[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 128 (Wednesday, July 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1609]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE CITY OF ELKHART ON ITS 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE DONNELLY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the City of 
Elkhart, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary.
   The Second District of Indiana is proud to have cities like Elkhart 
with its Hoosier values and entrepreneurial spirit. From RVs to musical 
instruments, Elkhart manufactures goods that reach across the country. 
This entrepreneurial spirit started early and helped Elkhart become the 
strong city it is today, a city of 52,000 residents that has been named 
as one of the nation's most livable.
   Founded in 1831 by Dr. Havilah Beardsley, the city was incorporated 
in 1858. It grew quickly and created the first hydroelectric dam on the 
St. Joseph River; a dam still in use today. Elkhart was also the second 
city in the world to use an electric streetcar system. However, today 
Elkhart is probably best known for being the largest producer of 
recreational vehicles, earning it the nickname ``RV Capital of the 
World.''
   Elkhart has a rich cultural life as well. The Elkhart Jazz Festival 
is considered one of America's premiere jazz festivals. Several museums 
and theaters also contribute to the Elkhart community. And Elkhart is 
planning ahead in order to maintain its vibrancy. It is building a wi-
fi system that will be accessible to people along River Way.
   I am proud today to pay tribute to the City of Elkhart, Indiana and 
its residents for 150 years of impressive history and wish them an 
equally prosperous future.

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