SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 537
WHEREAS, Proud area residents are joining together to
celebrate Austin County Day at the State Capitol on April 5,
2017, and this occasion provides a fitting opportunity to
recognize the county's unique contributions to the story of the
Lone Star State; and
WHEREAS, American settlement in the county dates to the
early 1820s, when the area became part of Stephen F. Austin's
first colony; the first town to be established was San Felipe de
Austin, which served as the administrative seat of the colony
and as a social, cultural, and commercial center; and
WHEREAS, Austin County was created by the Constitution of
1836 and was formally organized by 1837; San Felipe was the
county seat until 1848, when the county government was moved to
Bellville; and
WHEREAS, Blessed with an abundance of water, grassland,
and forests, the county drew a steady stream of settlers, most of
whom were engaged in agriculture; a number of towns grew
substantially during the 19th century, including Bellville and
Wallis and the railroad towns of Sealy and Kenney; and
WHEREAS, Today, visitors and residents alike can explore
the county's rich heritage, which is preserved at the San Felipe
de Austin State Historic Site and in rural communities throughout
the area, and they can enjoy hunting and fishing opportunities,
as well as a wealth of special recreational events; and
WHEREAS, The citizens of Austin County have built a vibrant
and distinctive corner of Texas, and they may indeed take pride
in their notable history as they look forward to a future filled
with promise; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
Legislature, hereby recognize April 5, 2017, as Austin County Day
and extend to the visiting delegation a warm welcome to the
State Capitol.
Kolkhorst
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on March 29, 2017.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate