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