[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 86 (Thursday, June 19, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1271]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  THE NATIONAL RAILROAD HALL OF FAME--HONORING THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO 
                           BUILT THE RAILROAD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LANE EVANS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 19, 1997

  Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the history and 
tradition of the Railroad Industry in America. On June 27 and 28, 
millions of Americans across the country will celebrate Railroad Day by 
recognizing the American Railroad Industry and its rich history in this 
country.
  Today, I recognize the memory of the men and women who actively 
participated in the founding and development of the railroad industry--
surveyors, mechanics, engineers, teachers, railroad leaders, miners, 
financiers, inventors, and government leaders. The railroad industry 
has had a tremendous influence on American society, impacting the 
economy, science and technology, national defense, and most important, 
the transportation of our Nation's citizens.
  In order to preserve the memory of the efforts of these people, the 
community of Galesburg, Illinois is erecting a monument dedicated to 
the accomplishments and contribution of the railroad industry. I have 
introduced legislation, H. Res. 172 to express the support of this 
House for this important endeavor. The establishment of a National 
Railroad Hall of Fame in Galesburg, IL, is a fitting and just reward to 
a community that has made significant contributions to the railroad 
industry.
  The National Railroad Hall of Fame will be a privately funded museum 
and research facility dedicated to promote and encourage a better 
understanding of the origins and growth of the railroad industry. It 
will recognize the contributions of the men and women who actively 
participated in the founding and development of the American railroads. 
A library and collection of materials that document and preserves the 
accomplishments and contributions of the railroad industry will also be 
housed at the proposed facility.
  Please join me in recognizing the great value of the railroad 
industry and its workers have to this country. Please help me celebrate 
Railroad Days and the importance of the people who built the industry 
by cosponsoring H. Res. 172, the National Railroad Hall of Fame.

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