[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 118 (Friday, July 13, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1010]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE BICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE VILLAGE OF ESPERANCE

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                           HON. JOHN J. FASO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 13, 2018

  Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the bicentennial 
anniversary of the founding of the Village of Esperance, New York and 
to recognize two hundred years of faithful and distinguished service by 
the Esperance Volunteer Fire Department.
  For two hundred years, the Village of Esperance has contributed to 
the American story, weaving together a diverse community, cultivating a 
strong civil society, and fostering a resilient fire department. 
Situated on the north bank of the Schoharie Creek, Esperance is the 
oldest incorporated village in Schoharie county, and the fifth oldest 
incorporated Village in New York State.
  Formerly known as ``State Bridge'' when it was originally settled in 
the late 18th century, the settlement consisted only of three cabins 
surrounded by dense forest land. Hermanus Ten Eyck received the land 
grant in 1739, and allocated about sixty acres of land to be sold as 
building lots. Mr. Ten Eyck became disappointed by the slow sale of the 
lots, and eventually sold his land holdings to Gen. William North--a 
general in the Revolutionary War, U.S. Senator, and Member and Speaker 
of the New York State Assembly--in 1806. It was Gen. North's daughter 
that suggested the name ``Esperance'' for the village.
  The name ``Esperance,'' which translates to ``hope'' in French, truly 
describes the common thread that runs through its history. Hope has 
persisted through the nascent years of Esperance's existence, the 
tribulations of depression and war, and the many great triumphs of 
American history. The strength and independence that continues to 
define this town are a result of roots that have grown strong these 
past two hundred years.
  Protecting the village and its treasures has been the job of the 
Esperance Volunteer Fire Department. For two centuries, brave 
volunteers from the community have put their lives on the line for 
their friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens. I commend them for their 
service and their sacrifice. Additionally, I would like to recognize 
the Department's place in history as the owner of ``Deluge No. 1,'' the 
first fire engine owned by the village and the oldest fire engine in 
America.
  This bicentennial anniversary marks a great milestone in Esperance's 
history, and serves as an important time for reflection. On behalf of 
the 19th Congressional District and the U.S. House of Representatives, 
I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to 
the Village of Esperance and to the firefighters who continue to 
protect it. As the residents celebrate its 200th birthday, I would like 
to commend them on the success of their small, vibrant community and 
wish Esperance continued prosperity in its next 200 years.

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