2025S0257-1 03/17/25
By: Nichols S.R. No. 298
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on the occasion of its
46th anniversary; and
WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare
advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier
animal sanctuary that provides a safe haven for animals in need
of rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care; operated by the
nonprofit organization Humane World for Animals and named for the
beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the ranch stands as a beacon of hope
and a symbol of compassion 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 habitat in Henderson County and
offers a secure refuge for more than 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 such dire situations 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 animal in
their care and to ensue they receive not only shelter but also the
resources necessary to experience a higher quality of life;
beyond its work to aid 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 lifesaving 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 indeed fitting that this exemplary
organization receive special recognition for its outstanding
contributions to the well-being of animals; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby commend the staff, volunteers, and
supporters of Black Beauty Ranch on 46 years of exceptional
dedication to the care and protection of animals in need and
extend to all sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the ranch as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.