of Governor Herbert R. O'Conor 103

indeed. But more than that, it is a thing of utility immeasurable for the
residents of this section and of all of the State, as well as a means of attracting
to Maryland many thousands of visitors from West Virginia and the areas
beyond.

Joining with our visitors and guests and with all who are present to take
part in these dedicatory ceremonies, it is obvious that congratulations are
definitely in order to everyone who had any part in the events that led up to
the completion of this great span, justifying such an imposing and important
celebration. The officials and residents of Hancock and the surrounding ter-
ritory throughout Washington County are to be commended upon the realiza-
tion of their dreams. The residents of Western Maryland who have constantly
emphasized the need for this convenient access to and from the neighborly
State of West Virginia are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts in
centering attention upon this need. Federal and State officials who have de-
voted earnest, efforts to the consummation of well-considered plans also de-
serve the gratitude of our people for having played their part in this great
result.

I wish, also to express, in the name of the people of Maryland a most
cordial welcome to all of the visitors to our State today. We are honored by the
visitation of representatives from the Federal Government, from neighboring
States and from private industry of many parts of the Country. Their presence
today adds considerably to our gratification upon this new achievement and we
trust that they will find as much pleasure in being here with us as we find
in having them.

Representing, as this structure does, the last word in modern equipment
of its kind, it will for generations serve the convenience, add to the enjoyment
and make possible greater progress and development. It will save many
miles of travel, otherwise necessary, so that economically, it is a sound
investment.

Pointing, as it does, directly toward the great State of West Virginia,
while in the other direction lies only a short distance away, the other great
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, it may be described as being a stretched hand
of good fellowship to our adjoining friendly neighbors. By this means we hope
to have more frequent contact with the citizens of these other States, realizing
that based upon the happy experience of the past, the better we know them,
the greater will be our satisfaction.

While as I mentioned before this investment is a prudent one from an
economical standpoint, it also will pay for itself one hundred! fold by friendlier
relations, increased contacts and greater cooperation in matters of mutual
interest.

Because this bridge, henceforth, will be an integral part of our road
system, some description of the development of the arteries of transportation
would seem to be fitting. It may not be generally known but it was the
bicycle that played a leading part in the initiation of country-wide movement
for good roads. As long ago as 1890, the late Dr. W. B. Clark, then State
Geologist, joined with the Maryland Chapter of the League of American Wheel-
men to focus public attention upon the imperative need for better roads.

Just fifty years ago the Legislature appropriated $10, 000 in order to have
the Geological Survey investigate the possibility of road improvement. This
sum would be considered now insignificant when compared with the millions of