SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 847

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the Van Zandt County Historical Commission and the Canton Main Street Program in celebrating the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker commemorating the life of George Washington Tull, Sr., on May 11, 2013; and

WHEREAS, G. W. Tull, Sr., was an early merchant and civic leader in the City of Canton whose generosity and foresight left a lasting mark on the city and helped to shape its development well beyond his lifetime; and

WHEREAS, Born in Georgia, this illustrious benefactor moved to Canton in 1858 and quickly established himself as a prominent businessman; after partnering with William B. Moore to open a mercantile store on the courthouse square, Mr. Tull bought out his partner in 1860 and went on to operate the business for more than 50 years, until his death; the store was inherited by his son, who continued its operation until his own death in 1957; the store was an anchor in the commercial district and was eventually housed in the first brick building to be erected in Canton; and

WHEREAS, An entrepreneur by nature, Mr. Tull acquired diverse interests over the years, and he owned multiple rural and commercial properties in the area; despite his wealth, he was known by his fellow citizens as "the poor man's friend," because he valued the principles of integrity, diligence, and prudence, regardless of one's standing in life; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Tull exhibited his civic support on many occasions; in 1872, he personally paid for the construction of a new courthouse in Canton; this early developer and visionary is to this day revered as one of the city's iconic figures, and his descendants continue to thrive in the Canton area; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby congratulate the Van Zandt County Historical Commission and the Canton Main Street Program on the dedication of a Texas Historical Marker honoring George Washington Tull, Sr., for his role as an early civic leader in the City of Canton; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special occasion. Deuell

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 7, 2013.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate