1. New Jersey was one of the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. However, it was not until September 15, 1787 that the state officially ratified the United States Constitution at a convention held in Trenton, New Jersey. This made New Jersey the third state to ratify the document, after Delaware and Pennsylvania.

2. In 1830, the first passenger railway in New Jersey opened between Jersey City and New Brunswick. This railroad line marked the beginning of a transportation revolution that transformed New Jersey's economy and allowed for the development of new industries and urban centers.

3. On September 15, 1963, the New Jersey Turnpike officially opened to traffic. The turnpike was one of the largest public works projects in American history and transformed the way people traveled along the East Coast. Today, the turnpike is a major transportation artery connecting New Jersey to New York City, Philadelphia, and points south.

4. In 2008, Yankee Stadium hosted its final game against the Baltimore Orioles. The Yankees won the game 7-3, marking the end of an era for one of America's most iconic sports venues. Many of the game's most famous players, including Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez, were on hand to bid farewell to the stadium.

5. On September 15, 2012, the Atlantic City Boardwalk was officially named the world's first "Boardwalk of Fame," recognizing the contributions of local musicians, actors, and other entertainers to American culture. The boardwalk has been a fixture in Atlantic City since 1870 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Jersey.