RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN MADISON COUNTY

On 2026-07-06, Representative Eugene Simon Vindman (D-VA-7) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN MADISON COUNTY" in the House.

RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN MADISON COUNTY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 111 (Monday, July 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 111 (Monday, July 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E653] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY IN MADISON COUNTY ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, July 6, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Madison County, Virginia, as our Nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of America's independence. Madison County sits at the intersection of some of the most historically significant sites of American history critical to the foundation of our country. Chartered in 1972, its story stretches back more than 11,000 years, from the earliest Paleo-Indians to the colonial frontier and the founding of the Republic. Located near our Nation's Capital and the home to several Founding Fathers, Madison County shares a close connection to President James Madison, whose estate, Montpelier, is in neighboring Orange County. The county also witnessed pivotal moments in American history, including Civil War campaigns. In 1775 the Culpeper Minutemen, a well-known Revolutionary War militia of about 250 men organized from a broad district that included Culpeper, Orange, Fauquier, and what is now Madison County, reflecting the region's early role in Virginia's fight for independence. Today, more than 13,000 people call Madison County home. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the county is known for its scenic beauty, local businesses, outdoor recreation, and communities that reflect the best of rural Virginia. Madison County's history continues to be preserved by dedicated local organizations. The Madison County Historical Society operates the historic Kemper Residence and the Mountain Museum in Criglersville, where the Blue Ridge Heritage Project honors families who were forcibly displaced from the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Madison County African American Historical Association preserves and shares the county's Black history through its museum in the former Odd Fellows Lodge Hall, ensuring these important stories are remembered for generations to come. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Madison County reminds us that our Nation's history was built by communities across the country and by generations of Americans whose hard work, sacrifice, and courage made our freedoms possible. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Madison County, Virginia, for its remarkable contributions to our Nation's history and in celebrating its role in this milestone anniversary of American independence. ____________________