SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 120

	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to pay 
tribute to Matagorda County for its many contributions to our 
state, and to join its citizens in celebrating Matagorda County 
Day on February 11, 2003; and

	WHEREAS, Situated along the Gulf of Mexico between 
Brazoria and Calhoun counties, this lush county consists of more 
than 1,100 square miles, including Matagorda Bay, and the land is 
drained by the Colorado River, Caney Creek, and Tres Palacios 
Creek; and

	WHEREAS, Often called "The Cradle of Texas History," 
Matagorda County was first settled by people brought in under the 
leadership of Stephen F. Austin; agriculture was the primary 
source of income and the main crops were cotton and sugarcane; 
after the Civil War, cattle ranching became the chief source of 
income, since both the war and the boll weevil destroyed cotton 
crops; and

	WHEREAS, Railroad development became a major reason for 
the growth of Matagorda County around 1898; Bay City was 
established in 1894 and became the county seat; and

	WHEREAS, In the 2000 census, the total population of 
Matagorda County was approximately 38,000; the modern-day 
economy is based on agriculture, petrochemicals, nuclear power, 
plastics, oil and gas, and oilfield services; and

	WHEREAS, The recreational attractions of this area are 
manifold; major parks and the Gulf of Mexico provide ample 
opportunities for fishing, shrimping, and bird-watching; one of 
the county's ports is known as the Shrimp Capital of Texas, and 
for the last four years, the county has been credited with having 
more species of birds than any other county in the United States; 
and

	WHEREAS, Numerous civic organizations sponsor annual 
events each year, such as the Matagorda County Rodeo, Blessing of 
the Fleet, Fisherman's Festival, Rice Festival, and Market Days; 
two museums and many historical sites add to the rich cultural 
heritage of the area; and

	WHEREAS, The residents of Matagorda County are friendly 
and hospitable and have made their county one of the outstanding 
areas of the state; and

	WHEREAS, It is indeed a pleasure and a privilege for the 
Texas Senate to honor this outstanding Texas county and its fine 
citizens; now, therefore, be it

	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
78th Legislature, hereby extend sincere congratulations to the 
citizens of Matagorda County on their special day and best wishes 
for a memorable and joyous celebration; and, be it further

	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for 
Matagorda County as a memento of this occasion.
                                                                      Armbrister




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on February 11, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate