[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 125 (Thursday, September 18, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1798]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF INCORPORATION OF THE CITY OF GONZALES, CA

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 1997

  Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
city of Gonzales, CA, on the 50th anniversary of its incorporation. The 
residents of Gonzales have long been active in the development of the 
community and the Nation.
  In 1874, Mariano and Alfredo Gonzales laid out a town of 50 blocks 
surrounding a recently erected railroad depot on property deeded by 
Mexico to their father. From this early date, Gonzales established 
itself as a friendly town where a stranger could easily be persuaded to 
stay a few extra days and enjoy the smalltown charm.
  Within 20 years, the population of Gonzales had reached 500 residents 
of diverse ethnic backgrounds and heritage. A number of Swiss 
immigrants established a soon to-be-thriving dairy industry. Soon 
thereafter, a local resident discovered the process for producing 
condensed milk. Following this historic discovery, the Alpine Condesary 
opened in Gonzales and began producing the world's first condensed 
milk.
  Over the years, agriculture replaced dairy as the region's most 
important industry and Gonzales, located in the Salinas Valley, became 
known as one of the most fertile regions in the country.
  I am honored to have the privilege of introducing a resolution to 
recognize the historical contributions of the residents of Gonzales, 
CA. Since its establishment, Gonzales has maintained the smalltown 
charm that people the world over envy.

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