December 1 has been an eventful day in Maine history. Here are five interesting facts about this date:

1. The first recorded shipment of potatoes from Maine to England was on December 1, 1756. Maine potatoes were highly sought after due to their high quality and had a significant impact on the state's economy in the following years.

2. On December 1, 1862, the state of Maine abolished the death penalty. It was the first state to do so in 12 years and paved the way for other states to follow suit.

3. In 1893, the world-famous White Mountains train crash occurred on December 1 in Gorham, Maine. A train carrying hundreds of passengers derailed on a trestle bridge, resulting in over 30 fatalities and many injuries.

4. December 1, 1942, was the final day of the Battle of Sevastopol during World War II. Many soldiers from Maine fought and died in this battle, which was a turning point in the war on the eastern front.

5. On December 1, 1963, the Maine Turnpike was officially opened to traffic. The turnpike runs from Kittery to Augusta and is a major transportation route for commuters and tourists in the state. The toll plaza for the turnpike is located in York, Maine.