Honoring the Kerite Company as They Celebrate Their 150th Anniversary

HONORING THE KERITE COMPANY AS THEY CELEBATE THEIR 150TH ANNIVERSARY -- (Extensions of Remarks - November 17, 2004)

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce and the entire Valley community in extending my sincere congratulations to the Kerite Company of Seymour, Connecticut as they celebrate their 150th Anniversary. One of the oldest wire and cable companies in the United States, this is a remarkable milestone for this company which has become a true community landmark.

Founded in 1854 by Austin Goodyear Day, Kerite has long been a leader in the development and production of utility transmission and distribution power cables as well as industrial power cables. The innovations credited to Kerite have marked unparalleled technological advancements-with each new technology bringing the dawn of a new era, not only in the industry but in our society as well. The 1865 invention of the crosshead extruder by A.G. DeWolfe Kerite resulted in the first insulated telegraph wire. Kerite introduced the signal cable for railroads and was responsible for the first submarine power cable as well as for cable supplied to the Panama Canal. As the needs of industry changed, Kerite has adapted itself to provide quality products to its consumers. In modern history, the Kerite Company introduced the first 69 kilovolt and the first 138 kilovolt power cables and are responsible for the longest and deepest submarine power cable project in North America.

I had the opportunity to visit the Kerite Company in August of last year. Nestled in the Seymour community, the company has preserved much of its history in an onsite museum. While touring the facility, I was also able to develop a better understanding of the technology they are employing today. Through their continued commitment to providing quality and superior performance, the Kerite Company has developed an international reputation for service and value. It is this dedication that has allowed them to withstand the toughest test of all-the test of time.

For a century and a half, Kerite has been a pioneer in its industry and with its distinguished reputation has been a source of pride for the Seymour and Valley communties. Today, as the Kerite Company celebrates its past and looks ahead to the future, I am proud to stand and congratulate them on their 150th Anniversary and extend my very best wishes to them for many more years of success.