FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 16, 2010
Contact: Matthew Dunlap
207-626-8400

Hampden Telephone Company Honored for 100 Years of Incorporation

Secretary of State Matt Dunlap recognized the Hampden Telephone Company – now operating as TDS Telecom, Hampden Telephone Company – for 100 years of incorporation on Friday, July 16, 2010 in his office. Perry Speaker, TDS Regional Market Manager, accepted the certificate on behalf of TDS Telecom. The Hampden Telephone Company was incorporated in the State of Maine on July 8, 1910.

Eighteen corporations are celebrating their centennial anniversary this year. They include three business corporations - E.J. Harmon Co., TD Insurance, Inc., and Hampden Telephone Company - and fifteen non-profit corporations – Eagle Associates; The Fryeburg Masonic Trustees; Ammadamast Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, No. 379; Bowdoinham Public Library Association; Northern New England Conference of Seventh-Day Adventist, Inc.; Greater Rumford Community Center; Old South Church Corporation; Mt. Etna Grange #147 Patrons of Husbandry; American Council of the Blind of Maine; Prout’s Neck Association; York Country Club; Bayville Improvement Association; Vassalboro Grange Corporation; Kennebunk Beach Improvement Association; and Daughters of Wisdom.

"This is an excellent opportunity to recognize Maine businesses and nonprofit organizations for their longevity," said Secretary Dunlap. "It takes the efforts of many individuals to keep an organization or corporation active for 100 years. Given that this department has over 80,000 active corporations on file, this a significant achievement."
?We?re extremely proud to be celebrating our 100th anniversary in Hampden,? says Speaker. ?It?s a pleasure to be the local telecommunications provider in this community and interesting to look back on 100 years of progress.?

Much has changed in the industry since the early 1900’s; technology has certainly not stood still. TDS Telecom purchased Hampden Telephone Co. in March 1995, changing the brand to TDS Telecom in 1999. The introduction of new services such as voice mail, caller id, and at the time, a revolutionary product called dial-up Internet soon followed. Today, residents enjoy high speed Internet and other advanced calling products as well as DISH Network TV.

According to Speaker, TDS and Hampden Telephone Co. are proud to have been part of the community for the past century. “On behalf of all the former and current employees of our company, I’d like to share our appreciation for our customers’ trust in us all these years.”

A photograph of the presentation is available upon request.