Political Quotes

“I rise today to recognize Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, which marks its centennial celebration on Sunday. While Port Matilda was formally incorporated as a borough in 1925, its roots go back to 1850, when Squire Clement Beckwith laid out a town plot and named it after his eldest daughter Matilda. Historians believe that the addition of 'port' was hopeful on Beckwith's part, thinking the borough would eventually be connected to the Bald Eagle and Spring Creek branch of the Pennsylvania Canal, though it was never realized. Nestled in the Bald Eagle Valley between Tyrone and State College, the borough is a glimpse into small town America. Its most famous landmark from the 1800s, the Port Matilda Hotel & Tavern, is still in business today. In the late 19th century, Port Matilda was a working village of mills and shops. In the 20th century, the borough's industrial base was anchored by the McFeely Brick Company, a major employer until its closure in 1959. Across nearly two centuries, Port Matilda has flourished as a crossroads town with a rich history. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Port Matilda on this milestone occasion.”