the world when it was built.

4. On September 13, 1975, the Providence Civic Center (now known as the Dunkin' Donuts Center) opened in downtown Providence. The arena has hosted a variety of events over the years, including concerts, sporting events, and political rallies.

5. On September 13, 2018, the Rhode Island state Senate passed a bill to legalize sports betting in the state. The move made Rhode Island one of the first states outside of Nevada to allow sports betting, and helped generate revenue for the state's struggling economy.