1. On August 20, 1857, one of Connecticut’s deadliest hurricanes hit the state, causing widespread damage and claiming several lives.

2. In 1965, on August 20, the state of Connecticut passed a law allowing for the creation of the Connecticut Lottery Corporation, paving the way for the state’s lottery games and scratch-off tickets.

3. On August 20, 1626, the first recorded sale of land in Connecticut occurred between the Pequot tribe and English settlers. This transaction eventually led to the establishment of the town of New London.

4. On August 20, 1940, Connecticut’s first state park, named after the famous poet and journalist Edwin Markham, was officially opened. The park, located in the town of Somers, features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a large pond for fishing and swimming.

5. In 1776, on August 20, Connecticut delegates to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia signed the Declaration of Independence. Among the signers was Roger Sherman, a Connecticut politician who played a key role in the drafting of the document.