1. Birth of Calvin Johnson, Jr.: On December 19, 1948, Calvin Johnson, Jr. was born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. He would go on to become a famous NFL player, playing for the Detroit Lions and setting numerous records.

2. The Battle of Allegheny Mountain: On December 19, 1861, Union and Confederate forces clashed in the Battle of Allegheny Mountain near Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The Union forces were able to repel the Confederate attack, securing a key victory in the Civil War.

3. The Sago Mine Disaster: On December 19, 2006, a methane explosion at the Sago Mine in Upshur County, West Virginia killed 12 miners and injured another. The tragedy brought attention to safety issues in the mining industry and sparked calls for improved regulations.

4. Charles Town Race Riots: On December 19, 1944, riots erupted at the Charles Town horse racing track in Jefferson County, West Virginia. The violence was sparked by the desegregation of the track's grandstand, which had previously been reserved for white patrons only. The National Guard was dispatched to restore order.

5. Medal of Honor awarded to Hershel "Woody" Williams: On December 19, 1944, Hershel "Woody" Williams, a native of West Virginia, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. He is the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from that battle.