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79R5632 MMS-D

By:  Gallego                                                      H.R. No. 655



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, After an extensive program of restoration, the Val 
Verde County Courthouse in Del Rio was rededicated on July 23, 2004; 
and
	WHEREAS, Originally built in the Victorian style, the 
courthouse was completed in 1887, two years after the county was 
established; noted Texas architects Jacob L. Larmour and Arthur O. 
Watson designed the limestone structure, which is the oldest extant 
example of their courthouse commissions; and
	WHEREAS, In 1915, another prominent Texas architect, Atlee B. 
Ayers, was hired to repair and modify the building; Mr. Ayers 
removed most of the ornate detailing and altered the interior and 
exterior in ways that produced a neoclassical appearance; and
	WHEREAS, By the late 20th century, the courthouse had 
deteriorated to a dangerous degree, and in 1995 it was listed as one 
of the 10 most endangered historic properties in the state; between 
1995 and 2000, the building underwent interior restoration at a 
cost of $1.5 million, but the future of the courthouse remained in 
doubt, owing to the poor condition of the exterior masonry and other 
damage; and
	WHEREAS, With a $2.5 million grant from the Texas Historical 
Commission, through its Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation 
Program, another extensive plan of restoration was undertaken to 
make the building wholly sound; the new work included the repair and 
replacement of stone, the pointing of mortar joints, and the 
rebuilding of the porches at all four entrances, as well as the 
reconfiguration of the courtroom in accordance with its 1915 
arrangement; and
	WHEREAS, One of the best remaining examples of 19th century 
architecture in the region, the Val Verde County Courthouse is 
listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and its 
preservation marks a distinct contribution to the rich social and 
cultural heritage of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas 
Legislature hereby congratulate the citizens of Val Verde County on 
the completed restoration of their handsome courthouse and extend 
to all those involved in that important work sincere appreciation.