[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S11733]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               125TH ANNIVERSARY OF MANDAN, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I am pleased to recognize a 
community in North Dakota that celebrated its 125th anniversary earlier 
this year. On February 25, 2006, the residents of Mandan kicked off a 
yearlong celebration of their community's history and founding.
  Mandan is a vibrant community in west-central North Dakota, located 
along the bank of the great Missouri River in Morton County. With 
historic roots dating back to 1100 A.D., when the first Native American 
settlers arrived, Mandan is rich with history. The city of Mandan was 
incorporated on February 25, 1881, and named for the Mantani Indians, 
or ``people of the bank.'' With the development of the railroads and 
the close proximity to the Missouri river, Mandan flourished and became 
known as ``Where the West begins.''
  Today, with a population of more than 16,000, Mandan remains tied to 
the railroad, housing a major rail equipment maintenance facility. It 
is also home to the Hebron Brick factory, which is not only the sole 
surviving brick factory in the State, but is also the oldest 
manufacturing company of any kind in the entire State of North Dakota. 
Mandan is known not only for its historical roots, but also for its 
beautiful scenery. Mandan has become a magnet for hunters, fishermen, 
and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Mandan is also home to Fort 
Lincoln which once served as an important infantry and cavalry post. It 
is from Fort Lincoln that Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer rode out on 
his ill-fated expedition against the Sioux at the Little Big Horn. Fort 
Lincoln is also home to the On-A-Slant Mandan village which has been 
located there for more than 400 years.
  To celebrate the 125th anniversary of its founding, Mandan residents 
have planned a full year's worth of events, which included a kick off 
party that featured local artists, a kids' carnival and a music 
performance that represented all 125 years worth of local music.
  Mr. President, I ask the U.S. Senate to join me in congratulating 
Mandan, ND, and its residents on the first 125 years and in wishing 
them well through the next century. By honoring Mandan and all the 
other historic towns of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering 
frontier spirit alive for future generations. It is places such as 
Mandan that have helped to shape this country into what it is today, 
which is why this fine community is deserving of our recognition.
  Mandan has a proud past and bright future.

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