1. Maine Achieved Statehood: On December 8, 1820, Maine officially achieved statehood, becoming the 23rd state in the United States.

2. The SS Portland Sank: On December 8, 1898, the famous SS Portland, carrying passengers and cargo from Boston to Portland, Maine, sank off the coast of Massachusetts. All 192 people on board perished in what was one of the worst maritime disasters in New England history.

3. Fort McClary Established: On December 8, 1808, Fort McClary was established in Kittery, Maine to defend the Piscataqua River and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

4. Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act: On December 8, 1980, the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, settling a long-standing dispute between the state of Maine and the Wabanaki tribes over land claims and treaty rights.

5. Kish Concert Hall Opened: On December 8, 1969, Kish Concert Hall opened on the campus of the University of Maine in Orono, Maine. The acoustically designed hall has hosted countless musical performances over the years and remains a cherished venue for music lovers in the state.