[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 94 (Wednesday, July 13, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8212-S8213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


.


              100TH ANNIVERSARY OF FORDVILLE, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a community 
in North Dakota that is celebrating its 100th anniversary. On July 1-3, 
2005, the residents of Fordville, ND, past and present, gathered to 
celebrate the community's centennial.
  Fordville is a city in the northeastern part of my great State with 
about 266 residents. Although its population is small, Fordville holds 
an important place in the history of North Dakota. Medford was founded 
in 1905 and was an important stop along the Soo Railroad line. Because 
of confusion caused as a result of other stations along the Soo line 
with the name Medford, it was decided to combine its name with the 
rural post office of

[[Page S8213]]

Belleville. The combination of Medford and Belleville resulted in the 
now familiar name of Fordville.
  The people of Fordville are proud of their local public schools and 
the railroad system, which helps to sustain the city. Additionally, the 
city has a strong farming co-operative system featuring a new grain 
elevator. Their lively centennial celebration included a parade, street 
dance, musicals and a fireworks display.
  I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Fordville, ND, and its 
residents on their first 100 years and in wishing them well through the 
next century. By honoring Fordville and all the other historic small 
towns of North Dakota, we keep the pioneering tradition alive for 
future generations. It is places such as Fordville that shaped this 
country into what it is today, which is why this fine community 
deserves our recognition.
  Fordville has a proud past and a bright future.

                          ____________________