[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 81 (Tuesday, May 11, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2442-S2443]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CENTENNIAL OF MILLS, WYOMING

  Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today in recognition of the 100th 
anniversary of the incorporation of Mills, WY.
  On Saturday, June 12, 2021, the town of Mills will honor this 
milestone with a 100th Anniversary Summer Fest Celebration. The event 
will host a parade, concerts, and other festivities throughout the day. 
It is an excellent opportunity for the people of Natrona County and 
Wyoming to gather and commend the strong, lasting character of this 
community.
  Mills was established in May of 1921 at a location near the Fort 
Caspar site along the northern banks of the North Platte River. Many 
pioneers traversed this area along the Oregon Trail before oil was 
discovered in the Salt Creek Field. In 1919, with the growth of the oil 
and gas industry, brothers James, William, and Thomas Mills and their 
Mills Construction Company purchased a homestead owned by Charles M. 
Hawks. Company employees and their families began to settle in the 
surrounding land. By 1921, over 500 people lived in the quickly 
developing area. A need for local organization resulted in Mills' 
incorporation as a town, becoming the third in Natrona County.
  The story of Mills is a microcosm of the story of Natrona County and 
Central Wyoming. The town has navigated through the booms and busts of 
the oil industry throughout its century and continues to navigate its 
unique place across the river from Casper. Industry has always played a 
large role in the development of the community. From its beginnings 
with the Mills Construction Company, Mills now hosts a wide range of 
manufacturing, fabrication, heavy machinery, and oil and gas 
businesses. Yet, Mills still maintains its

[[Page S2443]]

quaint charm with Oregon Trail historic sites, river recreational 
opportunities, and local watering holes.
  Mills held its first election on May 10, 1921. The first mayor was 
George E. Boyle, who was elected alongside new Councilmen Fred Hunter, 
Fred Shackleford, G.W. Lindsley, and Michael Kennedy. A century later, 
Mills is served by Mayor Seth Coleman with Councilmembers James 
Hollander, Darla Ives, Sara McCarthy, and Brad Neumiller. They continue 
their tradition of public service and stewardship.
  From its incorporation as a town with a population of 500, Mills 
entered 1990 with over 1,500 residents. Today it boasts a population of 
over 4,000 people and is one of the fastest growing communities in 
Wyoming. On August 4, 2020, Governor Mark Gordon signed a proclamation 
declaring Mills a ``First-Class City.'' This is another milestone to 
add to the summer celebration.
  It is my honor to commemorate this historic milestone for the city of 
Mills. Their centennial celebration is a tribute to generations of 
determination and community. Bobbi joins me and everyone in Wyoming in 
our appreciation of everything the people of Mills have contributed to 
our great State and Nation. We extend our congratulations as we look 
forward to the next 100 years.

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