[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 105 (Monday, June 26, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1326]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INCORPORATION OF CLEMENTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT E. ANDREWS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 26, 1995

  Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a significant 
milestone of an outstanding community, the borough of Clementon. On 
February 13, 1925, the New Jersey State Legislature enacted legislation 
incorporating the borough of Clementon in the county of Camden. This 
year the borough recognizes its 70th anniversary. In this year of 
celebration, I commend the ``Village of People'' for its resilience and 
diversity.
  Timber Creek has been central to the history of Clementon. It is the 
creek that drew the Armewamex Indians to this area as a campground in 
the times prior to the settlement of Europeans. In the prerevolutionary 
war days of the early 18th century, Clementon was the site chosen by 
Andrew Newman to dam Timber Creek to harness power for Newman's Mills 
in 1735. This dam formed the body of water now known as Clementon Lake.
  The Industrial Revolution, at the beginning of the 19th century, 
brought Samuel Clement from Haddonfield to the settlement. Mr. Clement 
purchased the mill properties along with the surrounding properties, 
including a glass works, the third such facility in New Jersey. During 
the mid and late 19th century Clementon grew rapidly due to the influx 
of hundreds of new families which participated in the mills, 
glassworks, and farming of the area. During this time of growth Walt 
Whitman was a frequent visitor to the Grist Mill and Indian Spring.
  By the beginning of the 20th century Clementon Township was the home 
of a new railroad line, several taverns, and an amusement park, 
Clementon Lake Park, which was serviced by a trolly that brought 
visitors from Philadelphia and Camden. Clementon Park was one of the 
largest and most modern facilities in the country at the time. Many of 
our grandmothers and grandfathers met at this park.
  The borough of Clementon became independent in 1925 and experienced 
another growth boom at the end of World War II. Many veterans settled 
in the area choosing to locate their families in the smaller community 
of Clementon and utilize the excellent transportation system to travel 
to work in Philadelphia or Camden.
  I am honored to represent the proud working tradition that is 
Clementon. Today, the diversity and strength of the town is evident in 
the close-knit business community, strong religious community, 
excellent schools and active civic organizations of Clementon. On its 
70th anniversary Clementon is a town which embraces the gifts of young 
and old. The town continues to benefit from an entertainment economy: 
The Clementon Water Amusement Park is now a primary summer activity for 
residents and visitors alike. Clementon Towers, a senior citizens 
residence, is a local landmark and center of history and civic 
involvement within the town.
  In this anniversary year, I commend the town and people of Clementon 
for their progress and accomplishments. With continued civic 
involvement by all residents, Clementon will continue to grow and 
thrive. I would also like to recognize John H. Fisher, Jr., a Clementon 
resident and historian whose extensive work on the history of Clementon 
I have relied upon heavily for these remarks. Happy anniversary.

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