Happy Birthday Arizona!

Arizona became the 48th state and last of the contiguous states on February 14, 1912. Today, we celebrate our 99th birthday and kickoff our centennial celebration in preparation of our 100th year!

If you’re a native, a transplant, a snowbird, or just curious here are a few fun facts about the history and culture of Arizona.

1. Arizona’s disparate climate can yield both the highest temperature across the nation and the lowest temperature across the nation in the same day.
2. Arizona has the largest contiguous stand of ponderosa pines in the world stretching from near Flagstaff along the Mogollon Rim to the White Mountains region.
3. Yuma, Arizona is the country’s highest producer of winter vegetables, especially lettuce.
4. The “Five C’s” of Arizona’s economy are: Cattle, Copper, Citrus, Cotton, and Climate.
5. The world’s largest solar telescope is located at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Sells, Arizona.
6. Arizona grows enough cotton each year to make more than one pair of jeans for every person in the United States.
7. Mount Lemmon, in the Santa Catalina Mountains, is the southernmost ski resort in the United States.
8. The only place in the country where mail is delivered by mule is the village of Supai, located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
9. A saguaro cactus can store up to nine tons of water.
10. Jerome, Arizona was named for Eugene Jerome of New York City, who never visited the town.

For more information about Arizona, the centennial celebration or other events throughout 2011, visit 100 Arizona.