86R10147 KSM-D

By: King of Uvalde H.R. No. 261

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Many proud citizens of Dimmit County are visiting Austin on February 12, 2019, to celebrate Dimmit County Day at the State Capitol; and

WHEREAS, Dimmit County was named after Philip Dimmitt, one of the framers of the Goliad Declaration of Independence; established in 1858, it was formally organized in 1880 with Carrizo Springs as its county seat; the town flourished, and by 1890, the county was home to nearly 100 farms and ranches, averaging over 4,000 acres in size; and

WHEREAS, In the first decades of the 20th century, the use of underground water facilitated the introduction of commercial agriculture, bringing new settlers and soaring land values; the long growing season and new irrigation methods combined to make the county one of the most prolific vegetable-growing areas in the country, and it gained recognition as part of the Texas Winter Garden Region; and

WHEREAS, Drought and the Great Depression took a toll on agriculture in the county in the first half of the 20th century, but vegetable farming rebounded following World War II; later, ranching regained dominance in the economy, and oil and gas production became increasingly important; the area continues to be known for its abundance of mineral resources, and investment in the Eagle Ford Shale has brought rapid development and a rush of newcomers; and

WHEREAS, The people of Dimmit County take great pride in their rich history as they work together to build an even brighter future, and it is indeed fitting that they be honored for their contributions to the story of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 12, 2019, as Dimmit County Day at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere best wishes for an enjoyable and informative stay in Austin.