[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 124 (Wednesday, September 10, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1751]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ELSAH SESQUICENTENNIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 10, 2003

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the village of 
Elsah, Illinois and honor its sesquicentennial this year.
  Elsah was founded in 1853, and named by one of its founding fathers, 
General James Semple. General Semple's ancestors were from Scotland, 
and, according to town tradition, the village's prominent limestone 
bluffs reminded him of an island just off the Firth of Clyde, ``Ailsa 
Craig.'' Named after this Scottish island, the Mississippi River 
village slightly resembles a typical small, English town, with clusters 
of stone cottages mixed together with small yards and private gardens.
  Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, the 
village stands as a reminder of nineteenth century living along the 
Mississippi River. Its buildings represent a midwestern interpretation 
of nineteenth century styles, and many original buildings remain in 
place today. The newer buildings were built in the old styles as well, 
as the village wants to retain its historic feel.
  However, in 1993, Elsah was greatly affected by the floods on the 
Mississippi River. Some nearby cities decided to take state and Federal 
aid and leave their waterlogged homes and businesses behind, deciding 
to rebuild elsewhere. The people of Elsah, however, recognized their 
city's historic foundation, and rebuilt their town. Damaged public 
buildings were refurbished, and residents worked together to rebuild 
their homes and lives; and they did so, successfully.
  Elsah is quieter now than it was in the past, as mills, warehouses, 
river shipping, two railroads, local businesses, and farmers have 
gradually disappeared. But, the village remains strong. Inviting 
tourists to ``leave the fast pace of everyday life'' behind, Elsah 
represents a remnant of Midwestern, small-town life from the late 
1800s. Its sesquicentennial this year is a significant milestone, and I 
wish the village and its people the best.

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