[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 103 (Tuesday, July 12, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1299]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE TOWN OF EDDINGTON, MAINE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 12, 2011

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of 
the town of Eddington, Maine, as they celebrate their community's 
bicentennial.
  In 1784, after the close of the Revolutionary War, Colonel Jonathan 
Eddy was granted 9,000 acres on the east bank of the Penobscot River in 
appreciation of his services during the conflict. This area would later 
be incorporated in 1811 as the town of Eddington, becoming the 184th 
town in the District of Maine. Working together to clear the land, the 
early settlers erected buildings, planted crops and built roads. Town 
records over the years from the individual villages show saw and grist-
mills, a post office, general stores, churches, schools and other large 
and small enterprises. The town of Eddington illustrates the spirit of 
industry and perseverance that Maine people throughout history have 
demonstrated in embracing the challenges and opportunities of living in 
our state.
  Eddington has shared in many of our nation's experiences. There is 
evidence of the Underground Railroad, and in the Civil War, one-eighth 
of the total population of the town was in service. Industrialization 
brought railroads to neighboring towns, small factories, and electric 
lights. The depression hit hard as the lumber industry began to 
diminish and mills were relocated. The conflicts of the twentieth 
century called upon many Eddington residents to protect their country, 
state and community, but the members of this town have always risen to 
the challenge.
  Today, the people of Eddington celebrate the bicentennial of their 
town filled with the same local spirit and sense of common purpose that 
filled the first families as they petitioned to have their community 
recognized. These individuals embody the hardworking people of Maine.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the people of 
Eddington. It is an honor and a privilege to represent them, and I am 
pleased to have this opportunity to help Eddington celebrate its 200th 
anniversary.

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