1. On September 20, 1777, British troops under General Burgoyne surrendered to American forces led by General Horatio Gates at the Battle of Saratoga. This battle is considered a turning point in the American Revolution, as it convinced European powers to ally with the US and helped secure American independence.

2. On September 20, 1839, future US President Chester A. Arthur was born in Fairfield, Vermont. Arthur would go on to serve as president from 1881-1885, following the assassination of James A. Garfield.

3. On September 20, 1945, the New Hampshire State Teachers College (now known as Plymouth State University) was officially chartered by the state legislature. The college initially offered degrees in education, but has since expanded to offer a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, and business.

4. On September 20, 1985, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport officially opened after years of planning and construction. The airport has since become a vital transportation hub for both domestic and international travel, serving over 1.7 million passengers annually.

5. On September 20, 2003, a massive wildfire broke out in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, burning over 17,000 acres and forcing the evacuation of thousands of residents and visitors. The fire was eventually brought under control thanks to the efforts of hundreds of firefighters and support personnel.