[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 78 (Thursday, May 7, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING CENTRAL INSURANCE'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT E. LATTA

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 7, 2026

  Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate 
Central Insurance of Van Wert, Ohio, on the occasion of its 150th 
anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the company's enduring 
commitment to its policyholders, agents, employees, and the community 
it has proudly called home since its founding.
  Formally incorporated in 1876 as Van Wert County Mutual Fire 
Insurance Company, Central Insurance started out as a small, community-
based mutual insurer formed by neighbors to help neighbors share risk 
at a time when formal insurance was still emerging in rural America. 
Central's operations soon began to stretch beyond Van Wert County. By 
1883, the company had become an interstate operation, and the name Van 
Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company was limited. In 1884, the 
name was changed to The Central Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance 
Company. By its 25th anniversary in 1901, the company had expanded 
operations into six states. As transportation transformed American life 
in the early twentieth century, Central adapted its offerings to 
include automobile insurance. Its regional footprint expanded further 
in the following decades, with branch offices established in Boston, 
Atlanta, and Dallas. Today, Central Insurance serves hundreds of 
thousands of individuals and businesses across the country.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Central 
Insurance on this extraordinary milestone. For 150 years, Central 
Insurance has exemplified the very best of American business and served 
with integrity and dedication. We wish Central Insurance all the best 
in their future endeavors.

                          ____________________