Senators Collins, King Commemorate Maine’s Bicentennial with Congressional Resolution
Click HERE to watch Senator Collins' bicentennial video.
Washington, D.C.—In honor of Maine’s 200th anniversary, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King authored a resolution that was passed by the U.S. Senate unanimously this week. Maine became our nation’s 23rd state on March 15, 1820.
“It is a pleasure to join my fellow Mainers in celebrating our bicentennial and the generations of people who have written an inspiring and remarkable history,” said Senator Collins. “Our state’s noble legacy is upheld and advanced by Mainers today who protect our pristine environment, keep our economy on the cutting edge, serve our nation in uniform, and continue to make our communities great places to live.”
“Maine’s state motto is simple, declarative, and fitting: Dirigo, or ‘I Lead.’ And that’s exactly right: for the last 200 years, Maine has led the way, economically, politically, and socially,” said Senator King. “Regardless of which of the 16 Counties you’re from, today is an opportunity to celebrate our great fortune to live, work, and play in the greatest state in the nation. I’m grateful for the contributions of all Maine people, and look forward to another 200 years of prosperity, community, commonsense, and leadership.”
Senators Collins and King were originally scheduled to attend the Statehood Day celebration in Augusta on Sunday, but the event was postponed due to precautionary measures related to the coronavirus.
The text of the resolution submitted by Senators Collins and King to the Congressional Record is as follows:
SENATE RESOLUTION 541--RECOGNIZING AND CELEBRATING THE 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ENTRY OF MAINE INTO THE UNION AS THE 23RD STATE
Whereas the place now known as Maine is Wabanaki Homeland, and is currently home to vibrant Indigenous cultures and communities.
Whereas Maine was a District of Massachusetts, one of the thirteen original colonies of the United States;
Whereas by 1820, people living in Maine had built a thriving economy that included farming, forestry, fishing, and shipbuilding industries;
Whereas in March 1820, Congress and President James Monroe approved the Missouri Compromise, authorizing the establishment of the State of Maine and making it the 23rd state of the United States;
Whereas Maine is characterized by its hardworking, altruistic, and independent people and its strong community spirit;
Whereas the state motto, “Dirigo,” Latin for “I lead,” reflects the trailblazing nature of the State of Maine and its 1.3 million inhabitants;
Whereas Maine has one of the highest numbers of veterans per capita in the United States and is the home of the nation’s first veterans hospital, Togus;
Whereas the state contributes greatly to our national defense through the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Bath Iron Works, Pratt & Whitney, and numerous other suppliers and installations whose skilled employees are a vital asset to our country.
Whereas distinguished statesmen from the State of Maine include William King, Joshua Chamberlain, Hannibal Hamlin, Margaret Chase Smith, and Edmund Muskie;
Whereas Maine is known as “The Pine Tree State” and “Vacationland” for its extensive forests and spectacular scenery that draw millions of visitors every year;
Whereas the majestic beauty of Mount Katahdin, one of New England’s highest peaks and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, and other unspoiled natural treasures beckon outdoor enthusiasts;
Whereas Maine’s rugged coastline and vibrant fall foliage are showcased in particular splendor in Acadia National Park, one of the ten most visited National Parks in the country;
Whereas the pristine Atlantic waters off Maine’s coast support fishermen and women as well as the iconic lobster industry, which is the nation’s most valuable fishery and has become known worldwide as a standard of seafood excellence;
Whereas Maine is the most forested state in the country, with a long history of pulp and paper production and an exciting recent turn towards innovation and diversification of forest products;
Whereas the fertile soils of Maine have helped farmers produce the best potatoes and wild blueberries for generations and have supported the increase of organic agriculture operations;
Whereas March 15, 2020, marks the 200th anniversary of the attainment of statehood by Maine; and
Whereas the bicentennial is a monumental occasion to celebrate and commemorate the achievements of the great State of Maine:
Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate recognizes and celebrates the 200th anniversary of the entry of Maine into the Union as the 23rd State.
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