TITLE: Recognizing February 26, 2025, as Young County Day at the State Capitol.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 26, 2025, as Young County Day at the State Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Proud residents of Young County are gathering in Austin on February 26, 2025, to celebrate Young County Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, Situated in the Cross Timbers and Prairies ecological region of North Central Texas, Young County was created by the Texas Legislature in 1856, five years after the United States Army established Fort Belknap there; the county saw many conflicts between Native Americans and Anglo settlers, and during the Civil War, raids forced many settlers to abandon the area; in the 1870s, the federal government redoubled its efforts to suppress Native American tribes in the region, and by 1880, the population had risen to more than 4,700 people; and WHEREAS, In its early years, the county's economy was driven by farming and ranching, with cotton, corn, and wheat being key crops; the arrival of railroads eased immigration into the area and connected it more directly with national markets, leading to a population boom and a rise in new farms; while cotton remained important to the region, the 1920s brought oil and gas exploration, which became a significant part of life in the area; and WHEREAS, Today, Young County is home to more than 18,000 people, and its economy benefits from the manufacturing, retail, and oil and gas industries, among others; notable communities include the county seat of Graham as well as Newcastle and Olney; residents and visitors enjoy recreational opportunities afforded by Lake Graham and Lake Eddleman, and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the region for activities such as boating, fishing, and hunting; the county also hosts a number of annual events, among them the Food Truck Championship of Texas and Crawfish and Cannons, and other attractions include the grounds of Fort Belknap and the Graham Drive-In Theatre, which is one of only a handful of outdoor movie theaters still operating in the state; and WHEREAS, The people of Young County take great pride in their rich history as they work together to build an even brighter future, and it is indeed fitting to honor them for their unique contributions to the growth and prosperity of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 26, 2025, as Young County Day at the State Capitol and extend a warm welcome to the visiting delegation. Spiller Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 286 was adopted by the House on March 13, 2025, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House