H.R. No. 391
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, For 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison has
provided a safe haven for animals in need of rescue,
rehabilitation, and lifelong care; and
WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare
advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier
animal sanctuary operated by the nonprofit organization Humane
World for Animals; named after the beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the
ranch stands as a symbol of compassion and a beacon of hope for
animals freed from cruelty, neglect, and exploitation; and
WHEREAS, Black Beauty Ranch's history began with the rescue
of 577 burros from the Grand Canyon, a landmark effort that set the
foundation for the ranch's mission to provide animals with a second
chance at life; today, the ranch spans more than 1,400 acres of
natural habitats in Henderson County and offers a secure refuge for
over 600 animals representing some 40 different species, including
primates, big cats, bears, horses, bison, reptiles, and livestock;
all animals housed at the facility were rescued from tragic
situations such as roadside zoos, the exotic pet trade, circuses,
research laboratories, and hoarding cases; and
WHEREAS, The ranch's dedicated team of animal care
professionals and veterinarians work tirelessly to meet the
physical, behavioral, and emotional needs of every resident,
ensuring they receive not only shelter but also the dignity,
respect, and quality of life they deserve; beyond its service to
vulnerable animals, the ranch has been a leader in promoting public
education and humane advocacy through guided tours and educational
programs that help visitors from across Texas and around the world
to better understand the importance of animal protection and
environmental conservation; and
WHEREAS, In 2024, Black Beauty Ranch stepped in to offer
sanctuary to animals following the closure of Puerto Rico's last
remaining zoo, where many had suffered from years of neglect and
inadequate care; this life-saving effort demonstrated the ranch's
capacity for large-scale rescue operations as part of its
continuing work to protect and rehabilitate wildlife held in
substandard conditions; and
WHEREAS, Over the past 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch has
exemplified the highest standards of animal welfare and ethical
stewardship, and it is a privilege to recognize an organization
that has made such a profound difference in the lives of both
animals and people; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby honor Black Beauty Ranch on its 46th anniversary
and commend its staff, volunteers, and supporters for their
exceptional dedication to the care and protection of animals in
need; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Black Beauty Ranch as an expression of high regard by
the Texas House of Representatives.
Harris
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 391 was adopted by the House on March
13, 2025, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House