1. On September 4, 1882, the first North Dakota State Fair opened in Fargo. It featured exhibitions of crops, livestock, and industrial products, and has grown into an annual tradition that draws visitors from across the state and beyond.

2. September 4, 1899, marks the day that the Grand Forks Herald newspaper was first published. The paper has since become a major source of news and information for residents of the Red River Valley and beyond.

3. On September 4, 1922, the town of Van Hook was founded in northwestern North Dakota, named after a railroad engineer. The town was a hub of activity during the oil boom of the 1950s, but declined after the boom ended.

4. September 4, 1942, saw the formation of the 164th Infantry Regiment, which was composed of soldiers from North Dakota and other Midwest states. They fought in the Pacific theater during World War II, including the Battle of Attu, and were awarded a Presidential Unit Citation for their valor.

5. In 1987, September 4 was declared "Roughrider Day" by North Dakota Governor George Sinner, in honor of the state's official symbol, the Roughrider. The day is now celebrated annually with a variety of activities and events, including rodeos and parades.