1. The First African American Episcopal Bishop was Born in Rhode Island:

On August 19 in 1919, Walter Decoster Dennis, the first African American Episcopal Bishop was born in Providence, Rhode Island. He served as the Suffragan Bishop of New York before his retirement in 1985.

2. Famous Football Coach, Tom Coughlin, was Born in Rhode Island:

Tom Coughlin, the former head coach of the New York Giants and Jacksonville Jaguars, was born on August 19, 1946, in Waterloo, New York. He moved to Rhode Island to attend college and later began his coaching career at the University of Rhode Island.

3. The USS Rhode Island was Commissioned:

On August 19, 1904, the USS Rhode Island, a Virginia-class battleship, was commissioned by the United States Navy. The ship served in both World War I and II, and was decommissioned in 1947.

4. The First Telephone Exchange was Established:

On August 19 in 1878, the first telephone exchange was established in Providence, Rhode Island. The exchange, which was opened by the Providence Telephone Company, had just 50 customers.

5. The Rhode Island Red Becomes the State Bird:

On August 19, 1954, the Rhode Island Red chicken became the state bird of Rhode Island. The breed of chicken was first developed in Rhode Island in the 19th century and is known for its hardiness and ability to lay eggs in harsh conditions.