1. In 1953, the first color television transmission in Maryland was made by the Baltimore-based radio and television station, WBAL-TV. It was a major milestone in the evolution of television broadcasting and laid the foundation for the broadcasting industry in the state.

2. On October 23, 1883, the Baltimore Tunnel, which was also known as the Howard Street Tunnel, was completed. This tunnel was considered a major engineering feat at the time, as it was the first rail tunnel to be built under a major metropolitan city in the United States. The tunnel allowed trains to avoid the congestion of street level traffic and continue on their journey unimpeded.

3. In 1980, a tragic plane crash occurred in the Potomac River just outside of Washington D.C. The flight, which was operated by the now-defunct airline, Eastern Airlines, crashed into the icy waters, and due to the efforts of several heroic bystanders, many passengers were saved. This event is considered a testament to the heroism of the people of Maryland.

4. On October 23, 2002, Maryland Governor Parris N. Glendening signed an executive order banning smoking in all state buildings and grounds, including state parks and beaches. This was a major step forward for public health in the state, and set an example for other states to follow.

5. On October 23, 1819, the United States infantry unit known as the "Black Watch" was established in Baltimore. This unit was made up of African American soldiers and served in various conflicts throughout the 19th century, including the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Their service paved the way for future generations of African Americans to serve in the United States military.