[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 113 (Wednesday, July 13, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S5074]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 300TH ANNIVERSARY OF GEORGETOWN, MAINE

  Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, today I wish to commemorate the 300th 
anniversary of the town of Georgetown, ME. One of Maine's oldest and 
most historic communities, Georgetown was built with a spirit of 
determination and resiliency that still guides the community today, and 
this tricentennial is a time to celebrate the generations of hard-
working and caring people who have made it such a wonderful place to 
live, work, and raise families.
  The year of Georgetown's incorporation, 1716, was but one milestone 
in a long journey of progress. For thousands of years, the region where 
the mighty Kennebec River meets the sea served as fishing grounds for 
the Etchemin Tribe, and the extensive shell middens and other 
archeological sites are today a treasure trove of this ancient history.
  In 1607, the English established Popham Colony on the opposite shore 
of the Kennebec. This was an event of profound importance to Maine and 
to our Nation, as the rugged pioneers of the short-lived colony crafted 
the first oceangoing sailing vessel built in North America and created 
an industry that remains vital to the Maine economy and to our national 
security.
  Drawn by one of the finest natural harbors in New England, English 
settlers arrived within a few years of the Pilgrims landing at Plymouth 
in 1620. The early English influence is underscored by the fact that 
the first deeds granted to the settlers were signed by the Etchemin 
Sagamore, who was called Chief Robinhood by the newcomers and whose 
name lives on at many points of interest throughout the community. By 
1716, Georgetown was a growing town with an economy driven by fishing, 
shipbuilding, and lumber and grain mills. The wealth produced by the 
sea and by hard work was invested in schools and churches to create a 
true community.
  Today the people of Georgetown continue to build on those traditions. 
Fishing and boatbuilding are mainstays of the economy. Fine inns and 
restaurants support a thriving tourism industry. Reid State Park, a 
gift to the people of Maine from Georgetown businessman and civic 
leader Walter Reid, offers spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife 
that makes Georgetown a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and artists. An 
active historical society, library, and volunteer fire department 
demonstrate the spirit of this remarkable town.
  This landmark anniversary is not just about something that is 
measured in calendar years. It is an occasion to celebrate the people 
who for more than three centuries have pulled together, cared for one 
another, and built a community. Thanks to those who came before, 
Georgetown has a wonderful history. Thanks to those who are there 
today, it has a bright future.

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