[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16204]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      CELEBRATING THE 275TH ANNIVERSARY OF TORRINGTON, CONNECTICUT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 20, 2015

  Ms. ESTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 275th 
anniversary of Torrington, Connecticut.
  On Saturday, I had the honor of commemorating the city's 275th 
anniversary with local public officials and members of the community. 
Gathered on the steps of City Hall, we marked this historic milestone, 
honored the city's residents, and showcased the best of Torrington. The 
event hosts were the City of Torrington, the Warner Theatre, and the 
Torrington Historical Society.
  In October 1740, residents established a town government only five 
years after the first settler, Ebenezer Lyman Jr., came to Torrington. 
Within a few short years, the first church, meeting house, and main 
roads were built, and Torrington flourished. In the early 19th century, 
Torrington industrialized. Several large brass mills opened, making the 
city a hub of production in the area. Over time, Torrington's 
population grew to meet these new labor demands. Among these new 
inhabitants were a diverse group of immigrants, bringing with them 
cultures that would enrich Torrington's commerce, art, and 
architecture.
  When our nation was embroiled in the Second World War, Torrington put 
its industrial muscle behind the war effort. The city produced vital 
materials for our troops and contributed to victory. Manufacturing 
continues to be a substantial industry in Torrington. Many of these 
companies have called Torrington home for decades, while others have 
found the city recently and discovered that it is an ideal location.
  Today, Torrington is a thriving, vibrant community. It has set an 
example for what a city can do when residents work together with a 
vision for the future. The city boasts cultural attractions that bring 
visitors from near and far to see all that Torrington has to offer.
  I am honored to represent the City of Torrington in the United States 
Congress. I would like to thank Torrington's Municipal Historian Ken 
Buckbee and the Torrington 275 Organizing Committee for planning a 
spectacular celebration to recognize Torrington's 275th anniversary.
  Congratulations to Torrington.

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