[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 108 (Monday, July 9, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S8793]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               125TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARTHUR, NORTH DAKOTA

 Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, today I recognize a community in 
North Dakota that will be celebrating its 125th anniversary. On July 13 
to 15, the residents of Arthur will gather to celebrate their 
community's history and founding.
  Arthur is a small town in eastern North Dakota with a population of 
402. Despite its small size, Arthur holds an important place in North 
Dakota's history. Originally named Rosedale, the settlement was renamed 
Arthur in 1881 in honor of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of 
the United States. The post office was established in 1881, as was the 
lumber yard and the first general store, the Hall-Larson Store. Arthur 
was incorporated as a village in 1921.
  Today, the economy of Arthur is largely based on agriculture. The 
Arthur Mercantile, the First State Bank, and the Arthur Companies are 
family businesses that have been present in the community for over 100 
years. This is a remarkable feat for such a small town. The town is 
also home to the Arthur Center, a notable good samaritan center, which 
will celebrate its 80th anniversary this summer, and two churches.
  Arthur's motto ``small town, big heart'' truly captures the essence 
of the town and its residents. The people of Arthur enjoy socializing, 
attending sporting events, and working together for the betterment of 
the community. The town has an exciting celebration planned that 
includes an all-school reunion, a parade, a fireman's rodeo, street 
dance, community worship, and much more.
  Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Arthur, 
ND, and its residents on their first 125 years and in wishing them well 
in the future. By honoring Arthur and all the other historic small 
towns of North Dakota, we keep the great pioneering frontier spirit 
alive for future generations. It is places such as Arthur that have 
helped to shape this country into what it is today, which is why this 
fine community is deserving of our recognition.
  Arthur has a proud past and a bright future.

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