1. On February 12, 1851, the Oregon territorial government officially established Yamhill County. The county was named after the Yamhill River, which runs through the area.

2. In 1866, on February 12, the Oregon State Legislature authorized the construction of a railroad from Albany to McMinnville. This was an important step in the development of the Willamette Valley, as the railroad would connect many towns and make transportation easier.

3. February 12, 1875, marks the founding of the Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem. The prison was originally built to house around 300 inmates but today can hold up to 2,000.

4. On February 12, 1921, the Oregon State Highway Commission was created. This organization was responsible for developing and maintaining a system of state highways throughout Oregon.

5. Finally, on February 12, 2001, Portland Trail Blazers star Rasheed Wallace set a record for technical fouls in a single season. He received his 31st technical foul of the season in a game against the Miami Heat. The record sparked controversy across the NBA and led to discussions around player conduct on the court.