TITLE: Commemorating the dedication of an official Texas Historical Marker honoring G. W. Tull, Sr., in Canton.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the dedication of an official Texas Historical Marker honoring G. W. Tull, Sr., in Canton.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Residents of Canton gathered on May 11, 2013, to celebrate the dedication of an official Texas Historical Marker honoring the life of one of the city's earliest settlers, G. W. Tull, Sr.; and WHEREAS, A pioneer in spirit as well as in deed, Mr. Tull moved to Canton from Tennessee in 1858, after seeking his fortune in the California gold fields; together with William B. Moore, he established a successful mercantile business on the southwest corner of the Canton Courthouse square; Mr. Tull bought out his partner in 1860 and then operated the store by himself until his death in 1917; his son, G. W. Tull, Jr., took over the business at his father's passing and managed it until his own death in 1957; and WHEREAS, Though he never held political office, G. W. Tull, Sr., played a critical role in setting Canton on a path toward prosperity; his business served as an anchor for the local business community during the town's formative years, and in 1877 he helped finance Canton's campaign to remain the county seat in a dispute with Wills Point; later, he was responsible for the first brick construction in the town when he hired H. A. Evans to erect a brick building to house his store; largely through Mr. Tull's influence, the town evolved from a dirt-road hamlet into a modern community with other brick commercial establishments and brick-paved streets; and WHEREAS, Hosted by the Canton Main Street Program, the dedication ceremony honoring Mr. Tull was followed by a program in Hillcrest Cemetery arranged by the Hillcrest Cemetery Restoration Committee; the event featured a costumed performance by Stanley Tull, who took on the character of his illustrious ancestor; and WHEREAS, A forward-looking businessman and civic leader, G. W. Tull, Sr., made an immeasurable contribution to securing the future of his community, and his notable place in Canton's history is indeed deserving of recognition; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the dedication of an official Texas Historical Marker honoring G. W. Tull, Sr., and commend all those involved in bringing this worthy project to fruition. Flynn Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2529 was adopted by the House on May 24, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House