[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 13, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E137]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE BOROUGH OF HAWTHORNE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 13, 2024

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with immense pride and joy to 
recognize the Borough of Hawthorne as we celebrate its 125th 
anniversary. Since the city's incorporation in 1898, Hawthorne has 
evolved from a humble settlement into a vibrant and diverse suburban 
community that stands as a beacon of progress. This historic 
achievement is a testament to the resilience, growth, and unity that 
have defined the Borough of Hawthorne over the past century and a 
quarter.
  The Lenni-Lenape Native Americans are the earliest recorded 
inhabitants of the area situated in the Borough of Hawthorne. By the 
1700s, Dutch immigrants settled in the area as pioneers in agriculture. 
The history of the Dutch settlers and the Native Americans remains an 
active part of the shared fabric in the Borough of Hawthorne with roads 
and landmarks named after them.
  The settlement emancipated itself from Manchester Township and 
incorporated as the Borough of Hawthorne following an act of the New 
Jersey Legislature on March 24, 1898.
  Hawthorne attracted residents by promoting and establishing the 
municipal water system, electric grid with lit streets, and five public 
schools.
  As one of the current 16 municipalities of Passaic County, the 
Borough of Hawthorne successfully voted for the mayor/council form of 
government. The borough is organized in four wards, providing a 
representative in each area of the community as well as giving 
residents the right to directly elect their mayor. The first election 
held under this new form was in 1989.
  Today, there are nearly 20,000 residents that call the Borough of 
Hawthorne their home. The borough has a large immigrant population and 
is a melting pot evident through the array of multi-cultural 
businesses, restaurants, and community events. Throughout Hawthorne's 
history, community leaders and residents played a key role in shaping 
Hawthorne into the exceptional borough we celebrate today. One of 
Hawthorne's most notable figures is Mayor John V. Lane. His leadership 
and wisdom continue to guide the Borough of Hawthorne through all 
challenges, always emerging stronger.
  The industrious spirit of Hawthorne's residents is the driving force 
behind its success. From the early days of farming to the present, the 
people of Hawthorne have worked together to build a borough that 
fosters innovation, economic prosperity, and cultural diversity. Let us 
reflect on the rich history as we commemorate the quasquicentennial 
anniversary of the Borough of Hawthorne.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, and 
the residents of New Jersey in recognizing the 125th anniversary of the 
Borough of Hawthorne. I take this opportunity to congratulate the 
residents of Hawthorne on this historic milestone. May this celebration 
serve as a moment to honor the past, revel in the present, and look 
forward to a future filled with continued growth and prosperity.

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