1. In 1851, the first official execution was carried out in Washington Territory. Two Native Americans, named Tom and Matt, were hanged for the murder of a white man.

2. On December 3, 1910, the first ever flight of an airplane in Washington State occurred. Pilot Charles Hamilton flew a Wright B biplane over the sand dunes of Spokane.

3. The famous Seattle landmark, the Space Needle, opened its doors to the public on December 3, 1962. The restaurant and observation deck offered stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.

4. In 1980, the volcanic eruption of Mount St. Helens caused widespread destruction and significant loss of life. The eruption occurred in May, but it wasn't until December 3 that the US Geological Survey declared the volcano dormant.

5. The city of Kent, located in King County, was incorporated on December 3, 1890. Kent has a rich history in agriculture, and was once known as the "lettuce capital of the world." Today, it is a thriving city with a diverse economy.