1. Kentucky became a state on December 31, 1792, making it the 15th state in the United States. At the time, Kentucky was a frontier state with a large population of farmers and hunters.

2. On December 31, 1862, during the Civil War, Confederate General Braxton Bragg ordered the evacuation of his troops from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This action effectively ended the Confederate Army's attempt to regain control of Middle Tennessee.

3. In 1939, the last public execution in Kentucky took place on December 31. William Hopwood was executed by electrocution for the murder of his wife's lover.

4. On December 31, 1972, a severe ice storm swept across Kentucky, causing widespread damage and power outages. Many residents were without power for weeks, and the storm is still remembered as one of the worst natural disasters to hit the state.

5. In 1999, Kentucky held its first-ever New Year's Eve celebration in downtown Louisville. The event, called "First Night Louisville," featured live music, fireworks, and a parade. The tradition continues to this day, with thousands of people attending the annual event.