[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 52 (Thursday, March 29, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE TOWN OF LURAY, VIRGINIA AS IT CELEBRATES ITS 200TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ERIC CANTOR

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 29, 2012

  Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the Town of Luray, 
Virginia as it celebrates its 200th anniversary.
  The Town of Luray was founded in 1812 and is the county seat of Page 
County, Virginia. Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah 
Valley, Luray boasts of breathtaking views and is steeped in rich 
history.
  Perhaps best known for the Luray Caverns, Luray is home to the 
largest and most popular caverns in the East. Upon its discovery by 
Andrew Campbell on August 13th, 1878, the Smithsonian Institute sent 
nine scientists to examine the caverns and reported the following: ``. 
. . it is safe to say that there is probably no other cave in the world 
more completely and profusely decorated with stalactite and stalagmite 
ornamentation than that of Luray.'' Even today, this sentiment remains 
the same. The Luray Caverns now attract more than 500,000 visitors each 
year from around the world. Luray is lucky to be home to such a 
historic and significant token of natural beauty.
  There is no doubt why the Town of Luray is such a popular attraction 
for those just passing through or visiting from many states away. When 
not touring the caverns, you can find visitors of Luray enjoying the 
106-mile scenic Skyline Drive, or nestled into a cozy bed and 
breakfast. The Appalachian Trail also passes through Luray, where 
hikers can climb through the peaks and valleys of the Shenandoah region 
and explore the area first-hand.
  Luray residents will celebrate and honor the Town's rich history with 
events and activities throughout the year, which began with a 
``Celebrate Luray'' event back in February.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the citizens of Luray 
as they celebrate the town's bicentennial, and wishing them all the 
best for their continued growth and success.

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