1. The Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the United States, was founded on September 3, 1870. Originally known as Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College, OSU opened its doors to its first group of students on this day.

2. The Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, grew up in Ohio and conducted their ground-breaking aviation experiments in the state. On September 3, 1901, Orville Wright flew his self-designed glider for the first time in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This paved the way for their successful powered flight experiments in Ohio in 1903.

3. On September 3, 1912, the town of Dayton, Ohio was hit by a devastating flood. The flooding, caused by the overflowing of the Great Miami River, affected thousands of people and caused millions of dollars in damage.

4. Famous author and activist Toni Morrison was born in Lorain, Ohio on September 3, 1931. Morrison went on to win numerous awards for her novels exploring the African American experience such as Beloved, Song of Solomon, and The Bluest Eye.

5. In 1997, a 25-foot-long statue of Superman was unveiled in downtown Cleveland on September 3. The superhero is one of Cleveland's most famous residents, as both Superman and his creator, Jerry Siegel, were born in the city. The statue has since become a popular tourist attraction.