1. In 1565, Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés proclaimed the land at the mouth of the St. Johns River as "St. Augustine" and founded the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States.

2. In 1915, the city of Miami officially became incorporated, paving the way for its growth into one of Florida's largest cities and a major international tourist destination.

3. In 1976, the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail was established, creating a 106-mile bike path and pedestrian trail running from Key Largo to Key West, passing through dozens of historical and ecological sites along the way.

4. The Florida Gators football team is known for its successes on September 24, having won all four of their games played on that date in history, including a memorable 31-30 win over in-state rival Tennessee in 2005.

5. In 1993, Hurricane Emily passed close to the eastern coast of Florida, causing minimal damage but creating large swells and rip currents that resulted in several deaths and many rescues by beachgoers and emergency responders.