California is well known as the Golden State of America where millions of gallons of wine are produced each year and where many celebrities call home. But here are a few little known facts about this fascinating state.
Land Area
California has a total area of over 160,000 miles squared, which makes this state the third largest, after Alaska and Texas. It is comparable in size to Germany.
Statehood
California became a state on 9th September 1850 as a free, non-slavery state. San Jose was the first capital of California. It was not until 1854 that Sacramento became the state capital.
58 counties
California is made up of 58 counties in total. Some of the lesser known counties include Almador, Colusa, El Dorado, Kern, Mendocino, Sutter, Trinity and Yuba Counties. At nearly three million acres, San Bernardino County is not only the largest county in California, but also in the whole of the country!
Struggle for a State Motto
The Greek word "Eureka" meaning, "I have found it" has appeared on the state seal since 1849 (a year before California became a state). In 1957, some tried to make "In God We Trust" the state motto of California. But this attempt proved unsuccessful. "Eureka" became the official state motto of California in 1963.
Alpine County
Out of all of California's 58 counties, Alpine county is the eighth smallest. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Alpine County has a total area of 743mi2. The county has no high school, ATM machines, dentists, banks. It does not even have any traffic lights!
Bald Eagles
Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge claims to have the largest winter population of bald eagles within the contiguous United States.
First Star on Walk of Fame
Hollywood actress Joanne Woodward was the first person to receive a star on the Walk of Fame in Hollywood. She received her star in 1960. The Three Faces Of Eve (1957) is one of Joanne Woodward's credits that won her a Best Actress Oscar.
Most Populated State
With over 36,000,000 residents, California is the country's most populated state. In fact, 1 out of every 8 US residents lives in California.
California is a state of great diversity and beauty. It is well worth a visit if you have never been.
