1. In 1871, Abilene was officially incorporated as a city in Kansas, after being founded in 1857 as a stop on the Chisholm Trail. The town quickly became a cattle town and was known for its rowdy and wild reputation.

2. In 1953, WIBW-TV began broadcasting in Topeka, making it the first television station in the state. The station was originally affiliated with CBS and is now owned by Gray Television.

3. In 1962, the University of Kansas won their first NCAA men's basketball championship, defeating the University of Cincinnati in overtime. The Jayhawks were led by player-coach Forrest "Phog" Allen and star player Wilt Chamberlain.

4. In 1981, Kansas Governor John Carlin signed a bill creating the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame. The hall of fame honors athletes and coaches from Kansas who have made significant contributions to the world of sports.

5. In 2007, Greensburg, Kansas was devastated by an EF5 tornado that destroyed 95% of the town. In the years since, the community has rebuilt and focused on sustainability, constructing buildings that are energy-efficient and use renewable resources.