1. In 1779, the Virginia General Assembly voted to cede their western territory to the Continental Congress, which eventually became the Northwest Territory. This decision laid the groundwork for the eventual expansion of the United States westward.

2. On September 23, 1827, the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, opened its doors for the first time. The university was unique in its academic structure and educational philosophy, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge rather than strict religious doctrine.

3. Virginia native Arthur Ashe, a tennis player and civil rights activist, was born on September 23, 1943. Ashe broke down racial barriers in the tennis world, becoming the first black man to win a Grand Slam title and one of the greats of the sport.

4. The Battle of Fisher's Hill, a major battle of the Civil War, began on September 23, 1864. Union General Philip Sheridan led an attack on Confederate General Jubal Early's troops, resulting in a decisive victory for the Union that helped secure their control of the Shenandoah Valley.

5. In 1971, the Norfolk State University football team defeated the Grambling State Tigers in a historic game on September 23, considered by many to be the greatest upset in college football history. The Norfolk State Spartans, an underdog team from a small school, won by a score of 29-28 against the heavily favored Tigers, coached by the legendary Eddie Robinson.