[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 101 (Friday, July 16, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1579]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   UNION CITY CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY AND DESIGNATION AS AN ALL-
                             AMERICAN CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FORTNEY PETE STARK

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 16, 1999

  Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, on July 31, 1999, Union City, California will 
celebrate its 40th Anniversary and its recent designation by the 
National Civic League as an All-American City, one of only ten in the 
United States for 1999. Although the City of Union City will be 
celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 1999, the year 1850 marks the date 
that settlers John and William Horner visited an oasis by the Bay and 
laid out a small settlement town eight square blocks which they called 
``Union City.'' It is said that the name originates from the Horners' 
Sacramento River steamer call ``The Union.''
  In the early 1850's, Union City had a total population of just three 
families. This is in stark contrast to the nearly 64,000 residents who 
inhabit the City today. Many of Union City's early settlers were 
disappointed gold miners who found that growing potatoes, fruits, and 
vegetables could also be quite profitable and rewarding. Most of the 
vegetables grown in California were shipped from Union City as this 
area was considered to be the most fertile agricultural land in the 
state.
  By 1852, Union City had developed into a town that had several 
hotels, numerous boarding houses, livery stables, general stores, a 
blacksmith shop, and a men's furnishing store among others. The coming 
years saw major industries start to settle in the area, such as Pacific 
Coast Sugar Company and Gold Medal Flower.
  Much of the area that is now Union City was spared with little damage 
during the earthquake of 1906. However, Union City faced a new 
challenge in the 1950's when several adjacent cities targeted Union 
City for possible annexation. To prevent this from happening, Union 
City residents decided to successfully incorporate the city in 1959.
  Present day Union City is known as the Gateway to the Silicon Valley. 
With a diverse population of almost every imaginable ethnicity, Union 
City exemplifies the true American spirit. Civic-minded communities 
continue to work tirelessly for safe neighborhoods, quality housing and 
exemplary schools.
  I am proud to represent Union City in my 13th Congressional District, 
and I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this outstanding 
city on its 40th birthday and designation as All-American City for 
1999.

                          ____________________