[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 57 (Monday, May 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E769]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNITION OF THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CITY OF PITTSFIELD, 
                              MASSCHUSETTS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN W. OLVER

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 2, 2011

  Mr. OLVER. Mr. Speaker, on April 26, 1761, at the urging of Colonel 
William Williams, the official incorporation and names of Pittsfield 
and Berkshire County, Massachusetts were approved by the colonial 
governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Sir Francis Bernard. The 
name Berkshire reflected a connection with the English Berkshire, while 
the naming of Pittsfield reflects an admiration for William Pitt, Earl 
of Chatham. Pitt, dubbed the ``Great Commoner,'' was a supporter of the 
colonies in America.
  For 250 years the people of Pittsfield have been innovative, 
resourceful and resilient. The first agricultural fair was held in 
Pittsfield, and the first written reference to our national pastime of 
baseball is found in a 1791 city ordinance. William Stanley set up the 
transformer business in Pittsfield that eventually became the General 
Electric corporation.
  Today, Pittsfield is once again a city on the rise. Fueled by the 
creative economic sector, Pittsfield is thriving by embracing 
diversity, art and culture.
  I congratulate the citizens of Pittsfield on this occasion of their 
city's remarkable 250th anniversary, and I wish them the best as we 
embark together on a bright future.

                          ____________________