[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 107 (Tuesday, July 5, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1022]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  OLNEY/RICHLAND CO. 175TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 5, 2016

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 
Dodransbicentennial, or 175th Anniversary of Richland County. Richland 
County was created in 1841 by combining sections of western Lawrence 
County and eastern Clay County. Olney was named the seat of Richland 
County due to its centrality and desirable proximity to the Fox River.
  Over the years, many students have benefitted from being able to 
receive a quality and affordable education at Olney Central College. In 
addition to its support of education, Olney has a marvelously rich 
history of being a center of transportation, medicine, culture, and 
agriculture for Southeastern Illinois.
  A large colony of albino squirrels first found sanctuary in Olney in 
the early 1900s. Because of this, inquiring visitors from near and far 
are attracted to the ``Home of the White Squirrels.'' Olney and 
Richland County are the home to many churches and volunteer 
organizations, as well.
  I look forward to the continued prosperity of Olney and Richland 
County largely due to its citizens who respect their history and have a 
vision for their future; I also offer my congratulations on the 
occasion of the 175th anniversary celebration which will take place 
from July 22-24, 2016.

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