[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 47 (Tuesday, March 25, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E437]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN HONOR OF INDEPENDENCE, OHIO'S BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID P. JOYCE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 25, 2014

  Mr. JOYCE. Mr. Speaker, Independence, created by a glacier on the 
west bank of the Cuyahoga River first sheltered Indians, then became a 
settlement, grew with the Ohio and Erie Canal, expanded into a stone 
quarrying center, then slumbered along as a farming community until 
urbanization of Cuyahoga County which resulted in its growth as a 
suburban city. Independence was organized as a Township in 1814. With 
the opening of the Ohio and Erie Canal in 1827, Independence Township 
became accessible to trade and settlers.
  Centrally located at the crossroads of Interstate 480 and Interstate 
77, Independence is widely known as the ``Heart of Cuyahoga County'' 
and the region. With approximately 7,133 residents in 9.73 square 
miles, the City of Independence exhibits all the character and charm of 
a small town community that embraces family values and its rich 
history, while maintaining a robust commercial setting as well. The 
community boasts of a great school system, excellent city services and 
a diverse residential and business population. It is my honor to 
recognize their Bicentennial celebration and wish them all the best for 
their next 200 years.