[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 39 (Thursday, March 2, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E496]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


            TRIBUTE TO THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF GAINES COUNTY

                                 ______


                           HON. LARRY COMBEST

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, March 2, 1995
  Mr. COMBEST. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute Gaines County, TX, as they 
celebrate their 90th anniversary. In October 1905, Gaines County was 
officially organized. This new county was named for James Gaines, an 
original signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, whose fierce 
spirit of independence, strength, and steadfastness was exemplified by 
the early settlers of Gaines County.
  West Texas and the Permian Basin area have a rich and varied 
heritage, beginning with the native Americans and Mexicans who roamed 
the Llano Estacado and continuing through current day with the ranchers 
and farmers who thrive in modern-day Gaines County. When ranchers first 
arrived, cattle and sheep roamed the fertile grasslands of the area, 
and even today these animals provide a livelihood for many who live 
there. After the ranchers, the farmers arrived, and experienced the 
difficulties of west Texas agriculture. The farmers, too, survived hard 
times when they discovered rich soil beneath the sandy surface. This 
fertile soil is the very reason that today Gaines County is the leading 
cotton and peanut producing county in the State of Texas.
  The farming and ranching industries of Gaines County should in no way 
overshadow the rich oil supply which makes Gaines County one of Texas' 
major oil suppliers. In light of the severe challenges that the oil 
industry has faced in recent times, the nature of this profession has 
changed dramatically, and the people of Gaines County are working to 
meet these ever-changing needs.
  For 90 years, Gaines County has persevered through hardship and 
adversity to become a strong and thriving community. In the next 90 
years, I am confident the county will continue its growth and expansion 
and remain a wonderful place to live, work, and raise families.


                          ____________________