[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 129 (Friday, October 4, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 3, 2002

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to today to recognize American 
Family Insurance, which was founded in Madison, Wisconsin 75 years ago 
today on October 3, 1927.
  American Family Insurance was originally founded as Farmers Mutual by 
Herman Wittwer. Its mission was to sell auto insurance to low-risk 
farmers. The first policyholder paid $15.22 for his annual premium, 
which was 25 percent less than the going rate. It did not take long for 
Farmers Mutual to become the fastest growing insurance company in 
Wisconsin. (As time went by, Farmers Mutual expanded its market and 
product line and changed its name to American Family Insurance.)
  Today, American Family is Madison's largest private employer and 
largest company as measured by annual revenue. It provides jobs to 
3,500 employees in Madison and 7,500 employees across 17 states. 
American Family Insurance is the tenth largest property/casualty 
insurance company in nation and the fourth largest mutual insurance 
company. At the ranking of 337, it is Dane County's only listing on the 
Fortune 500.
  I am proud that through all of American Family's growth and 
expansion, the company has remained true to its Madison and Wisconsin 
roots. The company has shown its commitment to the area through its 
community giving and involvement. American Family donates more than $1 
million annually to groups and organizations that help enhance quality 
of life and provide opportunities for everyone in our communities.
  Congratulations on 75 great years.

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