Today, Congressman David Scott honored the 175th anniversary of the city of Powder Springs, Georgia by making remarks for the Congressional Record. His statement is posted below.
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Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, every now and then, we have the opportunity to step back and reflect on our history, our accomplishments and struggles and think about how we want to shape our future. October brings a special opportunity for such reflection, as the City of Powder Springs, in my home district in Georgia, observes its 175th Anniversary. Considering that our nation is only 237 years old that is cause for much celebration.
Few people know that Powder Springs is not the original name of the City. It was first incorporated as the town of Springville in 1838. While settlers first came to the town in search of gold, they quickly discovered the medicinal properties of the seven mineral springs in the area. In the 1850s Springville widely became known as a health resort, and people came from great distances to experience the springs. The mineral water from these springs caused the sand around the springs to turn black, resembling gunpowder, which lead the city to be incorporated as Powder Springs in 1859.
The next several decades were hard on Powder Springs. The Civil War put an end to the use of the area as a health resort. After the Civil War, a thriving agricultural industry sprung up, but the coming of the boll weevil in the 1920s and the Great Depression devastated the region.
But the hard-working people of Powder Springs never gave up. With a population quickly approaching 16,000, the city is once again prospering. Its beautiful parks, nature trails and recreation centers draw in visitors from afar. The Silver Comet, for example, is a well known 59-mile ``rails to trails'' multi-use trail that runs through the heart of the City. Residents also have access to over 100 acres of permanently protected green space. I am always amazed at the level of community involvement in Powder Springs, which in part streams from the excellent leadership of Mayor Pat Vaughn, who was the city's first female mayor. My fellow colleagues, I hope you will join me in celebrating this historical milestone and this remarkable city.
