[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 133 (Tuesday, September 6, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1175-E1176]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING KNOEBELS AMUSEMENT RESORT UPON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 90TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOU BARLETTA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 6, 2016

  Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Knoebels 
Amusement Resort in Elysburg upon the occasion of their 90th 
anniversary. Since 1926, this multigenerational, family-owned and 
operated business has been America's largest free-admission park, and 
continues today as a world-renowned attraction that has stayed true to 
its family-focused roots for nearly a century.
   Originally known as ``Peggy's Farm,'' the land that is now Knoebels 
was passed down from owner to owner until 1828 when Reverend Henry 
Hartman Knoebel purchased the property for $931. Reverend Knoebel's 
grandson, Henry, who was commonly known as ``Ole Hen,'' began selling 
soft drinks and ice cream to the families that would come for picnics 
on the property. In 1926, Ole Hen added a restaurant, carousel, games, 
and a pool to officially mark the beginning of Knoebels Amusement Park. 
Various rides and amusements were added to the park throughout the 
years to bring the current total to 63, including six roller coasters, 
two water rides, two miniature railways, a golf course, and several 
restaurants.
   I've enjoyed family outings to the park, just like thousands of my 
constituents and visitors from around the world, and can attest 
firsthand to the welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly style that 
has made Knoebels one of America's best amusement parks. With a 
commitment to the family's overall vision, it is no wonder that 
Amusement Today and organizations such as American Coaster Enthusiasts 
and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions 
have recognized the park with various awards throughout the years. In 
2014, the Travel Channel named Knoebels as one of their Top 10 Family 
Friendly Amusement Parks in the United States.
   Mr. Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Knoebels Amusement Resort in 
Elysburg upon the occasion of their 90th anniversary. ``Make

[[Page E1176]]

new memories the old fashioned way'' is their slogan that is in action 
every day, and I am confident that the park will be enjoyed by families 
visiting Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District for years to come. 
I wish the Knoebels all the best as they continue to operate a resort 
where families can go to create lasting memories and share in the 
spirit upon which the property was founded.

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