1. West Virginia Statehood Day: August 31 marks the anniversary of West Virginia's statehood. The state of West Virginia was officially admitted to the Union on this day in 1863 during the Civil War.

2. Rich Mining History: West Virginia has a long history of coal mining, and the state's coal industry played a significant role in the development of the United States. On August 31, 1894, the first recorded use of electricity underground in a coal mine was used in the Elk Garden Mine in McDowell County.

3. The Tragedy of the Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster: August 31, 2015 marks the fourth anniversary of the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster, where an explosion took the lives of 29 miners. The explosion was one of the worst coal mining disasters in U.S. history and served as a reminder of the dangers of mining.

4. The Mystery of the Greenbrier Ghost: One of the most famous ghost stories in West Virginia is the tale of the Greenbrier Ghost. On August 31, 1897, the ghost of a young woman named Zona Heaster Shue helped solve her own murder when her spirit appeared to her mother and revealed the true identity of her killer. The killer was subsequently convicted.

5. Birthplace of Brad Paisley: West Virginia has produced many talented musicians, including Brad Paisley. The country music star was born in Glen Dale, West Virginia on August 31, 1972. Paisley has won numerous awards and is known for hits such as "Whiskey Lullaby" and "Mud on the Tires."