1. The State of Delaware declared January 1 as a state holiday in 1885. This day is also known as New Year's Day and is celebrated worldwide as the beginning of a new year.

2. On January 1, 1776, the flag of the United States was raised for the first time in Delaware. It was hoisted at the Powder Magazine in New Castle and marked the official beginning of the American Revolution in the state.

3. On January 1, 1831, Delaware's first steam locomotive, named the Wilmington, made its inaugural trip from Wilmington to New Castle. This was a major milestone in the state's transportation industry and helped spur economic growth.

4. On January 1, 1938, the DuPont Company introduced the first nylon toothbrush, revolutionizing the dental hygiene industry. The nylon bristles were far superior to traditional boar hair bristles and eventually became the standard for toothbrushes worldwide.

5. On January 1, 1956, the first official Delaware toll road opened. The Delaware Turnpike, also known as Interstate 95, was a major infrastructure project that allowed for faster and easier travel in and out of the state.