[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 96 (Thursday, June 24, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1188]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE IRON AND STEEL INDUSTRY IN 
                              COATESVILLE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM GERLACH

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 24, 2010

  Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th 
anniversary of the iron and steel industry in the City of Coatesville, 
Chester County, Pennsylvania.
  During the last two centuries, men and women of great character, 
tremendous ingenuity and bold leadership have contributed to the 
longevity and success of an industry, which helped sustain a community 
and fueled America's growth and prosperity.
  The steel mill that Isaac Pennock established on the banks of the 
Brandywine River in the early 19th Century developed into an industrial 
complex that housed the world's largest plate mill thanks to the 
efforts of Dr. Charles Lukens, Rebecca Lukens and several generations 
of Lukens descendants. Dedicated employees, all with a work ethic as 
strong as the steel plates they forge, also have been integral to the 
industry's success. These highly-skilled and extremely motivated 
workers have helped the industry adapt from an era of steam locomotives 
and iron-hulled vessels to an era of nuclear submarines and specialty 
steel.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the 
200th anniversary of the iron and steel industry in the City of 
Coatesville and recognizing the exemplary work of The Graystone 
Society, which has meticulously chronicled and preserved the iron and 
steel industry's rich history in the City.

                          ____________________