[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 52 (Wednesday, April 6, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S1707]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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               DEERFIELD'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

 Ms. AYOTTE. Mr. President, today I wish to honor Deerfield, 
NH--a town in Rockingham County that is celebrating the 250th 
anniversary of its founding. I am proud to join citizens across the 
Granite State in recognizing this special milestone.
  Deerfield was originally part of the town of Nottingham until 
residents petitioned to become a separate town by requesting the 
Colonial Governor ``set us off a distinct parish.'' Permission was 
granted, and Deerfield was incorporated in 1766 by Colonial Governor 
Benning Wentworth. Major John Simpson, a native of Deerfield, is 
notoriously known for firing the first shot at the Battle of Bunker 
Hill without permission from his commanding officers.
  Founded with a strong background in agriculture, the town was once 
cleared of most of its forest in order to farm the land and is home to 
the oldest family fair in New England--the annual Deerfield Fair. 
Deerfield was also shaped by a steadfast commitment to education, and 
by the mid-19th century, the town had 13 school buildings, one within 
walking distance of almost every child in town. The town became a 
prosperous center as it lay on the road between larger hubs such as 
Portsmouth, Exeter, and Concord. In the 20th century, as the 
agricultural economy began to fade, Deerfield's forests slowly 
returned, and the population began to decrease.
  Today Deerfield has a population of over 4,000 residents and is proud 
of its 250-year history. The residents have created a vibrant civic and 
social community, which serves our State and Nation well. The town 
exemplifies the motto, ``Deerfield, a place to call home since 1766.'' 
Deerfield has greatly contributed to the life and spirit of New 
Hampshire. I am pleased to extend my warm wishes to the people of 
Deerfield as they celebrate this very special occasion.

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