1. In 1809, Vermont became the first state in the US to abolish slavery. The law went into effect on March 31 of that year.

2. On March 31, 1862, the first battle of the Civil War involving Vermont soldiers took place at the Battle of Winchester. Over 70 soldiers were killed and many more were wounded.

3. In 1954, the first public television station in Vermont, WETK, began broadcasting. The station is still in operation today, providing news, educational programming, and entertainment to viewers across the state.

4. Vermont's state bird, the hermit thrush, was officially recognized by the state on March 31, 1941. The bird is known for its melodious song, which has been compared to the sound of a flute.

5. March 31, 1925 was the day that the Vermont Mutual Insurance Company was founded. Today, the company still has its headquarters in Montpelier and is one of the largest employers in the state.