[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 113 (Friday, July 24, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2007]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CITY OF LAUDERDALE, MINNESOTA

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                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 24, 2009

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Lauderdale, 
Minnesota and its more than 2,300 residents on the occasion of the 60th 
anniversary of the city. Residents of Lauderdale are proud to call 
Lauderdale home, because of its livability and strong neighborhood 
connections.
  The history of Lauderdale began when the Walsh family first settled 
the area in 1855. Shortly after Minnesota became a state in 1858, the 
area now known as Lauderdale was included in the newly organized Rose 
Township. This farmland became home to one of the first businesses 
founded by Swedish immigrant Nels Olson, Rose Hill Nursery, which grew 
to be one of the largest in the state. Toward the end of the century, 
Lauderdale saw an increase of settlers, who were drawn to Lauderdale 
because it provided easy access to both downtown St. Paul and 
Minneapolis via the Como Interurban street car line.
  On January 21, 1949, with a population of approximately 1,500, area 
residents voted to incorporate 270 acres as the Village of Lauderdale, 
named after landowner William H. Lauderdale. Over the next decade, 
Lauderdale continued to grow and develop. On February 15, 1954, 
Lauderdale annexed land between Roselawn and Ryan Avenue. In addition 
plans for Trunk Highway 280 were approved in 1954, which provides a 
vital transportation link for Ramsey County. In 1973, the village 
became the City of Lauderdale and continued the use of a Council-Mayor 
form of government which continues today.
  In 1997, Lauderdale was recognized by WCCO as the most livable 
community in the state of Minnesota. Since its incorporation 60 years 
ago, the City has grown from a tiny, industrial area to a lively 
suburban community with strong neighborhoods, prosperous businesses and 
with the perks of small-town living in a thriving metropolitan area.
  Madam Speaker, I am pleased to submit this statement for the 
Congressional Record recognizing the 60th Anniversary of Lauderdale, 
Minnesota in honor of the vibrant history, dynamic present and bright 
future of this city. I wish residents all the best during the events 
celebrating this special occasion.

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