1. In 1837, Governor William Pennington signed the Free School Law - the first education law in New Jersey that mandated free public education for children. This law paved the way for a more accessible education system in the state.

2. On July 18, 1863, the Battle of Fort Wagner took place during the American Civil War. The 54th Massachusetts Infantry, one of the first African American regiments, fought bravely in this battle. The heroic actions of the regiment inspired many people and helped change attitudes towards African American soldiers.

3. In 1919, New Jersey became the first state to ratify the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. This historic moment marked a significant victory for women's rights and paved the way for greater gender equality in the United States.

4. On July 18, 1932, the U.S. Army Signal Corps completed the first successful transatlantic flight from New York to Ireland. The four-man crew of the aircraft 'The Question Mark' set a record for the longest nonstop flight in history, covering a distance of over 5,000 miles.

5. In 1955, the first national conference on mental retardation was held in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The conference brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss ways to improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. This event was a milestone in the advocacy for disability rights and helped to shape public policy on disability issues.