[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 36 (Tuesday, March 4, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1276-S1277]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          SOUTH BERWICK, MAINE

  Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President. I wish to commemorate the 200th 
anniversary of the town of South Berwick, ME. South Berwick holds a 
very special place in our State's history, and one that exemplifies the 
determination and resiliency of Maine people.
  While this landmark anniversary marks South Berwick's incorporation, 
the year 1814 was but one milestone in a long journey of progress. It 
is a journey that began thousands of years earlier with Native American 
villages on the banks of the Piscataqua and Salmon Falls rivers. In 
1631, barely a decade after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, 
Ambrose Gibbens established a settlement at the falls and built the 
first sawmill in North America. A manufacturing heritage of textile 
mills and iron works that developed in the 18th century continues 
today. The skills and work ethic of the people of South Berwick 
contribute greatly to the cutting-edge industries in the region, from 
biotechnology to aerospace and defense.
  Industry is only part of South Berwick's story. In 1791, the citizens 
of the region recognized the importance of education and established 
Berwick Academy with a charter signed by Massachusetts Governor John 
Hancock.

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Located in South Berwick, the academy is the oldest educational 
institution in Maine and now, as a private school, remains true to its 
founding purpose of promoting ``virtue and useful knowledge among the 
rising generation.'' In addition, the people of South Berwick remain 
true to the vision of their forebears by supporting an outstanding 
public school system.
  During the Revolutionary War, the growing community provided two full 
companies to fight for America's independence, more than many towns of 
greater size. The courage and character demonstrated by the townspeople 
in standing for liberty echo throughout South Berwick's history. In the 
years before the Civil War, the many churches in the community were 
powerful voices for the abolition of slavery. During that terrible 
conflict, more than 294 of South Berwick's young men, including 46 
Berwick Academy students fought, and many died, so that all might live 
in freedom. The town's honor roll of current military personnel 
demonstrates an ongoing commitment to our Nation's founding principles.
  This anniversary is not just about something that is measured in 
calendar years. It is about human accomplishment. We celebrate the 
people who, through the centuries, have pulled together, cared for one 
another, and built a great community that is a wonderful place to live, 
work, and raise families. Thanks to those who came before, South 
Berwick has a wonderful history. Thanks to those who are there today, 
it has a bright future.

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