1. In 1872, a massive snowstorm hit Maine on January 3, dumping over three feet of snow in some areas. This storm caused widespread damage and disrupted transportation throughout the state.

2. On January 3, 1954, Augusta became the capital city of Maine. Previously, Portland and then Augusta shared the designation of state capital. The move to Augusta was made to centralize state government and improve efficiency.

3. In 1987, on January 3, a severe cold snap struck Maine, with temperatures dropping to minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas. This frigid weather caused significant damage to homes, cars, and infrastructure and resulted in several deaths.

4. January 3, 1971, marked the completion of the final section of the Maine Turnpike, connecting Kittery to Augusta. The turnpike remains an essential transportation artery for Maine, connecting the southern and northern regions of the state.

5. On January 3, 2003, the Maine Medical Center announced plans to build a state-of-the-art cancer center in Scarborough. The facility, which opened in 2008, is a leading provider of cancer care in Maine and features advanced technology and specialized treatments.