78S40570 BJM-D

By:  Dunnam                                                       H.R. No. 98 



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Throughout 2004, proud residents of Madison County 
will come together at a variety of special events to celebrate the 
auspicious occasion of their county's sesquicentennial; and
	WHEREAS, Nestled in beautiful central East Texas and framed 
by the Trinity and Navasota rivers and Bedias Creek, the area now 
known as Madison County was once home to both the Caddo and Atakapa 
Indians and later to a host of Spanish settlers; and
	WHEREAS, As a result of the pioneering efforts of citizens 
including Dr. Pleasant W. Kittrell, James Mitchell, and Job Starks 
Collard, Madison County was established by the Texas Legislature in 
1854 and named for President James Madison; Midway, settled in 1829 
by J. H. Young, is the oldest community in the county, and 
Madisonville is the county seat; and
	WHEREAS, Madison County combines rural charm with proximity 
to several major Texas cities; the area's fertile land supports 
nursery crops and cattle production, the primary source of 
agricultural income, and the county's many amenities provide for a 
high quality of life for local residents; and
	WHEREAS, Outdoor enthusiasts have come to enjoy the wide 
variety of activities offered in Madison County, and the area is a 
favorite among anglers and hunters; and
	WHEREAS, Residents and visitors alike look forward to the 
numerous county celebrations hosted throughout the year, including 
Madison Sidewalk Cattlemen's parade, barbecue, and rodeo, and 
Madisonville's mushroom festival; and
	WHEREAS, A progressive community with a rich Texas heritage, 
Madison County continues to play a significant role in the vitality 
of the Lone Star State, and it is indeed a privilege to join its many 
fine residents as they gather to observe the milestone of the 
county's sesquicentennial; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature, 4th Called Session, hereby recognize the 150th 
anniversary of Madison County and extend to its citizens sincere 
best wishes for a happy and prosperous future; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for Madison County as an expression of high regard by the 
Texas House of Representatives.