[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 87 (Thursday, June 11, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1375]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TO HONOR THE 350TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INCORPORATION OF THE CITY OF 
                          NORWICH, CONNECTICUT

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                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 11, 2009

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 350th 
anniversary of the incorporation of the city of Norwich, Connecticut. 
Founded in 1659 and known as the ``Rose of Connecticut,'' Norwich will 
be celebrating its 350th birthday and rich history throughout the month 
of June.
  During the American Revolution, Norwich supported the cause for 
independence by supplying soldiers, ships, and munitions. One of the 
most infamous figures of the Revolution, Benedict Arnold, was born in 
Norwich. Other well-known Colonial era individuals include Samuel 
Huntington, Christopher Leffingwell, and Daniel Lathrop. Today, Norwich 
is a thriving city and a center of commerce and manufacturing, with a 
wide range of municipal services, a modern industrial park, and a 
positive outlook for residential and business growth.
  As part of the celebration, the city will be presenting several 
events with participants from across the globe. The city green will 
host various reenactments of history with period uniforms and equipment 
as they demonstrate lifestyles of days past. There will be historic 
talks, as well as tours of historical and present-day landmarks, 
historic homes, factories, gardens, places of worship, and other areas 
of preservation. Norwich will offer ``museum days'' with free access to 
all of the city museums, and will also sponsor a time capsule to be 
opened on the 400th anniversary of the city.
  The 350th Commemorative Quilt, to be known as a historical work of 
art, will be on display. Additionally, city citizens will perform in 
``Rose on the River,'' a compilation of short plays written by local 
playwrights. Special musical performances will add to the festivities. 
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) 
will host a parade and festival to commemorate both Norwich's 350th and 
the NAACP's 100th anniversaries.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud and pleased to honor the City of Norwich. 
Three hundred fifty years after incorporation, from its colonial 
origins through its modern evolution, Norwich represents the very best 
of Connecticut. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents 
in honoring and celebrating Norwich's semiseptcentennial anniversary 
and welcome many more to come.

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