[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 37 (Friday, March 27, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                250TH BIRTHDAY OF READING, PENNSYLVANIA

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                            HON. TIM HOLDEN

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 27, 1998

  Mr. HOLDEN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to ask my colleagues to join me 
in celebrating the 250th birthday of the largest and oldest city in my 
district, Reading, Pennsylvania.
  Reading was founded by Thomas and Richard Penn, sons of William Penn, 
on March 30, 1748. The city was named for Reading, England, William 
Penn's ancestral home. The establishment of Reading was imminent 
because a number of Indian paths and primitive roads converged at the 
site along the Schuylkill River, which was a successful transportation 
corridor to Philadelphia.
  During the late 18th Century, Reading was an important center for 
business, culture and military affairs. On July 8, 1776, Sheriff Henry 
Vanderslice read the Declaration of Independence from the Court House 
steps; and in the 1790s, President George Washington visited the city 
several times.
  The railroads, iron industries, and textile mills provided a variety 
of employment opportunities to support the many workers who settled in 
Reading. The city grew quickly, from 3,000 in 1800 to 80,000 in 1900, 
and became a leading city of Pennsylvania.
  Highlighted by a rich cultural and historical heritage, Reading is a 
unique city, which I take great pride in representing. In three days, 
Reading will celebrate its 250th birthday, a 5 x 10-foot Birthday card, 
signed by all the Members of Congress, will be on display.
  Currently, the Card is on display in the Speakers' Lobby. I would 
greatly appreciate it if you would take a minute to stop by and sign 
this special card. It is not every day that a city turns 250 years old, 
and I hope you will take time to be part of this special recognition. 
Thank you!

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