[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 87 (Thursday, May 23, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE FITZPATRICK FAMILY AND THE RED LION INN

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                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2019

  Mr. NEAL. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize and congratulate the Fitzpatrick Family on their 50th 
anniversary as owners of the iconic Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, 
Massachusetts. The Red Lion Inn has been a cultural and historic 
institution of western Massachusetts for more than two centuries and 
has continued on as such in the modern era thanks to the Fitzpatrick 
Family. Our community has benefited immeasurably as a result, and we 
are incredibly grateful.
  The Town of Stockbridge was founded in 1734 and became a popular 
resort destination during the Gilded Age. It also became home to one of 
America's greatest 18th century hotels, the Red Lion Inn, which first 
opened in 1773. The World Wars of the 20th century, however, as well as 
the Great Depression, took a toll on the region and the Red Lion Inn 
with it. But 1969 would prove to be a monumental year for Stockbridge 
and the rest of the Berkshires. As new attractions reenergized the 
area, the grand reopening of the Red Lion Inn took place on account of 
Senator Jack Fitzpatrick and his wife, Jane. The Fitzpatricks did more 
than just save the Red Lion Inn from being razed. They renovated it and 
preserved most of the art, antiques, furniture, and--thus--charm that 
are essential to the Inn's character and allure. They also continued to 
grow their impact on the community by helping local projects thrive and 
injecting a fresh sense of prosperity to the Berkshires. Still further, 
they have prided themselves on providing high quality service and 
hospitality to all of their guests and making them feel right at home 
in the heart of the Berkshires.
  Once again, Madam Speaker, the 50th year of Fitzpatrick Family 
ownership of the Red Lion Inn is certainly worthy of celebration and 
recognition. It is a testament to the vibrancy and cultural substance 
of Stockbridge and the Berkshires. Jane and Jack Fitzpatrick's 
bountiful legacy lives on through the Fitzpatrick Trust, the Red Lion 
Inn, and--most importantly--the new generation of family members. I 
wish the Fitzpatrick Family, including of course Jack and Jane's 
daughter Nancy, and Nancy's stepdaughter Sarah Eustis, who is the 
third-generation owner and operator of the Inn, all the best in their 
future endeavors and at the 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner to be hosted 
on May 29.

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