1. On May 9, 1823, Stephen F. Austin received a land grant from the Mexican government to settle 300 families in Texas. This helped to establish Anglo-American settlements in the region and is considered a major milestone in Texas history.
2. The Battle of Palo Alto was fought on May 9, 1846, near Brownsville during the Mexican-American War. It was the first major battle of the war and resulted in a U.S. victory.
3. On May 9, 1877, the second deadliest tornado in Texas history struck downtown Brenham, killing 28 people and causing widespread damage.
4. In 1914, on May 9, the first Mother's Day celebration was held in the United States, thanks in part to the efforts of Texan Anna Jarvis, who led a nationwide campaign to create the holiday.
5. On May 9, 1983, the Texas State Capitol building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The building, which was completed in 1888, remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Texas and is open for tours to the public.