From the Office of Senator Harry Reid:
Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement on Nevada Day. Reid also submitted to the Las Vegas Review-Journal's special 150th edition “What's so great about our state?”
“On this day 150 years ago, our great state became the 36th to join the Union. Nevada Day provides a wonderful opportunity to study Nevada's history and a chance to reflect on our state's unique pioneer spirit, a spirit that continues to make it special today.
In 1864, as the Civil War dragged on, many in Congress were in a rush to grant statehood to Nevada and did not want to wait until the next session of Congress. A new state would help swing that year's president election towards President Lincoln and provide crucial votes for passage of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery.
On March 21, 1864, in the waning hours of the 38th Congress, Congress passed legislation allowing Nevada to join the Union once voters passed and President Lincoln approved a state constitution. It was not the normal course of business. Typically Congress would get the final word on admission of a new state to the Union, but as the country was in the midst of the Civil War, these were not normal times.
Nevada voters approved a state constitution on October 31, 1864, and President Lincoln proclaimed statehood. Today, we acknowledge Nevada's unique path to statehood on our state flag with the words “Battle Born.”
Throughout this year, we celebrated with events in every corner of the state. From my hometown of Searchlight to Virginia City to Elko, there was a 150th anniversary event to match every interest.
Let us cherish our past as we continue to look towards a future filled with innovation and continued economic success. I will continue to fight for the issues important to Nevadans and to make sure that everyone in the Silver State has a bright, promising future. Happy Nevada Day!”
From the Office of Senator Harry Reid
Representative Steven Horsford (NV-4) also released the following statement celebrating Nevada Day 2014, which marks 150 years since Nevada was admitted into the Union on October 31, 1864:
“I am truly proud to be a Nevadan; serving the people of this state and my district is the honor of my lifetime. Each year on Nevada Day, our state comes together to celebrate and remember our rich history. It has been 150 years since we were Battle Born. Ever since, we have been on an incredible journey as our state has evolved, but also held on to its roots. I am excited to be part of Nevada's next chapter: our best days are still ahead. I urge everyone to go out into their community, wish their neighbors a happy Nevada Day, and celebrate by casting a ballot in this election.”
