[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 148 (Tuesday, October 21, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2110]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING RUTHERFORD COUNTY'S BICENTENNIAL

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                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 21, 2003

  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 200th birthday 
of Rutherford County, Tennessee. Rutherford County is located in the 
heart of Middle Tennessee, and I am proud to call this beautiful county 
my home.
  The people of Rutherford County are truly blessed to live in a region 
with such rich history and such a promising future. Murfreesboro, now 
the county seat, served as the capital of Tennessee from 1819 to 1826. 
Nearly 40 years later, Union and Confederate soldiers fought and died 
on the county's soil during the Civil War. Stones River National 
Battlefield is a solemn memorial to those who lost their lives during 
the battle.
  Today, residents and visitors can catch a glimpse of the county's 
promising future by looking to the county's successful industrial 
areas, quality schools and beautiful parks.
  It is easy to see why Rutherford County is the fastest growing county 
in the state and one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. The 
warmth of its residents and beauty of its landscapes will continue to 
attract new members to the community. And those new residents will have 
the opportunity to visit numerous historic sites, purchase a variety of 
quality goods manufactured in the county, and enjoy leisurely drives 
through the scenic countryside.
  The residents of Rutherford County have much to be proud of. I 
congratulate the county on its success, and I am sure the next 200 
years will be just as steeped in friendship and tradition as the first 
200 years.

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