A JOINT RESOLUTION honoring the memory of thaddeus love on the one hundred fiftieth anniversary of the town of warsaw.
Whereas, the Town of Warsaw, located in Duplin County, was incorporated on February 5, 1855; and
Whereas, the Town was named for Thaddeus Love, a local railroad stationmaster, who was affectionately known as "Thaddeus of Warsaw", after a character in a novel that was popular at that time; and
Whereas, years earlier, the Town had been known as Duplin Depot and later as Mooresville; and
Whereas, the railroad was instrumental in the early growth and development of Warsaw, providing the means for the Town's residents to distribute their products to other parts of the State and country; and
Whereas, Warsaw grew from 182 residents in 1880 to 1,109 by 1920; and
Whereas, in 1921, the citizens of Warsaw began honoring members of the armed forces, which was five years before Congress officially recognized Armistice Day (Veterans Day); and
Whereas, Warsaw's memorial ceremony and Veterans Day parade, which was first organized by local resident, Henry L. Stevens, Jr. and veterans of American Legion Charles R. Gavin Post 127, serve as the oldest continuous Veterans Day celebration in the nation; and
Whereas, Warsaw also serves as the location of the Duplin County Veterans Memorial Museum; and
Whereas, Warsaw has continued to grow and prosper through the continued dedication, insight, and planning of the Town's concerned leaders and citizens; and
Whereas, Warsaw's current industries include farming, building supplies, textiles, plastics manufacturing, and lumbering; and
Whereas, the Beautification of Warsaw Committee has taken on projects to enhance the appearance of the Town, which has further promoted the citizens' community spirit and pride; and
Whereas, the year 2005 marks the 150th Anniversary of the Town of Warsaw; and
Whereas, the Town's citizens have been actively preparing a yearlong celebration to commemorate the Town's historic anniversary; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
SECTION 1.  The General Assembly honors the memory of Thaddeus Love for his contributions to the Town of Warsaw.
SECTION 2.  The General Assembly congratulates the Town of Warsaw on its 150th Anniversary and encourages the people of this State to participate in activities commemorating this special occasion.
SECTION 3.  The Secretary of State shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the Mayor of the Town of Warsaw.
SECTION 4.  This resolution is effective upon ratification.