[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 39 (Thursday, April 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E565-E566]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              RECOGNIZING BAY CITY UNIFICATION ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 6, 2005

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to rise before you today, and to 
ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to join me in celebrating the 
100th anniversary of the unification of Bay City, Michigan. This 
momentous occasion will be marked by a series of events to take place 
on Sunday, April 10, 2005.
  In 1857, a village, made up of land once used as a campground for the 
Chippewa Indians, was formed east of the Saginaw River. In 1865, this 
village, known as Bay City, was formally incorporated as a city. The 
years that followed saw other villages established in the area, 
including several to the west of the river. In 1877, three of these 
communities-Banks, Salzburg, and Wenona, consolidated and formed West 
Bay City. The two communities coexisted and thrived with separate 
mayors, city councils, police and fire departments, schools, public 
utilities, and city services, until a campaign to unite the two began, 
with the hopes that a larger city would increase revenue and promote 
expansion.
  After several consolidation referenda, as well as actions on the part 
of the Michigan

[[Page E566]]

Legislature, the concept of a united Bay City became reality on April 
10, 1905, when a common council, consisting of 34 aldermen from 17 
wards in the combined city convened and made history.
  Mr. Speaker, in the 100 years since the unification of Bay City and 
West Bay City, we have seen a town rise from a collection of small 
lumber villages to one of Michigan's largest and most vibrant cities. 
The shipyards and sawmills of the past have given way to worldwide 
corporations that create opportunities each day. Bay City's rich 
heritage is seen in its renowned architecture and diverse history. For 
generations, the kind hearts and friendly manner of the residents have 
made Bay City a warm welcoming community. They are the true nucleus of 
the city.
  I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Mr. Robert Belleman, 
City Manager, for his vision in recognizing the need to acknowledge 
this milestone in Bay City's history. I am proud to call him my 
colleague, my constituent, and my friend.
  Mr. Speaker, once again I ask my colleagues to join me in 
congratulating Bay City, Michigan on the 100th anniversary of its 
unification.

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