[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S6277]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF MOUNT VERNON, SOUTH DAKOTA

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the 
125th anniversary of the founding of Mount Vernon, SD.
  Mount Vernon, originally named ``Arlandton,'' is thought to be named 
by a Virginian or someone who had wanted to pay tribute to George 
Washington's estate. The town plat was recorded in 1882 around the same 
time period that John Pease established the Mount Vernon Gazette. 
Closely following this, a hardware store, livery stable, lumber yard, 
drug store, cigar manufactory, hotel, and various other firms were 
established. Mount Vernon's survival, like many South Dakota 
communities, was largely dependent on the newly constructed railroad.
  The community endured a fair share of hardship during the early 
years. In 1888, a ferocious blizzard caused conditions so intense that 
people froze to death just a few feet from shelter. Then in 1889, a 
fire burned down 53 buildings in the fledgling town and caused damage 
to many more. However, the community spirit was resilient, and the 
residents rebuilt.
  Mount Vernon currently holds an estimated population of 477 citizens. 
It is still home to many thriving businesses, as well as the high 
school's Mount Vernon Mustangs.
  I am pleased to announce that Mount Vernon celebrated its 125th 
anniversary with a community celebration on June 16 to 18. There were 
numerous events scheduled, including a petting zoo, tractor show, golf 
tournament, and parade. This celebration was a fitting way to recognize 
Mount Vernon's long and productive history.
  Even 125 years after its founding, Mount Vernon continues to be a 
vital community and a great asset to South Dakota. I am proud to 
publicly honor Mount Vernon on this memorable occasion.

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