1. On August 8, 1820, Maine officially became the 23rd state of the United States. Prior to becoming a state, Maine had been a district of Massachusetts since 1785.

2. In 1908 on August 8th, the International Railway of Maine opened the scenic Moosehead Lake Railroad to bring tourists to the region's natural beauty. The railway still operates today as a tourist attraction known as the Moosehead Historical Society and the Katahdin Ironworks State Historic Site.

3. August 8, 1920, marked the first Maine state primary election. This allowed voters to select candidates for the general election. Prior to this, candidates had been nominated by political parties in conventions.

4. On August 8, 1921, the Hollywood Theatre opened its doors in Portland, Maine. At the time, it was the largest theatre in the state and boasted a seating capacity of 1800. The Hollywood Theatre was a popular entertainment venue for many years before eventually closing in the 1960s.

5. In 1962 on August 8th, the Buckminster Fuller Geodesic Dome was dedicated in Portland, Maine. The dome was created by architect and inventor Buckminster Fuller and served as the U.S. pavilion at the 1967 World's Fair in Montreal, Canada. Today, the dome is used for various community events and is a popular attraction for visitors to Portland.