Alabama is a state rich in unique “firsts” and cultural milestones. It is famously home to the world’s largest cast-iron statue, the birthplace of America’s original Mardi Gras, and the place where the country’s first emergency 911 call was made. Here are three fun facts about Alabama:The Rocket Capital of the World: Huntsville, Alabama, earned its famous nickname by developing the mighty Saturn V rocket at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. These monumental rockets were the ones that successfully launched astronauts to the moon during the Apollo missions. Pioneered 911 Services: The very first 911 call in the United States was made in Haleyville, Alabama, on February 16, 1968. Today, this historic red rotary phone is still on display at Haleyville’s City Hall. The First State to Declare Christmas a Holiday: In 1836, Alabama became the first state in the nation to officially recognize Christmas as a legal, state-sponsored holiday, long before it became a federal holiday.