[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 82 (Monday, June 20, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S6815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                100TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALSEN, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a community 
in North Dakota that is celebrating its 100th anniversary. On July 2, 
2005, the residents of Alsen, ND, will celebrate their community's 
history and founding.
  Alsen is a small town in the northeastern part of North Dakota with a 
population of 68. Despite its size, Alsen holds an important place in 
North Dakota's history. In August 1905, this Soo Line Railroad townsite 
was founded. Originally named Storlie when it was established on April 
6, 1899, the township was named after Halvor Storlie, who was the 
county clerk and postmaster. On August 31, 1905, officials of the Tri-
State Land Co. plotted a town site in another area of Storlie Township, 
and named it Alsen for the local settlers, who had come from Alsen 
Island off of the coast of Denmark. The village of Alsen was 
incorporated in 1920 and reached its peak population of 358 in 1930.
  Alsen's citizens are very proud of the Alsen Farmers' Elevator, the 
Swiss Mennonite Church, and the Alsen Post Office.
  Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Alsen, 
ND, and its residents on their first 100 years and in wishing them well 
through the next century. By honoring Alsen and all the other historic 
small towns of North Dakota, we keep the great tradition of the 
pioneering frontier spirit alive for future generations. It is places 
such as Alsen that have helped to shape this country into what it is 
today, which is why Alsen is deserving of our recognition.
  Alsen has a proud past and a bright future.

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