[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 6]
[Senate]
[Page 7769]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                              BERWICK, ME

  Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President. I rise today to commemorate the 300th 
anniversary of the town of Berwick, ME. As the ninth incorporated town 
in Maine, Berwick holds a very special place in our State's history, 
and one that exemplifies the determination and resiliency of Maine 
people.
  While this landmark anniversary marks Berwick's incorporation, the 
year 1713 was but one milestone in a long journey of progress. It is a 
journey that began thousands of years earlier with Native American 
villages on the banks of the Piscataqua and Salmon Falls Rivers. In 
1631, barely a decade after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, 
Ambrose Gibbens established a settlement at Quampeagan Falls and built 
the first sawmill in North America. That manufacturing heritage has 
remained strong in the three communities known today as The Berwicks, 
from the textile and iron works of the 18th century to the cutting-edge 
biotechnology and aerospace industries of today.
  Industry is only part of Berwick's story. During the Revolutionary 
War, the town provided two full companies to fight for America's 
independence, more than many towns of greater size. The courage and 
character demonstrated by the townspeople in standing for liberty echo 
throughout Berwick's history. In the years before the Civil War, the 
many churches in town were powerful voices for the abolition of 
slavery. During that terrible conflict, more than 200 of Berwick's 
young men fought, and many died, so that all might live in freedom. The 
town's honor roll of current military personnel demonstrates an ongoing 
commitment to our Nation's founding principles.
  This anniversary is not just about something that is measured in 
calendar years. It is about human accomplishment. We celebrate the 
people who, for more than three centuries, have pulled together, cared 
for one another, and built a great community that is a wonderful place 
to live, work, and raise families. Thanks to those who came before, 
Berwick has a wonderful history. Thanks to those who are here today, it 
has a bright future.

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