[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 111 (Monday, July 6, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E653]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN MADISON COUNTY

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                       HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, July 6, 2026

  Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate 
Madison County, Virginia, as our Nation commemorates the 250th 
anniversary of America's independence.
  Madison County sits at the intersection of some of the most 
historically significant sites of American history critical to the 
foundation of our country. Chartered in 1972, its story stretches back 
more than 11,000 years, from the earliest Paleo-Indians to the colonial 
frontier and the founding of the Republic. Located near our Nation's 
Capital and the home to several Founding Fathers, Madison County shares 
a close connection to President James Madison, whose estate, 
Montpelier, is in neighboring Orange County. The county also witnessed 
pivotal moments in American history, including Civil War campaigns. In 
1775 the Culpeper Minutemen, a well-known Revolutionary War militia of 
about 250 men organized from a broad district that included Culpeper, 
Orange, Fauquier, and what is now Madison County, reflecting the 
region's early role in Virginia's fight for independence.
  Today, more than 13,000 people call Madison County home. Surrounded 
by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the county is known for its scenic beauty, 
local businesses, outdoor recreation, and communities that reflect the 
best of rural Virginia.
  Madison County's history continues to be preserved by dedicated local 
organizations. The Madison County Historical Society operates the 
historic Kemper Residence and the Mountain Museum in Criglersville, 
where the Blue Ridge Heritage Project honors families who were forcibly 
displaced from the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Madison County African 
American Historical Association preserves and shares the county's Black 
history through its museum in the former Odd Fellows Lodge Hall, 
ensuring these important stories are remembered for generations to 
come.
  As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Madison County reminds 
us that our Nation's history was built by communities across the 
country and by generations of Americans whose hard work, sacrifice, and 
courage made our freedoms possible.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Madison 
County, Virginia, for its remarkable contributions to our Nation's 
history and in celebrating its role in this milestone anniversary of 
American independence.

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