Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Oliver Kelley, who was born on this day in 1826. Kelley, a native Bostonian, realized that Minnesota was a land of great opportunity and moved there in 1849. Although he had no experience farming, Kelley became a ``book farmer'' and everything that he first learned about agriculture, he got from reading. Kelley's thirst for knowledge, great intuition, and progressive methods allowed his farm in Elk River to thrive. In 1864, Kelley became a clerk for the U.S. Bureau of Agriculture. Through his work, he recognized the importance of agriculture to our Nation and, in 1867, helped found the National Grange, a society and advocacy group for rural America. Oliver Kelley's role in agriculture led to his induction into the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in 2006. The Kelley farm remains an important part of our community. Today, it is a historical property that teaches thousands of Minnesota school kids about agriculture. Minnesotans are certainly grateful for Kelley's efforts, which have largely contributed to agricultural success in our country, and we are proud to have his legacy maintained in Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District. ____________________”