[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 84 (Monday, June 2, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E899-E900]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   PRESCOTT, ARIZONA SESQUICENTENNIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 2, 2014

  Mr. GOSAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 
Sesquicentennial of the city of Prescott, Arizona. The city of Prescott 
was founded in 1864 as the territorial capital of Arizona. Shortly 
after President Abraham Lincoln appointed the territory's first 
governor, John A. Gurley, Prescott was selected as the site of its 
first capital because of its mild climate and access to valuable 
natural resources such as water and gold.
   In its 150 year history, the city of Prescott has been host and home 
to pioneers integral to both the story of Arizona and the United 
States. The city is recognized as home to the world's oldest rodeo 
where in 1888 local merchants organized the first professional ``Cowboy 
Tournament.'' It is also home to Arizona's first elected female 
official, Sharlot Hall, whose celebrated poem ``Arizona'' helped 
influence the U.S. Congress to admit Arizona and New Mexico into the 
Union as two separate states. Barry Goldwater launched his magnetic 
1964 presidential campaign on the steps of the Yavapai County 
Courthouse; a campaign of principles that continues to influence 
political debate today.
   The city of Prescott embodies the spirit of Arizona, the spirit of a 
free and fiercely independent people, of pioneers who forged

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homes out of the desert and who continue to lead the community and 
state into the future. Congratulations on a momentous 150 years.

                          ____________________