[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 180 (Wednesday, October 29, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S7826]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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        RECOGNIZING THE 350TH ANNIVERSARY OF DERBY, CONNECTICUT

 Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate the 350th anniversary of Derby, CT. It may be our State's 
smallest city by square mileage, but Derby's role in our Nation's 
history is truly larger than life.
  The city was first established as a trading post in 1642 and was 
officially named Derby in 1675. Derby was incorporated as a city on May 
13, 1775.
  The city is home to many significant moments in our Nation's history 
and played a vital role in our foundational years. Derby was integral 
in defending our Nation during the War of 1812, helping to repel 
British invaders along the coast of Connecticut and the Thames River. 
In addition, during this conflict, Derby native Isaac Hull 
distinguished himself for his command of the USS Constitution and to 
this day is renowned for his naval excellence and fearlessness.
  Derby has made notable contributions to Connecticut, New England, and 
our country. The city had the first electric trolley system in New 
England--only the second in the United States--and is also home to the 
first electric locomotive in our history to be built and successfully 
used for commercial freight hauling. This locomotive, built in 1888, is 
kept in running condition to this day by the Shore Line Trolley Museum. 
Derby is also the hometown of such notable figures as Ebenezer Don 
Carlos Bassett, the first African-American diplomat; Harry Haugh, who 
invented the ``electromatic traffic signal'' in 1928 and revolutionized 
traffic control; Clara Louise Kellogg, who was recognized as the 
Nation's first prima donna opera singer; and Mary Portis, who became 
the first female executive of Scouting America in 1990.
  Today, Derby is known for several annual events, including parades 
and farmers' markets, as well as a collection of museums and a vibrant 
restaurant culture--especially for chicken wings, New Haven-style 
pizza, and craft breweries. It is a lively small city with a thriving 
commercial district.
  The residents of Derby have kept their history incredibly well-
preserved; in fact, there are currently six locations in Derby that are 
on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Birmingham 
Green, the Derby Public Library, and the Howe House.
  The city officially celebrated their 350th anniversary on May 13, 
2025, and held a gala on October 17, 2025. I hope my colleagues will 
join me in celebrating the city of Derby and all of its residents and 
community leaders, as well as its remarkable place in our Nation's 
history.

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