[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 31 (Friday, February 16, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E160]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING THE CITY OF MENASHA'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GLENN GROTHMAN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 16, 2024

  Mr. GROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, the first European settlers arrived in 
present day Menasha in 1835. In 1848, Governor James Doty and Curtis 
Reed formed the Town of Menasha, naming it after the Winnebago word for 
``thorn'' or ``island'' and otherwise known in the Menominee language 
as ``little island''. In 1849, the navigational channel of the Fox-
Wisconsin waterway was placed through the north channel in Menasha, 
leading to the construction of the Manitowoc and Mississippi Railroad 
in 1854. The creation of this railroad led to major water and rail 
transportation routes passing directly through the city. Menasha was 
officially incorporated as a city in 1874, and was considered to be a 
transportation hub.
  One of the earliest successes of the newly established city was the 
Menasha Wooden Ware Company which produced wooden tubs and barrels, and 
eventually made its way to become the world's largest wooden ware 
products manufacturer. Evolving into the corrugated packaging business, 
the company changed its name to Menasha Corporation.
  By the early 1900's, Menasha earned the moniker ``Industrial City,'' 
hosting renowned companies such as Menasha Corporation, the George A. 
Whiting Paper Company Mill, the John Strange Paper Mill, Island Paper 
Company, the Gilbert Paper Company, and the George Banta Publishing 
Company. These enterprises reflected a community characterized by 
ingenuity and the collaborative spirit of its residents, contributing 
to the city's success through hard work and dedication.
  This year, as a Representative of the great state of Wisconsin, I am 
proud to join in commemorating the city of Menasha in the 
Sesquicentennial Anniversary of its founding. The celebration on the 
beautiful Menasha waterfront showcases various events honoring the 
city's history, culture, character, and quality of life. The 
celebration aims to engage local residents along with visitors from 
other communities with associated observance activities in recognizing 
the city's notable historical achievements along with their ongoing 
tenacity projecting a future vision of Menasha as Your Place on the 
Water.
  I would like to extend my gratitude and congratulations to the people 
of Menasha and wish the city 150 more years of prosperity and success.

                          ____________________