1. In 1861, the Battle of Camp Wildcat took place in Laurel County, Kentucky during the American Civil War. It was the first significant Union victory in the state and helped secure Kentucky's neutrality.

2. In 1948, African American jockey Eddie Arcaro won his 4,000th race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Arcaro is considered one of the greatest jockeys of all time and won five Kentucky Derbies during his career.

3. Kentucky native Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, was born on October 24, 1818 in Lexington. She played an active role in her husband's presidency and is known for her outspokenness and strong personality.

4. On October 24, 1916, the infamous outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed in St. Joseph, Missouri. Although James was not from Kentucky, his life and exploits have become a legend in American history and popular culture.

5. Kentucky's Mammoth Cave National Park was officially established on October 24, 1941. The park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passageways, and is a popular tourist destination in the state.