1. In 1875, the first Missouri State Fair was held in Sedalia, Missouri. It was inaugurated as a way to showcase the state's agriculture, art, and industry. The tradition continues to this day and the fair attracts thousands of visitors annually.

2. In 1920, St. Louis Cardinals pitcher, Branch Rickey, introduced the use of batting helmets in Major League Baseball. The innovation came after the tragic death of Cleveland Indians shortstop, Ray Chapman, who was hit in the head by a pitch and died from his injuries.

3. On July 10, 1941, the U.S. Army established Fort Leonard Wood in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri. The base was named after Major General Leonard Wood, who served in the Spanish-American War, World War I and as the Army Chief of Staff. Today, Fort Leonard Wood serves as a training center for the U.S. Army.

4. Missouri native, George Washington Carver, was born on July 10, 1864. Carver was an American botanist and inventor who is best known for his work with peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. He discovered over 300 uses for peanuts alone, including peanut butter.

5. In 1970, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways were established in Missouri. The riverways cover over 80,000 acres and include the Current River and the Jacks Fork River. The area is popular for fishing, canoeing, and camping, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species.