[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 171 (Saturday, November 22, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2392]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  REINTRODUCTION OF THE CAMINO REAL DE LOS TEJAS NATIONAL HISTORICAL 
                               TRAIL ACT

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                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 21, 2003

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to reintroduce the 
Camino Real de los Tejas National Historical Trail Act. This 
legislation would recognize the historical significance of the oldest 
highway system in Texas.
  Translated, camino real means ``royal road'' and was used exclusively 
to describe roads between economically important Spanish towns and 
Spanish capitals. In keeping with its roots, the Camino Real de los 
Tejas was the first overland route from the Rio Grande to the Red River 
Valley in Louisiana, and contributed enormously to the settlement and 
development of the Texas frontier. First traveled in 1689, for the next 
300 years the road was worn by traders, immigrants, mail carriers, 
missionaries, cattlemen and their herds, soldiers, and settlers into an 
early-day ``superhighway''.
  We would not only pay homage to our ancestors by designating the 
Camino Real as a National Historic Trail, but also develop a positive 
tool for economic development and historical preservation in the many 
towns and cities along the route. By promoting the preservation of this 
historic resource, the public will gain an opportunity to learn and 
small, rural communities will have greater opportunity for cultural 
tourism.
  The bill I am introducing today contains special provisions to ensure 
that trail designation will not impair private property rights. Unlike 
prior versions of the bill, this one designates the trail only on 
public lands. Land condemnation is prohibited, and only willing sellers 
will be approached for acquisition purposes. No private lands will be 
included in the trail designation unless the private property owner 
affirmatively opts in.
  Spanish conquistador Cabeza de Vaca, the first European to explore 
Texas, ventured up and down this trail. Both Davy Crockett and General 
Santa Anna journeyed to battle at the Alamo by way of the Camino Real.
  The trails deserve national recognition for their tremendous 
historical and cultural value. In marking the trail, we honor our 
history and heritage.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support and cosponsor the 
reintroduction of the Camino Real de los Tejas National Historical 
Trail Act. Join me in building up communities rich in history and 
economic opportunities.




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