[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 210 (Monday, December 6, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8930-S8931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                100TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN

 Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 100th 
anniversary of the city of Royal Oak, MI. Situated in Oakland County, 
Royal Oak is a city endowed with natural beauty and rich traditions, 
built on a strong agricultural base and populated with dedicated 
citizens and entrepreneurs.
  The vibrant history of Royal Oak began in 1819, when it was explored 
by Michigan Governor Lewis Cass as part of his survey of the land that 
now comprises Oakland County. In contrast to the surrounding marshes, 
Royal Oak sat on lush, high ground. Near the intersection of the modern 
Crooks and Rochester Roads, Cass and his companions found an imposing 
oak tree that brought to mind the tale of England's King Charles II, 
who was said to have taken refuge under a grand oak tree from enemy 
forces. For this reason, Cass and his fellow explorers christened the 
tree the ``Royal Oak,'' and the city received its name.
  Early settlers in the area were principally farmers focused on 
clearing the land in order to build homes and plant crops. The 
introduction of the railroad into Metro Detroit and Michigan's Bay area 
soon brought with it an increase

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in Royal Oak's manufacturing ventures, including logging, milling, 
textile production, and more. The economic growth of the area soon 
began attracting settlers from across the country, including the city's 
first manufacturer, Orson Starr, who became known for his production of 
cowbells. The boom in Michigan's automotive manufacturing in the early 
twentieth century continued to bolster Royal's Oak's economic and 
population growth, and by 1921, the city claimed over 6,000 residents 
and voted to be officially incorporated as a city.
  Today, Royal Oak is a diverse and vibrant city of over 57,000 
residents who enjoy its beautiful parks, historic downtown, and 
thriving neighborhoods. Located in the Detroit metropolitan area, Royal 
Oak is home to a number of well-known local attractions, including the 
Detroit Zoo, the Royal Oak Music Theatre, and the historic Royal Oak 
Farmer's Market which has been in operation since 1927. The variety of 
shops, restaurants, and entertainment offered by downtown Royal Oak 
attracts both local residents and visitors from across the State of 
Michigan alike. With its rich history, spirited downtown, and natural 
beauty, Royal Oak is recognized as one of the top places to live in the 
State of Michigan.
  The City of Royal Oak has been an integral part of the State of 
Michigan and our great Nation for over 100 years. As a Michigander and 
a resident of southeast Michigan, I am honored to ask my colleagues to 
join me in celebrating this significant milestone for the city, as well 
as its residents, elected officials, and businesses. I wish the city 
continued growth and prosperity in the years ahead.

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