TITLE: Commemorating the 100th McIntosh-Ruffin Family Reunion in Jefferson.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the 100th McIntosh-Ruffin Family Reunion in Jefferson.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The descendants of Josiah McIntosh, Sr., are gathering in Jefferson from August 30 through September 1, 2013, for their much-anticipated annual family reunion, an event they have held now for 100 consecutive years; and WHEREAS, Josiah "Joe" McIntosh, Jr., was inspired by his 102-year-old father, Josiah McIntosh, Sr., to organize the family's first gathering; the elder McIntosh, a former slave, had seen the terrible effects of slavery on families, splitting them apart and denying them the opportunity to be together, and he always emphasized the importance of knowing and supporting one's kin; and WHEREAS, In June 1913, Joe McIntosh, Jr., and his wife, Mattie Ruffin, hosted their siblings and their families as well as 14 of the couple's children and their families in their Jefferson home, and this tradition of feast and fellowship has continued in the 10 decades that have followed; and WHEREAS, The McIntosh-Ruffin reunion offers those in attendance an opportunity to reflect on their rich legacy and to strengthen the bonds that have united their extended families for generations; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 2013 McIntosh-Ruffin Family Reunion and extend to its organizers and participants sincere best wishes for an enjoyable and memorable event; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the McIntosh-Ruffin family as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Thompson of Harris Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1897 was adopted by the House on May 15, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House