89R13714 KRT-D
By: Spiller H.R. No. 286
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Proud residents of Young County are gathering in
Austin on February 26, 2025, to celebrate Young County Day at the
State Capitol; and
WHEREAS, Situated in the Cross Timbers and Prairies
ecological region of North Central Texas, Young County was created
by the Texas Legislature in 1856, five years after the United States
Army established Fort Belknap there; the county saw many conflicts
between Native Americans and Anglo settlers, and during the Civil
War, raids forced many settlers to abandon the area; in the 1870s,
the federal government redoubled its efforts to suppress Native
American tribes in the region, and by 1880, the population had risen
to more than 4,700 people; and
WHEREAS, In its early years, the county's economy was driven
by farming and ranching, with cotton, corn, and wheat being key
crops; the arrival of railroads eased immigration into the area and
connected it more directly with national markets, leading to a
population boom and a rise in new farms; while cotton remained
important to the region, the 1920s brought oil and gas exploration,
which became a significant part of life in the area; and
WHEREAS, Today, Young County is home to more than 18,000
people, and its economy benefits from the manufacturing, retail,
and oil and gas industries, among others; notable communities
include the county seat of Graham as well as Newcastle and Olney;
residents and visitors enjoy recreational opportunities afforded
by Lake Graham and Lake Eddleman, and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn
to the region for activities such as boating, fishing, and hunting;
the county also hosts a number of annual events, among them the Food
Truck Championship of Texas and Crawfish and Cannons, and other
attractions include the grounds of Fort Belknap and the Graham
Drive-In Theatre, which is one of only a handful of outdoor movie
theaters still operating in the state; and
WHEREAS, The people of Young County take great pride in their
rich history as they work together to build an even brighter future,
and it is indeed fitting to honor them for their unique
contributions to the growth and prosperity of the Lone Star State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby recognize February 26, 2025, as Young County Day
at the State Capitol and extend a warm welcome to the visiting
delegation.