1. Stephen F. Austin's Birthday: December 23 marks the birthday of Stephen F. Austin, known as the "Father of Texas." He was a key figure in the fight for Texas' independence from Mexico and played a major role in Texas' early history.

2. Model T Production: On December 23, 1927, the last Ford Model T was produced in Dallas, Texas. The Model T is considered one of the most influential and important cars in American history, and the final production in Texas marked the end of an era.

3. Texas Rangers Anniversary: December 23 is also the anniversary of the Texas Rangers, the oldest state law enforcement agency in the United States. The Rangers were originally formed in 1823 to help protect settlers in East Texas from Native American attacks.

4. The First Public Library: On December 23, 1901, the first public library in Texas was opened in Houston. The library, which was opened with a collection of 8,000 books, was a significant milestone in Texas' cultural history.

5. The Battle of Rio San Gabriel: On December 23, 1846, during the Mexican-American War, American forces under the command of General Stephen W. Kearny defeated Mexican forces at the Battle of Rio San Gabriel. The battle is considered to be one of the key events leading up to the capture of Los Angeles by American forces.