HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 17

(By Delegate Dillon)

[Introduced January 15, 2024; referred to the Committee on Technology and Infrastructure then Rules.]

Requesting the Division of Highways name Bridge Number: 30-003/05-016.21  (30A288), (37.90962, -82.24858) locally known as Breeden Bridge, carrying CR 03/05 over West FK of Twelvepole CK in Mingo County the "Ab and Laura Baisden Bridge."

Whereas, Albert "Ab" Baisden was born April 20, 1902 to John Baisden and Matilda Ferrell Baisden and died on October 7, 1997. Albert, as a widower, married Laura Belle Marcum on February 27, 1940 at Dingess, West Virginia, who was born on Oct. 13, 1924 to James Harrison and Vina Mae Tacket Marcum and died Oct. 27, 2004; and

Whereas, Albert and Laura labored respectively to rear their prominent family of 16 children, the descendants of whom are now ubiquitous in the community, numbering over 400 in total.   Albert and Laura instilled a family work ethic which has led to descendants being engaged in occupations from chemists and engineers to teachers, nurses, miners, and doctors.  Albert worked faithfully as a coal miner at Island Creek Coal Company for 30 years and Laura labored domestically for the good of their family, taking care of children, the home, and farm.  Albert and Laura were stalwart members of the Church of Christ.  Albert was a member of the UMWA, Masonic Lodge #167 for 57 years, and a Scottish Rite 32nd degree Mason; and

Whereas Albert and Laura Baisden touched many lives. Albert was known as a man of resolve and conviction.  Laura was known for her kindness and loving willingness to help others.  Ab and Laura Baisden forever shaped the communities of Dingess and Breeden; and

Whereas, It is fitting that an enduring memorial be established to commemorate Ab and Laura Baisden and their contributions to our state and their community; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Division of Highways is hereby requested to name Bridge Number: 30-003/05-016.21  () (30A288), (37.90962, -82.24858) locally known as Breeden Bridge, carrying CR 03/05 over West FK of Twelvepole CK in Mingo County the "Ab and Laura Baisden Bridge"; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Division of Highways is hereby requested to have made and be placed signs identifying the bridge as the "Ab and Laura Baisden Bridge"; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk of the House forward a copy of this resolution to the Commissioner of the Division of Highways.