[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 81 (Monday, June 14, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1102-E1103]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    AMADOR COUNTY 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DOUG OSE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 14, 2004

  Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commemorate the 
150th birthday of Amador County. June 14, 2004 marks the 
Sesquicentennial Anniversary of the incorporation of a county rich in 
history and culture.
  This land named Amador was once home to Miwuk and possibly other 
Native American tribes. In time, non-Indian trappers and explorers 
traversed this land, ushering in a new era. As early as 1843, hired 
hands for John Sutter worked the land then known as Pine Woods, to 
manufacture items needed at Sutter's Fort. Later, families of the hired 
hands came to settle. After gold was discovered in January 1848, the 
area was flooded with gold seekers.

[[Page E1103]]

Many small mining settlements sprung up along the area's streams and 
became the foundation of today's historic towns.
  Resting firmly in the middle of two different jurisdictions, the 
communities of Amador were divided between Calaveras County and El 
Dorado County. Citizens became dissatisfied with the lack of a true 
identity, and organized a community to be separate and independent from 
both counties. Thus, just four short years after California officially 
became a state, electors voted to form the County of Amador.
  The County has grown to include over 18 cities and communities, yet 
still maintains it's small-town atmosphere. Boasting of areas known as 
California's Hidden Nugget and The Heart of the Mother Lode, Amador 
County has been diligent to preserve the past, enrich the present and 
build towards the Future.
  I am honored to commemorate this epic year in the history of the 
County. This Sesquicentennial Anniversary marks 150 years of pioneering 
a quality environment for generations of citizens. Please join me in 
celebrating the Sesquicentennial Anniversary of Amador County.

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