Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise today to commemorate the 375th anniversary of the incorporation of Kittery, ME. The oldest town in Maine has a history that is as fascinating as it is long. It is a history that exemplifies the determination, resiliency, and courage of my State and our Nation. For thousands of years the rich fishing grounds where the Piscataqua River meets the sea sustained the Native American tribes. The first European settlers, drawn by the abundant natural resources, arrived in 1623, just 3 years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. Built on a foundation of forestry and fishing, the growing community was incorporated in 1647. With a protected natural harbor and ample supplies of lumber, Kittery soon became a key Colonial center for seafaring trade and shipbuilding. Kittery's maritime heritage is inextricably linked to our Nation's independence and its ongoing defense of freedom. During the American Revolution, warships for the fledgling U.S. Navy were built at Kittery, including the Ranger, commanded by John Paul Jones. Kittery is the birthplace of General William Whipple, a ship's captain who was the only Maine native to have signed the Declaration of Independence and was later a hero of the Battle of Saratoga. Kittery also is the hometown of Captain Jeremiah O'Brien, who led American forces to victory at the Battle of the Margaretta at Maine's Machias Bay in 1775, the first naval battle of the American Revolution.…”