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Sen. Conrad [D-ND]: Mr. President, I rise today to honor a community in North Dakota that is celebrating its 100th anniversary. On September 2 through September 5, the residents of...

Record Text

Sen. Kent Conrad [D-ND]: Mr. President, I rise today to honor a community in North Dakota that is celebrating its 100th anniversary. On September 2 through September 5, the residents of Alexander, ND, celebrated their community's history and founding.

Alexander is a small town in the northwestern part of North Dakota with a population of 216. Despite its size, Alexander holds an important place within North Dakota's history. It began on July 24, 1905, when the city was platted by Frank B. Chapman. That same year, a wide variety of businesses were constructed in the town, including the Dakota Trading Company Store, the Alexander State Bank, and the Alexander Hotel. Later that year, the McKenzie County Chronicle began publication in an office of the Alexander State Bank. In 1918, the town suffered a devastating fire; however, the town rebuilt and continued to grow.

Today, Alexander remains a proud community with an economy bolstered by farming, ranching, and oil extraction. In the city's park, hamburgers are served every summer Saturday evening. The town is also home to the Lewis and Clark Trail Museum, which is housed in the old school house. Each room in the museum highlights a different and unique view of the area's history.

Mr. President, I ask the Senate to join me in congratulating Alexander, ND, and its residents on their first 100 years and in wishing them well through the next century. I believe that by honoring Alexander and all the other historic small towns of North Dakota, we keep the pioneering frontier spirit alive for future generations. It is such places as Alexander that have helped to shape this country into what it is today, which is why this community is deserving of our recognition.

Alexander has a proud past and a bright future.