[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 47 (Wednesday, March 11, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1706-S1707]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     SENATE RESOLUTION 541--RECOGNIZING AND CELEBRATING THE 200TH 
   ANNIVERSARY OF THE ENTRY OF MAINE INTO THE UNION AS THE 23D STATE

  Ms. COLLINS (for herself and Mr. King) submitted the following 
resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

                              S. Res. 541

       Whereas the place now known as Maine is Wabanaki Homeland 
     and is home to vibrant indigenous cultures and communities;
       Whereas Maine was a district of Massachusetts, 1 of the 13 
     original colonies of the United States;
       Whereas, by 1820, people living in Maine had built a 
     thriving economy that included farming, forestry, fishing, 
     and shipbuilding industries;
       Whereas, in March 1820, Congress and President James Monroe 
     approved the Missouri Compromise, authorizing the 
     establishment of the State of Maine and making Maine the 23d 
     State of the United States;
       Whereas Maine is characterized by hardworking, altruistic, 
     and independent people and a strong community spirit;
       Whereas the State motto of Maine, ``Dirigo'', Latin for ``I 
     lead'', reflects the trailblazing nature of Maine and the 
     1,300,000 inhabitants of Maine;
       Whereas Maine has 1 of the highest numbers of veterans per 
     capita in the United States, and is the home of Togus, the 
     first veterans hospital in the United States;
       Whereas Maine contributes greatly to national defense 
     through the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Bath Iron Works, Pratt 
     & Whitney, and numerous other suppliers and installations 
     whose skilled employees are a vital asset to the United 
     States;
       Whereas distinguished statesmen from Maine include William 
     King, Joshua Chamberlain, Hannibal Hamlin, Margaret Chase 
     Smith, and Edmund Muskie;

[[Page S1707]]

       Whereas Maine is known as ``The Pine Tree State'' and 
     ``Vacationland'' for the extensive forests and spectacular 
     scenery that draw millions of visitors to Maine every year;
       Whereas the majestic beauty of Mount Katahdin, 1 of the 
     highest peaks in New England and the northern terminus of the 
     Appalachian Trail, and other unspoiled natural treasures 
     beckon outdoor enthusiasts;
       Whereas the rugged coastline and vibrant fall foliage of 
     Maine are showcased in particular splendor in Acadia National 
     Park, 1 of the 10 most visited national parks in the United 
     States;
       Whereas the pristine Atlantic waters off the coast of Maine 
     support fishermen and women and the iconic lobster industry, 
     which is the most valuable fishery in the United States and 
     is known worldwide as a standard of seafood excellence;
       Whereas Maine is the most forested State in the United 
     States, with a long history of pulp and paper production and 
     an exciting recent turn toward innovation and diversification 
     of forest products;
       Whereas the fertile soils of Maine have helped farmers 
     produce the best potatoes and wild blueberries for 
     generations, and have supported the increase of organic 
     agriculture operations;
       Whereas March 15, 2020, marks the 200th anniversary of the 
     attainment of statehood by Maine; and
       Whereas that bicentennial is a monumental occasion to 
     celebrate and commemorate the achievements of the great State 
     of Maine: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate recognizes and celebrates the 
     200th anniversary of the entry of Maine into the Union as the 
     23d State.

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