1. In 1854, the Indiana State University in Terre Haute was officially established, becoming the first public higher education institution in the state. Today, the university serves over 13,000 students and has a strong reputation for its programs in education, business, and technology.

2. On October 16, 1902, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was officially incorporated as an automobile racing facility. The Speedway would go on to become one of the most famous tracks in the world, hosting events like the Indianapolis 500 and the Brickyard 400.

3. In 1940, the Indiana University School of Medicine opened its doors to students for the first time. Today, the school is one of the top medical research institutions in the country and is known for its innovative programs in cancer research, neurology, and genetics.

4. On October 16, 1951, the first episode of the beloved children's television show "Bozo's Circus" aired on WGN-TV out of Chicago. Although not technically an Indiana-based event, the show was a favorite of many Hoosier children who grew up watching Bozo and his fellow performers.

5. In 1995, the Indiana Pacers played their first game at the new Conseco Fieldhouse (now known as Bankers Life Fieldhouse) in Indianapolis. The state-of-the-art arena has since hosted countless concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment shows, cementing its place as one of Indiana's top entertainment venues.