In Honor of the City of Darien, Illinois' 50th Birthday

Floor Speech

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Mr. CASTEN of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th birthday of the city of Darien, Illinois.

On December 13th, 1969 the communities of Marion Hills, Brookhaven, Farmingdale and Hinsbrook united to incorporate as the city Darien. Today, Darien is known as ``A Nice Place to Live,'' which perfectly describes this city.

The area was initially inhabited by the Potowatami and Ottowa Native Americans with the surrounding waterways serving as their trade routes. The farming communities of Cass and Lace were established along a stagecoach line in the early 1800s. An inn, tavern and post office served 15 stagecoaches that transited the area. Today, Darien continues to serve as a transportation center with easy access to the commuter train line, as well as Interstates 55, 355 and 294.

The six square mile town is home to approximately 6500 families. Darien is a vibrant, growing community dedicated to its citizens. The Indian Prairie Public Library has grown from a volunteer-operated bookmobile to a state-of-the-art facility that is a center for learning and community activities. The Park District Sportsplex includes three National Hockey League sized ice rinks as well as an indoor soccer field, enabling children and adults from surrounding areas to hone their athletic skills. Civic pride and a commitment to others is demonstrated by organizations such as the Darien Woman's Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Good Work Sunny Patch Project, VFW, and the Darien Lions Club, which is one of the largest in the state. These groups serve others through food pantries, holiday giving, clothing drives, art and writing events, and scholarships.

It is an honor and privilege to congratulate Darien on its 50 years of growth and accomplishments. I congratulate Mayor Joseph Marchese, the City of Darien's Birthday Committee, and each of its citizens on this wonderful milestone.

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