[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 1811-1812]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING FORT DAVIS, TEXAS ON BEING LISTED IN THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR 
        HISTORIC PRESERVATION'S 2008 DOZEN DISTINCT DESTINATIONS

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                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 7, 2008

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I am honored to rise here today to 
recognize the designation of Fort Davis, Texas, as one of the locations 
listed in the National Trust for Historic Preservation's 2008 Dozen 
Distinct Destinations. Making it only the fourth locality ever in Texas 
to receive this distinction.
  For the past eight years, the National Trust for Historic 
Preservation has produced an annual list of twelve communities 
throughout the United States that provide visitors with unique 
experiences that bring to life the richness and diversity of America's 
cultural and historical heritage. This year, the organization has 
recognized Fort Davis, Texas, one of the many historic communities in 
my congressional district, as a place of distinction because of its 
exceptional character and history.
  From 1854 to 1891, troops stationed at the post protected emigrants, 
freighters, mail coaches, and travelers on the San Antonio-El Paso 
Road. Because Fort Davis is one of the best remaining examples of a 
frontier military post in the American Southwest, this community serves 
as a vivid reminder of the significant role played by the military in 
the settlement and development of the western frontier.
  Through great effort and a true devotion, the residents of Fort Davis 
have worked hard to preserve its historic, cultural, and scenic 
uniqueness. Aside from undertaking important restoration projects, 
members of the community preserve Fort Davis' culture through 
reenactments of life during the 19th century on the western frontier. 
In so preserving its character and by protecting its serene landscape, 
visitors from all over can enjoy and learn about the history of Fort 
Davis in a truly realistic and dynamic environment that is sure to make 
an indelible impression.

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  I thank the National Trust for Historic Preservation for honoring 
Fort Davis this year, and I further extend my gratitude and 
congratulations to the community of Fort Davis for its dedication to 
preserving its historic fabric and spirit.

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