1. In 1863, an expedition led by U.S. Army Captain F.C. Millington discovered gold along the Boise River, leading to the establishment of the Idaho City mining district and the influx of gold seekers to the area.

2. On December 29, 1890, the Idaho Territory's fifth governor, Norman B. Willey, took office, succeeding Governor George L. Shoup. During his two-year term, Willey focused on improving transportation and infrastructure throughout the state.

3. In 1919, the Idaho State Board of Education established the College of Idaho in Caldwell, becoming the state's first four-year college. Today, the College of Idaho is a private liberal arts college with a strong academic program and a vibrant campus community.

4. On this day in 1945, the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, now known as the Idaho National Laboratory, was established as part of the Manhattan Project. The facility played a crucial role in the development of nuclear technology and continued to be a major research site for energy and national security projects.

5. In 1976, the Sawtooth Wilderness Area was established by Congress, preserving over 217,000 acres of rugged mountain terrain in central Idaho. The area is home to some of the state's most stunning natural vistas, including alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and thriving wildlife populations.