[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 105 (Wednesday, July 8, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1018]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE ST. HELENA NATIVE SONS HALL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 8, 2015

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
St. Helena chapter of Native Sons of the Golden West, Parlor 53, on the 
occasion of the 100th anniversary of its meeting hall.
  First opened on June 25, 1915, the St. Helena Native Sons Hall has 
hosted events and gatherings of all kinds and served as a valuable 
meeting space for the local community. Concerts, funerals, weddings, 
and auctions have been held within its walls. Once an old dance hall, 
the building was moved to its current location on Spring Street in St. 
Helena in 1915. A century later, the hall remains a cornerstone of the 
St. Helena community.
  Founded in 1875, the Native Sons of the Golden West is one of the 
oldest fraternal service organizations in California. The organization 
was initially established to preserve the state's early history, 
including the events of the Gold Rush. Today, the Native Sons serve as 
a charitable organization and work to purchase, rehabilitate, and 
restore monuments from California's pioneer days. Sutter's Fort, the 
Franciscan Missions, and the Monterey Custom House were all preserved 
thanks to efforts of the Native Sons of the Golden West.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize the St. Helena 
chapter of the Native Sons of the Golden West for the 100th anniversary 
of its hall, and for many years of dedication to the local community. I 
wish them all the best on this historical occasion, and look forward to 
another century of service and celebration.

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