1. On October 15, 1872, the first passenger train arrived in the cobbled streets of Portland. The train, named the "Oregon Express," pulled into the Union Depot, with passengers cheering and bands playing. This marked the beginning of a new era of transportation in Oregon and transformed the city into a major trade center.

2. On October 15, 1906, the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition held in Portland came to an end. The exposition was held to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the territory of the United States in 1804-1806. The fair featured exhibits from around the world, including a model of the Panama Canal and an exhibit on the inventions of Thomas Edison.

3. On October 15, 1928, the Saint Helens erupted in a violent explosion that sent a 1,000-foot high column of ash and smoke into the air. The eruption was the largest of three that occurred over three months, resulting in significant damage to surrounding forests and nearby towns. The explosion also served as a reminder of the destructive power of the Pacific Northwest's volcanoes.

4. On October 15, 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited Portland during his campaign for re-election. He delivered a speech at the Multnomah Athletic Club, where he praised the people of Oregon for their patriotism and support of the New Deal. Roosevelt went on to win the presidential election and go on his first term.

5. On October 15, 2007, a massive windstorm hit Oregon, causing widespread power outages and damage. The storm's high winds knocked down trees and power lines, leading to electricity outages that lasted for days in some areas of the state. The storm served as a reminder of the power of Mother Nature and the need to be prepared for unexpected events.