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Office of Commissioner of Agriculture,
Insurance, Statistics, and History,
Austin, Texas, December 12, 1892.

Hon. James S. Hogg, Governor of Texas:

DEAR SIR: I have the honor to submit herewith the Report on the Brown Coal and Lignites of Texas, as prepared by the Geological Division of this department.

State Geologist E. T. Dumble visited Germany and Austria and made a careful and thorough examination of the mines and factories of those countries to ascertain the character, use, and value of lignites, and by comparison to find out the value of the lignites of Texas, and how same could be best utilized as fuel.

The question of cheap fuel, especially for manufacturing purposes, has long been a serious one with Texas, which has been solved by Professor Dumble, as will appear from the results of his efforts embraced in this Report, for which he deserves great praise. The last few months, including the trip to the other side, has been only a small portion of the time he has given to the utilization of Texas lignites, for it has been a study of years with him, and long before his connection with the State Survey he became interested in the subject and devoted much time and attention to it. The result at last achieved has fully repaid him for all work done. Texas will reap the grand benefits, for the capitalists will come and establish industries, the wants of the people will be supplied at home, and prosperity will abound.

That the brown coal is the cheap fuel so long needed is no longer a question, for which all Texas should rejoice.

I am, with much respect and esteem, your obedient servant,

JNO. E. HOLLINGSWORTH,
Commissioner.