[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 83 (Thursday, June 20, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1116-E1117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CONGRATULATING THE BOROUGH OF OAKLAND ON ITS ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. MARGE ROUKEMA

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 20, 2002

  Mrs. ROUKEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Borough 
of Oakland on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. Oakland, New 
Jersey is a valley community nestled in the foothills of the Ramapo 
Mountains. It has become community known for its dedication to its 
people, programs, and the preservation of its history and natural 
resources. The warmth and intimacy of this small town make Oakland a 
true treasure in an industrial region. This weekend, the Borough of 
Oakland will begin their town-wide celebration of its 100th anniversary 
with a gala celebration, starting with a family picnic and concluding 
with a wonderful fireworks display at dusk. I am proud to recognize 
this wonderful event and community in Northern New Jersey.

[[Page E1117]]

  The area of land that is now Oakland was originally purchased by a 
Dutch Company in 1695, although settlers did not arrive in Oakland 
until a much later time. In 1710, there were only ten families. Much of 
this was due to the fact that the area was at least a day and a half 
journey on Native American paths from Hackensack, the closest town. 
During the 18th century, Oakland evolved into a serene farming and 
lumbering area with numerous mills on the Ramapo River and local 
streams.
  Today, the residents of Oakland number over 12,000, many of whom are 
lifelong residents of the once rural area. These residents take 
tremendous pride in the history of Oakland. The Historical Society has 
been active in preserving the Van Allen House, a place George 
Washington stayed in June 1777. With the restoration of the Van Allen 
Homestead, these residents are setting a wonderful example of local 
pride, and I commend them for their efforts.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 
Borough of Oakland on its 100th anniversary, and I congratulate the 
town on creating such a positive, welcoming community for its citizens.

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