1. The Lewis and Clark Expedition reached present-day North Dakota on October 4, 1804. The group was traveling up the Missouri River and camped near present-day Stanton.

2. On October 4, 1883, the Northern Pacific Railroad completed its line through North Dakota, connecting it to the rest of the country. This allowed for increased settlement and commerce in the state.

3. Fargo's first hospital, St. John's Hospital, was founded on October 4, 1898. It was a small, 15-bed facility that served the community for over 60 years before closing in 1961.

4. The University of North Dakota was founded on October 4, 1883, the same day that the Northern Pacific Railroad was completed. The university has since become a major institution of higher learning in the state.

5. On October 4, 1966, the first National Trails Day was celebrated in the United States. The day was created to promote the importance of hiking and exploring the outdoors, and to encourage the preservation and development of trails across the country. North Dakota has many beautiful trails and parks for visitors to enjoy.