[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 53 (Wednesday, April 25, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E626]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


A SPECIAL TRIBUTE ON THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF CENTRAL MUTUAL INSURANCE 
                                COMPANY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 25, 2001

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to 
recognize an institution in northwestern Ohio. Central Mutual Insurance 
Company has a history as great and rich as Ohio itself.
  The ``Van Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company'' was formed on 
April 5, 1876, the start of what was to become today's Central 
Insurance Companies. Twelve days later Central Mutual was incorporated 
and has been providing insurance for automobiles, homes, and businesses 
through independent agents in 15 states with regional offices in 
Atlanta, Boston, Dallas and Van Wert. Central Mutual's family is made 
up of Central Insurance Companies, the All-American Insurance Company, 
Central Insurex, and CMI Lloyds, located in Dallas, TX.
  Soon after its founding, Central Insurance began to operate through 
independent agents rather than having salesmen sell directly to the 
public, which was revolutionary at the time. The first agency to meet 
the call was the Purmort Brothers Insurance Agency, also in Van Wert, 
which has been continually representing Central Insurance for its 
entire 125 years. Quickly the Central Insurance Company began to grow 
and by 1883, they expanded their operations outside of their home 
state. Since then, they have spread across the country, opening offices 
while still retaining the important values that guided them to success 
in the late 1800's.
  In today's extremely competitive market, customer service is the key 
to success. Central Mutual epitomizes that commitment. An insurance 
policy is simply a promise to pay for covered losses that occur to a 
policyholder's assets. For the last 125 years, their primary commitment 
to policyholders has been to ensure that adequate funds are available 
to fulfill these promises.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize this company for all of its 
contributions to Ohio, including its Fire Museum, which preserves a 
vital piece of American history. In addition, I want to wish all of the 
Central Mutual Insurance Company family the best. You are an example 
for Ohio and the country.

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