1. On May 24, 1980, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge was reopened in Tampa Bay. The original bridge was hit by a freighter in 1980, causing a portion of it to collapse and killing 35 people. The new bridge was built higher and stronger to prevent future accidents.

2. May 24, 1869, marked the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, with the laying of the final track in Promontory, Utah. Florida played a significant role in the development of railroads, with the first line in the state opening in 1834.

3. In 1987, on May 24, former Florida governor and U.S. Senator LeRoy Collins passed away. Collins played an important role in the civil rights movement, advocating for equality and desegregation during his time in office.

4. May 24, 1976, saw the opening of the Epcot theme park in Walt Disney World Resort. The park was designed to showcase technological innovations and international cultures.

5. On May 24, 1924, the first Florida High School Athletic Association state track and field championship was held in Gainesville. High school athletics have been an important part of Florida culture for over a century, with thousands of students participating in a wide variety of sports.