[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 26 (Friday, February 7, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E107]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE TOWN OF YOUNTVILLE, CALIFORNIA
______
HON. MIKE THOMPSON
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, February 7, 2025
Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the
Town of Yountville as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of its
incorporation.
Yountville's origins can be traced back to 1836, when George C. Yount
received an 11,887-acre land grant from the Mexican government. Mr.
Yount named his land Caymus Rancho after a local Native American tribe,
and planted the Napa Valley's first vineyard, laying the foundation for
what would become one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world.
In the early 1850's, Mr. Yount laid out a six-block area with a public
square, creating a village he named Yountville.
Yountville was officially incorporated on February 5, 1965, becoming
the fourth incorporated community in Napa County. At that time, the
population was approximately 2,600, which included 2,000 residents at
the Veterans Home of California-Yountville, a cornerstone of our
Yountville community.
Since its incorporation, Yountville has transformed into a world-
renowned destination praised for its cuisine, wine, and art. The
establishment of Domaine Chandon and Vintage 1870 in the 1970's set the
stage for the town's evolution into a culinary and cultural hub,
helping to establish the town's commitment to farmland preservation and
as a place for the wine community to grow. Yountville has also become
the home to renown establishments, including The French Laundry, which
has earned international acclaim for its innovative dining experience.
In recent years, Yountville has achieved several significant
milestones. In 2016, Yountville's Town Hall was added to the National
Register of Historic Places, reflecting its architectural and
historical significance in our Nation. In 2019, the LGBTQ+ flag was
raised for the first time at the Yountville Town Hall during Pride
Month, underscoring the town's commitment to inclusivity and equality.
During the global pandemic in 2020, Yountville was resilient,
supporting its residents and businesses through unprecedented
challenges. In 2024, Yountville celebrated two key anniversaries: the
150th anniversary of the Yountville Community Church and the 140th
anniversary of the founding of the Veterans Home of California-
Yountville. Additionally in 2024, the town purchased the former
Yountville Elementary School property, renaming it Yountville Commons
to serve as a community space for future generations.
Today, Yountville remains committed to preserving its small-town
charm while embracing sustainable growth and innovation. The town
prioritizes maintaining a safe and healthy environment, respecting its
agricultural heritage, and enhancing the quality of life for its
residents with its services and amenities. Its parks, public art and
vibrant local businesses continue to attract visitors from around the
world, solidifying Yountville's place as a cherished town in our Napa
Valley community.
Mr. Speaker, it is evident that the Town of Yountville is a community
rich in history, culture, and resilience. Therefore, it is fitting and
proper that we honor the town and its residents here today.
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