[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 115 (Tuesday, August 16, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: August 16, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
         VILLAGE OF RED HOOK, NY, CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______


                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 16, 1994

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, the village of Red Hook will celebrate its 
100th year of incorporation on August 20.
  A promotional pamphlet written in 1894 described the area as ``a land 
of plenty this, where health and good living reign,'' and where ``the 
air is light, clear, and invigorating.''
  Mr. Speaker, that still describes Red Hook, one of the most 
delightful, picturesque, and historically rich communities in mine or 
any other district in the country.
  Nestled along the Hudson River in the northeast corner of Dutchess 
County, Red Hook is a village filled with quaint houses and historic 
churches. It's a virtual museum of American architecture.
  And though we may have come a long way from the days when a week at 
the Red Hook Hotel cost as little as $6, Red Hook has retained its 
small-town look and the small-town virtues which have made America 
great. Despite its small-town character and despite its quiet country 
charm, Red Hook still has access to every conceivable convenience.
  On July 17, 1894, an election was held to determine whether Red Hook 
was to be incorporated as a village. Of the 195 votes cast, 138 voted 
for incorporation, 56 against, with 1 blank. On August 21, the same 
voters returned to the polls to elect a president, two trustees, a 
treasurer, and a collector. Two days later, the village board met for 
the first time and elected a clerk.
  The first village president was Dr. Harris L. Cookingham. The title 
of president was changed to major in 1928.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in wishing the village of 
Red Hook and all its residents all the best as it begins its second 
century.

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