89R17902 KRT-D
By: Kerwin H.R. No. 789
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum in Cleburne draws
on Johnson County's connection to the epic era of cattle drives and
serves as a memorable showcase for the rich history of the local
area as well as that of the wider state; and
WHEREAS, From the mid-1860s to the mid-1880s, the Chisholm
Trail served as one of the primary routes by which Texas ranchers
drove cattle to distant rail towns in Kansas; the trail passed
through Johnson County, and the museum occupies a 10-acre site at
the location of Wardville, the first county seat; the site includes
several structures from the 1800s, including the Nolan River
School, a mule barn, and the original Johnson County log
courthouse; and
WHEREAS, The Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum also features a
vast collection of period items, which can be seen at the Douglas
Harman Chisholm Trail Artifacts and Western Memorabilia Museum and
the Big Bear Native American Museum; moreover, visitors can immerse
themselves in the history of the era at the recreated Wardville
sheriff's office and jail and by viewing demonstrations at the
blacksmith shop; the stage station-saloon building helps evoke the
era when thirsty cowboys would ride into town to patronize its many
watering holes, and the restored stagecoach on display was used in a
number of Western movies, including two John Wayne films; and
WHEREAS, The museum hosts various educational events, such as
chuckwagon cooking camps and homesteading classes, and over the
years, more than 7,000 students have visited the grounds during
school field trips; in addition, the site serves as a venue for live
music performances, holiday celebrations, and powwows, and its
Pioneer Days event draws thousands of attendees each year; and
WHEREAS, The Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum has demonstrated a
notable commitment to preserving the heritage of the American West,
and it has become a popular destination for visitors and a source of
pride for area residents; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby honor the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and
extend to all those associated with the facility sincere best
wishes for the future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the museum as an expression of high regard by the Texas
House of Representatives.