[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 THE FOUNDING OF PLANKINTON, SOUTH DAKOTA

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the 125th 
anniversary of the founding of the city of Plankinton, SD. As the 
county seat of Aurora County, this progressive community has been a 
center of commercial and civic activity since its inception.
  This vibrant community was laid out by General Lawler of the 
Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway Company, after he purchased the land 
from the founding settler, Ira Wooden. The town was named ``Merrill'' 
initially but was later changed to Plankinton after a wealthy Milwaukee 
meat packer. The original town plat was eight blocks north of the 
railway and three to the south. In August of 1880, the first building 
was erected: a one-story frame building about 12 feet by 20 feet in 
size, which became a saloon. A post office and bank were constructed 
shortly thereafter.
  Now Plankinton is home to three churches; a thriving business 
community, including the South Dakota Mail weekly newspaper; and 
excellent hunting and fishing. The new high school building is a point 
of regional pride, having been built following a tragic fire at the 
former building. Home to the South Dakota State Training School for 
many years, that campus awaits possible redevelopment.
  I am pleased to announce that Plankinton will be celebrating its 
125th anniversary with a community celebration on June 23 to June 25. 
There are numerous events scheduled including a golf tournament, time 
capsule opening, demolition derby, and a parade. This celebration is a 
fitting way to recognize Plankinton's long and productive history.
  Even 125 years after its founding, Plankinton continues to be a vital 
community and a great asset to the wonderful State of South Dakota. I 
am proud to publicly honor Plankinton on this memorable 
occasion.

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