1. 1861: Battle of Ball's Bluff
On October 26, 1861, the Union Army experienced a major defeat at the Battle of Ball's Bluff. The battle, which took place in Loudoun County, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Maryland, resulted in the death of over 1,000 Union soldiers.

2. 1911: Yellowstone National Park
On October 26, 1911, the first paved road in Yellowstone National Park was completed. The road was built to provide easier access to the park's geysers and other natural attractions.

3. 1971: Washington State football
On October 26, 1971, the Washington State University football team set a record for the most points scored in a single game, defeating the University of Oregon by a score of 63-14.

4. 2001: T-Mobile Park
On October 26, 2001, T-Mobile Park (formerly known as Safeco Field) officially opened as the home of the Seattle Mariners baseball team. The stadium has since hosted numerous sporting events, concerts, and other entertainment events.

5. 2016: Seattle teacher strike
On October 26, 2016, Seattle public school teachers went on strike, demanding higher pay and better working conditions. The strike lasted for five days, during which time students were unable to attend classes.