HR 2093: Hutchings, Jacob "Jake"; commend

This resolution from the Georgia House of Representatives honors Jacob "Jake" Hutchings, who was born into slavery in Virginia in 1831 and later elected as the first Black State Representative for Jones County in 1868. The resolution notes that while he is not formally counted among the "Original 33," the first 33 African-American members of the Georgia General Assembly, he was effectively the 34th African-American member of that body. The text also recalls that Hutchings worked as a stone mason before his election, cutting stone used throughout the county, including granite in a retaining wall at the Jones County Court House. The resolution directs the Clerk of the House to make copies available to the public and press. It does not change any Georgia law; it is a ceremonial statement of recognition.

• Formally recognizes and commends Jacob "Jake" Hutchings for his 1868 election as Jones County's first Black State Representative.
• States that Hutchings, though not part of the formally remembered 'Original 33,' was the 34th African-American member of the Georgia General Assembly.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and distribute copies of the resolution to the public and press.
• Creates no new law, funding, or penalties; it is a purely honorary statement by the House.

This resolution primarily affects the historical record and public recognition of Jacob "Jake" Hutchings and his descendants or community in Jones County. It also directs a specific administrative task to the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

While the resolution carries no legal or financial effect, it places an official state record behind the historical recognition of Hutchings as an early Black legislator, ensuring his story is documented and shared with the public and press through the Clerk's office.

• The whereas clauses establish historical background, including Hutchings' birth into slavery in 1831 and his 1868 election as Jones County's first Black State Representative.
• The resolution notes he was effectively the 34th African-American member of the Georgia General Assembly despite not being counted among the 'Original 33.'
• The resolving clause formally commends Hutchings on behalf of the House of Representatives.
• A further resolving clause directs the Clerk of the House to distribute copies of the resolution to the public and press.

1. 2026-04-02House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2026-04-02House First Readers (House)
3. 2026-04-02House Hopper (House)

• Carl Gilliard (D, HD-162)Primary sponsor
• Eric Bell (D, HD-075)
• Derrick Jackson (D, HD-068)
• Long Tran (D, HD-080)

• Georgia history
• Black history
• Jones County
• legislative commendation