1. In 1775, Paul Revere rode through Maine warning of the impending arrival of British troops. This was a key moment in the American Revolution.
2. In 1906, the Great Earthquake and Fire struck San Francisco, but it was felt as far east as Maine. Many Mainers donated money and supplies to help the victims of the disaster.
3. In 1936, the first flight from the mainland United States to Europe was made from Maine. The flight was operated by Pan American World Airways and travelled from Port Washington in New York to Southampton, England.
4. In 1973, Maine became the first state to ban billboards along its highways. This law helped preserve the state's natural beauty and has since been imitated by many other states.
5. In 1984, the Maine State Ferry Service was established to provide transportation between offshore islands and the mainland. The service operates year-round and is an important part of life for many Mainers who live on the islands.