[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 45 (Wednesday, March 13, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E249]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING THE SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL OF MARTIN COUNTY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD G. DAVIS

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 13, 2024

  Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, I honor a milestone 
that marks the passage of time and the rich tapestry of history and 
community woven into the fabric of Martin County. As the county's 
residents commemorate its Semiquincentennial, let us reflect upon 250 
years of resilience, progress, and unity that have shaped the county.
  The county's history begins with the Tuscarora, who first inhabited 
the region that became Martin County. They referred to the area as 
``Squhawky.'' The Tuscarora lived off the lush forest of present-day 
Martin County and used the Roanoke River as an important trade route 
with other tribes in the coastal plain region. The Tuscarora migrated 
to other North Carolina and Virginia sites when the first English 
settlers began inhabiting the area in the early 1770s.
  In the anxious year of 1774, Martin County emerged from annexes of 
Halifax and Tyrrell Counties, born from the tireless efforts of 
residents who sought a closer seat of county government. The county was 
named for the last Royal Governor of North Carolina, Josiah Martin. The 
county's name would later be used to honor Alexander Martin, a 
prominent Federalist of the Old North State. Incorporated in 1779, 
Williamston, the cherished county seat, earned the moniker of ``Tar 
Landing,'' a testament to its pivotal role along the Roanoke River.
  Throughout history, the county and Williamston have served as 
transportation centers for naval stores such as tar, pitch, turpentine, 
and other resources. The railroads of the 1800s and the highways of the 
1900s continued to allow trade in the region to flourish.
  The Roanoke River, a lifeline coursing through the county, has 
witnessed triumphs and tribulations, from its days as the ``Moratuck'' 
to the modern era where it beckons adventurers and anglers alike. Let 
us remember the floods of 1940, a catalyst for change that birthed the 
Roanoke River Basin Association and paved the way for progress in flood 
mitigation and environmental stewardship.
  From the bustling heart of Williamston to the tranquil hamlets of Oak 
City, Hamilton, and beyond, our communities and municipalities stand as 
testaments to the resilience and ingenuity of generations past and 
present.
  At Martin County's 250th anniversary, let us celebrate our past 
achievements and recommit ourselves to the ideals of unity, resilience, 
and progress that have defined the county. Together, let us continue to 
write the next chapter of the county's story, guided by the enduring 
spirit of those who came before us.
  I wish a happy Semiquincentennial to Martin County. Here's to another 
250 years of heritage, community, and boundless possibility.

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