1. The Battle of Princeton
On September 17, 1776, the Battle of Princeton took place in Princeton, New Jersey during the American Revolution. The Continental Army under George Washington fought against the British Army and successfully defeated them, resulting in a significant strategic victory for the Americans.

2. Rutgers University Founded
Rutgers University, one of the oldest universities in the United States, was founded on September 17, 1766. Originally called Queen's College, it was renamed Rutgers College in 1825 in honor of Colonel Henry Rutgers, a Revolutionary War hero and philanthropist.

3. Great Fire of 1872
On September 17, 1872, a devastating fire broke out in Paterson, New Jersey. The fire destroyed many buildings and businesses in the city's downtown area, causing millions of dollars in damage.

4. First U.S. Automobile Race
The first automobile race in the United States took place on September 17, 1895, in Cranbury, New Jersey, as part of the Chicago Times Herald race from Chicago to New York City. Frank Duryea won the race in his motorized vehicle, completing the 54-mile course in just under 10 hours.

5. Miss America Pageant
The first Miss America Pageant was held on September 17, 1921, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The pageant, originally created as a way to extend the summer tourism season in the city, has since become a nationally televised event and an American cultural icon.