[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 87 (Friday, June 20, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1278]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          ORANGE, CONNECTICUT CELEBRATES ITS 175TH ANNIVERSARY

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                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 20, 1997

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, June 22, the town of Orange will 
hold a Jubilee Celebration to commemorate its 175th anniversary. I am 
proud to rise today to recognize the town of Orange and its people on 
this very special occasion.
  Orange has a long, rich history and its residents can look with pride 
on a community that has retained its traditional style and appeal. 
Incorporated in 1822, the town of Orange was originally composed of the 
parish of North Milford in Milford and the parish of West Haven in New 
Haven. Named for William, Prince of Orange, the community has a history 
which dates back to the early 1600's.
  Industry arrived in Orange in 1776 but, for the most part, the town 
remained a farming community. A great source of pride for all the 
residents of Orange, the Hine farm is the Nation's oldest business 
continuously operated by the same family. Founded in 1639 by Thomas 
Hine, the farm has been worked by 11 generations of the family. The 
farm serves as a reminder of Orange's past and is also an example of 
how the town of Orange will unite in support of members of the 
community. When the Hines lost their historic barn to fire last summer, 
the town rallied around the family. This is truly a heartwarming 
example of how a community can come together to help members who are 
trying to get back on their feet.
  Orange has a number of annual festivals and traditions which bring 
the community together. In addition to the yearly Memorial Day parade, 
there is a volunteer firemen's carnival which is not only popular with 
residents of Orange but also draws people from all over the region. In 
September, the town gathers to honor its agrarian past with the annual 
Orange Country Fair. The fair features traditional rural competitions 
and craft exhibitions. It is clear that the residents of Orange are 
very proud of the town's rich history.
  Perhaps the best indication of the community spirit in Orange is the 
number of families who have chosen to live there for generations. They 
form a close-knit, caring community of exceptional citizens with solid 
values.
  I am very pleased to recognize the town of Orange on its 175th 
anniversary. My very best wishes to all the residents as they celebrate 
this landmark occasion.

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