[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S6279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              125TH ANNIVERSARY OF HARTFORD, SOUTH DAKOTA

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the 125th 
anniversary of the founding of the town of Hartford, SD. Home to over 
2,000 residents, Hartford is a vibrant and flourishing town.
  The area was originally known as Oaksville, after an early settler, 
I.E. Oakes. However, in 1879, the Oaksville train depot was renamed 
``Hartford'' by two travelers from Hartford, CT. The settlement took 
shape in 1881, when a post office was established. Stores, hotels, 
grain warehouses, and other businesses soon followed. In 1896, the 
citizens of Hartford petitioned the county commissioners to hold an 
election to incorporate the area as the ``Town of Hartford.'' After 
holding an election, the town was divided into three districts and 
trustees were elected.
  Hartford's city motto, ``Hartford on the Right Road,'' captures the 
progressive nature of the community. The city is located just west of 
Sioux Falls, in Minnehaha County, and has a volunteer fire department, 
law enforcement, churches, and many civic organizations. In addition to 
the many businesses already located in Hartford, the Hartford Area 
Development Corporation is working to bring even more commerce and 
industry to the area. The community is served by the Hartford Area News 
weekly newspaper. In downtown Hartford, the Hartford Area Veterans 
Memorial honors all the men and women of Hartford who have served our 
country in a war.
  Hartford celebrated its 125th anniversary with a Quasquicentennial 
Jamboree Celebration from June 1 to June 4. There were carnivals, 
parades, softball tournaments, golf tournaments, and even paintball and 
XBOX tournaments. The celebration reflected the enthusiasm the 
residents of Hartford have toward commemorating the history of their 
wonderful community.
  More than a century after its founding, Hartford continues to be a 
great asset to South Dakota. I am proud to honor the achievements of 
Hartford on this memorable occasion.

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