Transcript of Remarks by John Hall

Remarks made by Rep. John Hall (NY-19) at Scenic Hudson press conference on July 7, 2010:

“Good morning to everyone here today, and thank you for inviting me to join you on this important occasion.

“First, I’d like to congratulate Scenic Hudson president Ned Sullivan and his staff on an accomplishment that further underscores this region’s historical significance. Their work in ensuring that the West Point Foundry and the adjacent properties be added to National Register of Historic Places should be duly recognized, and applauded as well.

“As many of you here today know, the West Point Foundry opened after the War of 1812, as part of President James Madison’s plan for our young nation to produce artillery that would help safeguard its survival.

“Cold Spring was a perfect location for this. The Foundry could be protected by West Point, there was an abundance of hard wood for the forge furnaces and a nearby brook for water turbines that could run the lathes and other machinery.

“During the Civil War, the Parrot Rifle was manufactured here, but so were parts for steam locomotives, iron ships and the piping for the New York City water system. The West Point Foundry definitely played a vital role in our nation’s growing industrial revolution in the 1800s, and we should be thankful that much of this history is evident today.

“Here’s where hard work and American ingenuity were matched together to help make this the greatest nation in the world. I think it’s important to remind ourselves whenever possible of the values that have brought us the freedom we cherish.

“Not surprisingly, Scenic Hudson seems to know every perfect location here in this valley. Their efforts to ‘save the lands that matter most’ have helped bring world-wide attention to the region’s many natural and physical treasures—superb landscapes, breathtaking vistas and historical places included. Tourism in the Hudson Valley is key part of the local economy, generating over $346 million in state and local taxes last year just in this region alone, so being able to spotlight the West Point Foundry will undoubtedly add to this effort.

“It is my pleasure to have been able to assist Scenic Hudson with their mission while I have been in Congress, and I look forward to partnering with them in the future as they continue their invaluable work.”