[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 151 (Monday, November 3, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S11611]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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         TRIBUTE TO HAMPTON FALLS, NH, ON ITS 275TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President I rise today to 
honor the town of Hampton Falls, NH, for celebrating its 275th 
anniversary on November 22, 1997. The town is planning an evening of 
celebration, commemoration, and entertainment on this most important 
date. There will be a dinner party, a musical presentation by the 
Winnacunnet High School Chamber Singers, and a historical slide show 
dedicated to 275 years of history and heritage. This special night is 
certain to include full participation from the town's proud people.
  Originally, Hampton Falls was part of the town of Hampton. However, 
due to its seacoast location, high tides often prevented those living 
in the area from attending the church. In 1709 the General Assembly of 
Portsmouth acted on this problem and gave the residents permission to 
maintain a separate church. Nine years later Hampton Falls became a 
separate parish. That same year the first town meeting was held in 
which selectmen and a town clerk were elected.
  Hampton Falls, however, still remained a part of Hampton. The 
townspeople successfully petitioned for independence from their parent 
church after the death of the minister from that town. On November 22, 
1722, the town was incorporated as an independent jurisdiction.
  Hampton Falls can be categorized as the quintessential New England 
town through its history and scenery. During the eighteenth century the 
local economy was dominated by mills; sawmills, gristmills, and cotton 
mills dotted the landscape and provided for a major source of 
employment. Also, the town served as an important post town where horse 
changes were frequently made. At times, up to 125 horses could be found 
stabled within this small vicinity. One of the most significant stables 
in the area was the Wells Inn, which could accommodate 40 horses. 
Today, the stage house is known as the Wellswood Inn, and provides fine 
food and atmosphere to patrons. On December 13, 1774 Paul Revere passed 
through Hampton Falls on his legendary ride from Boston to Portsmouth 
proclaiming the arrival of the British. Few towns can claim a more 
American existence. Hampton Falls, with its simple white churches and 
colonial buildings, provides for a prime example of American history 
and culture.
  Today, Hampton Falls is a thriving southern New Hampshire community 
of approximately 1,700 people. The town is unmistakably New England. 
Winding country roads bring one past many sprawling farms and picture-
perfect farmhouses. Presently, the town's central industry is 
agriculture. A major area business is Applecrest Farms, one of the last 
working orchards on the seacoast. Applecrest celebrates the harvest 
season with pick-your-own apples, a country farmers market, and 
entertainment. Harvest season is a festive time in Hampton Falls, and 
it seems fitting that the town's anniversary would be during this 
period.
  I congratulate the residents of this beautiful town on 275 years of 
distinguished history, and wish to extend my very best wishes of 
continued prosperity. Happy birthday, Hampton Falls.

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