[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 62 (Tuesday, April 4, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E771]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


             SCHOHARIE COUNTY, NY, CELEBRATES BICENTENNIAL

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                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 4, 1995
  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I have always been proud of the heritage 
and physical beauty of the 22d Congressional District of New York which 
I have the privilege of representing. It is for this reason, to savor 
the history and character of the picturesque towns and counties, that I 
return home every weekend.
  We often forget, Mr. Speaker, that the real America is not 
Washington, but the small towns and villages where real people live and 
work. I would like to talk about a collection of such towns today.
  On Saturday June 3d, Schoharie County, NY will celebrate its 200th 
anniversary. This county was formed by the New York State Legislature 
from parts of Albany and Tryon Counties in 1795. However, its history 
began long before this official action. The area was settled by German 
explorers in 1712 when they arrived from the lower Hudson Valley. This 
frontier region prospered with its rich farmlands, rolling countryside, 
and quiet streams. In fact, this county adopted the Indian name for the 
river which ran through the valley, Schoharie.
  With its splendid forests and fertile river bed, the Schoharie Valley 
was an agricultural hotbed for many years. However, the county has 
changed since those days, like just about everything else in America. 
Now, Schoharie County employs only 5 percent of its population in 
agricultural and forest work. Still, it has retained its small town 
character and charm and the Schoharie Valley remains one of the most 
scenic regions in New York State.
  One thing that thankfully hasn't changed, Mr. Speaker, is the pride 
and values of the citizenry. On June 3d, residents of Schoharie County 
will take part in day-long festivities commemorating their heritage. 
There will be tours of the various historical sites which mark the 
region as well as parades and plenty of small town camaraderie. I 
commend the people here for their commitment to their region and the 
Schoharie County Bicentennial Committee for their hard work in 
organizing this event.
  Today, Mr. Speaker, I ask all Members to join me in an anniversary 
tribute to Schoharie County, a great place to live.


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