[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 94 (Thursday, June 7, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E797]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   IN RECOGNITION OF THE 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PLYMOUTH FRAGMENT 
                                SOCIETY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 7, 2018

  Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 200th 
Anniversary of the Plymouth Fragment Society of Plymouth, 
Massachusetts.
  This exceptional organization was founded on February 13, 1818 with 
the goal of aiding families living in poverty. In response to the 
Embargo Act of 1807 and the War of 1812, Marie de Verdier Turner 
gathered with 183 women to sew garments for the poor. Their mission was 
expanded to provide aid such as milk, fuel, and rent to those who 
needed assistance. As one of the oldest continuously operating 
charitable organizations in the country, they have adapted to the 
changing needs of the community, guiding Plymouth through prosperous 
times and economic downturns, including the Great Depression.
  The Plymouth Fragment Society, which was founded and run by dedicated 
and determined women, exemplifies the work women did for our 
communities long before they had the ability to engage in politics or 
business. Those who carry on this legacy remind us all of the power of 
dedicated individuals and their ability to effect lasting change.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor the 200th Anniversary of the 
Plymouth Fragment Society for their dedication to bettering their 
community. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking them for their 
invaluable service and wishing them all the best in the many years to 
come.

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