1. The Virginia State Capitol was Dedicated on October 23, 1788 - The Greek Revival structure housed the state legislature until 1904 and is still in use today by the Virginia General Assembly.

2. Union General Philip Sheridan seized the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War on October 23, 1864 - This move laid waste to the area's farms and homes and removed the Confederacy's ability to use it as a food source.

3. A "Hailstorm of Bullets" at Cedar Creek fought on October 23, 1864 - This battle was fought in the same timeframe as Sheridan's seizure of the Shenandoah Valley and included a daring Confederate attack that almost succeeded against overwhelming Union forces.

4. The Virginia Military Institute was Founded on October 23, 1839 - VMI is still in operation today and known for its rigorous military training.A degree from VMI remains a mark of distinction.

5. Alexander Spotswood, important colonial governor of Virginia, was born on October 23, 1676 - Spotswood was a member of the royal governor's council and also organized the first official expedition beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains into the Shenandoah Valley in 1716.