There are many
storage facilities in Alabama designed to keep out the elements while protecting your goods from the warm climate of this southern state.
Alabama is often called "The Heart of Dixie," because it is located in the middle of the southeastern part of America, which is often called "Dixieland." (The name "Dixie" originates from the $10 notes issued by the Citizens Bank of Louisiana. The notes included the word "Dix," which is French for "Ten.")
Alabama became a state in 1819, after it was settled by waves of Caucasian settlers in the wake of the removal of the populous Indian nations.
Origin of State's Name: The state of Alabama was named after the Alabama River that flows through it. The river was named by early European settlers. Many historians believe that the name derived from the Indian tribe that lived in the territory, which was spelled "Alibamu," "Alibamo" and even "Limamu."
Capital City: The capital of Alabama is Montgomery. Before it was settled by people of European descent, the area around present-day Montgomery was located in the heart of the territory controlled by the Creek nation. The first European to pass through the area was probably Hernando de Soto in 1540, but the first settlement wasn't built until 1717. It was built by French settlers, who named it Fort Toulouse. The French remained until 1763. They were succeeded by General (and soon-to-be President) Andrew Jackson, who forced the powerful Creek nation to surrender vast swaths of territory, thus paving the way for settlers to move to Alabama from the eastern seaboard.
Population: As of 2009, the US Census Bureau estimated that the population of Alabama had grown to slightly more than 4.7 million people - making Alabama a very popular
moving destination.
Driving: Information about driver's license applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can all be found on the
Alabama Department of Revenue's Motor Vehicle Division website.
Agriculture and Industry: Agriculture has historically been a vital part of the Alabama economy, so much so that one of Alabama's nicknames is "The Cotton State." Although cotton is still an important crop, its prominence has faded somewhat in comparison to other large crops such as peanuts, grains, corn, vegetables and sorghum. Poultry, eggs, beef and dairy products are also among the major exports from the state. Alabama also has a strong industrial base, and one of its fastest-growing sectors is the manufacture of automobiles. This is due to the "right-to-work" laws in Alabama, which discourage the strong labor unions that have historically been a hallmark of the auto industry.
State Bird: The Yellowhammer is Alabama's state bird. It is known for its striking yellow coloring, with black chevron markings on its breast.
State Tree: The Alabama state tree is the Southern Longleaf Pine, a stately conifer with foot-long, needle-shaped leaves.
State Flower: The state flower of Alabama is the Camelia, which has striking red blossoms that contrast with the plant's lovely green foliage.
State Song: "Alabama" is the title of the state's official song. Its lyrics were written by Julia Tutwiler, and the tune was written by Edna Gockel Gussen.