[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 137 (Friday, October 12, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN RECOGNITION OF THE COUNTY OF OCONTO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK GREEN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 12, 2001

  Mr. GREEN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and honor 
Wisconsin's Oconto county one of the most naturally beautiful areas of 
our country. On November 4, the county will celebrate its 150th 
anniversary.
  Oconto has a rich history of Menominee Indian, French and English 
settlers. The industry of Oconto through its early history changed from 
fur trading to lumber. In 1848, Wisconsin gained statehood, putting 
Oconto one step closer to formation. In 1850, census data showed that 
the region of Oconto held 415 residents. On November 4, 1851 the first 
election was held to found Oconto County, establishing the county seat 
in the small mill settlement of Oconto.
  In the twentieth century, lumber companies were the largest 
businesses in the region producing more than 60 million board feet of 
lumber per year. This lumbering tradition exemplifies the hard working 
drive and dedication of the people of Oconto.
  Through the years Oconto's business and commerce has increased due to 
the ingenuity and productivity of its citizens. From Oconto to 
Townsend, Lena to Lakewood, Gillett to Mountain and everywhere in 
between, we see those characteristics manifesting themselves in the 
people and progress in Oconto County. Today, educators, doctors, 
business owners, loggers, and state employees all make up a strong and 
vibrant Wisconsin community called Oconto.
  On this sesquicentennial of the inception of Oconto County, I offer 
my congratulations to the county and its residents. Oconto is a true 
representation of our Wisconsin spirit and values in industry, 
business, and its people.

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