The state of Alabama is in the midst of a three-year ceremony marking its 200th birthday, but the city of Selma is about to turn 200 as well, and local officials are doing their part to recognize both milestones.

The history buffs out there probably already know, but many others may not remember that Alabama became a territory in 1817 and officially became the nation’s 22nd state in 1819. Over the next three years, the state is recognizing the people, places and events from Alabama’s history.

Selma was founded in 1820, so our city’s 200th birthday is only three years away too. Because of that, Landon Nichols, a member of the Selma-Dallas County Celebration Committee, is already working toward both celebrations.

A local kickoff for both ceremonies will be held March 28 at Old Cahawba at the Crocheron Columns. Old Cahawba, the state’s first capital, seems like the perfect place to hold the start of the ceremony.

The statewide celebration started March 3 and will continue until Dec. 14, 2019. For more events statewide or more information on the 200th birthday, visit www.alabama200.org.