[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 68 (Wednesday, May 12, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E947]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING MAY AS TEXAS MOHAIR MONTH

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                           HON. HENRY BONILLA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 12, 1999

  Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, May has been recognized by the Governor of 
Texas as Mohair Industry Month. More than one million Angora goats are 
raised in Texas and the lion's share of them are raised in the 23d 
Congressional District, that I represent.
  The mohair industry in Texas traces its roots back to 1849 with the 
arrival of a small flock of seven does and two bucks. The goats were 
originally from Turkey, near the city of Nakara. Angora goats were 
highly regarded and jealously protected from exportation by Turkey 
until the 16th century when they were exported to Spain and France.
  Today the United States is the second-leading mohair producer in the 
world and more than 90 percent of that production is in Texas. In 1998 
Texas produced more than 4.654 million pounds of mohair. This hair was 
shipped to more than 10 countries around the world and provided a $12 
million infusion into the state's economy.
  Mohair is said to be the fabric of kings. The rich luster and soft 
texture of the fiber, in combination with the durability, make it a 
highly valued textile. Because of its durability Mohair is used to 
decorate many public places such as symphony halls and theaters.
  I encourage all of my colleagues to seek out and wear clothes made of 
mohair. Biblical wise men once wore robes made of this special fabric. 
It has endured over time and fashion trends. I am proud to honor Texas 
mohair producers.

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