[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 92 (Friday, June 24, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1203]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CELEBRATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF DEVIL'S LAKE STATE PARK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 24, 2011

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th 
anniversary of Devil's Lake State Park and the people of Wisconsin's 
commitment to the maintenance of our most visited state park.
  Since 1911, Devil's Lake State Park has provided diverse recreation 
for countless spirited adventurers. From the dancing waters of the 374-
acre lake filled with brown trout and northern pike to historic and 
sacred Effigy Mounds that are over 1,000 years old to the famed Devil's 
Doorway and Balanced Rock formations, this picturesque park encompasses 
nearly 10,000 acres. Those who trek to its highest points are treated 
to a breathtaking view of the valleys and bluffs that flank the park. 
For over a century, campers, hikers, bikers, swimmers, anglers, 
boaters, and many more have flocked to this pristine destination. It is 
no wonder why Devil's Lake State Park attracts so many visitors each 
year; to put it simply--to visit the park is to fall in love with it.
  Although Devil's Lake State Park is celebrating its centennial this 
year, it has been a source of recreation and tourism for far longer. 
Beginning in the mid-1800s, the Devil's Lake area was surrounded by 
several hotels and resorts and even hosted Mrs. Mary Todd Lincoln and 
General Ulysses S. Grant during their visit. These establishments were 
serviced by a railroad that transported visitors often numbering in the 
thousands. As times changed and the automobile was introduced, the 
hotels faded into history and the park became more accessible as a day-
trip destination. Finally, in 1911, the state designated the park as 
the third official Wisconsin State Park.
  Of course, Devil's Lake State Park would not be what it is today 
without the dedication of many over the years. In the days of the Great 
Depression, it was the hardworking individuals of the Civilian 
Conservation Corps who built trails, removed invasive species, built a 
reservoir, acted as fireguards, and built various structures. Today, it 
is the tireless efforts of the Wisconsin Department of Natural 
Resources, The Friends of Devil's Lake State Park, and the myriad of 
other volunteers and supporters who ensure that the park is protected 
and preserved for centuries to come.
  In 1919, official attendance records indicate that there were 100,000 
visitors. Today, Devil's Lake State Park entertains approximately 1.8 
million visitors per year and continues to serve as a recreational 
haven. As we look to the future, we see the possible addition of more 
campsites and land to the west and north and a unique opportunity to 
add some 4,000 acres from the decommissioned Badger Army Ammunition 
Plant (BAAP) to the south. Today, I join visitors from South Central 
Wisconsin, across our great nation, and across the world in celebrating 
the 100th anniversary of Devil's Lake State Park.

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