1. In 1900, the Rhode Island State House was officially dedicated on January 19. The building, located in downtown Providence, serves as the state's capitol and houses the offices of the governor and other state officials.

2. On January 19, 1776, Rhode Island became the first colony to declare its independence from Great Britain. The "Declaration of Independence of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations" was signed by the General Assembly and paved the way for other colonies to follow suit.

3. In 1970, a major winter storm hit Rhode Island on January 19, dumping over 2 feet of snow in some areas and causing widespread power outages. The storm, known as the "Great Blizzard of 1970", led to school and business closures, as well as numerous accidents on icy roads.

4. On January 19, 2002, the Dunkin' Donuts Center (formerly known as the Providence Civic Center) re-opened after undergoing a $62 million renovation. The arena, located in downtown Providence, hosts concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment shows throughout the year.

5. In 1959, Rhode Island's first toll bridge opened on January 19. The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge connects Newport and Jamestown and spans over the East Passage of Narragansett Bay. The bridge, named after former U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell, charges a toll for cars and trucks crossing the span.