A Senate RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR The Boykin Spaniel Society for its dedicated efforts in preserving and promoting the boykin spaniel breed.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate hereby recognize the Boykin Spaniel Society for its efforts in preserving and promoting the Boykin spaniel breed; and

 

Whereas, L. W. "Whit" Boykin, a planter, land appraiser, and well-known sportsman of the Boykin community just outside Camden, along with his kinsmen, the Canteys, developed a small multipurpose retriever now known as the Boykin spaniel to assist in their dove and turkey hunting excursions in the Wateree River swamp; and

 

Whereas, the Boykin spaniel grew quickly in popularity due to its amiable nature and success in the field. Governor Richard W. Riley proclaimed September 1, 1984, the first day of dove hunting season, as Boykin Spaniel Day. On March 26, 1985, Governor Riley signed the act making the Boykin spaniel the official state dog; and

 

Whereas, the Boykin Spaniel Society was founded in the summer of 1977 in Camden, with the goal of preserving and promoting the Boykin spaniel breed through responsible breeding, health initiatives, and community building. Today, the society has over four thousand members hailing from every state in the nation, as well as Canada, Switzerland, Austria, France, England, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Africa, and Germany; and

 

Whereas, the society began an official registry for the breed in 1979. This Boykin spaniel registry serves as the main registry for all purebreds and helps the society maintain accurate and complete records of all Boykin spaniels registered; and

 

Whereas, the Boykin Spaniel Society hosts various hunting and field trials to showcase the breed's abilities. The first annual National Hunting Test was held on May 23, 1980, and since then, competitors have grown steadily in numbers and ability, attracting dog owners and handlers from all parts of the country. Today, the society holds two annual National Field Trials, Spring National (non-slip retriever field trial) in Camden, and Upland National Field Trial in Ayden, North Carolina; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate greatly appreciate the dedication and commitment that the Boykin Spaniel Society has shown in serving the people and the State of South Carolina.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, honor and recognize the Boykin Spaniel Society for its dedicated efforts in preserving and promoting the Boykin spaniel breed.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Boykin Spaniel Society.

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