[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 130 (Friday, September 24, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1743]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF NUESTRA SENORA DE 
         LOS DOLORES DE LAS VEGAS GRANDES, NEW MEXICO 1835-2010

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                           HON. BEN RAY LUJAN

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 24, 2010

  Mr. LUJAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 175th 
anniversary of Las Vegas, New Mexico.
  Established by a land grant from the Government of Mexico, the City 
of Las Vegas was founded on the Gallinas River on April 6th, 1835. Las 
Vegas soon found prosperity as a trading hub on the Sante Fe Trail, and 
later as a stop on the railroad between Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe.
  Throughout its 175 years, Las Vegas has flourished; becoming a 
regional center for cultural and social diversity; seeing the 
establishment of theaters, schools, newspapers, and libraries. As many 
historic towns in America have experienced, the people of Las Vegas 
have seen challenges throughout their storied history including 
epidemics, economic depressions, and political turmoil.
  However, with over 900 buildings recognized by the National Register 
of Historic Places, and the claim to forming the New Mexico Militia and 
the 1st United States Volunteer Calvary, Las Vegas can point to a 
strong and proud history of perseverance and dedication that is worthy 
of admiration.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the celebration of the 
people of Las Vegas as they celebrate their city's anniversary. The 
longevity of Las Vegas is a testament to the communal bonds established 
there, and it is an inspirational achievement.

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