1. Leap year babies, or individuals who are born on February 29, have a unique experience in New Jersey. According to state law, they are allowed to choose whether to celebrate their birthday on February 28 or March 1 in non-leap years.
2. February 29, 1940 was a unique day in New Jersey weather history. The state received one of its biggest snowstorms on record, with up to 18 inches of snowfall in some areas.
3. In February 1996, a major train crash occurred on leap day in Bergen County, New Jersey. Two commuter trains collided during the morning rush hour, killing three people and injuring dozens more.
4. On February 29, 1964, the Beatles made their first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. While this may not be directly related to New Jersey history, many residents in the state watched the historic broadcast and were among the millions of Americans who were first introduced to the British band on that day.
5. Finally, February 29, 1876 was an important date for women's voting rights in New Jersey. On that day, the state passed a law that granted women the right to vote in school board elections. This was a significant step towards greater gender equality, and paved the way for future efforts to secure women's suffrage in New Jersey and throughout the country.