HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 92-4771, by Representatives Basich, Hargrove, Jones, Ogden, Morris, Edmondson, Nealey, D. Sommers, Brumsickle, Neher, Wineberry, Heavey, G. Cole, Cooper, Peery, Appelwick, H. Myers, P. Johnson, Fraser, Sheldon, Zellinsky and Jacobsen

     WHEREAS, In May of 1792, Captain Robert Gray sailed down the Pacific Coast, discovering Grays Harbor on the 7th, discovering and guiding his ship into the mouth of the long elusive "River of the West" on the 11th, and naming the river "Columbia's River" on the 17th; and

     WHEREAS, The exploration of "Columbia's River" by Captain Gray was in part responsible for the successful United States claims to the Oregon Country; and

     WHEREAS, The Columbia River is a mighty and beautiful asset shared by the states of Washington and Oregon and the joint 200th anniversary celebration of the exploration of "Columbia's River" will begin in May 1992; and

     WHEREAS, The Tall Ship Lady Washington, built in Aberdeen in 1989, is a replica of the original Lady Washington, one of the vessels Captain Gray sailed into Northwest waters and is one of the most unique and valuable maritime heritage assets in our state's history and a valuable tourist attraction; and

     WHEREAS, The celebration of the Columbia River Bicentennial could have significant economic meaning for the Grays Harbor area and the Northwest and draw great attention to this part of the world for its colorful maritime history;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, By the House of Representatives, That the month of May be known as Captain Robert Gray month and the citizens of Washington and Oregon join together in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the exploration of the Columbia River; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the citizens of Washington and Oregon join together in encouraging visitors to tour the Lady Washington and take part in a hands-on experience while commemorating our Northwest maritime heritage.

     I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

       Resolution adopted by the House of Representatives

                         March 11, 1992

                 ________________________________

                   Alan Thompson, Chief Clerk