85S11263 BPG-D
By: Springer H.R. No. 151
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Kinne's Jewelers in Gainesville has been named the
recipient of a Texas Treasure Business Award by the Texas
Historical Commission, which recognizes companies that have
employed Texans and contributed to the state's economy for 50 years
or more; and
WHEREAS, On November 28, 1889, watchmaker W. B. Kinne opened
his shop in a small niche under a stairway in the Ben Brooks Drug
Store; the growing business moved a number of times before settling
into its present-day location in 1913; and
WHEREAS, W. B. Kinne eventually brought his sons into the
business, and following his death in 1945, William Kinne Jr. and
Harry Kinne continued to operate it; in 1959, they hired a
watchmaker, Francis A. Wiese, and when Harry Kinne retired in 1974,
Mr. Wiese took over the store; he appreciated its rich history and
not only kept the original showcases, but also ventured into the
attic to find decorative antiques, including the 1896 Waterbury
clock that has been a focal point ever since; moreover, he created a
jewelry museum on the mezzanine level; and
WHEREAS, Like his predecessors, Mr. Wiese raised his
children in the business, and his daughter, Gina Dill, completed a
bachelor's degree in metalsmithing and jewelry at the University of
North Texas; she and her brother, Jack Wiese, bought the firm in
1990, and she became the sole owner six years later; in 2007, she
created her own line of sterling silver wax seal jewelry, which is a
certified Go Texan product; her daughter, Jamie Davis, now designs
jewelry as well; the store building was recently renovated with a
grant from the Local Main Street Organization, and while the
establishment is steeped in tradition, it also employs modern
technology, such as CAD design and laser welding; it is a member of
the JA 100 Club, an association of American jewelry stores more than
100 years old; and
WHEREAS, Kinne's Jewelers has played a vital role in the
Gainesville business community for well over a century, and it is
truly deserving of this prestigious accolade; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby congratulate Kinne's
Jewelers on its receipt of a Texas Treasure Business Award from the
Texas Historical Commission and extend to all those associated with
this venerable firm sincere best wishes for continued success; and,
be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the company as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.