1. In 1905, Birmingham, Alabama became the first Southern city to have a public golf course, Highland Park Golf Course. It was designed by renowned golf course architect, John Van Kleek.

2. On August 12, 1939, the Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Alabama was established. It is home to one of the most complete archaeological records in the Southeast, spanning over 10,000 years of human history.

3. In 1961, Alabama Governor George Wallace called for "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever" in his inaugural address. This infamous speech solidified his reputation as a staunch segregationist and leader of the states' rights movement.

4. On August 12, 1985, actor and comedian Jim Nabors was granted his wish to become an official resident of Alabama when then-Governor George C. Wallace issued him an honorary certificate of citizenship.

5. The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama opened its doors to the public on August 12, 2003. It houses the world's largest collection of vintage and contemporary motorcycles, with over 1,400 examples on display.