[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 199 (Thursday, December 12, 2019)]
[House]
[Page H10234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         SCOTTS BLUFF NATIONAL MONUMENT--100TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY

  (Mr. SMITH of Nebraska asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
100th anniversary of the Scotts Bluff National Monument's official 
designation.
  Having grown up in Gering, Nebraska, I am proud of the monument and 
the uniquely American story of the role it played in our westward 
migration. As one of the highest points in Nebraska, dominating the 
landscape, it stood as an unmistakable part of the Oregon Trail. When I 
look at the monument, I can't help but think of the brave pioneers of 
the Oregon Trail.
  Stunning sights and Oregon Trail landmarks, such as Scotts Bluff 
Monument, must have been a source of awe on the arduous journey west. 
It had to have served as motivation to keep going and a relief to know 
they were well on their way.
  Scotts Bluff was named for Hiram Scott, a fur trader who died nearby 
in 1828. Just as the monument's name comes from early economic activity 
in our region, the monument is still important to our regional economy, 
drawing 150,000 people from across America and around the world each 
and every year.
  I thank the great folks who dedicate their time and hard work to keep 
the park in great condition so others may enjoy it for generations to 
come. It is with great pleasure I join with all Nebraskans to celebrate 
the centennial of this Oregon Trail icon.

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