[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 120 (Wednesday, September 29, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE TOWN OF RICO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the 125th 
anniversary of the incorporation of the Town of Rico, Colorado. This 
year marks the celebration of its Quasquicentennial, a rare and 
distinguished achievement. The story of Rico is one of a successful, 
booming mining town that thrived around the Rio Grande Southern 
Railroad route. As the town's residents celebrate their one hundred and 
twenty-fifth year anniversary, I would like to join my colleagues here 
today, before this body of Congress and this nation, in recognizing 
this impressive milestone.
  Rico is Spanish for ``rich'', and the rich culture and history of 
Rico is one of its greatest charms. The wealth of Rico derives from its 
long history of mining. Trappers first came to the valley in 1832 to 
catch beaver and other fur bearing animals. Gold was discovered in 1866 
by a Texan named Colonel Nash and fellow prospectors Sheldon Shafer and 
Joseph Fearheiler of Montana.
  Rico reached its apex in 1892 with a population of five thousand, 
supporting several saloons, a few churches, a couple of newspapers, a 
theater and the Rico State Bank. In 1893, there was a silver panic that 
left only 811 people in Rico, but the town recovered and the mining 
industry rebounded in 1926. From 1953 to 1971, the mining industry then 
shifted its focus from silver to lead and zinc ore. Today Rico is 
unparalleled in its beautiful mountain scenery and outdoor recreation 
opportunities that include both fishing and hunting.
  Mr. Speaker, after one hundred and twenty-five years, Rico, Colorado 
continues to experience success as a tight-knit community. The social 
institutions and economic infrastructure account for the town's 
longevity. Our nation was built upon the strong foundation of small 
communities like Rico. I congratulate the town of Rico, Colorado for 
this important anniversary and wish the community the best in the 
future.

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