1. In 1900, the Great Galveston Hurricane, one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history, reached Washington state. While the storm had weakened significantly by the time it hit the Pacific Northwest, it still caused significant damage and flooding in the region.

2. September 8, 1974 marked the beginning of an important era in Washington politics, as Governor Dan Evans signed a groundbreaking new law that granted workers in the state the right to collectively bargain for wages and benefits.

3. The Seattle Mariners made a historic move on September 8, 1987, when they traded outfielder Phil Bradley to the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for outfielder Glenn Wilson and a player to be named later. This trade helped set the stage for the Mariners' first-ever playoff appearance in 1995.

4. On September 8, 1997, the Central District of Seattle was rocked by a tragic shooting at the iconic Garfield High School. One student was killed and two others were injured in the incident, which led to increased efforts to improve school safety in the area.

5. September 8 is also known as International Literacy Day, a global awareness-raising event that highlights the importance of reading and education for people of all ages. In Washington state, this day is celebrated with various events and activities geared towards promoting literacy and lifelong learning.