[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 74 (Wednesday, June 14, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1003]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TRIBUTE TO THE ROUND TOP, TEXAS, INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON PAUL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 14, 2000

  Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the citizens of 
Round Top, Texas. The bark of the old cannon on the town square in 
Round Top, Texas, on July 4, 2000, will announce the city's famous 
Independence Day Parade. Each year, the small town of Round Top, deep 
in the heart of Fayette County in Texas' Congressional District 14, 
swells to accommodate a crowd of 8,000 Fourth of July visitors that 
come to celebrate our nation's freedom.
  In 1851, on the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of the Declaration 
of Independence of United States, Round Top celebrated its first Fourth 
of July. The celebration of this most important date in United States 
history continues to be the longest held observance of Independence Day 
west of the Mississippi.
  According to historical accounts, early stagecoach lines operating 
along the Old Bahia Road between Houston and Austin traveled near the 
center of today's town. When the drivers crossed Rocky Creek along the 
route and spotted the octagonal-shaped roof of the stage stand, they 
called out ``Round Top!''
  Things are slow to change in Round Top. Its citizens appreciate their 
traditions and have adopted ordinances that are designed to project, 
enrich and promote the old historic landmarks for the enjoyment and 
edification of future generations.
  On the occasion of over 150 years of celebrations, I ask my 
colleagues to join me in congratulating the people of Round Top, Texas, 
who, on Independence Day, proudly proclaim, ``God Bless America!''

                          ____________________