Ten fun facts about Alabama

1. Alabama - The "Heart of Dixie"

Alabama is affectionately known as the "Heart of Dixie" due to its rich history and culture. This nickname is not officially recognized, however, the state is also referred to as the "Yellowhammer State" and the "Cotton State" - both of which are derived from the state's agricultural roots. The Yellowhammer is the state bird, and cotton is one of the state's most important crops. Alabama is a state full of history and culture, and its nicknames are a testament to that.

Also → Montgomery, Alabama: A Vibrant City with a Rich History

2. Alabama Witnessed a Spectacular Celestial Event

In 2002, Alabama was witness to a spectacular celestial event when a shower of meteors lit up the night sky, inspiring the popular phrase “Stars fell on Alabama”. The event was so remarkable that it was reported in newspapers across the country, with many describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. The meteors were seen as far away as Georgia and Tennessee, and some even reported seeing them as far away as Florida. The shower was so intense that it was even visible during the day, with some describing it as a “rain of fire”.

Also → Birmingham, Alabama: The County Seat of Jefferson County

3. Alabama's Official State Song

The state of Alabama is proud to have its own official state song, aptly titled "Alabama". Written by Julia Tutwiler and Edna Gockel Gussen in 1931, this song has become a beloved anthem for the people of Alabama, expressing their pride in their state and its history. It has been performed at many state events, including the inauguration of governors, and is a popular choice for school choirs and marching bands.

Also → Edward O. Wilson: A Biography

4. A State Full of Natural Beauty

Alabama is a state full of natural beauty, with the Camellia as its state flower, the Longleaf Pine as its state tree, the Pecan as its state nut, and the Yellowhammer as its state bird. The Camellia is a flowering shrub with white, pink, and red blossoms, while the Longleaf Pine is a tall evergreen tree with needles that can grow up to 18 inches long. The Pecan is a type of nut that is native to the southeastern United States, and the Yellowhammer is a species of woodpecker with a bright yellow head and chest.

Also → Idaho's State Flowers and Trees

5. It's a Death Penalty Offense to Place Salt on Railroad Tracks

In Alabama, it is a serious offense to place common table salt on a railroad track. This law, which was enacted in 2013, carries a death penalty for anyone found guilty of violating it. This is a stark reminder of the importance of respecting the law and the consequences of disregarding it.

Also → The Natural State: A Guide to the Best of Arkansas

6. Alabama's Two Major Cities Offer a wealth of Attractions

Alabama is home to two of the state's most populous cities: Birmingham, the largest, and Montgomery, the second largest and the state's capital. Birmingham is a major cultural and economic hub, boasting a population of over 212,000 people, while Montgomery is the state's political center, with a population of over 200,000. Both cities offer a wealth of attractions, from Birmingham's renowned Civil Rights District to Montgomery's historic monuments and museums. Whether you're looking for a vibrant city experience or a more laid-back atmosphere, Alabama has something for everyone.

Also → Delaware: A State Full of Natural Beauty

7. Alabama Becomes the 22nd State of the United States

On December 14, 1819, Alabama officially became the 22nd state of the United States of America. This momentous occasion marked the culmination of a long and arduous journey for the state, which had been part of the Mississippi Territory since 1798. After more than two decades of petitioning and lobbying, Alabama was finally granted statehood, and the citizens of the state celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Also → California becomes the 31st state of the United States

8. Alabama Allows Incestuous Marriages

In Alabama, it is shockingly legal for a person to marry their immediate relatives, such as a parent, sibling, or grandparent. This is in stark contrast to the laws of most other states, which have made incestuous marriages illegal. As of 2013, Alabama is the only state in the US that still allows this type of marriage.

Also → Connecticut: The "Constitution State"

9. Alabama Bans Human-Bear Wrestling Matches

In 2013, Alabama passed a law that made it illegal to host wrestling matches between humans and bears. This strange law was put in place to protect both the humans and the bears from potential harm. The law was created to ensure that no one would be injured or put in danger during these matches, as bears are known to be powerful and unpredictable animals.

Also → Georgia: The Peach State

10. Alabama is the Top Producer of Cast-Iron and Steel Pipe Products

Alabama is the only state in the US that can produce iron and steel from its own natural resources. This has earned the state the title of the world's top producer of cast-iron products and steel pipe products. With an abundance of iron ore, coal, and limestone, Alabama has been able to capitalize on its natural resources to become a leader in the steel and iron industry.

Also → Vermont: A State of Natural Beauty