1. On October 1, 1912, the first state Highway Commission was established in Arkansas. This paved the way for the development of the state's current transportation infrastructure.

2. The University of Arkansas was founded on October 1, 1871. Originally named Arkansas Industrial University, it has since grown to become a major research institution in the state and region.

3. In 1905, the first state fair was held in Little Rock on October 1. It featured agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and various competitions, and has since become an annual tradition.

4. On October 1, 1908, the first automobile race in Arkansas was held in Little Rock. The race was won by Barney Oldfield, a famous driver of the time.

5. The Battle of Jonesboro, a Civil War battle that was a turning point in the war's Western Theater, took place on October 1, 1864. Union forces under General William T. Sherman defeated Confederate troops under General John Bell Hood, paving the way for Union control of Atlanta.