[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 122 (Thursday, July 31, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S5310]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HELENA, MONTANA SESQUICENTENNIAL

 Mr. WALSH. Madam President, I wish to recognize Helena, MT, on 
the occasion of its 150th birthday. Our capital city, which I am 
privileged to call home, continues to contribute to the State of 
Montana and our Nation.
  Four prospectors came to Montana territory looking for gold in the 
1860s, and they struck it rich when they discovered gold in the creek 
that now runs under Helena's main street. They named the area Last 
Chance Gulch. When news of the site spread, thousands of other migrants 
flooded the area, hoping to find success. To care for the growing 
mining population, shops, hotels, and saloons sprang up, and a small 
city began to grow.
  That settlement was officially named Helena on October 30, 1864.
  Unlike other mining towns, Helena prospered after the gold rush 
ended. Since it was near major roads and surrounded by fertile 
farmland, Helena continued to thrive throughout the 20th century.
  Helena has been an integral part of our State since before Montana 
became part of the United States--the city was named the capital of 
Montana territory in 1875, 14 years before Montana joined the Union.
  The very first special forces unit of our Nation's military was based 
at Fort Harrison, just outside of Helena.
  Today, Helena continues to flourish. Thousands of visitors come each 
year to hike scenic paths, tackle nationally-rated mountain bike 
trails, ski the slopes in Great Divide Ski area, enjoy the view of the 
Sleeping Giant, and drink great local beers.
  As Montana's capital, Helena is the center of the State government, 
and public servants continue to tackle today's tough issues and work to 
create a better Montana and country for all of us.
  I want to congratulate Helena for its contributions to our State and 
our Nation. We look forward to the next 150 years being as exciting as 
the last.
  I note the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. PRYOR. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order 
for the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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