1. On August 30, 1912, the first successful oil well was drilled in Texas. Known as the "Lucas Gusher," the well produced over 80,000 barrels of oil per day, transforming Texas into the leading oil-producing state in the country.

2. August 30, 1836, was the date of the signing of the Treaties of Velasco, which ended the Texas Revolution. The agreement recognized Texas as an independent nation, and established its boundaries and diplomatic relations with Mexico.

3. On August 30, 1952, the Dallas Texans and Houston Oilers played the first professional football game in Texas. The Oilers won the game 27-20.

4. The University of Texas at Austin opened its doors on August 30, 1883. The campus was originally built on a 40-acre plot of land, and has since expanded to cover over 400 acres.

5. August 30, 1998, marked the start of a three-day event known as the Texas Water Safari. The annual canoe race covers over 260 miles from San Marcos to Seadrift, and is considered one of the toughest endurance races in the world.