1. Birth of Simon Estes: On January 3, 1938, Simon Estes, the renowned operatic bass-baritone, was born in Centerville, Iowa. Estes attended the University of Iowa and went on to perform at some of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

2. Completion of Herbert Hoover Presidential Library: On January 3, 1962, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library was completed in West Branch, Iowa. The library was built to honor the life and legacy of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, who was born in West Branch.

3. Establishment of Iowa's Conservation Corps: On January 3, 1934, Iowa Governor Clyde L. Herring signed a bill establishing the Iowa Conservation Corps. This program employed young men to work on projects related to soil conservation and reforestation throughout the state. The Iowa Conservation Corps was a precursor to the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program launched later that year.

4. Arrest of Bonnie and Clyde: On January 3, 1933, notorious outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were captured by Iowa law enforcement officials in the small town of Dexter. The couple was wanted for a series of robberies and murders across several states. The Iowa arrest was a significant victory for law enforcement, as it had been difficult to track down the couple.

5. Formation of the Iowa State Historical Society: On January 3, 1857, the Iowa State Historical Society was formed in Iowa City. The society was created to promote the study and preservation of Iowa's history and heritage. Today, the Iowa State Historical Society continues to operate as the State Historical Society of Iowa, with the mission of providing access to Iowa's history and culture to all Iowans.