1. Maine became a state on January 1, 1820
On January 1, 1820, Maine officially became the 23rd state of the United States. Previously, it was part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and gained its independence as a separate state.

2. The first New Year's Day Parade was held on January 1, 1825
The first New Year's Day Parade in Portland, Maine was held on January 1, 1825. The parade featured marching bands, floats, and various community organizations.

3. The Great Fire of Portland happened on January 1, 1866
On January 1, 1866, a fire broke out in the city of Portland and quickly spread, destroying over 1,000 buildings and leaving thousands of people homeless. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is believed to have started in a warehouse on Commercial Street.

4. The first Baxter State Park hike was on January 1, 1931
Baxter State Park, located in northern Maine, was established in 1931. On January 1 of that year, the first official hike in the park was led by park founder Percival P. Baxter.

5. Maine's first female governor was inaugurated on January 1, 1991
On January 1, 1991, Maine's first female governor, Barbara Bush, was inaugurated. She served as governor until 1995 and was known for her work in education and environmental protection.