A Special Tribute to The City of Wauseon, Ohio On The Occasion of Their Sesquicentennial

A Special Tribute to The City of Wauseon, Ohio On The Occasion of Their Sesquicentennial -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 24, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR
OF OHIO
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23, 2004

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to a special in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This year, the community of Wauseon, Ohio will celebrate the sesquicentennial of its founding.

Mr. Speaker, the City of Wauseon was officially recorded as a town in 1854 upon the arrival of the New York Central Railroad. The City earns its name from the long heritage of the Maumee Indian tribe. The last council of the Maumee tribe was held with the United States government 16 years before the founding of the City. It was at this council that Chief Wauseon conveyed all Maumee tribe lands in the Northwest Territory to the United States Government.

From its very beginning, Wauseon had a strong connection with the railroad. Its very creation came as a result of the railroad moving to Northwest Ohio. The first settlement in Wauseon came in anticipation of the arrival of the New York Central Railroad. Wauseon contributed to the prosperity of our young nation, the strength of our economy and the birth of our industrial might. Wauseon has a deep understanding and appreciation of their vibrant culture and long history.

Today, we honor the June 26th Heritage Days event in Wauseon, Ohio. This event will mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the City of Wauseon. The festival will include a Civil War encampment, Native American pow-wow, and music and food from the 1850's. Pioneer life will be on display throughout the celebration.

As the county seat of Fulton County and its largest city, Wauseon embraces their long and significant heritage and will continue to share this with visitors and members of their community. Building a community mindful of the past and ready for the future speaks to the wisdom and dedication of Wauseon's citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to the diligent effort and unwavering spirit of the citizens of Wauseon. I am confident that Wauseon's sesquicentennial will serve as an essential reminder to the past and promise of our great land.

END