82R18244 BPG-D
By: Gallego H.R. No. 1119
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, On March 31, 2011, proud residents of Reeves County
are gathering at the State Capitol to celebrate their county's
achievements; and
WHEREAS, Habitation of Reeves County began in prehistoric
times, with the earliest residents dwelling in rock shelters and
caves in the Barilla Hills, where artifacts and pictographs provide
clues to their way of life; by the time Spanish explorer Antonio de
Espejo visited the region in 1583, the Jumano Indians had
established irrigated crops of corn and peaches, and farmers of
Mexican descent later prospered in the fertile Madera Valley; the
first Anglo farmers arrived in Toyah Valley in the early 1870s; and
WHEREAS, Bringing a new era, the Texas and Pacific Railway
arrived in 1881; the county was organized three years later and
named after George R. Reeves, a state legislator and colonel in the
Confederate army; Pecos, the county seat, attracted colorful
characters as a crossroads for cattle trails and the railroad, and
its frontier days saw several infamous gunfights; a roping and
riding competition staged on the Fourth of July in 1883 established
a robust rodeo tradition perpetuated with the annual West of the
Pecos Rodeo, which is marking its 129th anniversary in June; and
WHEREAS, Ranching and farming remain vibrant components of
the Reeves County economy; the alkaline soil and optimal growing
conditions produce the Pecos cantaloupe, known nationwide for its
flavor, as well as cotton, pecans, pistachios, and other crops; oil
and natural gas represent another aspect of the economy, while
tourists are drawn by the scenery, including such spots as the
spring-fed pool at Balmorhea State Park, and by the West of the
Pecos Museum, which offers the unique opportunity to explore the
rooms of a historic hotel and saloon; and
WHEREAS, Rich in Western heritage and natural beauty, Reeves
County can boast of many distinctive features, and its citizens may
take justifiable pride in the important role their unique region
continues to play in the story of the Lone Star State; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby recognize March 31, 2011, as Reeves County Day
at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere
best wishes for a memorable and productive stay in Austin.