[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 65 (Wednesday, May 9, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E738-E739]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CONGRATULATING THE CITY OF LANCASTER, WISCONSIN, ON ITS 175TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON KIND

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 9, 2012

  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise before 
you today to honor the historic City of Lancaster as we celebrate its 
175th anniversary.
  Lancaster was established for its central location in Grant County. 
Though it wasn't located on a stream or major source of power, its 
location was ideal for the efficiency and accessibility of a county 
government. Shortly after its founding, Lancaster was named the seat of 
Grant County. In fact, the county courthouse was built before 
Lancaster's founding, creating a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs 
once Lancaster was established. Hotels and stores were among the first 
establishments to be built. But, growth in Lancaster was slow with only 
350 residents in 1853. However, the dedication of a few people, 
including Wisconsin's first Governor, Nelson Dewey, was all Lancaster 
needed to thrive. After the construction of houses, commercial 
buildings, warehouses, stores, and a railroad depot, Lancaster's 
population surpassed 1,000 residents by 1880, enough to allow 
incorporation.
  Just as Lancaster was beginning to mature, a fire destroyed half of 
the square and the city was faced with the challenge of starting anew. 
The folks of Lancaster took on that challenge and as they always have; 
the people of Lancaster worked together and the square was built again. 
Many of these buildings still stand today, signifying the deep 
historical roots in Lancaster and its ability to endure the test of 
time. The Grant County Courthouse, Lancaster Municipal Building, and 
the Lancaster Post Office are all listed on the National Register of 
Historic Places.
  Today, Lancaster is home to more than 3,800 people. Lancaster 
embodies the quintessential small town that is a staple in rural 
Wisconsin. The historically rich community still thrives on the 
agricultural successes of surrounding farms and its quaint and pure 
atmosphere make Lancaster a beautiful place to call home. I wish the 
City of Lancaster and its residents a happy 175th anniversary and all 
the best in the years to come.

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