SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 653 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the Harris County Historical Commission in celebrating the dedication of an Official Texas Historical Marker in honor of the life of James Robert Cade; and WHEREAS, James Robert Cade was an English immigrant who arrived in the United States in 1869; he and his wife settled in Harrisburg, Texas, in 1873, and drawing on his experience in England as a railroad carpenter, he procured a job with the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway Company as a railcar builder; and WHEREAS, After the company was acquired by the Southern Pacific Railway Company, he advanced to executive status, and in 1885, he was designated master car builder for Southern Pacific's Atlantic System, a position which entailed managing the private car manufacturing division; and WHEREAS, Private cars constructed during his tenure were noted for their high-quality craftsmanship and for the use of the latest technology and finest materials; he also played a leading role in the railroad industry's conversion to the use of iron beams instead of timbers in the construction of railcars, thus enhancing the safety of rail transportation; and WHEREAS, Active in civic affairs, Mr. Cade was a cofounder of Saint Mary's Episcopal Church in Houston and served as president of the Mechanics Building and Loan Association; it is truly fitting that he and his contributions to the community and state be recognized with an Official Texas Historical Marker; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby commend the Harris County Historical Commission on its commitment to preserving the area's rich history and extend to its members best wishes for a memorable dedication ceremony for the James Robert Cade Official Texas Historical Marker; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the commission in honor of this event and as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Garcia ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 24, 2017. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate