1. In 1913, the Illinois Centennial Monument was unveiled in the city of Springfield to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its statehood. The monument is 122 feet tall and features several sculptures, including Abraham Lincoln.

2. The first McDonald's franchise opened in Des Plaines, Illinois on September 23, 1955. The restaurant was started by Ray Kroc and became the start of one of the world's most well-known fast food chains.

3. On September 23, 1852, the Illinois Central Railroad was chartered to connect the northern and southern parts of the state. Eventually, the railroad would have significant economic and cultural impact on the state as a whole.

4. In 2012, Chicago's O'Hare International Airport opened a new runway, named Runway 10L-28R. The runway is one of the longest in the world and was built to improve airport capacity and air traffic control.

5. On September 23, 1908, the Chicago Cubs played their final game at their previous home field, West Side Park, before moving to what is now Wrigley Field. This move marked the beginning of a new era in the team's history, and Wrigley Field is now one of the most iconic sports venues in America.