The following proclamation was read into the Congressional Record by U.S. Rep. David Davis, R-1st, of Johnson City, to commemorate the 225th anniversary of the granting of the organization of Greene County by the North Carolina Legislature on April 26, 1783.

Davis addressed his remarks to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

"Madame Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Greene County and Greeneville, Tennessee. Both will be celebrating their 225th anniversary on April 26. Greene County was originally formed by the North Carolina Legislature on April 26, 1783, and just two years later, it became part of the state of Tennessee during the split of the State of Franklin. Today it still shares the pristine mountains, abundant history, and rich culture that it did 225 years ago. "Greene County has become a thriving tourist destination with its abundant history and the many restorations throughout the county.

"Located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Greene County is one of the largest counties in Tennessee and hosts Greeneville; Tennessee's second oldest town.

"Our 17th President, Andrew Johnson, who took the presidency after Abraham Lincoln, also called Greene County home and that is where he was finally laid to rest in 1875. "Celebrated hero, American folklore legend, and former Member of the United States House of Representatives, Davy Crockett was born in Greene County.

"Tusculum College, which calls Greene County home, was founded in 1794 and is Tennessee's oldest college. Tusculum also is the oldest educational institution to be affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.

"Greene County's Civil War ties are abundant and the county played a pivotal role in the Civil War. The county was mostly made up of Unionist sympathizers and the Greeneville Convention of 1861 was Tennessee's largest and most important pro-Union meeting in the weeks prior to the Civil War. Furthermore, after the Confederate loss at the battle of Knoxville in 1863, General James Longstreet intended to stay the winter in Greeneville.

"Greene County's historic production of burley tobacco led to prosperity in the late nineteenth century. After years of being one of the region's most important tobacco markets, the University of Tennessee Extension Service has invested in an experimental farm just outside of Greeneville which provides students with unique learning opportunities."

Rep. Davis concluded, "I would like to honor all who have had a hand in shaping the historic past of Greene County and those who will continue to shape Greene County for many years to come. "Madame Speaker, as you can see, history, heritage, and culture are major characteristics of the First District, Greene County, and Greeneville. I ask my colleagues to honor and share Greene County and Greeneville's 225th anniversary celebration here today."