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January, 1934 |
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Miss
Francis King who has spent the Christmas holidays with her parents and
friends left New Year's day for San Marcos where she is attending
school. She was accompanied back by her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Kay Legg of Gulf, spent Sunday with Mrs. Legg's parents, Mrs. B. V. Merck.
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Fulcher.
Mr. and Mrs. Bert Hunt are entertaining Mrs. Hunt's sister, Ira of California and daughters, Lera and Gertrude of Houston during the holidays. Mrs. Hunt plans to accompany her sister back to California for an extended visit.
Mrs. Roy Nelson has been sick the past few days.
Mrs. Frank King and family spent Sunday night with Mrs. King's mother and Mr. Saunders of Markham.
Arthur Liggett and C. W. Boeker returned to Palacios Monday evening to resume their school work Tuesday.
Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Chapin spent Saturday and Sunday in Collegeport renewing old acquaintances. They left for their home in San Antonio accompanied by Mrs. Chapin's mother, Mrs. Luce who has been visiting in Markham and Miss Ruth Boeker.
Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Hand, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Sanders, Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Watkins and Mr. and Mrs. Eric Watkins have secured apartments in Bay City and are moving there soon. The men comprise the day drilling crew on the oil well being drilled east of town.
Mr. Fred Law of Bay City spent Monday in Collegeport.
Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Clapp, Mr. and Mrs. E. A. McCune, Mr. John Ackerman, and Miss Leota Huff called on Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Chapin at the Carl Boeker home Saturday eve. Mr. and Mrs. Shannon of Newgulf spent the week-end with Mrs. Shannon's sister, Mrs. Vernon Sanders and family.
Mr. John Ackerman, Jr., who has been visiting with relatives and friends here the last ten days returned to Camp Clark Saturday. He was accompanied there by Norman Carrick who hopes to find room in the same company with young Ackerman.
Miss Adams of San Antonio is visiting with her sister, Mrs. Ivan Watkins.
Miss Mary Louise Clapp who spent the holiday with her parents here left Monday morning for San Antonio where she is employed.
Mr. Tom Soekland and Mr. Luke Hawk, both former residents of this place visited with their uncle, Mr. Burton D. Hurd Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. E. A. McCune spent Sunday night in Palacios the guests of Mrs. McCune's grandmother, Mrs. Moore.
Mr. Burton D. Hurd remains in the same critical condition at his bay shore home. Dr. Elliott of Palacios is in attendance.
Rev. Travis and Stanley Duckworth both former residents of this place but now of McAllen, Texas, spent the past week here visiting friends. Rev. Travis delivered the funeral obsequies for Mrs. V. R. Haisley whose funeral was held from the Collegeport Community Church Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Moore and son of Ohio arrived here Sunday morning to attend Mrs. Haisley's funeral. They drove through in their car. Mrs. Moore is Mr. Haisley's daughter. The annual New Year's day dinner was held in the Community House as has been the custom for more than twenty years. A large number availed themselves of the opportunity to renew old acquaintances and enjoy the bountiful dinner.
Mr. and Mrs. White, Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Duller, Mr. and Mrs. A. R. Matthes and family, Mrs. Della Braden and Mrs. Will Shuey all of Blessing attended the New Year's dinner Monday. The Woman's Club party which was postponed in respect to Mrs. Haisley, an honorary member, will be held at the home of Mrs. Helen Holsworth jointly with a meeting of the Woman's Union Thursday afternoon.
The Collegeport schools resumed their work Tuesday, Jan. 2 after a week's vacation.
Mrs. B. A. Haisley Called. Mrs. B. R. Haisley was born near Jamestown, Chautauqua County, New York, Sept. 18, 1853 and passed away at the age of eighty years, five months and eight days.
From there she migrated to Nebraska, with her parents. Later as a widow with a small daughter she moved to Kansas and proved upon a claim there.
In 1895 she was married to Mr. B. V. Haisley who survives her. She is also survived by three step-daughters whom she raised, namely, Minnie of Cumberland, Ohio; Dena of Colby, Kan.; and Hattie, the wife of Hugo Kundinger of Collegeport. She also raised in her home the children of Mr. Haisley's sister, Haisley Mills of this place; Velma of California and Luke who died May 18, 1909.
The funeral text was taken from the last chapter of Proverbs and the eulogy was given by Rev. Duckworth of McAllen, Texas. Obsequies were from the Collegeport Community Church with interment in the Palacios Cemetery.
A large
number of friends and relatives were in attendance from this place and
from a distance. The great number of floral tributes expressed the
esteem in which she was held in this community.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, January 4, 1934 |
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Mrs. Manford Foster who is ill at Dr. Loos' hospital in Bay City is unimproved at this writing.
Mr. Haisley, east of this place is taking treatments in Houston for a growth on his face.
Mr. Carl Boeker is in Galveston where he is serving on the federal grand jury there.
Mrs. Helen Holsworth and Miss Margaret Holsworth accompanied Mrs. E. A. McCune to Bay City Saturday. Miss Margaret left for Chicago where she will resume her duties as a teacher in the Chicago school.
Mrs. Anna Crane, Mrs. Dick Corporon and Mrs. E. A. McCune attended the council meeting of the Home Demonstration Club held in Bay City Saturday.
Collegeport basketball team beat the Palacios team on the Palacios court Friday night by a score of 10 to 12. The Collegeport boys played a speedy game and well deserved being known as the speediest team in the county. A number of local fans accompanied the boys and saw them win their victory.
Mr. Burton D. Hurd's condition remains unchanged.
Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Boeker are visiting with their daughter, Mrs. Homer Goff and family in Houston.
Mr. John Ackerman is moving and Mr. "Dutch" Savage will live in the house after he vacates. Mr. Stuart Savage will live in the house vacated by Mr. Thompson.
Mrs. Jack Martin and little sons are visiting with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. B. V. Merck. There is an epidemic of chicken pox in our school.
Mr. Ballhorst has rented the Collegeport Fig Company warehouse to Mr. Miller and Mr. Harvey, who are operating a blacksmith shop there.
Mr. Melvin Spoor has plowed the Jack Lunn property that was formerly a fig orchard and will plant it in corn. Mr. S. E. Dickinson has broken the Della Betta Brothers land and will dry farm it.
The Home Demonstration Club canned pork at Mrs. Bert Hunt's home Tuesday.
The Matagorda County Tribune, January 11, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
By the tail of the sacred rooster, this community beats any I have ever known. The rooster may go scat, but here is the tale. Monday, January 1, 1934 opened with a bright glistening sun rising about 7:30 with a temperature of 62 and at 2 p. m. It stood at 64. It was the day for our annual community dinner. The twenty fourth without a break. It is true that one nasty, windy, rainy, muddy day, it shattered a bit, but the day has always been kept. About 150 old-timers and young-timers assembled and as Mrs. Liggett announced dinner, each one served himself with plate, knife and fork. The table as usual was loaded with meats, salads, eggs, vegetables, pickles, potatoes, plain, au grating and au other things including cakes and many pies. A great spreading feast which banished all fear of famine at lest for the day. I was straining my eyes for that tank of those famous Carrie Nelson Noodles when Mrs. Nelson asked: “Are you looking for noodles?” I replied that I was and that disappointment appeared to be mine. And so here is the tale.
It seems she had saved a certain red rooster, preserved it in more classical language, intending to bring in an extra large tank of noodles. When she tried to catch Sir Chanticleer, she tripped on an upstanding root and fell, the rooster flying away and leaving Mrs. Carrie with just a handful of red feathers. He flew to the top of the barn and obtaining a ladder , Mrs. Carrie climbed to the barn roof, but as she reached for the red feathers, she slipped and began to slide, but fortunately, a nail caught in the seat of her—dress and she was saved. The rooster sailed on over to the Wright house where no doubt Mrs. Rena Wright will make him into noodles or Stanley will fatten him up and sell him for a six months, two weeks, ten hours and forty minutes of age calf. So much for the tale.
Well, anyway, old and young had a splendid time meeting each other, enjoying the generous service and wishing a Happy New Year.
Isn't it a grand idea to start the year trying to be happy?
Manford Foster, having taken unto himself a wife, is now arranging to take unto himself a house and enter into the joys of home keeping. He looks with favor on a location among the elite in about the 101 block. This location will be close to the causeway, which will afford quick communication to Palacios.
A special election for the purpose of voting bonds in the sum of $30,000 to be used for the construction of an addition to the present brick school house. The bonds are to draw four per cent interest and run for thirty years. The district is now assessed a one dollar tax for school purposes, but it is the plain to propose an additional tax for the purpose of paying interest and retiring the bond issue. Many object to any proposal to increase taxes at this time and give excellent reasons. Others sponsor the movement and consider this a propitious time for making what they consider a necessary addition to the present school facilities. If the board will take the advice of a fool, they will ask the Public Works Board at Forth Worth for circular No. 2. This circular gives complete instructions as to how to proceed on such improvements. If the deal goes through, one thing is certain and that is that a first class and reputable architect must have charge of the construction.
Mrs. Austin Oberwetter , Mrs. John Logan and Cecil Morris were here Monday to see their uncle, Burton D. Hurd, who is ill at the Hurd home.
Miss Ruth Boeker accompanied the Oscar Chapins to San Antonio for a two week's visit.
Johnny Ackerman, who is with the U. S. Cavalry stationed at Fort Clark, has been home for a week's vacation. On his return, Norman Carrick accompanied him and will also join the U. S. Army.
The Bay View basketball team went to Palacios Friday night and played the Palacios team with a score of 10-12 in favor of the Bay Viewers. Had they taken the Bell along, no doubt the score would have been much better. The team is accustomed to play with the silver notes of the Bell signaling the plays.
Advertising is a wonderful power. No one can estimate how far it goes. For instance, a short time ago in this column, I commented on the milking machine installed by Colonel Fulcher. No sooner did our postmaster, Ben R. Mowery, read the scrib, than he installed a similar machine and it woks to perfection. The only difference in the two machines is that the Fulcher machine is a self feeder.
Talking with Colonel Fulcher the other day he remarked that he was a very tender hearted man and illustrated the statement by informing me that when he saw his wife take an axe and start for the wood pile, he always went behind the house for it almost broke his heart to see Mrs. Fulcher chop wood. Yes, Colonel Tom sure is a man with a big tender heart.
The annual Christmas party of the Woman's Club was held last Thursday with Mrs. Helen Holsworth. Because of the bad roads and inclement weather, the attendance was small but an enjoyable time was had by those who braved the rain and mud.
The Matagorda County Tribune, January 11, 1934
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The Collegeport Home Demonstration Club met at the home of Mrs. A. G. Hunt Tuesday, January 9, to can pork. There were fifteen members and ten visitors present.
Proper cutting of pork for curing and different methods were demonstrated. Sausage, pork roasts, mince meat and liver paste were prepared and canned. The proper method to adjust the sealer was also shown.
Mrs. Anna Crane gave an interesting report of the council meeting held in Bay City, Saturday, Jan. 6.
The following rules were adopted for the use of the canning equipment:
1. Must be a member in order to use canner free. 2. Must give or send report regularly each month. 3. Pay 25c per year membership fees. Fees to be used for expenses. 4. To attend at least eight meetings per year and entertain in their turn. Time for use of canner. 5. One day for vegetables. Three days for meat. 6. Equipment must be returned in good condition.
The equipment will be kept at Mrs. Carl Boeker's home, this being the most convenient place for all members. There will be a membership list and a set of rules for use of equipment. Each member shall register name and date when equipment is taken and returned.
The next meeting will be at the home of Mrs. E. A. McCune, January 23, at 2 p.m. All ladies in the Citrus Grove and Collegeport communities who are interested in home demonstration work are invited to come and become members. The year books will be ready at this time and each will have the opportunity to plan the year's work. All members are urged to be present at this meeting and bring or send a report of the home demonstration work done for the month of December only.
The following is a list of officers for the ensuing year. President, Mrs. Frank King Vice President, Dorothy Corporon Secretary-Treasurer, Mrs. A. G. Hunt Council Delegate, Mrs. Anna Crane Parliamentarian, Mrs. E. A. McCune Report, Mrs. Carl Boeker
The following committees were appointed. Finance, Mrs. Roy Nelson, chairman Membership Committee, Mrs. John Heisey, Mrs. Rena Wright, Mrs. Percy Corporon Exhibit Committee, Mrs. Dean Merck, Mrs. E. A. McCune, Mrs. Chas. Williams Program Committee, Mrs. Dorothy Corporon Farm Food Supply, Mrs. Gust Franzen, Mr[s?]. E. A. McCune Bedroom, Mrs. Carl Boeker, Mrs. Dean Merck, Mrs. A. G. Hunt
Miss Louise Walter was named as sponsor of the Girls 4-H Club.
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Holsworth spent Saturday in Bay City.
Mr. and Mrs. E. A. McCune entertained Mr. and Mrs. Dean Merck, Mr. and Mrs. John Merck and Mrs. Jack Martin of Houston at bridge Friday night.
Mrs. Elliott Curtis is very ill at her home here.
Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Hand are spending several days with Mrs. Hand's parents near Luling.
Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Watkins and sister, Miss Theresa Adams spent Sunday in Freeport.
Woman's Club met at the Library last Thursday, but due to the inclement weather, there was a very small attendance.
The King's Daughters will meet Wednesday at the home of Mrs. Williams.
Mr. Underwood took a boating party out Sunday. The personnel of the party was Mr. Neal Thompson, Dallas; Mr. Smith, who is connected with some of the county projects; Mr. Earl Hill and R. V. Underwood.
Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Clapp entertained Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Liggett and family and Mr. S. W. Corse at six o'clock dinner Saturday evening.
Mr. Montague of Bay City was explaining the farm situation to the people of this community Friday afternoon.
The Continental Oil Company has resumed work on the oil well east of here.
Mrs. Manford Foster has returned to her home from the Bay City hospital.
The Matagorda County Tribune, January 18, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
On Saturday, January 20, the people of school district No. 26 will have an opportunity to express themselves on a proposition to bond the district in the sum of $30,000 for the purpose of adding to the present school building, four more rooms, a gymnasium and an auditorium. The bonds will bear interest at the rate of four per cent per annum and run for thirty years. In as much as the district is now assessed the limit for school purposes, the proposition to be voted on gives the trustees power to levy additional taxes, sufficient to pay the interest ($1,200) and retire the bonds. This is the sting in the flower, the fly in the butter.
At the present time, every man, woman and nursing babe in this district, whether he knows it or not, is carrying on his back a debt burden of two hundred dollars, which will need to be paid. There is no escape. Yet we are planning by this bond issue to put on each shoulder in the district an additional burden of $40.70. It seems an importune time for we are staggering around now hunting escape.
A perfectly legal request was made asking the county court to call a special election to vote on a proposition to allow us to become an independent district. Where is that request? Buried in the pigeon holes of county judge or county attorney or county superintendent of schools. I know not where, but the request was not granted, and today instead of having an independent district, with power to not only assess, but to collect, we have a common school district with power to assess, but an emasculated power to collect. An uncollected tax does not pay off bonds. I don't give a “tinker's dam” what people say about this argument. It is my time to squawk.
Monday, January 8, broke clear as a bell and cold as------well you all know what 32 means down here among us thin bloods. Made me remember how my mother used to say “Harry are your feet cold? Take off your shoes and put your feet in the oven.” The oven was one with door opening on the side and that meant a cozy place for my cold puppies.
Thanks to Mrs. Carl Boeker, the Woman's Club Library is in possession of the register of Hotel Collegeport. The first registration is that of W. G. Gaumer, Palacios and the second, Nelson Sweet of the Dena H. An inspection of the registrations, will bring back many memories to those who were here in those times. It is to be preserved by the Woman's Club and open for inspection any day when the library is open.
Some ill advised persons are circulating a petition addressed to Mr. Westbrook, state administrator of CWA funds, asking that he displace the local board and stating that no work has been expended in this community. As a matter of fact, this is not true. When the CWA work was established in this county, it was administered by the county court and considerable money was expended in this community under the supervision of Mr. Tom Fulcher. I have counted several times as many as a dozen men who are working. Then the governor took from the court the administration powers and appointed a board consisting of Carey Smith, chairman; J. C. Lewis, C. Freeman, J. F. Barnett with James Gartrell as administrator. The last legislature took away from the governor the power to appoint county boards and placed the appointive power with county courts. The court has no administrative powers and it appointed the same board named by the governor.
They are all well known men—they are men who are doing things and making the wheel go round. I doubt if there is in the county a group of men who would be able to give better service. In my opinion, the petition will not go far, for when scrutinized, it will be found that most of the six or seven signers are neither tax payers nor voters. If any person desires his name to have some influence, let him pay his taxes, pay his poll tax and go before proper authority with clean hands. I have not seen the petition, but from my information, its circulation was instigated by some behind the scenes, who use the circulator as a puppet to dance as the string is pulled.
Like all ill-advised practices, it will blow up and when it does, I trust that some of the signers will have learned how to play ball. I double if any of the signers have even crooked a constructive finger towards bringing the CWA or PWA work to this community. It is easy to hang about the rear, paying, snarling, fault-finding, but it takes guts to go out and bring in the slab of side meat.
Go easy pals, go easy, we want construction not destruction.
Mrs. Patricia Martyn, county health nurse, was here the past week spending the day in school health examinations. She was assisted by Miss Eleanor McFarland. Mrs. Martyn found some tonsil and adenoid cases and a few scabies, but stated that the school had done remarkable work.
Us Homecrofters closed the week with a dinner party with the L. E. Liggetts and Judge S. W. Corse as guests. A golden browned Guajalote was the principal attraction. Green spreads, green glass, tall green candles and service plates my mother used seventy years ago. It was a very happy occasion and when our guests departed, we shouted Vaya con Dios.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, January 18, 1934
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What can be done in any community provided that community has one individual possessed with quick thinking and a clear vision has been demonstrated in Collegeport. Upon order of the government, in the latter months of 1933, the Missouri Pacific was granted a permission to abandon its branch extending from Buckeye to Collegeport and a few weeks later work of tearing up tracks was begun. At Collegeport, the depot, a splendid structure was doomed for the onslaughts of the wreckng crews, whereupon a vision came to one of the town's first citizens, H. A. Clapp, who immediately went into action. Mr. Clapp could not see any good reason for destroying a whole building and upon the conclusion of several debates with himself, started upon a campaign to salvage the building for the benefit of the town of Collegeport. This campaign was very satisfactory. The Missouri Pacific was saved the expense of razing the building and the town of Collegeport has made the happy recipient of a splendid building all because one man kept his eyes open and his thinking machine going. The following letter shows the result: Missouri Pacific Lines Kingsville, Texas January 13, 1934. Mr. H. A. Clapp Collegeport, Texas Dear Sir: Your letter of January 2 to Division Engineer McCord, regarding the railroad company turning over to you our old station building in Collegeport. We have handled the matter with the management regarding this and they are agreeable to turning the building over to you as outlined by Mr. McCord, and this letter is to serve as confirmation of the agreement worked out by you and Mr. McCord. Hoping that this letter will be of service to you in securing funds to carry out plans for remodeling the building, I am. Yours very truly, G. C. Kennedy, Supt. Matagorda County Tribune,
January?, 1934, Harry Austin Scrapbook 3, p. 41 |
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It seems that Mr. H. A. Clapp was very successful in his recent effort to have the Missouri-Pacific donate some valuable property to Collegeport, as is evidence by the following letter from the executive vice-president of the road: Missouri-Pacific Lines Office of Executive Vice-President
Mr. H. A. Clapp Dear Mr. Clapp: Acknowledging receipt of your letter of January 16th in regard to stock pens and depot at Collegeport. Messrs. Kenneth and McCord have advised me of the understanding reached by you and the other good people of Collegeport. I am indeed glad that it was possible for us to take care of the situation in a mutually satisfactory manner, Yours very truly, H. R. Safford Executive Vice-President M. P. Lines in
Matagorda County Tribune, January, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
From way up north where blizzards blow comes this: "We still read the Bay City Tribune with your column and we read it and get a great kick out of it. But I must say I have for some time have had the feeling that you must be losing interest in certain subjects, for I read very little about legs and you do not refer to your wife as the 'M. W.' as much as you used to. Perhaps there has been a change of methods in the family and she may now have the upper hand and you not only have to be good but do as you are told. Of course as for me, I think your column was a little more interesting with an occasional mention of legs, the miserable wretch, etc."
Well you see it is like this, legs just got too common, but so long as skirts went up one had hopes that once in a while one might glimpse a cute knee with the dimple behind and that kept one studying and lovin' legs, but now that skirts are down, it is just like the lowering of the stage curtain announcing "the show is over."
Some legs used to be just something to hold up protruding stomachs and flat busts, but now days when such things are absent one knows that underneath the fluttering skirts are two beautiful, graceful legs and one may dream of the skin one would love to touch. I love to dream.
The miserable wretch is still to me the most joyous thing on earth. She is still the most loyal, loving, faithful, tender, courageous pard and I am loving her because she is my miserable wretch to whom I owe what ever is good in me.
The joy I have in my closing years I owe to her and at last I am realizing the debt and trying to repay years of negligence. Miserable wretch! God hold you close in his arms as a most precious gift.
The annual report of the librarian of the Woman's Club reports that during the year 1933, 1810 books were let out and more than seven hundred registered in the guest book. The complete report will be published as soon as it has been accepted by the club.
Wednesday, the good ship Saratoga appears off this port with two consorts. One was a derrick barge, one a dredge barge and the other a material barge. All here for the purpose of putting in a sea wall to protect our bay shore from further erosion.
First work is the dredging of a channel so that material barges may come in and unload shell and gravel. The work on this side will cost about $45,000, and on the other side about $115,000. Local labor is employed so far as possible.
Tuesday, a gang of CWA workers began a much needed improvement in front of the school campus. The plan is to fill up the ditch, put in a cement water conduit and make a long and wide parking place for school busses, where children may leave and enter busses without danger from passing autos. A very necessary and desirable improvement.
December 8, 1933, the secretary of the Collegeport Industrial League suggested to Mr. H. R. Safford, executive vice president of the Missouri Pacific Lines, the idea of giving to the league the railroad depot building. Mr. Safford received the request with favor and asked some officials to investigate the situation.
December 20, Mr. T. C. McCord, divisions engineer, visited the community, looked over the library, the charter of the league, examined the proposed plans and returned a favorable report. During the past week, the secretary has received letters of confirmation from Mr. G. C. Kennedy, superintendent; Mrs. D. C. Pace, land and industrial commissioner and Mr. H. R. Safford, executive vice president, confirming the gift. Mr. Pace will prepare a formal bill of sale, in a short time, but the league is now in possession of the building and plans are on the way for removing and remodeling. The plans including adding the "white waiting room to the library building, the arranging of a kitchen and an assembly room which will be about 25x80 feet in dimensions.
Wednesday night about sixty assembled for the purpose of hearing arguments in favor of the $30,000 proposed bond issue. The speakers were Harry D. Payne, the architect; L. D. Dinkins of the state board of education, Claire F. Pollard, county superintendent of schools; E. C. Erickson, attorney for the school board.
They all spoke in favor of the issue and of course, why not? On none of their brows will be pressed an irritating crown of thorns to be worn for a generation. Not one of them will assume a debt of $68.57. This is left for the men, women and children and the unborn of district No. 26, and each one of them will wear a crown of thorns, costing the neat sum of $68.57 which represents the per capita tax for the $30,000 of bonds plus $18,600 interest for thirty years.
Saturday was election day, a fine day with a good turn out. Great voting interest was shown and when the smoke cleared away, the result was as follows: Citrus Grove box 19 against and no votes for. Collegeport box 59 for and 24 against or a total vote of 59 for and 43 against.
I signed the petition calling for the election and now that the people have spoken, I am for the proposed renovation for the present building and the erection of the addition and other improvements planned. If the board will now remove one impediment, there appears no reason why this widely split district may not join hands in the work of building a school of the first class. The fifty-nine who voted for the bond issue prepared a pie for us to eat and we better begin to like the pie. I hope all will turn in and aid to build this building, aid in the development of a first class school and get ready to help pay for the pie.
Monday came Mrs. Patricia Martyn of Matagorda County, Mrs. Harry Hall and Mrs. Louise Sharp of Palacios and we had a very merry luncheon party and hope they come over soon not waiting for the opening of the causeway.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, January 25, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
We need and must have a code that will regulate skirts. Skirts are now much too low and if their deflation keeps on, the time will soon be here when lovers of legs will have to marry in order to gaze upon a pair of legs, and because before marriage they are not visible, some fellows are due to wake up and find themselves gazing at a pair of knock knees or bows. This is a terrible thing to contemplate and I am this week writing our president, urging him to fix up a code for skirts that will give us fellows some chance before we get set in the matrimonial set.
Received a letter from Gen. Hugh S. Johnson complimenting our local board on the very efficient work we have done. Of course he does not know we have done nothing, but Hugh likes to hand out compliments and we enjoy reading them.
From a woman reader of the Tribune I received this beautiful bouquet: "I congratulate you on your latest accomplishment and perhaps it is not the latest for you are always finding something to do in your corner of the world, always building mouse traps. However, I refer to the act of securing the depot for the use of the public in Collegeport. Do you have rooms in your heart for your friends? And do you furnish those rooms with surroundings to suit? I have one room that has a real cozy, homey, fireplace corner, around that center I always group the 'Homecrofters.'" Glowing with warm hearts such letters give us happiness. And from Austin comes another: "And an angel said unto them, 'Fear not for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy.' My dear friends--how my spirit responded to the spirits of you both when we met; and ever since I have remembered you both with a warm glow of love. Let us seek to honor God this year with a program that will be challenging to the highest thoughts of us all." Reading this our hearts are filled with the sweet perfume of this woman's wonderful soul.
Many others have been received during the past weeks and not one brickbat, each a beautiful, sweet, gorgeous bloom.
The other morning, with a heavy fog covering the earth and causing poor visibility, I found that during the night innumerable spiders had been busy spinning their silky webs. In hundreds of bushes and grass plots, these dainty webs hung like lace handkerchiefs placed out to dry. Some of them were ten to twelve inches in diameter, each one well staid and with guy lines which ran out on several sides. In the center hung the lace hanky. Examining them, I was surprised to find that although each one had been constructed on the same plan, no two were exactly alike in pattern.
Then the spiders had flung to the breeze long streamers that floated until the end found attachment. I measured one and found it to be about one hundred feet long, just a light silken cord, that glistened in the morning like a silver cable. Wonderful little insects these spiders. Presently I was startled by a whirring roar and twelve quail jumped into the air, almost from under my feet. Lucky birds to escape the machine guns of the past season. Here comes a land tortoise, lumbering along carrying his house on his back. When I stopped his travels, he simply shut up the front door and waited with patience my departure.
A small dog came romping from the fog and jumped in fellowship, covering my trousers with slime from his muddy feet. He was such a good fellow that I spent several minutes romping with him. I enjoy the companionship of good dogs. Down by the slough stood a big heron. He looked as though he had just stepped from a Japanese picture. Approaching closer, he looked me over and deciding that I was not friendly, he flapped his wings and soared away, lost in the fog.
Way up in the sky some place out of sight, a flock of geese honked their way to the South. If warm weather continues, it will not be long before mother nature's breast will be covered with flowers. I enjoy the spring time, for it reminds me of the beginning of life. Flowers, grasses shoot up, gloom and in the breeze for a plant's life, fade, reproduce their kind and go back to earth. Human life does the same and the life that leaves something of worth has not lived in vain.
The dredge Saratoga has completed the channel to a depth of 4 1/2 feet and a width of one hundred fifty feet at surface and ships may now tie up at the bank and discharge cargoes. A crew of about fifteen men are busy casting parts which will be used for building the seawall.
Some bums broke into the railroad station building, moved in a half oil barrel, a stock of wood and proceeded to set up housekeeping. They succeeded in burning a hole in the floor of the Negro waiting room. We shall be in luck if this building is not destroyed before it can be moved.
Vernon Hurd is now in charge of the construction of sanitary provios in this precinct. About four men will be employed. Mrs. E. A. McCune is authorized to take orders for these provios and is anxious that all who desire these sanitary equipments notify her at once.
Our postmaster, because of his official position, not only sees all, hears all, but knows all. When he found the roof of the government building leaking like the proverbial riddle, he conceived the idea of putting in a sub roof (sub means under). This sub roof hangs about a foot below the real roof and is made with sheets of galvanized iron. It collects all roof leakage and shoots it to the rear of the room where it runs down onto the floor and escapes. The beauty of the plan is that during a heavy rain, the postmaster desiring to wash his hands, face or to take a complete bath, needs to but to get under the shower and viola' the rest is done.
Mrs. Lutie Ramsey has returned to the home farm. It now looks like a stock farm, but I am informed that the owner will transform it into a hen farm, which was formerly a very prosperous business. She may also raise sweet potatoes as well as sweet peas. Us Homecrofters are very glad to have her with us again after her long absence.
The Girl Reserves plan on giving a minstrel show Friday night. Miss Rosalie Nelson is to be the interlocutor. The dictionary tells me that an interlocutor is "one who takes part in a dialogue or conversation, a talker." I am unable to imagine Rosalie filling the bill if required to do much chatter. The interlocutor is the fellow who says "Gentlemen, be seated." Friday night Rosalie will say "Girls be seated." Talking and conversation will be carried on by bones and tambos.
This burg is out of R. J. R. and I am obliged to smoke Country Gentleman. It is like most Country Gentlemen, for it does not work.
Dean Merck, secretary of the local cotton board, informs me that up to date not one cotton form has been returned for correction. Good stuff.
I like sea and detective tales, railroad constructions and racket stories, but I do not like painted lips. the other day, thinking to give a girl saintly grandfather kiss, I was surprised to find that she returned my kiss with one of those soft, languorous, clinging, glamorous, hot, blistering kisses like Dorothy Dalton and Theda Bara used to dispense. Well, so far all to be good, but when I arrived home, the miserable wretch said "what in the world is on your face?" She used her hanky and it showed my guilt in painted red. By the Sacred Blind Robin, I was in a mess and any one who says that "confession is good for the soul" is one plain liar. It was not good for my soul. After this, I shall wipe pouting lips before I proceed and if they do not pout an invitation, I shall stop right there. Now don't get the impression that I do not like kisses, for that is where I am completely at home.
I like chili con carne, enchiladas, tortillas, sopa de aroz and chiltipiquins, but I do not like the idea of our government repudiating the promise to pay in "gold of the present weight and fineness," when the principal of bonds becomes due. It was an indecent and vicious act and encourages individuals and corporations to repudiate their promises. When a government has no honor, the virtue becomes scarce among the people.
This string is the result of pasture soliture [solitude?]. The miserable wretch read in and said "well I guess you better stay in the house after this."
The Matagorda County Tribune, February 1, 1934
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Editor-in-chief - Auldine Williams Ass't. Editor - Emma Kucher Ass't. Editor - Earline Hill
Hands off the public schools! They stand For what is highest in this land; And they must stand, as they have stood. To Jew and Gentile, rich and poor They are the ever open door To that condition which must be If we expect safe guaranty To freedom and those rights of man Which place this nation on the van Of progress and maintain it there. Their lamps of knowledge, shining fair In town and country, everywhere, Dispel the darkness and their light Burns for the everlasting right-- That right that no sect dares dispute, Nor any doctrine substitute Some theologic sham to take The place of what is God's own make By wooded vales and meady downs The schoolhouse stands on sacred sod. The shrine and symbol of a God Whose truths, unchanging and divine In unity forever shine. And there the children of all lands And varying faiths, join brother hands In that one faith, the creed of creeds Man's betterment in all his needs. --William J. Lampton, Texas Outlook.
The School Hits.
Our school work is sailing along just fine. The exams are over, but of course, our teachers surprise us every once in a while with a little "pop Quizz."
We, the science class, really enjoy laboratory work--and also the "Quizzes." We'll admit that there isn't anyone who makes below the "red line."
Things We Can Do Without.
Annette's Houston news. Blanch's giggles. Rosalie's history questions. Georgia's recitations. Noel's whistling. Auldine's singing. Wawn [Fawn?] and her "pecans."
Sophomore News.
We are sorry that "Goose" has quit school this year, but we are glad that he expects to come again next year.
Believe It or Not.
It is still muddy. Clara got her history exam paper corrected. Doodle still chews his fountain pen. Wade stayed at home because he had to take a bath. Irwon is falling for Mahatma Ghandi. Algebra is like a muddy road--there are hard and soft places in both.
Freshman News. The "Fish" are glad to state that they have just completed a mid-term examination in English and will begin the study of literature Monday. After having begun commercial geography we find that it is very disgusting.
We regret that Wanda Caldwell has so far to go to reach school and can only attend on fair days.
Friendly Reminders.
Robert, will you kindly watch yourself when around Guy? Lottie Mae, don't forget your coat hereafter. George Alice, study your commercial geography.
Collegeport Girl Reserves.
Friday Night, Feb. 2, the Collegeport Girl Reserves, with the assistance of the Little Pals presented the Alabama Minstrels. At 7:50, the Minstrels were ready to make their appearance. Waiting ten minutes to give the crowd plenty of time they became very anxious.
As a special feature of the evening, the girls gave away a beautiful quilt, which they had tacked out. After the program, rendered by the Minstrels, pies and coffee were sold. A neat sum was realized. We can now see our way clear for the annual event in the spring--the Girl Reserve Senior Banquet.
We wish to take this opportunity to thank everyone for your kind attention and patronage. The Girl Reserves appreciate the loyal support rallied to them.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 8, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Judge Seth Corse has a seedling peach tree about five years old. It has born fruit for the past three years. Last fall it bloomed and now has fruit on it almost ready to pick. The fruit is about two inches in diameter and bears a beautiful blush on the sunny side.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Moore of Gulf were here Monday to see us Homecrofters. Mr. Moore is with the Texas Gulf Sulphur Company in the traffic department. This does not mean that he is a cop or even a flat foot. Mrs. Moore complimented me on my column but said "I do not enjoy what you write about legs." Mr. Moore with a twinkle in his left eye said "I like to read abut legs and I like to look at 'em." Just a difference in tastes. I hope these fine folk will come down again when the road to Homecroft is not boggy and make us a real visit for I want them to see the miserable wretch.
Just received the following:
Missouri Pacific Lines Houston, Texas
January 24, 1934
Mr. H. A. Clapp Collegeport, Texas
Dear Mr. Clapp: I have your letter of January 17, thanking us for the donation of the depot at Collegeport to the Collegeport Industrial League, which when remodeled and reopened will be known as "Mopac House."
If you will be kind enough to let us know in advance when you have your house warming, we will arrange to have a Missouri Pacific representative present.
With kindest personal regards, I remain,
Yours very truly,
D. C. Pace Land and Industrial Commissioner.
I'll say, we will have a Missouri Pacific man present and at the house warming we will give our community thanks in addition to the personal thanks already sent.
Here is an epistle from the miller who operates a mill on the banks of the Nueces. This mill grinds excellent grist, which enriches the blood streams of the entire Gulf Coast.
Texas Gulf Sulphur Company Roy Miller Director of Public Relations Houston, Texas
January 31, 1934
Mr. Harry A. Clapp Collegeport, Texas
Dear Harry:
Answering your letter of the 16th instant, it gives me pleasure to enclose herewith in behalf of our company and its officers [a] voucher in the sum of $100 as a contribution to assist in repairing the community house in Collegeport, which we trust will be accepted with the assurance of our very best wishes.
Sincerely yours,
Roy Miller
The voucher has been turned over to Hugo Kundinger, treasurer, Collegeport Industrial League and Mr. Miller and Sulphur Company have received a letter of thanks for the generous aid. When Mopac House is opened, we hope that Roy Miller and other officers of the Sulphur Company may be present and at that time receive the thanks of the community and yet we have those who consider that the company is a soulless corporation. The Texas Gulf Sulphur Company is not a close corporation composed of grasping men, but has more than 45,000 holders of its securities and among them are widows, orphans, insurance companies, trust companies, each individual reached and participating in the business of the company being endowed with a soul. The company has always born a part of the life of this county. It has paid its taxes and it has complimented and aided practically every school and organization in the county. In this way it has distributed thousands of dollars to enrich the lives of our people. We, therefore, give these 45,000 souls our hearty thanks for the generous contribution.
There are many beautiful flowers filling the air with perfume that I am unable to understand why some people delight in sniffing the odors of noxious weeds.
Every little while we make records in our guest book in red ink. We did that on Friday for we had the pleasure of having as guests, Mrs. Claire F. Pollard, county superintendent of schools, her daughter, Katherine, and her niece, Helen Pollard of Duncan, Okla. Katherine is an excellent cook and in the absence of the miserable wretch, she took over the kitchen and soon had a gorgeous lunch ready for serving. Helen is a red-head and I delight in red-heads, so when I take a plane to Chicago, I shall fly over Duncan and look for a bright red-marker and then I will know that below is Duncan and will ask the pilot to steer the ship towards the signal. Our party lasted until after dinner and then they attended the Girl Reserve Minstrel show at the Community House. Grand day for me for I enjoy having gals about me.
Some of our citizens who have enjoyed vast experiences as engineers claim that the construction of the seawall is much too light and I was under the same impression, but I am informed by what I consider competent authority that the best engineers of the state have passed on the plans and specifications and endorsed them. I am informed that many miles of similar construction have withstood the seas from the open Atlantic and that there need be no fears from our community. I believe the engineer in charge knows what he is doing. He understands that a failure will be a blot on his record and in my opinion we better use a certain portion of common sense and belief in an accredited engineer, than to listen to the arguments and prophecies of those who never have had any experience in engineering projects, except in sidewalk conversation. No man handicapped with a wooden leg is expected to understand every thing.
It would be safe for me to bet that the miserable wretch has threatened to leave me at least a thousand times but she never has until Saturday night when after we had retired, a car came into the yard or I better state into the mud hole near the culvert and stopped. There it stayed until midnight and when it left, it took my miserable wretch along. I am alone hoping some beautiful girl will come and keep house with me.
She, whom some call my wife, is in San Antonio having a swell time with Mary Louise. I am not worrying for every one knows that the cat always comes back and so in a few days my frau will be home and life will once more take on beautiful tints and Homecroft become more attractive. A good woman is God's great blessing.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 8, 1934
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The meeting of the Matagorda County Christian Endeavor Union at Collegeport Monday night, was unusually enjoyable in its varied program, under the direction of Mrs. Dick Corporon of that city. Games, aside from a short business session, formed the entire evening’s entertainment and the spirit traditional with all such Christian Endeavor gathering, was at its best. That of enthusiasm and friendly rivalry. During the business session, the next meet was invited to Bay City, March 5. A nominating committee, consisting of Nancy Price, Gertrude Koerber, both of Palacios; Mrs. Dick Corporon, Collegeport; John Logan, Blessing and George Schultz, Bay City, were appointed by the president, Evaline Marshall and asked to report at Bay City meeting in March. Seniors of Bay City and intermediates tied with 102 per cent for the Morris attendance cup, but upon drawing matches, the seniors were announced winners. Palacios Juniors, one of the finest societies in the state, according to the Texas News, official C. E. paper, were winners for the second time of the junior cup with 115 per cent. The total attendance at the Collegeport meeting numbering in all near 80. Following the business meeting, sandwiches, cake and cocoa were served by the Ladies Auxiliary of the hostess city, Collegeport.—C. E. Reporter, Evaline Marshall.
Matagorda County Tribune, February 8, 1934 |
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The Collegeport Woman's Club held their monthly meeting in the library Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Guyer, a newcomer in our midst was proposed and accepted as a member. Mrs. H. A. Clapp was elected librarian and Mrs. McCune assistant librarian.
Mrs. A. G. Hunt announced the engagement of her daughter, Miss Lera to Mr. Collins who came to this place recently from Cincinnati, Ohio at the meeting of the Woman's Union held in the home of Mrs. Heisey, last week. Several social events are planned in her honor.
Mr. and Mrs. Manford Foster spent the past week in Houston buying furniture for the home they are furnishing here.
Mr. H. E. Miller and family have moved to the Cottingham cottage.
Mrs. Clifford Slife and Mrs. Hugh Patterson and children spent Sunday as guests of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Conover.
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Holsworth spent Saturday in Bay City. Mrs. Holsworth stopped over in Markham to spend some time with her parents there.
Mrs. Ernest Peddy and children of San Marcos have been spending the past week with Mrs. Peddy's sister, Mrs. Frank King and family. She is now visiting with her mother, Mrs. Saunders in Markham.
Mr. E. A. McCune was a business caller in Bay City Monday.
Mrs. H. A. Clapp accompanied Mrs. Martin, county nurse to San Antonio where Mrs. Martin was called on business. While in San Antonio, she visited her daughter, Mary Louise and later went to Austin and then back to Palacios.
The Girl Reserves of Collegeport will give a minstrel at Wadsworth, Friday night, Feb. 16.
Home Demonstration Club Meets
The Collegeport Home demonstration club met at the home of Mrs. Dickson Tuesday, February 13 with 15 members and one visitor present. Mrs. King, president, had charge of the meeting and the following members reported food canned, Mrs. King, 316 No. 2 cans - 10 soap Mrs. Hunt, No. 2 cans - 100 sausage and pork, 15 pounds soap Mrs. Franzen, 28 No. 2 cans Mrs. Ackerman, 358 No. 2 cans and 125 ponds lard, 50 pounds cured bacon Mrs. Nelson, 84 No. 2 cans, 16 pounds lard, 10 pounds cured pork Mrs. Louis Walters, 266 No. 2 cans Mrs. Chas. Williams, 156 No. 2 cans Mrs. Wright, 1 braided rug
Mrs. Sides gave a demonstration of rug making. The members made out the year books and the program for the year.
Mrs. Guyer became a member and she with the following other members were present: Mrs. King, Mrs. Dickson, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Franzen, Mrs. D. Corporon, Mrs. Chas Williams, Mrs. Holsworth, Mrs. Boeker, Mrs. McCune, Mrs. D. Merck, Mrs. Anna Crane, Mrs. Jerry Wells, Mrs. A. G. Hunt and Mrs. Sides, home demonstration agent. The next meeting will be February 27 at the home of Mrs. Nelson. The program will be on dyeing.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 15, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
The Tribune's Blessing correspondent has given some interesting and instructive information about the school situation in that district. One article dealt, in an exhaustive manner, with the finances of the district, salaries paid, cost of truck service, present and prospective income and how they plan to handle the bond situation. This week is presented a vision of a finer, better, wider school, which will teach something the pupil may turn into dollars instead of the usual grind over the ancient history, smatterings of chemistry, et cetera. I wish some one of our school board would give us such a statement.
None of us and that includes the trustees, knows much about our financial condition. They never have known. I have frequently asked for information and no trustee has ever been able to give a satisfactory reply. They do not know and yet they are being trusted to handle several thousand dollars each year and to disburse a bond issue of $30,000, a sum in excess of their personal worth. Will they make reply to my request for information, inside information, facts? They will not.
The pit type privios are an advance in sanitation. They are odor-less, insect-proof and so comfortable that many of our people will simply move into them for permanent quarters.
Mrs. Carl Boeker informs me that she considers thirteen guests at a table not only unfortunate, but unlucky.
I do not know which members of the board of trustees complete terms this year. I asked Trustee Oompaugh and he did not know what terms expired, so I asked the same question of Trustee Boombaugh and he could give no definite information, but it appears that we will be allowed to vote for about four and it further appears that it is time to begin looking up first class material, if we...[next line is missing]
Few counties are favored with such a priceless gem. Saturday a health nurse assisted in a confinement case and a nice child was delivered. The next morning, the nurse drove two hundred miles in the interest of a situation of value to her county. Tuesday she was in Austin to meet with members of the state board of health to request additional service for her county. Tuesday night she arrived home tired and worn out. To bed at nine p. m. and to much needed rest. At ten o'clock, a knock at the door and a distressed voice of a father begged that she come at once, the baby was in convulsions. In three minutes she was on the way and finding the baby in great distress, it was taken with the father in the auto of the nurse to a hospital at the county seat. There the good doctor performed a simple operation which relieved the distressing condition. The baby slept. At 2:30 a. m., the child was brought home and delivered to its mother and the nurse once more sought her bed of rest. A life had been saved. But after all, it was just an episode in the daily life of a county health nurse.
Ruth Boeker is a student in a San Antonio Beauty Studio and soon as she completes the course, will open a de luxe beauty salon in the same city. Ruth has the beauty and personality to make a success of her future business.
Mrs. Amy Hall, the Misses Ruth and Naomi Harrison and Ouida Gray were here Thursday inspecting the seawall. They made no comments, but departed looking very wise, probably infection caught from some of our local engineers.
The Woman's Club held the regular months meeting in the library with eleven present. The report of the secretary and librarian for the past year was read and received and considerable routine business transacted. The sum of five dollars was voted to the librarian with which to buy some new books.
Last week I told you that the cat would come back and she did and now I have my miserable wretch back home and life picks up, takes on a rosier tint, looks pleasant and wonderful. It takes a fine woman to produce such effects.
Mrs. Lutie Ramsey has moved into her poultry farm home and soon the sound of the incubator will fill the land in that neighborhood and after that the peep, peep, peep of chicks. I hope she produces some radishes, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.
If you never enjoyed a slice of Mrs. Liggett's fresh apple pie, you have missed something grand. Eat a slice of that glorious concoction and your thoughts will be filled with upper and lower crust and filler.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 15, 1934
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[Local information taken from longer article.]
Senior Notes. We are now studying the Victorian age in literature. It had proved to be rather difficult, but interesting. We find it interesting because our favorite writers--Tennyson, Browning, Carlyle and Thackeray--are included in this age. Then too, it is the last chapter.
Helpful Advice.
Emma, you'd learn more if you'd re-read the poem instead of falling in love with the poets. Georgia, you'd do better if you'd study more and stop giggling and getting into mischief.
Junior Notes.
Can You Imagine-- Rosalie not calling everyone Noel? Billie not fighting for her desk? Fawn not arguing with Mr. White? Georgia not blushing when Mr. Curtis admires the way she rolls her hose? Rosalie not asking Miss Bell questions? Auldine not fussing over her grade? Noel not smiling at Georgia? Blanch not wanting to go to Markham? Earlene not talking to Cotton? Emma not threatening to stay home from [a] basketball game? Annette not ending her debates with "That's all?"
We are studying literature now in English. It gets harder all the time or are we just getting dumber? Georgia, as usual, knows all the geometry, but even Auldine and Annette are answering a question now and then. Wonder what makes them so bright?
Sophomore Notes.
The Sophs have come to the conclusion that if English grammar were a Western Story or True Romance, Miss Bell could depend upon them all being A1 students.
Mr. Curtis: Why is the mountain breeze greater than the valley breeze? Clara: Because there are two mountains and just one valley.
Try to Imagine Aaron having up his English lesson. Wade not working on some other lesson during class. Eldon talking fast or loud. Irwon without make-up on. Clara not arguing in commercial geography. Earlene without spit curls.
Freshman Notes.
We are now studying "Julius Caesar." We like it very much.
Thanks to Mr. Curtis, we are beginning to like commercial geography better, especially the arguments between Clara and Mr. Curtis.
We are finding Spanish very hard to learn now. The class refuses to do more studying than is necessary to get by.
Can
You Imagine. Lottie Mae thinking to bring her notebook to class? She did astound us the other day thinking of it. Roberta being able to spell "accordion" correctly.
Basketball.
The Collegeport town team matched a game with the Danevang team Feb. 7 on the Palacios Pavilion. Collegeport fought a hard battle and was defeated by two points. The score 15-13.
Girl Reserves. The Girl Reserves are taking their minstrel to Wadsworth Friday night. The admission is 15c and 10c. Don't forget Friday night, Feb. 6. Everyone invited to come.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 15, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Mr. Harry Austin Clapp, The Homecrofters, Collegeport, Texas.
Dear Harry:
A copy of the Daily Tribune of Bay City, Texas, is before me and I have just finished reading your article "Thoughts About Prayer." [Here Mr. Amburgh gives his personal insights on prayer.]
Mr. Van Amburgh is a writer of books, the publisher of The Silent Partner and a man who as a lecturer has delivered his lecture "How to Fail" more than eight hundred times. He is a Past District Governor of Rotary International for New York and New Jersey. In the Cripple Creek days of 1895-1904, I knew Van well and prized his friendship. Came a blank of thirty years and now I have found him. He is one of my rare and priceless friendship possessions. An added pearl in my string.
While I was connected with the Texas A. & M., I lectured in nearly every agricultural county in Texas, not once did my audiences throw vegetables or stale eggs at me, but now that I have settled down to the quiet life, Gustave Franzen throws cabbage at me. The cabbage he threw Tuesday was one grand fruit about ten inches in diameter and must have weighed close to twenty pounds or less. I caught the cabbage and dared Gustave to throw another my way. Hope he does in about a week.
I have many beautiful sweethearts scattered from Maine to California, but on St. Valentines Day only one of them sent me a Valentine and this is the message it brought me:
"My eyes betray the thing I'd say When words cannot express it; I want your heart, and at the start I may as well confess it."
And so I send this to my Valentine twenty miles from the sea.
"O, Lady B., O, Lady B. I see your smile All the live long while Favors my imagination Its fascination Its tantalization Brings a consternation And my heart is all a flutter My language is a stutter Your eyes betray What I would say O, Lady B., O, Lady B. That I love you may see." --Fragments From Hack.
Just at this point the miserable wretch yelled from the kitchen "Harry, you must put new lighters on the stove." Doggone it, whyinthehell can't a woman keep quiet when the muse is working?
The twenty-fifth Washington birthday banquet will be held in the community house Thursday night, February 22. The menu will have for its principal speaker several or more beautifully roasted chickens and alongside will be salads, spuds, cakes, pies, ice cream, coffee. This has been an annual event for many years sponsored by the Woman's Union. A swell program will be presented for the delight and edification of the genteel. This banquet presents a fine opportunity for candidates to come and mingle with prospective voters and quite a number of votes might be picked up, so here hopes every candidate will be on hand to eat chicken and to mingle with us Collegesports.
Friday, being the first Friday in Lent, Douglas Whitehead thought that we would like fish and so he went out and brought in eight big flounder that averaged twenty pounds or less. One of them, at least twelve inches long, graced our table and along with it Australian Spinach and young onions from the Liggett garden, so thanks be we had a first class Lenten dinner on the first Friday.
Our folk will remember a former resident, Harry Lewis Eisel, Jr. He is now able to write his full name and I have in my possession a sample. It is as legible as any A.B.C. ever printed in the columns of the Tribune. I congratulate Junior on this accomplishment for it will come in handy some day. I wish to warn him to go slow on what he writes for written word oft times returns and causes consternation. Much better to tell a girl what you think than to write it. Take the advice of one who knows, Harry, Jr., and tell it instead of writing.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, February 22, 1934
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Editor-in-Chief - Auldine Williams Assistant Editor - Emma Kucher Assistant Editor - Earlene Hill
Reporters:
Aunt Het on School Teaching
"One o' my girls had her heart set on bein' a school teacher, but I talked her out of it. Teachin' school is too much like bein' a preacher's wife. It's a high callin', but people expect you to give more'n they pay for.
You take the teachers here in town. The only difference between them an' Christian martyrs is the date and the lack of bonfire.
They was hired to teach an' they do it. They teach the younguns that can learn, and entertain the ones that fell on their heads when they was little. But that ain't enough. They're supposed to make obedient little angels out o' spoiled brats that never minded nobody and wetnurse little wildcats so their mothers can get a rest, and make genuises out o' children that couldn't have no sense with the parents they've got.
But that ain't the worst. They've got to get up plays and things to work the school out o' debt; an' sing in the choir an' teach a Sunday School class, an' when they ain't doin' nothin' else, they're supposed to be a good example.
Then they don't get no pay for six months an' can't pay their board or buy decent clothes an' on top of ever'thing else they can't hold hands comin' home from prayer meetin' without some pious old sister with a dirty mind startin' a scandal on 'em.
I'd just as soon be a plowmule. A mule works just as hard but it can relieve its soul by kickin' up its heels after quittin' time without startin' any talk."
Junior News.
The geometry class are getting worse. We are at ratio, but do not know anything about it.
The eighth grade has been moved to our room. It adds greatly to their dignity.
We were wondering what was wrong with our Spanish, but have decided that we have so many verbs that we cannot learn any of them.
Advice to Juniors Who Wish To Stay Young.
What Should Happen If Fawn should get to geography class on time? If Miss Bell should stop requiring themes? If Made missed the show on family night? If Doodle stopped talking in study hall? If Dan should stop popping his fingers at Miss Louise? If Rosalie should lose her comb? If Billie started reducing? If Earlene should lose her powder puff? If Mr. White should have a date? If Wade should know his English lesson? If Clara should stay away from her neighbors? If Mr. Curtis should be late to school? If Eldon should get in a hurry? If all these "ifs" should come true. Blanch should not be dumb in Plane Geometry.
I Wonder Why?
Earlene buys so much candy on the school bus? Noelie is so much like a whale? Rosalie is concerned about marriage over telephone? Fawn likes bananas so well? Mr. White slips off to private dances? Eldon likes to go to Palacios so often? Blanch resembles Julian more very day? Miss Louise isn't responsible for what she ways on some Mondays?
Things We Can Do Without. The eight grade in our room Mr. White's lectures. Rosalie's questions. A teacher in study hall.
Sophomores. Miss Louise to her History II class: "Byrd took with him to the South Pole some chickens and some cows."
We are working very hard on a theme in English, "Our Future Vocation and Why I Chose It," and aside from that we are going to have a test on infinitives Monday. I pity poor infinitives--they are critically abused.
Freshmen.
To our joy and sorrow we have almost finished "Julius Caesar." Exams! Exams! They come this week. Verbs in Spanish get harder day by day. We know nothing about the political systems of the world after a whole week's study.
We lament the absence of Wimpy owing to the injury caused by the Sea Hag.
Imagine Roberta not having her lesson up.
What would happen if Wanda does not learn her declamation?
Bay View Basketeers. (Girls)
The Bay View Girls went down in defeat again Friday might to Gulf. The girls all played a good game, and each did her best.
We, the members of the Collegeport girls' basketball team, wish to extend our sympathy to Marguerite Armstrong, who broke her arm while she was playing in the game between Midfields and Bay City. We hope that it was not a bad break and that she recovers speedily. -- Blanch Adams, basketball reporter.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 1, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article about George Washington.]
After the banquet was over, after the people had gone, after the tables had been cleared and the piano folded up and put away, then these thoughts came to me. Responding to the toast "Washington the Man Prepared," I tried to explain to the audience that God had prepared George Washington for the special work he was called upon to do...
Looks like another house has been rented for I saw a brassiere hanging on the clothes line. It is always a pleasure to report the growth of a community and now I enjoy that satisfaction, for on Thursday came to Mr. and Mrs. Mason Standish Holsworth, a daughter and to Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Whitehead a son. Thus Collegeport grows. I have not learned the name of our last community daughter, but the son has been named Layne Whitehead. There is always something about the birth of a child that appeals to the inner heart of most people. They come into this world according to God's scheme for keeping the balance. Even in the first day of life, they are important cogs in the Divine mechanism and as years pass and they accumulate wisdom, some of them are destined to become very important factors in community life. I hope these two dear infants will thrive, grow, prosper in body and mind and in due time take up the torch which will some day be thrown to them. I, therefore, salute you Miss Holsworth and Master Whitehead and give congratulations to the parents and the grandparents who have acquired additional dignity.
February 22, 1910, the Collegeport Woman's Union sponsored the first local recognition of the birth of our first president. This has since then been an annual event. The affair this year was a real banquet, staged in a brilliant manner, with beautiful table trimmings, abundance of fine food and an attendance of one hundred and twenty-five. The menu consisted of roast chicken, mashed potatoes, dressing with gravy, hot rolls with butter, salad, cherry pie and coffee. When all were seated, Mrs. Liggett, in a few words, gave a short history of the event and Mrs. Heisey asked God's blessing on the community. Mr. Vernon King Hurd had been chosen as toast master and he arranged the following program: A Tribute to George Washington, Mr. Elliott Curtis. A reading by Miss Harriss, Paul Revere's Ride. The preamble to the national constitution was read by Miss Ruby Prunty. Piano solo by Mrs. Richard Corporon. A plea for national defense was given by Mr. Vernon Hurd, showing plainly how unprepared our nation is at present. This plea showed plainly that Mr. Hurd, who was with the oversea forces, had given the subject much study. Washington the Hero was handled in a beautiful manner by Miss Louise Walter. A song, "Our Colors So True," by the junior choir, instructed by Mrs. Liggett. Mr. H. A. Clapp responded to "Washington the Man Prepared." The audience sang "The Star Spangled Banner" and the twenty-fourth observance passed into history. I wonder how many realize that this was the observance of the two hundred and first birthday of George Washington and that this small community had remembered it for one eighth of that time. The table was arranged in a big U and beautifully decorated in national colors and flowers. The young girls of the community did the serving in a manner to their credit. In a few years they will of necessity step into the places now occupied by their mothers. Thus the world moves on. We pass and others take our place, but the machine still functions. It is God's way.
The week ended with a welcome call from Mrs. George Harrison of Palacios and Mr. and Mrs. Ben Little and daughter of Houston. Mr. Little is the contractor on the seawall work. With them was Miss Tillie Little who...[line missing]...great friends. Tillie is only nine months old and walks on four legs when she does not stand on two. I hope when Tillie has a bundle of children that I may be awarded one just like Tillie, small, delicate, clean and sweet.
It sure pays to advertise. Last week I mentioned that Gustave Franzen threw a cabbage at me. My dear friend Lena Harrison read about it and gave me a shower of cabbage, head lettuce, carrots and parsley. Advertising in the Tribune brings results and then late Saturday evening came by colored friend Andy and his wife, Leanna, with a big fresh caught red fish that was at least 16 inches long. The fish with others came into the slough with the rising tide.
Passing the Foster bungalow, I saw a new bath tub in the yard. It was much too short for Manford, but on examination, I found it was one of the new fangled extensible sort that may be lengthened or shortened to accommodate the occupant.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 1, 1934 |
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The Collegeport Home Demonstration Club met Tuesday at the home of Mrs. Roy Nelson with twelve members present. The meeting was presided over by the president, Mrs. Frank King. The following reports were made after the reading and approval of the last minutes.
Mrs. Dick Corporon, 25 No. 2 cans meat Mrs. Jerry Wells 128 No. 3 cans meat, 12 No. 3 kraut, 64 pounds lard Mrs. Willbanks 42 No. 2 cans turkey, 20 pounds soup Mrs. Wright 2 braided rugs Mrs. Dean Merck 12 No. 2 cans jelly, 1 No. 2 pickles Mrs. Percy Corporon 28 No. 3 cans meat, 70 pounds cured meat, 34 pounds lard Mrs. A. G. Hunt 100 pounds cured meat, 12 No. 2 cans sausage Mrs. Gus Franzen 12 No. 3 chicken, 16 No. 3 sauerkraut, 4 No. 2 beets, 200 pounds soup, 48 pounds lard Mrs. Henry Guyer, 50 pounds lard, 200 pounds meat, 2 pounds smoked sausage, 4 No. W cans pickle meat Mrs. W. H. Boeker 96 No. 3 cans meat, 12 quarts mince-meat Mrs. Carl Boeker 42 No. 3 cans meat.
There were 17 dustcatchers reported removed, 35 pictures hung correctly and 8 members reported the use of flowers and plants in their home each day. Eight reported their garden plans made, 6 reported their food budget planned for the ensuing year and three hot beds were reported.
A motion by Mrs. D. Merck and seconded by Mrs. Nelson that The Old Maid's Club, a play, be presented this month. The motion carried. The program was in the capable hands of Mrs. Dick Corporon and the dyeing and the harmony of colors was very instructive. The following notes are the high lights of the program. Mrs. Crane told of the art of blending of colors. The primary colors yellow and blue are primary because they can not be divided into any other colors and exist by themselves as a standard from which all other colors and shades can be made. Red and yellow make orange, blue and yellow make green, red and blue make violet. The ancients seemed to possess a very practical idea of these colors and their harmony with one another, inasmuch as all of the earliest and from an artistic standpoint, highest quality of ornamentation and decoration were executed in the three primary colors and the secondary or mixed colors were not introduced until the art of the various periods began to decline.
In the use of color, it was learned that all colors must be mixed to neutralize each other. And that all color schemes in the proportion of yellow 3 parts, red five parts and blue eight parts will always produce harmony. Or if there are but two colors, such as red and green, the green should be such a mixture of blue and yellow as will give us the necessary contrasting color with red.
Mrs. Nelson gave a talk on subtle and intriguing colors. Mrs. King showed the different methods of getting different shades with dyes.
A book , The Charm of Color by the Monroe Chemical Company of Quincy, Ill., was voted to be ordered. Dorothy Crane gave the report on cotton acreage. Meeting adjourned to meet with Mrs. D. Merck. Those present were Mrs. Guyer, Mrs. Crane, Mrs. D. Corporon, Mrs. Gus Franzen, Mrs. Wright, Mrs. D. Merck, Mrs. A. G. Hunt, Mrs. Roy Nelson, Mrs. Luella Heisey, Mrs. Jerry Wells, Mrs. S. A. Millbanks, Mrs. Frank King, and visitors, Mrs. Holsworth, Mrs. John Merck, Miss Frances King and Miss Rosalie Nelson.
The club will meet with Mrs. D. Merck March 14. New Floors For Old will be in charge of Mrs. Sides. Everyone urged to be present whether you are a member or visitor.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday , March 8, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Gustave Franzen has a very peculiar hen, for she being too proud to produce the common egg known to commerce, insists on laying exceptional, eccentric, extraordinary eggs. She has produced three to date. They measure 3 1/2 inches in longitudinal diameter and 2 inches in lateral diameter. Floating in the usual albumen, inside the outside shell is found another egg containing the yolk. The inside egg has a brown shell, while the big outside egg has a white shell. Gustave is trying to break the hen of this habit and encourages her to lay two complete eggs each day, instead of a double freak twice each week. Maybe if he will toss a cabbage her way it may influence her to do right.
Wednesday's Tribune carried a very gracious and well merited compliment to George Harrison, who has announced his candidacy for county commissioner. Every word was true, for he not only covers his precinct as it has never before been cared for, but he is a big enough man to spread his influence over every portion of the county. His contacts with influential men all over the state results in benefits to his precinct. He is always willing to give aide, he is generous, capable and helpful. One of the local business men talking about George Harrison said, "If we lose that man it will be a community tragedy" and that is the general opinion of those who know him. We hope he comes back for many terms.
Friday, the school held elimination declamation contests to determine who should represent the local school at the county meet. When the smoke cleared away, this was the result: in senior section, Rosalie Nelson, first; Emma Kucher, second; Georgia Hejtmanek third. In the junior class Ellen Adams, first; Anna Laura Kucher, second, and Marjorie Brimberry, third. We hope these girls will be present when the bell rings and that they will be successful in the county contest.
We have enjoyed a solid week of heavy, continuous rain and some have estimated that fifteen inches of water fell in the week. Anyway, the land is one vast lake and it will be some time before farmers will be able to operate. When the tide turned and came in, the water covered the new sea wall.
Mrs. Thomas Hale (Barbara Fulcher) told me about her wonderful garden and what large quantities of cabbage, head lettuce, carrots, radishes, parsley and other occupants of a garden patch were produced and, as she detected my doubt, she proved her statements with a big head of lettuce which she presented to me. This head lettuce must have weighed less than forty pounds, clean, crisp, tender and just such a beautiful fruit as one might expect Barbara to raise.
Sometimes twice in a while I receive letters from Tribune readers like one which came Friday. It is letters like this that keep me writing. This is from the district sales manager of a Boston manufacturing concern, located in Detroit. "As one grows older, they spend more time in memory's garden, and old friends and happy times past, take on added joys; so we too, think kindly and often of all you did for our pleasure and helpfulness. We read the Tribune faithfully each week and 'Thoughts' are perused and enjoyed first." Of course, we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, enjoy these bunches of sweet flowers and treasure them as priceless, but at same time if any readers desire to cast a rock let him do so and we will try to catch it before much damage is done.
A man from way up north called on me the other day and our conversation drifted to the hoped for a causeway. I remarked that I could not understand why many of the Palacios folks were so apathetic regarding this needed highway link and his man replied: "Did you ever see a corpse that was not apathetic?" If this is the impression northern visitors have of Palacios, it is time her people awaken to the necessity and the possibilities of the causeway. They may build miles of sea wall and not one person in a million will visit Palacios to look at a seawall. If they will rise up and join hands with others and build the causeway they will have something that will bring trade, bring visitors, bring new traffic. A seawall may stop erosion but it never will bring trade flow. The longer Palacios business men daily, dawdle, procrastinate, about this more important than a seawall project, the longer people will consider that the town is dead, insensible, unconcerned, apathetic. Much better to have a hot baby on each end of a causeway than a cold, frozen, stiff, on a seawall. What we need and must have is two hot babies that keep getting hotter. Come on Palacios, let's get the blood to circulate.
When Chick Sales writes a lot of drivel about a well known contrivance it is called a classic, bound in a book and is read by the editor of the Tribune and others. When I write a classic about a sanitary pit type privio it is called drivel by the editor who runs his blue pencil through it and consigns it to the oblivion basket.
Two weeks ago I wrote one of these classics and it met its fate, but thanks to someone who appreciates good literature, a printer's proof was saved and it lived to reach the court house where it is read with appreciation. Well anyway, good people, please remember that while all privios, are privies, all privies are not privios. Orders for the new type sanitary improvement may be sent to Mrs. Amy Hall, Palacios, and her gang will do the rest.
Vernon Hurd left Thursday for Lufkin where he will be associated with Mr. Breaker in the wrecking of about forty miles of railroad. Mr. Hurd was accompanied by five of our local men who seek employment on the same job.
Wednesday during a heavy wind, a spark from the chimney of the Liggett home started a fire on the shingle roof. Arthur Liggett first discovered the blaze and with the help of Mrs. Liggett, soon had it under control, but not before quite a hole had been burned through the roof. While engaged in putting out the roof fire, burning brands fell on the gallery roof and soon that was blazing in four places. Prompt work with a convenient hose handled the situation and the home was saved.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 8, 1934 |
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Editor-in-Chief - Auldine Williams Ass't Editor - Emma Kucher Ass't Editor - Earlene Hill Reporters: Georgia Hejtmanek, Annette Johnson, Clara Nicholson, George Alice Jones, Blanch Adams, Noel Adams.
Seniors.
The six weeks exams are over at last and we are certainly glad because we think too many tests are really a strain on our minds. The long-awaited for class rings came. We are very proud of them.
Juniors.
We are trying out best to carry ourselves back to the time of Emerson and Hawthorne. We think that literature is very hard but much better than grammar. We find that Emerson is rather deep for us, but we manage after several readings to get a few thoughts from each essay.
What Would Happen If? It didn't rain all the time? August wasn't always teasing girls? Auldine wasn't always drawing beautiful girls? Noelie and Dan would stop recalling Georgia's past? Rosalie forgot to eat? Blanch didn't catch a joke?
Freshmen.
How much better we like "Ivanhoe" than "Julius Caesar."
We have been attending the tournament, where we learned that the disinherited knight was Ivanhoe, the son of Cedric, the Saxon. We were happy that Ivanhoe was the victor of the day.
The highest English grade made [was] by Lottie Mae Johnson, who seems to be overcoming her forgetfulness.
Spanish I folks will soon be able to speak Spanish as fluently as a Spaniard.
Commercial geography takes turns--sometimes it is hard and sometimes it is easy. If the pages were smaller and the letters larger, it would be much more interesting.
The following theme was chosen by the class to be printed in the paper. It is a class theme from Julius Caesar.
The Funeral of a Distinguished Roman [not included in this transcript]
Athletics.
The Bay View girls are very busy practicing volleyball. Miss Bell is giving them plenty of good practice and they are really accomplishing something.
Our girls lost in tennis Saturday, but we are proud of them just the same. Miss Louise Walter coached the girls. We were represented by Fawn Adams in singles and Billie Crabill and Earlene Hill in doubles.
Girl Reserves.
Miss Charlie Mae Carter met with the Collegeport Girl Reserves Thursday at 12:15. Plans were discussed for "Play Day," which will take place at Newgulf the latter part of next month.
The girls are going to study hobbies at the next meeting. Every girl is to select her hobby or hobbies, as everyone has one or more hobbies. Shall it be music, craft, nature, or what-not? Think about it girls.
4-H Club Notes.
Our 4-H Club has attained its goal for this month. We were to make a pillow top and plant tomato seeds. Our sponsor, Miss Louise Walter, invited us to spend the day with her, at which time we made our pillowtops and had a good time, too.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 15, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
A Tribune reader in Illinois writes a Tribune reader in Michigan: "Well, I see that the prospects for the causeway are very bright." It makes no difference whether we call it a causeway, a viaduct or a bridge. Using either term it makes good for a jumpover.
I do not find in the Bible any reference to a bridge, viaduct or causeway, so I suppose those boys, when they came to a river or a Red Sea just "passed over." Anyway, water did not stop them. Now in this year of 1934, we do not pass over, for a narrow stretch of water separates the people of the west from those of the east. An improvement like the proposed causeway, to be desirable, must be economical and by the term economical I mean it must save money for those who are to use it. After discussing the matter of economy with men from both sides of this separating water, I conclude that on an average about twenty-five round trips are made each day. By all weather roads this means sixty-four miles of travel at a cost of $3.20 per trip, equal to $80 per day or the enormous sum of $29,200 per annum. This is the toll we are now paying because there is no way to avoid it. When the causeway is open for traffic the round trip will be eight miles at a cost of forty cents per trip or $10 per day, which is equal to $3650 per annum. This means a saving to our people per annum of $25,550. This is s sum which no folk should sneeze at or even snort at. It is a big sum and in a few years will equal more than the cost of the causeway. Not realizing the daily cost, we submit to a daily extortion, like the dog, who when informed that his tail would be cut off preferred to have it cut an inch at a time. This is just an example of the savings that would result in cold cash.
For thousands of years, the people living on the Danube have used boats because they feared invasion if they built bridges. We, instead of fearing invasion, seek it. We encourage invasion. We want people to have a facility that will enable them to invade, cross freely and mixed up in friendly intercourse. It is an unfortunate fact, but it is true that most of us place the dollar ahead of every other consideration. It is the least, for money is not wealth. It is only a measure and by that rule we who live on opposite sides of the bay, have more important things to measure. It is an easy problem to solve, when one desires to estimate value in dollars, but who is there among us who is able to measure the value to our people of the social, religious, amusement and educational values which will come to us the moment the causeway is opened. These are the things that count in the growth and development of a people. History does not record one people that ever made much progress, unless and until, they had some method of easy intercourse.
Here we sit wishing, wishing, but doing little to change the situation. Palacios is on a through route. Collegeport folk are like those who pass through a revolving door. They go right in, turn around and go right out. They live at the end of a "Nine foot sidewalk" and no community will for long be content with being forever obliged to turn around and go back. Bay City has made a remarkable growth for she is not only on one through route, but on several. She grows into a handsome, thriving city, because she has made it easy for people to come and go. No one is obliged to turn around at Bay City. They may stop or they may pass through.
Palacios is ambitious, but she will never realize her ambitions while she is content to sit by the side of one route. She needs and she must have others. This project will satisfy her needs in one direction and it will enable her nearest neighbors to have free and eager intercourse with her.
Our people in this community are not a lot of dumb bells. We, too, have ambition. We have visions that because of their brilliance, places the monetary value in the background.
We vision the time when for forty cents we may ride in comfort and security and visit our neighbor "The City by the Sea," and enjoy what she has to offer in education, church, amusement, trade and society. No man is able to estimate the value of these things in any money standard.
About two weeks ago I stated that some of the Palacios business men appeared to be apathetic, but this week I am informed that some of them have risen from their deep slumbers and are beginning to take an interest in the causeway. A sea wall is, without question, a splendid project, but it does not appreciate in value to hundreds of people that which is offered by the construction of a causeway. And remember that we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, very much desire to walk over on bright sunny Sundays and attend services at St. John's Chapel.
The daily press appears to be filled with accounts of murders, holdups, jail deliveries, divorces and these are the news items many folk appear to relish, instead of the fine editorials and feature stuff. News is scarce in this burg, this week of that kind, for we have enjoyed a placid week.
The canning club met with Mrs. Nelson, she of the Noodle fame and twelve members were present. Reading an account of the number of cans or products reported, it seems that depression has no place in Collegeport. The report does not include what I canned. Four turkey, twelve soup stock, twelve steak and roast, thirteen chili con carne. This club is very active and has secured the interest of some women who have never taken part in any civic work.
The Woman's Club met at the Hurd home with a program in memory of Mrs. V. R. Haisley who died December 26. Mrs. Haisley was a charter member of the club and for the past few years has been an honorary life member. The report of the secretary was read and approved and the usual routine of business transacted. The roll call was in memory of Mrs. Haisley, each member responding with a tribute to the valued member.
One of my northern friends sells what is called a "Cube Steak Machine" and I confess that I do not know what it is. Guess I must be getting on in years and a back number. Well, anyway, here I must stop and have a hair cut and I detest having such an operation, but when one's hair is so long that it tangles one's brain, it is time to call on Sam Franz. Guess I'll tint my nails a bright carmine or maybe green. I like both colors. I just adore bright red finger nails.
So suggestive, I can stand red nails, but deliver me from painted lips. When I use lips I want them raw and natural and full of passionate fire.
Saturday morning, I went up to the P. O. to mail the usual daily letter to my glorious daughter and during my absence, the miserable wretch eloped with a shoemaker. I caught them just as they turned into the "nine foot sidewalk" but I was only in time for a hand wave and a sight of a big car rolling away. I never expected to see her again, but like the cat, she came back at night and told me all about the splendid time she had at the meeting of the County Federation of Women's Clubs which met in Bay City. When a feller has a good woman, he sure got to watch her close, else she will run away with a shoemaker.
Now just as the farthest lobe of the brain is working a bit, the miserable wretch rings eight bells and that means "come and get it."
We had veal chops put up a year ago, baked spuds, hot beaten biscuits with Holstein butter, chocolate with whipped cream, creamed corn, hearts of lettuce with salad dressing.
French dressing, Ye gods! Here is my recipe: 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar 1/8 teaspoon paprika cup fine vinegar 1/2 cup pure olive oil. Put all in a screw top jar and shake the first time and shake each time it's used until there is no more to shake.
If you intend to use it on lettuce and desire some thing very chic, add 1/2 teaspoon curry powder and two hard boiled yolks pressed through a sieve. Mix well, but don't use this unless you feel extra pert and fancy. I can make several other salads so don't hesitate to ask how I do it.
That is where I am different from Carrie Nelson, maker of those Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles. She keeps her noodle recipe in her own noodle and the way those noodles disappear, I do not blame her. Keeps them out of the common class.
Now that I have had slum, feel better and will continue. The MW reported that the Federation meeting presented so many bright lights that she hesitates to tell, but among them was Mrs. A. B. Pierce, Evaline Marshall, Mrs. A. Harris all so sweet and pretty and gracious, the round table by the visiting Houston ladies, the report of Mrs. Patricia Martyn, county health nurse, reports of local clubs, the brilliant reception given in the afternoon by Mrs. Thomas H. Lewis, the singing by that beautiful product of Collegeport, Virginia Wilkinson, the piano playing by Mr[s?]. Mattison of Midfield.
Oh yes, I must not forget the delicious Mexican food served by Mrs. Copeland and Miss Agnes Blair, assisted by the pretty Mexican girls and nice looking men. Mrs. Copeland and Miss Blair are the teachers in the Mexican school. Must as delightful was the charming and gracious manner with which the Federation President, Mrs. Arthur Matthes, handled the business of the meeting. Only to be expected for Ruth is just another Collegeport product. Mrs. Leola Cox Sides, home demonstration agent gave a very complete report of her work with some interesting exhibits. Candidates swarmed hoping to gather in a few votes and I say God bless the candidates. As near as I received it from the MW, it was a brilliant affair with many distinguished and handsome women, a credit to Bay City and to the county.
I have been informed by a little brown wren I sitting on the branch of our willow tree, that the Henry Kahnt house is being fitted up for a dove cote and will soon be occupied by two dovelets. It will be a cozy love nest, nest where cooing may go on undisturbed.
The Collegeport Industrial League has received from the St. Louis Brownsville and Mexico Railroad a bill of sale for the former railway station building located at Collegeport.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 15, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
The most important news for the week is that I have received a special invitation from the lady principal to be present at the wedding of Miss Lera Hunt to Mr. Orrie Collins, Sunday, March 25, at the noon hour. Reverend Wylie will be present and read the service. Lera was brought up in this community, graduated from our rural school, went to Bay City and graduated from the high school. She is a girl the community may be proud of. She is sweet, pretty and intelligent and our folk will gladly give her tribute on "her day."
Several times in each while I have receive bouquets, but the finest came this week. Last summer I attended the Texas Writers Conference at College Station and was on the program. My subject was "The Romance of a Tree."
Several of those present gave me verbal compliments on the way the theme was handled, but here comes this most glorious bunch of flowers from a man who was present. "The little Romance of a Tree which you delivered here last summer struck a very responsive chord in my breast and I have been thinking ever since that it should be printed in a little brochure and distributed among your special friends. I have talked the matter over with others and the plan is endorsed heartily. So we want you to sit in a quiet hour, when you are feeling at peace with the world and write it out carefully, putting into it all the careful thought and sentiment of which you are capable and let me have the copy. With it send the names and addresses of your friends whom you think worthy of receiving it. When times get better and we can afford to do so, we will have it printed and distributed as you direct.
It may not be done soon, maybe not before you pass on, but it will be done some sweet day. Now don't put this off long, if you think well of it and let us hear from you."
This is giving flowers when life enables one to enjoy the perfume, to see the rich colors. This letter brought happiness to both of us. I have seen caskets covered with flowers when I knew that in life the one who laid [in] the casket seldom received a flower or a sweet word. If I am to have only one flower, give it to me now. Flowers on a casket are only for the living. The dead receive no benefit.
Wednesday to Palacios to confer with Mr. Homer Trimble, CWA engineer about the station building. He informed me that the application had been filled out and signed and all requirements complied with, but that there would be some delay because the CWA was at present out of funds, but that it was intimated that after April 1 other arrangements would be in order. Had lunch with the George Harrisons, with Mr. and Mrs. Trimble, Mr. E. C. Baker, county commissioner, precinct No. 2, Seth W. Corse and us two Homecrofters as honored guests.
It would be easier to tell what we did not have served for our gastronomical delight but everything from soup to nuts was grand and glorious.
When I arrive home, I found that during our absence we had been visited by a fairy, for heaped against the front door we found cabbage, head lettuce, carrots.
I found no foot tracks and indeed did not expect to for fairies leave no prints, but I guessed that the fairy lived about four miles east of our place and it was a he fairy. This same fairy has been here before and left similar tokens.
I am informed that up to and including March 8, the seawall has cost the sum of $6,554.35, of which $3746.11 was for labor, $60 for truck hire and $2,748.24 was for material.
The section in front of the Holsworth place has been completed and the outfit is now at work in front of the Mowery place. Now if the powers which be will grant us the causeway, if we can open the Mopac House, if Dr. Van Wormer will build the sanitarium down by the bay shore and if several other things come to pass here, there will be quite a future for Collegeport.
I am also informed that the county court has received deeds for the right of way for the Bay Shore road to the Intracoastal Canal and the beach. The road will probably not be constructed until the canal is built to Portsmouth and the bridge erected.
It looks as if some of you non-resident land owners who contribute nothing to our development, not even paying taxes, will some day reap a comfortable profit from your investments.
Thursday the school closed for Friday and Saturday, everyone went to Bay City to attend the scholastic meet. I have been informed that Bay View High School took some important events, but have no details.
This will all be handled by Mirth who is the athletic statistic hound of Matagorda County so I advise readers to watch Mirth's column.
Mary Louise, that gorgeous daughter, sent us a box the other day and among the items I found a link of imported Italian sausage as hot as siren's kiss, Kraft cheese, some goobers which are also known as arachis hypaguea by the literate and glory be a dozen tortillas. I live on these for many years in Mexico and learned to regard them as most delightful fodder.
Hattie, of the Collegeport Palatial Pharmacy, has brought added fame to that delightful resort. This time it is a sandwich which she has named "Delicioso." Between two very thin slices of toasted bread is a thin slice of liver, which is spread with a mixture of half catsup and half mustard, on this is a very thin slice of onion, sprinkled with parsley and then a thin slice of broiled ham covered with shredded pineapple.
It sells for fifteen cents and is worth two bits. Visiting candidates should ask for Delicioso.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, March 22, 1934 |
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Editor in chief - Auldine Williams Ass't editor - Emma Kucher Ass't editor - Earlene Hill
Senior Notes.
We have finished our study of various authors and their works. Now we are delving into the depths of poetry and are trying to scan and learn the various little things about poetry that play such an important part in the writing of poetry. We find this study to be very difficult, but we hope that as time passes, it will become easier.
Junior Notes.
We have finished studying the works of Thoreau, "The Bachelor of Nature," Melville, Longfellow and Emerson. We are now studying Whittier's poems. Longfellow seems to be singled out as the favorite.
The deeper we get into geometry, the harder it gets, which perhaps, accounts for those wonderful grades.
We are indeed sorry that Auldine has been absent from school. It was reported that she had diphtheria, pneumonia and tonsillitis. We are glad to repot that we were misinformed. She had none of these things wrong with her.
Sophomore Notes.
Ho, hum! Lazy, sleepy, tired all the time. Don't want to play. Don't want to do anything anyone else does. Everybody has a grudge against us. That's spring fever, and we have it!
It seems that the above is a typical description of us poor Sophs.
What Would Happen If?
Everyone in English II got up his lesson? Mr. White didn't give us some problems in science? Earlene forgot to wear her hat? Irwon didn't blush? Aaron quit wearing a baseball glove on his belt?
Strange As It May Seem--But Clara and Earlene both have sore shins. Clara reports to demerit hall every day for Mr. White. Tucker and Gifford are on speaking terms again. Wade looks sadder than usual. Mr. White thinks we have nothing to do in science if he doesn't assign us a chapter to outline. Blondes seem to attract certain people. Doodle always has a "wisecrack." A certain trustee is owned by a certain teacher.
Athletics.
The girls' volleyball team entered county meet last Saturday. After a hard fought battle and a close game, they went down in defeat to Midfield. Then they played Markham for third place. They won. We are sorry to lose class B championship this year, but some one must be losers.
Girl Reserves.
The regular meeting of the Girl Reserves, which was postponed last week, was held. Our program was "Hobbies." We had quite an interesting program which was followed by an informal discussion. Many had the same hobbies and there were many different ones.
Mrs. McCune went to Houston to attend the district meeting of the councils of the Girl Reserves. She is our first district representative and we are glad that she went.
Camp is not far off. We are already planning to get the fever. We are going to put forth every effort possible to send two girls or more to Casa Del Mar.
Easter morning at sunrise, we are going to have an Easter Sunrise worship service. This is our first service of this type and we hope that all the people of the community will join with us to make it a success. Our theme is "Continental Victories for Christ." Following this service, which is to begin at 6 o'clock, the Girl Reserves will share a breakfast together. If anyone wished to join us, we shall be glad to have you if you bring your own eggs, bacon and bread.
Girl Reserves, begin to think about the election of officers for next year. Don't forget that election is next month. Are you satisfied with the work the present officers have done? Do you think it can be better? Are there Seniors on the cabinet who will have to be replaced? Shall we add a song leader to out cabinet this year? Shall we also add a devotional chairman? Weigh these things carefully. Have we made any progress? Do you have someone in mind who might make the 'work' progress more rapidly?
Primary Notes.
Collegeport won second place in the county in the general exhibit, class B schools--the primary department won second place and the intermediate won third.
The primary project for this month is a tiny doll house, completely furnished with articles the pupils made themselves.
Our sand-table represents a scene in Holland. We are very busy now drawing rabbits and painting Easter eggs.
Harke Ye! Oysters Any Style!
Remember folks, this is the close of the season and Collegeport high school is furnishing you the opportunity of enjoying a last oyster supper before the season closes. If you do not know the candidates, this is a good time to come out and get acquainted.
Pies and coffee will be served in addition to oysters.
The Matagorda County Tribune, March 29, 1934 |
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Editor in Chief - Auldine Williams Ass't Editor - Emma Kucher Ass't Editor - Earlene Hill Reporters - Georgia Hejtmanek, Annette Johnston, Clara Nicholson, George Alice Jones, Noel Adams and Blanch Adams
Official Notice To All Tennis Players.
The tennis courts belong and are for the school. All outsiders who wish to play must play after school hours. We are trying to get players ready and in shape for the tennis matches next spring. We do not mean to be selfish about this matter, but we have the school interests at heart and must look out for everything that upbuilds. Our means for physical education are meager; therefore, we must utilize every bit of the equipment we now have to keep everybody busy. All who wish to play after school are cordially invited to do so, provided you furnish your own balls.
Senior Notes.
The seniors find their English rather hard at the present, but it has improved since last week. We have completed our "Literature and Life" book and are now studying "The Line Unit." We are told to write a poem for one of our next week's assignments. Wonder why Emma Kucher chose her title to be "A Tribute to Miss Bell?"
Can You Imagine?
Emma being so ticked when Georgia says "Yankee Doodle" is a ballad? Georgia not wanting to play tennis? Emma asking if the Quakers and the Dutch were the same?
Junior Notes.
The Juniors are getting more and more involved in literature. They are now in the midst of Lincoln's famous speeches and essays or addresses.
The geometry class has been getting up their notebooks, which include over four hundred originals. Perhaps there would be half a dozen geometry students reclining in study hall if the time had not been extended.
Sophomores.
My! Those "pop quizzes" are getting popular now. Wouldn't it be strange if we forgot to remember to not study our lessons? It does look as if we "Sophs" could be book-readers and not have to study.
Laughs of the Week.
Miss Louise: "So the waiter says to me, "How would you like your rice?" Mr. Curtis: "And what did you say? Miss Louise: "So I says wistfully, 'Thrown at me, big boy.'"
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, April 5, 1934
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The Collegeport Young Matron's Club, "The Chatterers," were entertained last Wednesday at the home of Mrs. Pat Richmond. In remembering the approaching Easter-time a very decorative angel food cake was served along with a most delicious luncheon. Three tables of bridge formed a very delightful mode of entertainment. A short business session was called by the president, Mrs. Pat Richmond, and plans for the coming season were discussed by the chairman of the program committee, Mrs. Walter Wilkinson Jr., assisted by Mrs. John Merck and Mrs. Francis Savage. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, April 4 at the home of Mrs. L. Slone this being the regular weekly meeting, when a most interesting discussion will be arranged on current news, authors of interesting books and a book will be chosen. The next program will be a book review.
Those present were Mesdames Douglas Whitehead, L. Slone, Walter Wilkinson Jr., Dean Merck, John Merck, E. A. McCune, Francis Savage, E. Curtis and sister, Miss Irma, J. Thomsen, L. Bullington and J. Hendricks.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, April 5, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
Pat Richmond says that his father, finding no profit in the hog business, has now transferred his capital to the poultry business.
Ben R. Mowery, our efficient master of the posts, draws on his crooked pipe stem and views with complacency the construction of the sea wall.
Arnold Franzen comes from Houston so spend Palm Sunday with his family.
The Village Blacksmith opines that if the "govmint" ever stops the CWA or PWA, that a revolution will start at once and hundreds will be killed. Some of our patriotic citizens are spending much valuable time worrying about where the money comes from with which to pay the seawall workers. Of one thing I am sure and that is not a cent comes from some of the aforesaid patriotic citizens, for some of them do not have money with which to buy socks.
Sunday, the congregation of the local church voted to call Rev. James Aikens of San Antonio, for half time service in this community. The other half will be spent in the Garwood community.
Bystanders look at Ben Mowery with amazement, as he tells what the weather will be on the morrow. I find myself struck with wonder, as I listen to his wise prophecies, but when I am on my walk home and my mind is once more in repose, I realize that our postmaster knows no more about weather than Frank King or Robert Murry, and they know nothing about it.
Roy Nelson, not content with staying at home and feeding on those famous Carrie Nelson Noodles, is crazy to visit Epsom Downs and put some on a pony. He can make more real cash staying at home and selling fine mutton and lamb quarters.
For the first time since the store opened, Carl Boeker has flung his banner to the breeze and now one approaching the store finds "Boekers Grocery" staring in one's face. Maybe this expense will cause higher prices, but if so, I am assured the advance will be so slight as to cause no pain.
The Citrus Grove postoffice was abolished months ago and yet the other day the Markham office issued a money order to Amos Johnson, payable by the Citrus Grove postoffice. The news did not travel far.
Mrs. Patricia Martyn, county health nurse, visited the community Wednesday in the interest of her work.
Frank Cobb was here Wednesday with the new International representative and honored us Homecrofters with a call.
Wednesday night I received a letter from J. F. Barnett, chairman Democratic Executive County Committee, that I had been named as Democratic precinct chairman and asking that I notify him if I would accept the position. I wrote him to read the Bible story of the Captain of the King's army, man of wealth and honor and in possession of everything a man might wish for, BUT HE WAS A LEPER. I am mentally and physically qualified to act as Democratic chairman and I have only one wife and am living with her at present in perfect peace. I only have two children, have never been in jail and never operated a still or done any bootlegging, BUT I AM A REPUBLICAN. This is what a Republican gets for mixing up with Democrats too much. He is bound to become polluted and his political honor tarnished. I trust my friend Jack Barnett will stop his joking with me and get down to business and help put the causeway across so that I may walk across and visit with him.
We were invited Wednesday to a reception in honor of Lieutenant Governor Edgar Witt at the Harrison home in Palacios, but, because the causeway is not open for traffic, we were unable to go. The lieutenant governor will be the guest of George Harrison for balance of the week and will attend the highway meeting at Raymondville last of the week. Writing about the causeway makes me recall that last week a huge truck thundered through town and vanished towards the bay shore. Presently it returned and the driver wanted to know whyinthehell there was no way to cross to Palacios. When informed that although Palacios was only three miles distant but that he would have to drive 32.6 miles he delivered some rather high life conversation. The next day a tourist attempted the same trip. This man had a trailer which was a regular house on wheels. He too, wanted to use the causeway and visit Palacios. On being told how many miles he would have to drive, he said "I'll be damned if I will. I'll go back the way I came." This being the place where every one turns around and goes right out, he did the trick and went out via the "nine foot sidewalk." I am asking Jack Barnett, secretary of the Hug-the-Coast Highway Association how long this condition will last. Only two incidents which are repeated almost daily.
I read in the Houston Chronicle that when the yacht Nouhmahal owned by Vincent Astor left Jacksonville Harbor with President Roosevelt, that it carried as guests Kermit Roosevelt, son of the former president, several other gentlemen and Lytle Hull. The last name will interest some of our old-timers who will remember Mr. and Mrs. Lytle Hull and Russell Hull when they lived here several years ago.
Well, Good Friday passed off in this community with celebrations from morn until night. Children's parties, egg hunting on the school campus, tennis, basketball and an oyster feast at night. This was attended by a good crowd and twelve candidates graced the affair with their presence and I dare say that some of them lost more votes than they gained. Of course, business cannot stop. Papers must be printed, mail service rendered, trains make their time, but it does seem to me that folk should stop for a moment and remember that on this day a man made the supreme sacrifice and that the death of a man who gave everything for us should not be the cause of joyous celebration and feasting.
O, well, the world does move and soon we shall forget that Jesus ever lived or died and we shall become pagans. Guess I and a few others in this burg are backwoods numbers, but I shall continue to observe Good Friday as I have for many years. Children are not receiving proper teaching in the home these days and they grow up careless of the important things in life.
The Woman's Union held their annual bake sale in the Crane Store Saturday. Plenty of pies, cakes, breads, etcetera, but not one noodle. Coffee and sandwiches were served to all visitors who had depressed dollars.
Saturday I received a copy of the Palacios Beacon. It came like an old friend and I read it with interest, for it was filled from front to back with real, neighborhood news. Everything clean and every column was a horn blowing loudly for Palacios. It is a nice newsy sheet and a credit to the town and should have the support of every business man for it is the Voice of Palacios.
The Collegeport seawall project folded its tents promptly at midnight Thursday according to orders and no one knows when work will resume. Thousands of cement blocks have been cast and are stacked near the Mowery home. I am informed that in Matagorda County seventeen CWA projects were abandoned before they were completed, but that the Collegeport seawall project had been protected due to the fact that up to date no CWA funds had been invested in it. This order also affected the project to remove and remodel the station building. The secretary of the Collegeport Industrial League took the matter up with officials of the Missouri Pacific with happy results.
Houston, Tex., March 26, 1934
Mr. H. A. Clapp Collegeport, Texas.
Dear Mr. Clapp: Concerning your letter to Mr. Safford of March 17, requesting extension of time in which to remove the old depot building at Collegeport recently donated to the Collegeport Industrial League by our company.
I am pleased to advise you that it is a pleasure for us to grant the extension to August 12th, and may I also add that I trust you will be successful in securing CWA aid for this project.
Yours very truly, D. P. Pace Land and Industrial Commissioner Missouri Pacific Lines.
Had the company not granted this extension, arrangements had been made for the removal before April 12th, as required by the bill of sale, but his would mean the making of two projects, one for removal and one for remodeling and we could not in reason expect that two projects would be approved. We are making one application to cover the removal and remodeling. When the project is complete, this community will have a place for public use which should be a source of pride to every one interested in community growth. Mopac House will be administered by the community board. It is hoped that our people will unite to make Mopac House what it is intended to be, a real place for community use. Officials of the Missouri Pacific have been kind and obliging and have done what they could to aid us in this project. We thank Messrs. Sanford, Pace, McCord and Kenedy for their interest.
The Easter Sunrise Service was attended by about twenty-five people. It was held on the bay shore near the Hurd home. At the Sunday school, sixty-eight faces were counted which was fine considering that the local group is without a pastor.
The famous Ramsey farm has been fenced and some nice shrubbery planted.
Louie Walter still smokes a crooked stem pipe.
Elizabeth Eisel writes me that she is now a hunter of coons of the four-legged variety. Pretty good for a red head.
The Matagorda County Tribune, April 5, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Collegeport is a community of clubs. The last is what is known as the Chatterers or Young Matron's Club. It appears to be well named for looking in my dictionary the meaning of chatter, find it means "to talk idly, carelessly, to jabber, to prate." Looking further I find that a chatterer is "a bird so called from its monotonous note; making inarticulate sounds."
Well of course we all know [those] that indulge in chatter. This club will confine its chatter to new books and the authors and from time to time will chatter about local affairs. Under the rules, I am not qualified to become a member for several reasons. The member must be female, under thirty years of age, must have taken on a wart sometimes called a husband, and preferably she should be a mother although this is not a strict requirement so long as there are prospects.
I am [out] on all counts much to my regret.
I received several Easter cards, but none more prized than the written words from one of my women friends.
"And may your Easter-tide be as sweet memories and fond dreams ever fulfilled to the utmost." A sweet sentiment and came to me not on a printed card, but in the hand of the writer. I have several other fine things stored away in the archives from the same reader.
One of the men readers of this column read what I said about belts vs. suspenders. He has for years depended on a belt to hold up his trousers, but after reading my advice and fearing an accident and not wishing to be in the belt-supporter class, discarded his belt and bought a new pair of suspenders and now goes about feeling that safety first is the proper slogan.
For some time, Vern Batchelder, of the Collegeport Supply Company, has had an ambition to hold some sort of demonstration in his store. He applied to several coffee companies, but they all used men demonstrators and having small taste for the society of the male brute, he refused all offers until along came the Nu-port and Nueces coffee men, and they promised to send him as demonstrator a very sweet, beautiful, refined young lady.
Tuesday was the day and the lady was Miss Lee James just as sweet and beautiful as had been promised and could she make coffee? Let the two hundred folk who visited the store that day reply. Miss James knew all about coffee, how produced, how roasted, ground and the latest methods of preparing the brew. Coffee of the Nu-port and Nueces brands was served to all visitors with plenty of rich cream and crystal sugar and as a teaser, sweet cakes. The store was decorated in colors, goods arranged in an attractive manner and the service was refined and delicate. Miss James left here many new friends who ask for a return demonstration. The store is credited as having given the customers a very pleasant day.
Mrs. Carl Boeker has demonstrated that first quality head lettuce may be produced. She has raised heads that weigh 2 1/2 to 3 pounds beautifully crisp and tender. I know cuz she sent me a bouquet the center of which was head lettuce.
Wednesday, the Miserable Wretch was a guest of The Chatterers at the regular meeting held at the home of Mrs. L. Slone over on the slough ranch. About fourteen members and guests were present to listen to the splendid program and business session and partake of the delicious strawberry ice cream and cakes supplied by the hostess.
The MW stated that she had a most delightful time and predict that this club of young matrons will become a valuable one in civic work. The Chatterers meet every Wednesday.
About one a. m. Friday, one of the severest storms of the year visited us. Heavy fall of rain and considerable hail with strong shifting winds and a seven hour thunder bombardment, which was practically a continuous roll.
Ben Mowery told me that he brought his storm as a punishment on me for the reference I made to him last week.
"The wind is a woman who scrubs the sky; Above her, billowing soapsuds fly. She grumbles, and lo, it starts to rain Her mop is swishing against the pane. She washes the dirt from Heaven's stairs, Trafficked by men and their selfish prayers. She cleans the tracking of angel and saint And brightens the floor with her azure paint. She hangs her wash rags out to dry-- They're flapping in the eastern sky, And when her mental task is done, She plucks her mantle from the sun. The wind is a woman who loves to fuss, And tidy up the sky for us.
And so the wind came and cleared the sky and the land was refreshed. Birds began their chorus. Flowers unfolded and cast their perfume on the air for the wind had cleaned up the sky for us. Just to make it a good day, a colored fellow roped an alligator in the swimming pool near the stock yards. It measures eight feet eleven inches from tip to tip. It is alive with jaws bound and is on exhibit at the drug store. If it is kept long, it will be necessary for Hattie to feed it some of that delicious pineapple ice cream.
The annual election for Bay View Consolidated Rural High School district No. 26 was held Saturday with Mason Standish Holsworth, Mrs. Anna D. Crane and Mrs. John B. Heisey as the board. Two trustees terms expired, Vern Batchelder and Gustave Franzen and both were re-elected. The election brought out small interest.
The Matagorda County Tribune, April 12, 1934
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Editor-in-Chief - Auldine Williams Ass't Editors - Emma Kucher and Earlene Hill Reporters - Georgia Hejtmanek, Annette Johnston, Clara Nicholson and George Alice Jones
Senior Notes.
What a great relief for both teachers and pupils. Examinations are over once again. Only one more test of torture.
We certainly missed Georgia yesterday, but since she was beautifying to please Hilson, we shall excuse her.
We have finished our literature and life book, and are making an extensive study of Milton's "Paradise Lost." It seems to be rather deep, but maybe we can wade through. We hope to enjoy it as much as we did some of the other great writers.
Strange but true--You can always find happiness in the dictionary. The age single people never reach is--marriage.
Junior Notes.
We are beginning to have a ray of hope now that school will perhaps soon be over. We have done very well in everything except English--but we won't mention our grades.
We are indeed proud of Noel Adams. He went to district meet last Saturday and won first place. He is now entitled to go to Kingsville Saturday for regional meet. We believe that Noel is headed for state championship.
Sophomore Notes.
Miss Louise: Is there more poverty now than fifty years ago? Wade: I don't see how. Four dresses can now be made from one dress worn fifty years ago.
Is Seems As If-- Face-making is Wade's hobby. Some one would buy some ink, as the high school is out. We are all going to fail our exams. We have made a great discovery. The only difference between Tucker and Skeezix is: Tucker's hair sticks straight out behind and Skeezix's sticks up front. Clara and Aunt Mamie: Clara is not married to Uncle Willie, Gifford and Popeye; Gifford doesn't smoke a pipe.
Freshman News.
Though exams are over, we are not relieved yet as report cards have to be sent home to father and mother. I am glad to report that very few have failed this six weeks and hope that the next may be as good.
We are now studying "Sohrab and Rustum," which we are finding to be much more interesting than "Lady of the Lake."
Everyone is doing well in commercial geography. We have a ten minute test every day, but they aren't so bad.
Things That Should Be Done in the Future.
Find the meaning of words before exams. Read the assignment every day. Walk down the stairs. Stop fighting. Stop talking about cream separators. Notice! Miss Louise is writing poetry.
Girl Reserve News.
The shower given by the Girl Reserves at the home of Mrs. Douglas Whitehead was attended by a large crowd. Most of the Girl Reserve members were also present.
The Girl Reserves are planning on having a picnic Saturday. A definite place has not been decided upon as yet.
The club will meet today at 2:30 to further discuss the plans for the Play Day at Newgulf, April 28, 1934. The girls will enter with various short topics to help out for the program.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, April 19, 1934
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A white shower for Mrs. Douglas Whitehead and her baby was held at the home of Mrs. Elliott Curtis last Friday afternoon. The house was beautifully decorated in pink and blue and the same color scheme appeared in the refreshments. A large number were present and she received numerous gifts. The Girl Reserves of which Mrs. Whitehead was a member planned the party.
Noel Adams won the class B mile race at Victoria last Saturday. He represents the district in the regional meet to be held in Kingsville at a later date.
The Home Demonstration Club is practicing for their play "The Old Maid's Club." The date will be announced later.
The
Home Demonstration Club met at the home of Mrs. Guyer Last Tuesday,
April 9. Mrs. Sides was present and different canned food products were
judged. How to standardize products of each individual canner was
explained and different pantries were shown. April 27 was announced as
the day and Bay City the place of meeting for clubs or delegates to meet
and hear a program arranged by Mrs. Sides. Eighteen members were
present. The King's Daughters will meet with Mrs. Holsworth next Wednesday.
It's fun to be a Chatterer, When the world is all in rhyme, It's not fine to be a tattler, We chatter all the time.
Mrs. Frances Savage was hostess to a very happy group of "Chatterers" last Wednesday. Plans are being made for a banquet in the near future. "The Chatterers" are inviting friend Husband and each couple will put on a stunt. Thus making a very lively and entertaining program for the evening.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, April 19, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
The bay shore road from the Hurd home to that of the Mowery family is in a dangerous condition near the Goff house, for the waves have washed away the bluff until there is hardly room for an auto to pass. It is feared that some night a driver who is ignorant of the situation will cause the bank to crack and auto and occupants will be precipitated into the bay. A drop of fifteen feet is nothing to be laughed at or even given a sneeze. The tides and waves have nibbled for years, each time taking a toll and now they come back day by day licking the raw shores.
Mr. S. E. Dickson and party went down the bay for a three day fishing trip returning Friday night. His ice box contained fifty or sixty pounds of dressed reds, trout and flounder. The rest of the party returned with the boat to Matagorda, taking for their share as much more. As fine a catch as has been landed this season.
The Woman's Club met in the community house Thursday and enjoyed an unusual program with a report from Mrs. E. A. McCune who attended the district board meeting of the YWCA at Houston, also a report from Mrs. Richard Corporon about the County Federation meeting recently held in Bay City. Mrs. Frank King, treasurer of the organization, complimented those present with a delicious luncheon consisting of tea, sandwiches, cakes and mints. Those present pronounced the meeting of more than usual interest.
We were invited to attend the annual banquet of the Bay City Chamber of Commerce and a friend who used to be a good Republican, promised to drive this way and take us along "IF" nothing happened. Well, something happened April 2nd (OS) 1742 with the birth of a kid named Thomas Jefferson and so Democrats had to have a birthday celebration in Houston and my one time good Republican now wearing the Democratic collar had to attend. Don't it beat all time, that a thing that happened nearly two hundred years ago should keep us from going to such an important event as this banquet. As for my Democratic friend, one time a good Republican, it simply shows that when a Republican mixes along with Democrats, they lost a certain amount of honor and loyalty. This treatment may change my two votes unless he squares himself. Just now I dunno.
We are booked for a trip to Bay City to attend the annual homecoming at St. Mark's Church and I am searching my history to see if any one was born two hundred years ago and in whose memory some affair must be held that will cancel the St. Mark's date.
A shower was given in honor of Mrs. Douglas Whitehead and her son Master Layne on Friday afternoon. It was to have been held a week ago, but postponed because of weather. A large number of friends were present to honor these two good citizens and the gifts were numerous and many of them costly. Mrs. Whitehead (Carey Miller) is our local poet. She had written some beautiful verses. Writing poetry is sort of a disease and it breaks out now and then on me with a fierce eruption that may only be suppressed by putting a sheet of yellow paper in my Corona and tapping the keys. Sometimes I am at a loss for a word to build on and then some one will give it to me. For example, the other day I was discussing our world wide problems with a friend and he finished his argument with "God knows best." As I walked the primrose road to Homecroft, the words jingled in my mind and sitting at my Corona, the following came out:
And feel its heaving breast I know that God looks after me And that He knows best.
When I think of the sea of life And long from distress to rest, And freedom from toil and strife I believe that God knows best.
At times I'd like to cut my moorings And put life's ship to test, And take to unknown tourings I wait for God knows best.
It would be a joy to sail away And steer my ship with a seaman's zest God will be with me on sailing day I'll wait for God knows best."
--Fragments From Hack.
The man who gave me the thought is not a religious man as usually graded, but is a serious thinker and he believes as he stated that God knows best. If this is true, does it not teach us the importance of being patient and waiting with faith for God in His way to relieve us from troubles that are vexing us?
When the ship channel was dredged out in front of the Mowery place, Mrs. Ben Mowery was appointed custom collector. Friday a ship commanded by a man named Dickinson came into port with a large cargo of fish. The collector, not showing up, the cargo was landed and the ship master escaped payment of duties. This is a great damage to the port and the result is that congress has been asked to investigate the failure of the collector to collect the import duties on the cargo. I am informed that there is a prospect of a long, tedious investigation, for the collector has offered many reasons for her absence from her post and each reason will call for a separate investigating commission. Congress will investigate, but that will be just a bluff for we all know what happens to a Republican during a Democratic administration.
Mrs. Mowery, port collector, gets a can.
Mrs. Patricia Martyn was here Friday on special health business. She was accompanied by Mrs. Louise Sharp, who is employed in county relief work.
Thursday, accompanied by Judge S. W. Corse, I visited in Bay City. Had a pleasant visit with that hard working man James Gartrell.
Found Charles Langham, A. D. Hensley and Ruby Hawkins on their jobs, but otherwise the courthouse was a grave. Every one out fixing up fences, setting posts, stringing barbed wife. Called at every office. Doors locked. My knock gave back the same sound as if knocking on a grave vault. Some will come back after the 28th with hearts filled with joy and maybe some will have to bury their hopes. I think we have a splendid group of county officers and doubt if any change will produce more efficiency, but when folk demand change, they just might have it.
In precinct three, George Harrison has an opponent. The Tribune, in a recent issue, refers to George Harrison as that "Old War Hoss." In my judgment it's a damn poor time to change war hosses during a war. We have a war on right now in precinct three, for causeway, for sea walls, for a Mopac House and for several other important improvements and we need an Old War Hoss to help them over. An Old War Hoss knows how to buckle down, get in the collar and pull a load so I am hoping that our folk will appreciate the value of the "Old War Hoss" and keep him in the traces. After all is said, most all agree that Uncle Archibald is a swell good Roman.
The Matagorda County Tribune, April 19, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Just to remind folks that Collegeport Day is May 25, the last Friday in this month. No doubt there will be the usual community dinner by means of which we can meet and mingle together as we have for so many years. It might be a good plan if the woman's clubs would all join together and arrange a sing-song for the day so every one could praise the Lord in song for all that has been ours the past twenty-five years. The Woman's Club and the Union might arrange to sell ice cream and cold drinks of the non-intoxicating, in fact, soft. Just a suggestion and hoping it will develop into a program for the day.
Thursday, Mrs. Lutie Ramsey received a wire informing her that her brother was in a Lincoln, Ill. hospital, the victim of an auto accident and was in a serious condition. Thanks to Melvin Spoor, the local Boy Scout always ready to lend a helping hand, she reached Bay City in time to catch the north bound train and in due time she will be at the bedside of her only brother. Many of us will miss Lutie's cherry smiles and manners and trust that in due time, she will return to continue the operation of the Ramsey farm.
The King's Daughters met Thursday at the Holsworth home down by the sea wall and enjoyed the usual delicious food which the daughters always serve. They invited Judge Corse, thus giving honor to the bench, but neglected to invite the press so this record is only what has been passed out in ordinary gossip.
Thursday, I received a letter from a Palacios business man informing me that a vote for the opponent George Harrison was a vote against the causeway and a vote for George was a vote for the causeway. The letter stated that the opponent and his principal backer had publicly stated that they were not in favor of this very necessary traffic facility and that the writer hoped Collegeport people regardless of personal feelings, would turn out a gorgeous vote for George Harrison, the man who beyond all others is able to aid in the construction of the causeway. I give this as it came to me and trust that certain folk will wake up to the fact that if we ever secure the causeway, we must put aside personal feelings and do our utmost to further the work that is being done at the present time in securing our causeway.
The world has produced many writers, but only one William Shakespeare. Precinct three has had many commissioners, but there has never been but one George Harrison.
We, meaning I and the miserable wretch have at last decided to cast our two votes for Uncle Archibald, so we may be able to walk to Palacios and attend service in St. John's Chapel.
Fred Ballhorst and family take a trip to the Valley this week where he owns a fine orchard property. Returning he will bring a truck load of vegetables and go into the sauer kraut business.
Arrangements are being made for the entertainment of the County Federation of Woman's Clubs early next month and the local executive board met Friday in the library and arranged a menu which will not only satisfy, but cause delightful titillations to course through the bodies of the partakers. Mrs. Hurd, of the program committee, is planning a program which will instruct and delight. Just leave such work to Mrs. Dena, and it is always done brown. It is hoped that members of the state board of health will be present and address the federation.
Friday, the community was glad to have as visitors, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Lewis. Mr. Lewis was fixing up some fences and Mrs. Lewis helped by stretching wire and she is so good at that, that she won the admiration of our women. These people are always welcome visitors and it is hoped they will visit us again when the pastures are green.
Friday, the library was open as usual and many books put out and forty-eight visitors registered in the guest book.
Two men from Groveton drove down Friday expecting to cross over to Palacios where they hoped to enjoy a fish dinner. Much to their disgust, they found the causeway not open for traffic and when informed that it was 32.6 miles to Palacios, in their disgust they decided to go back to Bay City. Not a week passed without such a situation. These men knew T. P. White and wanted to call on him, but could not wait until school dismissed so went their way hoping that the next visit would find it possible to drive over the causeway.
The Girl Reserves took a hike to Wilson Creek Saturday for picnic purposes. I gave Rosalie Nelson, who is the president, high-hatter or main push, an opportunity to invite me, but when her mother, who makes those famous Carrie Nelson Noodles, informed me that no noodles would be served, I lost interest and nothing would tempt me to go with the Preserves. I'll wait until Collegeport Day, May 25, for I believe that I shall have the opportunity to inhale a tank of those nourishing nutritious, strengthening, invigorating, noodles. I'll be there if I can get the cogs of my wooden leg to operate and if not, I'll throw the damned thing away and use a crutch.
As for the Girl Reserves, I'll say "toodle-oo, girls, toodle-oo."
One day, a seed looking much like a butterfly floated in the breeze of Vermont hills and at last dropped to earth in a nice warm, damp place, sprouted, took root and grew into a fine sugar maple tree. This spring the man, on whose land the tree grew, tapped it and from the fluid which flowed from the wound made syrup. A portion of this syrup came to our house during our absence. Did we have pancakes and syrup that night? O, boy, I'll tell you we did and we all enjoyed the treat, including Jimmy.
L. E. Liggett delivered to the Boecker store a head of cabbage that weighed fifteen pounds after all outside leaves had been removed and yet some fellows tell me that cabbage will not do well in this section.
Thanks to the Liggetts, we drove to Bay City Sunday and attended the services of our church at St. Mark's. It was the annual Home Coming of church folk and about one hundred and fifty were seated at the luncheon tables which were decorated with sweet peas in large bowls. The service consisted of morning prayer with a confirmation class of eight and a splendid understandable sermon by Bishop Quin. Sam Selkirk read the lessons in an impressive manner. Reverend Paul Engle assisted the bishop. Flowers on the altar were in memory of Father Sloan. I had the privilege of meeting Mrs. D. P. Moore and she complimented me by saying, "I thought from the important way you strutted about that you were a visiting preacher." Shows that a man may give an impression of importance provided he struts with importance. I know of no man to whom I gave more respect than I did to D. P. Moore. He had a fine soul and was a very generous and patriotic and fine gentleman. Of course, I met many of my friends, too many to mention, but I must mention Julia Austin. That little old sweetheart, now weighs 105 pounds and is worried because she is getting so fleshy. The miserable wretch tips the post office scales at 97 pounds, six ounces, so she too, is about to worry.
Had a happy hour with the Holman family and found my old friend the follower of William the Conqueror look well and we buried the axe for he promised that he would hang no more of my pirate folk. It was a beautiful day. Cloudless skies over head and in our hearts, so we came home along the primrose pavement feeling that we had spent a day of joy, of interest, of instruction and feeling clean and wholesome and ready to take up life at the end of the pavement.
Clifford Franzen here for the weekend. He is a well dressed, clean cut wholesome looking young man and a credit to the community and the Franzen family. Clifford, like Arnold, is making good in his chosen vocation and I predict big things from these two boys.
The Matagorda County Tribune, April 26, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
Saturday night as I sat on the top of the mountain, known as Precinct Three, and viewed the results of the white Man's Union Primary, the thought came to me that quality was what our people recognized and were determined to hold. As I mulled over the word quality, I confess that only in a vague way did I know what the word meant, so to my dictionary I fled and this is what I find. Quality means, to fit as for a place, office, occupation or character; to furnish with knowledge, skill, or other accomplishments necessary for a purpose; to supply with legal power or capacity.
William McKinley once said "I do not prize the word cheap. It is not a word of hope. It is not a word of comfort. It is not a word of inspiration. It is the badge of poverty. It is the sign of distress. Cheap merchandise means cheap men. And cheap men mean a cheap country." This is strong language, but true! It is applicable this day when we seem forced by trying conditions to have become crazed for cheapness.
As I watched the returns come in and was assured that our present commissioner had been returned, I knew that the people of precinct three desired quality and not cheapness; they desired progress and not delay; they desired the fulfillment of promises already made for certain basic improvements which mean so much for the comfort and prosperity of us all; they desired to rebuke, chide, reprove and reprimand, those who in their political ambitions sought to undo the accumulated work of twelve years of toil and faithful and sacrificial public service.
It has taken twelve years for the present commissioner to accumulate a statewide acquaintance and contact that has enabled him to bring valuable aid not only to this precinct, but to the entire county. By reason of this contact and the personal relationship he has established among the big men of Texas, he has been able to render to his home folk a service that has attracted the attention of the entire state and has been considered illustrious by men who are able to discern quality from cheapness. This has been willingly, gladly and joyously, been brought home and laid at our feet in a generous, loyal banner and the vote just tabulated is our reply to the offering. This man is recognized by most of our citizens as one of the outstanding characters. If all the accomplishments of all who have gone before were rolled up into one bundle, it would fail to equal the service this man has rendered. A great work is just ahead. It is a work that means expansion of opportunity for our citizens. It is a work that means the attraction of a multitude of new folk. When complete fortune will smile sweetly on the people who have chosen this section for their homes. The causeway. The dream of a life time! The boulevard road to Palacios Point. Burton Hurd's vision of more than a quarter of a century. The seawall now being placed in position and the same protection planned across the bay. The Intracoastal canal, the opening of Oyster Lake for easier entrance and exit not only for boats carrying fishers and hunters, but for a greater volume of sea water. The remodeling of the old railroad station into a beautiful structure to be known as Mopac House and devoted to the pleasure and delight of our people.
All these have drawn closer since the vote has assured us that the man whom we honor, is to be continued tin our service, and that plans now under way will become real.
This is the day when Palacios and Collegeport should realize that the destiny of the two communities is bound in one single purpose and that they should co-operate, co-ordinate and cohere, for the common good of the empire God has placed in their charge.
Working together the two communities will be able to develop a situation that will bring profit to both. Nothing, I am sure would do more to crystallize sentiment and encourage confidence between us. It may be too early to predict, but I hope some day there will be no Palacios Chamber of Commerce or Collegeport Industrial League, but a Twin City Chamber of Commerce. This will wait until the interested communities become greater in character. Let us not forget, that although we may possess soil, climate, seawalls, pavilions, boulevards, causeways, these things do not count as does the spirit of citizenship. We must be willing to give our intelligence, our courage, our time, our effort, and each do his full share of the overhead and thus contribute to the common good. This is the yard stick of civic quality. For the next two years, let's play "Follow the Leader."
My friend, Louise, brought me a gallon of fine fresh shrimp. Mighty sharp of Louise to remember that I like shrimp. Not many girls are as sharp. Last week I mentioned that Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Lewis were here fixing up fences and now comes a letter from West Texas asking when the Lewis folk started farming. For the information of the writer, will state that the Lewis' were putting up what is known as political barbed wire, a contrivance used by candidates to keep voters from roaming around.
Dean Merck driving tractor and hauling planter on which rides his father. Planter clogs and Mr. Merck endeavors to clean it out while planter is running, using his fingers. Result, one finger gone. Moral is keep fingers out of gears especially when in operation. Mr. Merck was taken to Palacios where the necessary surgical work was done and he returned home feeling fine.
Dewberries are plentiful, but ripen slowly. Bushes loaded with green and red berries. Nearly every one who has a conveyance of any sort is our scouring the pastures for this fine fruit.
Thursday night the canning club produced "The Old Maid's Convention" for the purpose of securing funds with which to pay the expenses of a delegate to the A. & M. short course. About one hundred, including several candidates, witnessed the show and the box office disclosed that fifteen frog skins had been collected. The show was a scream especially the antics of the maker of those Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles. The club being quite bloated by the success of this presentation will no doubt put on another some time in the future.
Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hensley were here Thursday and we had the privilege of a short time but delightful visit with them. They stayed overnight the guests of the Franzen family and attended the "Old Maid's Convention."
Mrs. Ruby Hawkins and Rudolph Kleska sit in their offices with satisfied smiles for they each received more votes than any other candidate.
Harris Milner will continue to lock up the jail house.
Several new faces will appear in the courthouse next year.
A caravan consisting of thirty-five gypsies each carrying his grub suspended on a stout stick left her for Newgulf to attend the Romany Rye gathering of the Girl Reserves. They moved in Joe Frank's school truck at about thirty miles per hour instead of walking as most gyps do. Our local Girl Reserves are getting quite active.
Just heard that Superintendent T. P. White has arranged to go with the Hungerford school next season. Wonder who will be superintendent next year? Hope the board will secure the services of a real college degree man, who is married and who will become identified with our community life. There are men of that type to be had and we may have such a one if the board take some time and use good judgment.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, May 3, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
Over here. Yes, here in the Magic Bottle. An empire two hundred square miles. one hundred twenty-eight thousand acres. Acres of beautiful prairie, gorgeous woodlands, rippling streams, glistening lakes, shell beaches, dancing waters. Twenty thousand cattle graze along the streams and on the luxuriant prairie grass. Here sixteen hundred fine folk have builded their homes and are tilling the soil, grazing cattle, living clean lives. Thousands of acres of rice, cotton, corn, feedstuffs, finding plant food in the rich soil and responding to the warm rays of the sun produce yields that delight the grower. Here are several varieties of soils adapted to the growing of fruits, vegetables and grains.
The Victoria clay and the Edna series predominate, but such is the variety that the grower may select the soil must suitable for the crop he desires to produce. Rainfall is about 42 inches per annum and most of the time fairly distributed. If it be true, that climate is the measure of an acre, certainly here may be found the climate that measures the acre in generous degree. The Intracoastal Canal will soon be built through the southern portion of the Magic Bottle crossing Oyster Lake for a mile, opening that fine fishing ground for boats, drawing fishing possibilities. The state highway commission will build a fine bridge across the canal which will give access to the finest shell beach on the coast. And remember this, that the canal means complete water transportation from all upper Mississippi and Ohio river points, for an immense tonnage with consequent savings to the public. There will only be two bridges in Matagorda County, this and the one at Sargent. Oyster Lake will continue to be a big fishing and hunting ground of 2500 acres, easily accessible by the new bay shore highway. Here in this empire is located Collegeport with its rural high school and its faculty of seven teachers. Quite a jump from the one teacher school. First class grocery stores, a palatial drug store, two blacksmith shops, a real garage, a food shoppe. The community supports several clubs among them being the Collegeport Woman's Club with its beautiful library containing 1600 books, free to the public, the Woman's Union, the King's Daughters, The Canning Club, The Collegeport Industrial League. All these organizations are interested in continued development.
The fly in the ointment is the fact that access is by means of a nine foot pavement which ends at the civic center and that means that every one driving here is unable to cross over, but must turn around and go back.
Over there? Yes, over there, is Palacios, three miles distant but really 32.6 miles of driving. The City by the Sea. A thriving town with high ambition. A town of good schools, lights, gas, pavements, one highway No. 58, churches, theaters, manufacturing plants, ice plant, high grade folk, backed by as splendid a land situation as exists on this side. It has many things to give us and it is willing to give, but is prevented by a natural barrier which man has the power to remove. The two communities have common interests. They should be closely united with ease of intercourse.
When the causeway is open for traffic, a new world will be opened for the people on either side. Judge McNabb probably knows as much or more about the water situation than any man in the county. He told me recently that a recent survey showed that the distance from bank to bank at the foot of Central Street across to the old college was but 4720 feet and that by reason of the shallow shores on each side, a solid embankment could be built on either side, by dredging material from the bay, so that piling construction of the proposed crossing could be cut to 1500 feet. This is all that is required to eliminate a situation that is irritating, that lessens happiness, pleasure, business. This construction means giving to us the things we desire and need and it means giving the over there, opportunities they do not enjoy.
The time is ripe for a business campaign. The fruit is ready to pick and all that is required is co-operation, co-ordination, cohesion. Will the people over here and over there be wise enough to grasp the present opportunity and forever rid themselves of the impediment to progress?
A. E. McCune and S. W. Corse have obtained from the Texas A. & M. experiment station a small quantity of Honey June Sweet Corn. It is the ordinary Mexican June corn, with the starch bred out and the sugar of sweet corn bred in. The size of ears is retained and it has a tough hard shuck which lessens worm damage.
The Collegeport Supply Company has installed a very large and beautiful Superflex refrigerator. It stands about seven feet high and is operated with a kerosene flame. Storage space is generous and when I saw it, the place was filled with good things. Goods are tastily displayed and everything clean and fresh and the store is a credit to the community at the end of the nine foot sidewalk.
A letter received Monday night from Mrs. Lutie Ramsey states that her brother died from internal injuries received when an auto ran into a team and wagon he was driving. Her many friends sympathize with Mrs. Ramsey in the loss of her only brother.
We have two grocery stores but rural grocery stores of the first class and fully affiliated. When the Collegeport Supply Company closed the store Tuesday night, a pocketbook was found. As it was about eight inches long by six wide and quite flat, it was diagnosed as being a ladies'. Fearing it might be taken before the owner reported the loss, it was placed in the new refrigerator. Soon after, it was noticed that the temperature rose rapidly until at last the thermometer registered more than one hundred degrees. Search for the reason for this unlooked for curious effect failed, until at last Mr. Vernon opened the purse and found in it several hot checks and a sack of tobacco. Wednesday morning, a member of our school faculty called and asked: "Did you find my purse which I left there last night?" Why should a school teacher have hot checks and a sack of tobacco? The refrigerator is now working in a normal manner.
The quarterly meeting of the Matagorda County Federation of Women's Clubs complimented Collegeport by meeting here on Saturday, May 5. What the meeting lacked in quantity, is made up in quality for the women who attended were there for a purpose. Collegeport is proud of the fact that the president is a local product and that Ruth Braden, now known as Mrs. Matthes, was reared in this place. Ruth is a splendid president and I am nominating her for a second term. Programs were in form of a flower basket and from each peeped a bunch of bloom. This, as well as the arrangement of the program, was the work of Mrs. Burton D. Hurd. The morning session was devoted to business, club reports, standing and special committees and at 12:30, it was adjourned for luncheon, which was served in the dining room and the menu consisted of pressed veal loaf, baby string beans, potato salad, beets, pickles, Parker House rolls, lemon pie and coffee. The tables were beautifully decorated with flowers of many colors, the perfume of which filled the air with delight. The afternoon session opened with a comedy, skit and take off on the work of Mrs. Patricia Martyn, county health nurse and called "The Clinic." Mrs. Burton D. Hurd was not only the author, instigator, but impressaria, so for its quality in comedy, no other words are required.
Mrs. Hurd was Doctor E. Z. Mark, Louise Walter the dentist, Mrs. Roy Nelson took the part of the Negro wench, Melinda, Mrs. McCune nurse assistant, Vern Williams office aid and balance of the personnel were patients suffering from all ailments common to the human race. Mrs. Dorothy Corporon impersonated Mrs. Martyn and as each child came from the operating chair it was presented with an all day sucker. The program as announced was on health and hygiene and Mrs. Martyn had arranged for the state department of health to be represented and she introduced Dr. Charles Reece, who discussed the dangers of many diseases and how they may be prevented. Dr. M. O. Gips, sanitary engineer, in charge of fifteen counties with office in Yorktown, told how homes may be made mosquito, fly and rat proof giving prevention from diseases carried by insects and rodents. Dr. Geiger, county sanitation and Dr. Scott, county health officer, also addressed the meeting. These addresses were filled with interest and instruction and we feel grateful to Mrs. Martyn for bringing such talent to us. Mrs. Martyn read excerpts from her report which will be published in full in the local papers. Mrs. Leola Cox sides, county home demonstration agent, read her report showing the value of the work done in canning, preserving and home remodeling. I had the pleasure of greeting some of my friends, Mesdames, Duffy, Taylor, Stewart, Baker, de St. Aubin, Porter, Woods and many others. I sat as close to Jean Steele as she would permit for she appears to be a comfortable sort of fellow. Much to her disgust, the miserable wretch was not able to attend, for she during the last week has not been up to the usual standard, but she was not forgotten for Rosalie Nelson and Frances King brought her a full plate of the delicious luncheon. The meetings of this organization of course, in a business way are valuable to the county, but the finest work it does is the bringing together the women of the county in social intercourse. They have an opportunity to get acquainted, to rub against each other and acquire a polish.
Matagorda County is to be congratulated on having such efficient workers as Montague, Sides, Martyn, Geiger and Scott. These people are carrying a message to Garcia.
When the county court built the bay shore highway to Palacios Point, they no doubt thought it was the correct thing to do, but little did they realize the tragedy that would result. The building of the Intracoastal Canal through Oyster Lake one hundred thirty feet wide and nine feet deep, let in large quantities of sea water with result that fishing was so improved that there was fine fishing at the dam site, but now there is no fishing by a damn sight for last night the damn broke. I am informed that a wall of water one hundred and thirty-nine feet high swept through that bayou and carried thirty-seven of our most progressive citizens with it way out into the bay. Some who could swim got to the causeway, some landed at the sea wall and others were picked up by boats. Oyster lake is today as it has been for years, a quiet, peaceful sheet of water and affording good fishing for those who enjoy the sport.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, May 10, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
There is only one thing that prevents Dorothy Corporon from being a county health nurse and that is a trifle of education. Saturday, she learned the first requirement and that is how to hand out all day suckers. Without this information, a nurse is just not. Now if Dorothy will learn to jibber or gabber about toxoid, tonsils, teeth, itch, she will belong. It is not necessary to know much about these things for 99 per cent of those she talks to know nothing about the business.
Soon as I have a bit more confidence in Mrs. Hurd, I shall ask her to examine and if necessary to operate on my wooden leg, for she has the tools and I believe she has the skill. When I am operated on, I desire Carmaleta as my night nurse for she is a comfortable wretch.
The Girl Who Thought She Was Forgotten would console me while waiting for the surgeon with her axe, meat saw, and butcher knives. Miranda, the Negro wench, would sterilize me in a complete manner and I hope she will nourish me with a tank of those Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles, if she knows Carrie makes 'em.
Mrs. Carrick is not much in size, but she sure raises fine babies. When Louise Walter, as the dentist, takes her x-ray glass and looks down my gullet for diseased teeth, my head will be close to her breast and I can clearly hear the ringing of happy wedding bells. Listening to the tinkling of the bells, I shall feel only exquisite pleasure as she yanks out my teeth.
I am very sorry to report that Miss Bell's preserves were all horribly mutilated and required treatment of an extensive kind. Some has busted hearts, some had fingers mashed because they monkeyed with the gears, some had an itch for something they did not know the nature of, but they wanted it. All received first aid and were returned to the charge of their sweet and capable leader, the girl who always rings the bell.
Thoughts About Quality brought two replies, one from West Texas and the other from East Texas, the land of "hawg eaters and rosin chewers." The first wrote "Your Thoughts About Quality were well written and read easily. It was a well merited tribute to the splendid gentleman Geo. A. Harrison." The other wrote "One time the United States Supreme Court was called upon to decide what was meant by good will and they gave this definition: "Good Will is that thing that causes a satisfied customer to return to the place where he has been well treated." I am therefore congratulating the voters of precinct three for the vote of confidence given George Harrison and it shows they know how to return to the place where they have been well treated." It sure pays to advertise in the Tribune.
The Case family of four, Mr. and Mrs. Orrie Collins (Lera Hunt) and Mrs. Bert Hunt left Saturday, May 5 for the place where the rainbow dips into the pot of gold, or in other words, California. We trust they will be able to dip into the pot and return with filled pockets. They should have waited until the causeway opened for it would have saved several miles of travel.
May 25, 1934, is Collegeport's Day. For twenty-five years the people of the community have assembled and enjoyed a community dinner in honor of the town's birthday. This year it is hoped that not only all the original citizens will be present, but many newer friends from all parts of the county. Everyone will bring the luncheon, throw it together and enjoy the noodles and other good things. Perhaps a song service praising God for what has been given us the past quarter of a century.
Met Arnold Franzen at the Palatial Pharmacy Saturday. He is here the week-end to honor the woman who gave him birth. Talking with him, I said "I was sorry that Mr. T. J. Donahue had been retired from the Texas board of directors" and Arnold said, "Oh, well, he was getting too old to make the frequent trips to New York." Looking at Arnold, I said: "Some day folk will say well they retired old man Franzen yesterday. He was getting too old to make the frequent trips to the meeting of the Texas Company board." This is my prediction, but I know that when the time comes, this boy will have some tobacco in his tobacco box.
Well, anyway, while we were there, we put a few shingles on the leaking roof of the Palatial Pharmacy and I suggest that our folk, when desiring a cone, a coke or an Angel's Delight, go down there by the yards and allowing Hattie to serve thus put more shingles on the leaking roof.
My friend Andy brought me a big catfish the other day and by a queer coincidence, the identical fish was shown in the Chronicle the same day. It was a Gaff Topsail catfish considered the delicacy of the catfish tribe.
The miserable wretch is an old-time catfish eater and she soon disposed of Mr. Gaff Top-Sail.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, May 17, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
The miserable wretch went to Bay City Thursday and left me alone with two female callers. Shows the trust a woman has in a man, but had there been one woman in place of two, the trust might have been strained. I never was much at building a harem, but one at a time and O, boy. The aforesaid M. W. reports that Bay City reminds her of an aunt hill. Folk scurrying about as if chasing some thing so elusive that it is never caught. Men with protubering embonpoint slouching in office chairs, others with hanging bellies, parading the streets vainly attempting to hold up their trousers with a belt. Such men need an anchor to windward, such as suspenders or some day there will be a scandalous tragedy. Women with hard faces, painted to resemble a cheap fresco, walk the streets or loll in an indolent manner in parked cars, when they are not driving furiously around the square. Snippy clerks, hard faced dealers, little girls trying to ape the manner of their elders. Small boys sucking cigarettes. Dogs with wagging tails. A city marshal looking for Barrow, sheriff with an eye out for Dillinger. A brand new postmaster with stamps still at three for nine cents.
A fine, polite clerk in the Piggly Wiggly served her with hamburger as if she were a duchess and almost kissed her hand as she paid the bill. Proves that rules have exceptions. But over it all, crude as is this village twenty-five miles from the bay, there hovered a loveliness almost indescribable, as if in benediction on the heads of the foolish struggles to grab another ladder step. No words that come from the keys of my Corona are adequate to describe a certain lovely overhead that makes Bay City a very charming city, full of enchantment and potential possibilities.
Friday, May 25, is Collegeport Day, when for the twenty-fifth time our folk come together in memory of that day in 1909, when our fair ones danced to the music of the rice grower's band, and W. S. Holman and Thos. H. Lewis nominated each other for the governor's chair. It will be a fine time for members of the courthouse ring, to come down and show us that at times they can visit us when they don't want something from us. I suspect, however, that none of them will come around until the year 1936 and then with glad hands and merry pats they will attempt to frolic with us and prove their interest in the causeway. Will they come? I fear not for they are too busy, mulling over local scandalous gossip.
A sensation would be created if Amos Lee would put on a coat and drive down and mix with the local burghers. The sensation would be the coat and not the presence of this capable official. Amos can not be called ubiquitous, for he is never found in any place except the cubicle in the northwest corner. Collegeport never looked lovelier than this May day. Flowers blooming on prairie and along road side. Crops bursting into luscious growth. The glassy, silent bay, with softly lapping tides nuzzling the shores. Fish joyously leaping into a moment of sunshine. Birds filling the air with song. Children ready for the summer time vacation. Folk of the district housed, clothed and fed. When the causeway is open for traffic and we can see the world and his wife go by, we shall forget heaven and turn with a satisfied eye to gaze upon that which is ours. O, yes, brother, God has been good to us.
Last week, commenting on a letter from East Texas, my copy read land of the "haw eaters and rosin chewers." The type man thinking I did not know what I was writing about added a "G" to the word haw so it came out "Hawg eaters and rosin chewers!" Perhaps those folk do eat hawg. I hope they do, but they are known as eaters of the fruit of the hawthorn bush and hence are known as "haw eaters." Don't want my readers to think I do not know the difference between a "hawg" eater and a "haw eater." Maybe the type man never heard of the haw fruit, but he now has learned one new thing.
There is a woman in this community who has earned the right to wear an Angel's Crown. She is entitled to the words of commendation "well done thou good and faithful servant." She lives on the southeast corner of block 102 and her name is--O, well go down and see this fine Christian woman.
The senior class of two were honored with a banquet Friday night in the community house. It was almost an Adamless affair for although the male invitations were confined to the two men teachers, the superintendent failed to be present, so Mr. Curtis was all alone with thirty ladies. A royal menu was served and the affair was very joyous.
The school board held a meeting Thursday night and discussed the engaging of teachers, but because this is no business of the taxpayers, no information was given out. All meetings of the board are secret sessions. If the reader does not believe it, ask for information from any member and see what the result is. Just evasion and nothing else.
About one hundred assembled Sunday night to attend the baccalaureate service in honor of the class of 1934 of the Collegeport High School. The sermon was delivered by Reverend Black of Markham. The thought the speaker sought to convey was the running of life's race and the proper preparation. The music furnished by Mrs. Liggett's junior choir was enjoyed by the audience to the utmost. Wednesday night will witness formal graduation exercises.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, May 24, 1934 |
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The Girl Reserves scored another triumph with their banquet for the seniors, Emma Kucher and Georgia Hejtmanek, Friday night at the Community House. The following program was given while the dinner was being served:
Group Singing--All. The menu read: Wiggletails, Salties, Foul Tip on Bass, Grounders, Freshmen's Fingers, Modified Cartwheels, Redheads, To Brace the Faculty, Weep With Us at Leaving, Senior's Delight, Sweet Girl Graduates, (but it was really shrimp cocktail with saltines), followed by chicken a'la king on toast, green beans and green potatoes and pickles. There was pineapple and cheese salad and iced tea and it was gloriously climaxed by strawberries in jello with whipped cream and wafers. The F-shaped table was lovely with attractive place cards, clever mint cups and spring bouquets. The program showed a stroke of genius, being miniature caps with the flat part forming a back for the speeches, menus, songs and humorous suggestions for table etiquette. After the food disappeared and the scheduled and impromptu speeches were enjoyed (and endured) the Girl Reserve proceeded with their beautiful and impressive installation service. Behind the three tall tapers stood Miss Beryl Bell, sponsor and on either side the light former officers who...officers took their places. Each one accepted her trust with an appropriate saying and lighted her candle from three gold tapers on the table. Those taking over the work for the next year are Annette Johnson, President; Auldine Williams, vice president; Rosalie Nelson, secretary; Fawn Adams, treasurer. The former president, Rosalie Nelson presented Annette Johnson with the Girl Reserve pin that is to be handed down each year to the new president. After a touching farewell to the seniors by Miss Bell, the girls slowly returned to their places singing softly "Follow the Gleam." The guests enjoying this delightful affair were Mrs. Hejtmanek, Mrs. Kucher, mothers of the honorees: Miss Vera Williams, Nelle Harris, Louise Walter, Eleanor Chapman, Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Curtis. Mesdames Roy Nelson and Richard Corporon and Miss Opal Phillips, Mrs. Douglas Whitehead, Misses Leota Hough and Frances King, the last three being former Girl Reserves. The girls wish to thank the members of the Chatter Club who helped Miss Bell prepare the banquet and the Junior Girl Reserves who so efficiently served it.
Matagorda County Tribune, May 31, 1934 |
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The members of the Chatter Club have enjoyed many delightful meetings the past five weeks. The meetings have been held at the usual time at the various homes.
Mrs. Mildred Thompson entertained with a most enjoyable bridge party at her mother's bay shore home; the spacious screened porch was very beautiful and restful looking with its large leafy ferns gracefully waving in the soft bay breeze. After the Chatterers arrived with their happy chatter and merry laughter, no one could doubt the fact that a happy time was enjoyed by all. Mixed with the chatter was the tinkling of ice in fruit punch served with angel food and gold cake and it brought to a close a happy, friendly time, as we watched the sun set across the bay. This thought, as Cary Jacobs Bond has helped us to think, "When the sun goes down with a flaming ray, and you think of the friends, you've made," came to each of us.
Passing on to another Wednesday, the Chatterers entered into a real spirit of fun that goes with an old-fashioned tacky party at the ranch home of Mrs. Marjorie Wilkinson. Who wouldn't laugh to see Allie Curtis as Sunbonnet Sue, Hazel Merck making us believe by seeing, a real character of our long ago stage coach days, very demure and sweet little Miss that any cowboy would gladly rescue from the "Heap Bad Indians." Carmileta McCune brought back the "Sidewalks of New York," Marjorie Wilkerson, Sis Hopkins and truly played the part. Lillian Richmond, who walked away with the prize was Mary O'Shay. What judge could heedless overlook a really and truly Irish colleen? After the fun of looking each other over and laughing with each other, games of bridge were played. Refreshments of ice cream and tea cookies, were served. The members were happy to have as guests, Mrs. S. E. Dickinson, Miss Nell Harris as judge, and Mr. Elliott Curtis. Mr. Walter Wilkinson was host and escort of the party.
Mrs. Curtis, as next hostess, entertained the club. The Floral Shoppe of Collegeport was on the job and the Curtis home was a bower of spring flowers. Placed about were several tables of bridge and from the hum, the players were busy. A business meeting was held. Reports from the various committees were made and plans for carrying on were discussed. The hostess served delicious cherry pie with whipped cream.
Mrs. Gussie Slone invited the Chatterers and their husbands to her home the following Wednesday evening, honoring Mrs. Jesse Strasner of Palacios, a recent bride.
Mrs. Cary Whitehead entertained the club Wednesday afternoon with a beach party. Bridge was enjoyed by the following members and guests. Mesdames Lillian Richmond, Carmileta McCune, Allie Curtis, Marjorie Wilkinson, Frances Savage and Misses Beryl Bell, Opal Phillips and Leota Hough. Instead of refreshments, the guests were served iced tea and roasted their wieners for hot dogs over an open fire. Swimming and boat riding on the bay was then enjoyed the next meeting will be with Mrs. Carmileta McCune.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, May 31, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article in which Jimmy the dog tells of his past.]
I have just received a letter postmarked Palacios Saturday, May 19, and delivered at the Collegeport post office Tuesday, May 22. Palacios is only three miles distant, just across the bay, and yet it takes more than 72 hours for a letter to be delivered. When the causeway is opened, we may have two mails each day as easily as we have one now and a letter posted at either place by mail will be delivered in an hour or two. AT present it is impossible to communicate with either place by mail in less than twenty-four hours and most of the time it requires forty-eight hours or more. Mail for Bay City goes south on number 11, delivered to number 12 some place on the road and arrives in Bay City too late for that day's delivery. When the causeway is open, our mail for Bay City will be delivered early in the afternoon of the same day it is dispatched from this office. Come on causeway and by the way then we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, may walk to service at St. John's Chapel and that's only another good reason why the highway commission should make this designation. Since writing the above I have received the annual notice of the banquet of the White Pigeon High School Alumni. The notice was postmarked at White Pigeon, Mich., at 1 p. m. May 24, and delivered at Collegeport at 3:30 p. m., May 26. From Palacios, three miles distant, it requires 72 hours, but from White Pigeon, Mich., distant 1300 miles, it requires only 46 hours. Fine service?
I don't remember when I have had a happier day than last Wednesday when some men drove into the yard and informed me that work on removal and remodeling the Missouri Pacific station would begin Thursday morning. It did, right on the blow of the whistle, and now the old building is about ready for the mover man, the new location is cleared off, the library building has been raised and ready for a new foundation, the water pipe has been taken up and will be connected to the school service pipe and everything is Jake so far. Mopac House is going to be a fine thing for the community. The Library will have another room 14 feet by 20 feet, we will have a kitchen 12 by 20 and an assembly room about 70 feet long. The entire floor will be of cement and in front of the main entrance will be a cement gallery 10 by 20. First thing the folk of this place knows we shall have a property valued at, say five thousand dollars. Water will be piped into the kitchen where a sink will be installed and we shall have necessary kitchen equipment so that the Woman's Club may entertain and the general community may have entertaining affairs. I wish the men of this place would shake off the civic lethargy which enveloped them and join the Collegeport Industrial League and the women join the Woman's Club and aid in this work. It is a community project and instead of three or four carrying the burden, others should join in and help. Just call on Hugo Kundinger at the Palatial Pharmacy and as you absorb one of those Angel Delights, give Hugo your application or women of Collegeport hand yours to Mrs. Clapp, secretary, Mrs. King, treasurer or Mrs. Liggett, president of the Woman's Club for membership in that organization.
Don't forget the words of Kipling, "The strength of the pack is the wolf and strength of the wolf is the pack."
We can waddle along, few in numbers, and accomplish great works for community benefit, but if our pack hunts together, we can bring projects to completion much quicker.
Wednesday night, two pupils finished the eleventh year and graduated. About 150 people assembled to do them honor. Miss Emma Kucher and Miss Georgia Hejtmanek were the fortunate ones. Both made excellent grades and both girls are in personal charm and educational development, credits to the school. Georgia was the valedictorian and Emma salutatorian. Each gave creditable evidence of their ability. Mr. Pat Thompson of Bay City delivered the address to the class and Superintendent White delivered the diplomas. The auditorium was beautifully decorated in class colors and thus ended the school year of 1933-34.
Thursday night we were fortunate guests to a back yard lawn supper at the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. L. de St. Aubin in Palacios. About twenty guests were present, among them our old friends, the Farwells, the Burks, the Harrisons, the Hoods, Miss Nannie Pybus, Mrs. Boling, James Sartwell, former mayor of Palacios, but now president of the Houston Fat Stock Show and the Rt. Rev. Clinton S. Quin, bishop of Texas and Reverend Gillespie of Palacios. The latter is a Presbyterian, but as we have him about half converted, he was allowed to be present. The tables were placed in the back yard, snuggling close to the kitchen door, from which came tankard after tankard of delicious eatables. Shrimp salad, shrimp plain, barbecued chicken, barbecued beef, potato chips, rice gumbo, potato salad, beets, tomatoes, jellies, hot Parker House rolls all gooey with butter, several kinds of cake, iced tea, coffee and ice cream. The host sat next to me and I knew he was present for he is a grand epicure and gastronic guzzler and I tired in vain to keep up with him. The hostess was only visible when she emerged from the kitchen door bearing another big platter of food from which angelic perfumes were wafted to our quivering nostrils. It was a grand and glorious occasion and we give our good friends, the de St. Aubins, our heart thanks for the privilege of being present. We also give thanks to our old kinfolk, the Harrisons, for sending for us and bringing us back as the clock struck the midnight hour. After we were well fed with food and had listened to the stories of the bishop and the fat stock man, we went to the school auditorium and attended the graduation exercises of the Palacios High School. Probably five hundred were present and this afforded us an opportunity to meet many other good friends among them being that fine old scout Mrs. Dismukes. The class numbered twenty-three of which perhaps six or seven were boys. All were dressed in gray gowns with mortar board hats and they looked like real college grads.
The program was as follows:
Processional--Miss Claire Partain Salutatory--Ruby Redman Chorus--Glee Club Valedictory--Naomi Harrison Violin Solo--Mr. Richards Presentation of Speaker--J. W. Sartwell Address--Rt. Rev. Clinton S. Quin Presentation of Diplomas--G. H. Faubion, president of the school board Recessional--Claire Partain
Friday, May 25, was the occasion for the twenty-fifth anniversary of the town and it is pleasing to note that for each of these years our folk have gathered together in friendly intercourse. About one hundred and fifty were present this day each bringing their food contribution, until the long table fairly shrieked with the burden. After the singing of the Doxology and the invocation, Mrs. Liggett announced that dinner was ready and the procession started each person armed with plate, knife, spoon, fork. So large was the variety that one had difficulty in selection. One disliked to pass many tempting platters of food. The only thing absent was a tank of those nourishing, nutritious, strengthening, healthful, invigorating Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles. This detracted from my personal pleasure. In one respect, this day was the grandest of all we have enjoyed. The spirit of friendship seemed to be present and those present appeared to be happy, felicitious, joyous and charming in their renewal of friendships. Miss Beryl Bell for the Girl Reserves quickly sold out her stock of ice cream and red lemonade. Mr. Curtis was busy handling an all day tennis tournament with something like fifteen entrants. Notwithstanding my invitation, Barber and McNabb, Lewis and Wilson, Pollard and Hale, Milner and Carr, as well as other county officers were absent and Amos Lee failed to appear without his coat. Palacios folk shunned us as if we had a violent outbreak of a rare disease. In the spring of 1936, some of these fellows will be here giving us the usual goo-goo and asking for our votes. Just wait old fellows. If you can't visit us on our birthday, stay away when you wish to use us.
The miserable wretch suffered from lumbago during the week. It was located in her back for had it been central in her mouth, I would have missed her merry chatter. The lum has departed, the gods be praised. Well, we had a busy and delightful week and we are thankful that the folk of this community are blessed with food, shelter and raiment.
The Matagorda County Tribune, May 31, 1934 |
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Miss Frances King Entertains. Miss Frances King known to her friends as "Mag" entertained a group of young people at her ranch home Friday night. A few card games were enjoyed but everyone decided they would rather dance and thus they did. At a rather late hour refreshments were served consisting of delicious pink and white cake and grape juice. The guests enjoying this were Misses Rosalie Nelson, Roberta Liggett, Leota Hough, Emma Kucher, Auldine Williams, Georgia Hejtmanek, Gertrude Hunt, the hostess, Messrs. Noel Adams, Arthur Liggett, R. V. Underwood, Winston McKissick, Raymond Hunt, C. W. Boeker, August Kucher, Billy Halfen, Leslie Lee Chiles, Hutchins King and Gustave Franzen. The hostess was assisted in serving by her mother, Mrs. Frank King and Rosalie Nelson. Miss Emma Kucher one of Collegeport's 1934 graduates entertained a number of her friends with a dance at her home Monday night. Everyone enjoyed the evening very much and here's hoping Emma entertains again soon. Messrs. Vernon Guyer and Douglas Whitehead have returned to their railroad work at Stephenville, Texas. Little Dalton Neal Connover who was on the sick list Tuesday is improving now. Lloyd Payne who has been staying with his sister, Mrs. Elliott Curtis and attending school here has returned to his home in Palacios. Mr. Charlie Prunty who has been away at work returned home Friday. You're quite a stranger Charlie. Mr. F. H. Cobb and son Charles were business visitors in Collegeport Friday. Miss Mary Elizabeth Cash and Mrs. Honsley were callers in Collegeport Wednesday evening. Miss Josephine Waits of Durango, Texas has been visiting Miss Beryl Bell. She returned to her home Friday. Miss Beryl Bell entertained the bridge club Wednesday night in honor of Miss Louise Walter, a bride of the near future. Her many friends remembered her with a silver spoon __ower. The "Red" of the bridge club entertain the "Blues" with a steak fry Saturday night at Coon Island. Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Whitehead and R. V. Underwood attended the show in Palacios Wednesday night. Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Curtis, Mr. Raymond Waters and Miss Louise Walter went to Freeport Sunday. Mr. F. L. Jenkins of Dilley, Texas, formerly of Collegeport spent two days with his sons Austin and Joe Frank Jenkins. Miss Lurline Pollard returned to Dilley with Mr. Jenkins. A small group of people gathered at the Prunty home Saturday night to welcome Charlie Home. Mrs. Jack Holsworth has returned home. Mr. Clifford Franzen and friends of Port Arthur spent the week-end with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gus Franzen. Miss Beryl Bell spent Sunday at the Nelson home. Miss Leola Hough and Violet Harris were also visitors at the Nelson home Sunday. The following were Bay City visitors: Mr. and Mrs. Frank King and daughter Frances, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Nelson and daughter Rosalie, Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Curtis, Mrs. S. E. Dickinson?, Miss Leota Hough, Mrs. Douglas Whitehead, Jerry Wells and Mr. Melvin Spoor. The Daily Tribune,
June 7, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
The
tournament of tennis which lasted all day Saturday resulted as follows: Boys
singles: Winston McKissick defeated Ted McClain 7-6, 7-5. Jimmy Murry defeated Sanford Crabill 6-7, 6-4, 6-4.
In the semi finals Curtis defeated Craig King 6-5, 6-4. Winston McKissick defeated Murry 6-4, 6-3.
In the finals McKissick defeated with little trouble Curtis 6-3, 6-0.
Girls singles: The only single match was between Blanch and Fawn Adams with Fawn winning the first two sets 6-4, 6-3.
Boys doubles: C. W. Boeker and J. O. Prunty defeated Clarence Prunty and Buddy King 6-4, 6-2. Boeker and Prunty defeated Curtis and McClain 6-4, 6-1. Murry and McKissick defeated Boeker and Prunty 6-4, 6-5.
Girls doubles were started, but rain prevented the finish and they will be played at a future date.
On Collegeport Day, a woman who is a visitor from the North said: "Mr. Clapp, I read what you wrote about Samuel Insall and I must confess that I have a very different opinion of this man and a new conception of his character. I thought he was one of our public enemies and a real criminal. I have changed my mind since I read your Thoughts." I am glad I wrote that string.
One time certain oil concerns in their ambition to secure distributors for their products made an agreement with the local dealer, where by various sums ranging from one hundred dollars up would be allowed the dealer in products the same to be charged, but not to be repaid, unless the dealer no longer desired to be the distributor. It appears that now alleging that the NRA code demands it the producing company repudiates the agreement and demands payment. This is at present a hardship for the local dealer.
A letter from College Station says "If you see Claire, Katherine and Cora B., tell them to come to the short course and be writers if they can't be county superintendents."
The derrick on the abandoned well is being moved south 2700 feet on the Robbins Ranch. The contract calls for an 8500 foot hole. Oil employees are coming in and the new well will be started very soon so let us all hope that at least the big pool will be located. From what I have been told, another good location is on the town site close to the bay shore.
The Matagorda County Tribune, June 7, 1934
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On a beautiful morn, my miserable wretch found herself in Rome and present at the Easter service in St. Peters. This alone was sufficient to thrill any person and it gave my girl a succession of thrilling thrills. The wonderful, beautiful, historic St. Peter's, the Vatican, home of the pope, the flowers which were here, there, everywhere. She obtained an advantageous position and as the gorgeous procession passed through the church, Cardinal Rampolla passed close enough so she reached out her hand and touched his vestments. Another thrill!
And today, for another time, she told me about this wonderful service in the Mother of Christian Churches.
This is as near as I have ever been to a human Cardinal. Cardinal Rampolla was a man, he walked on two legs and he was clothed in resplendent cardinal vestments. A magnificent picture of a very human man. The cardinal I am writing about also walks on two legs and he is clothed in brilliant cardinal. He is a brilliant bird and is named from the color of his vestments, a deep red, just a trifle less vivid than scarlet. This color is supposed to be named from the vestments of a cardinal of high rank in the Roman Church. My cardinal is a married man and has a sweet little wife, who, while not as conspicuous as her husband, is clad in a rich brown with a dash of red to light it up. The pair, as seen flitting about a tree are indeed a striking pair of birds.
I am writing this because a pair of these birds are nesting close by. For some time They have been looking for a location in the willow tree. The willow tree is a sacred tree, for Mary Louise used to climb in the willow tree, as far up as I could see. And when I hear her whistle, soft as a new blown thistle, well she was the only bird I wanted.
The cardinal is a Southern bird, one of the most abundant and always a favorite with bird lovers. His chief rival is the mocking bird whose song is heard early morning and as eventide falls. The cardinal is a lazy fellow. He is perfectly willing to look over locations, but when selection is made, he lets his little wife build the nest. This as a rule is constructed with leaves, bark, twigs, sometimes shreds of cloth and always lined with soft grass. Eggs are three to four in number, white speckled with brown and in the South these birds commonly raise two broods each season. These birds mate for life and they present a delightful model of domestic felicity. So long as they live, they are true to each other. Even after the brooding season during the winter, they are paired always the male and female together. Humans might well follow this example for it they did there would be more happy homes. During the incubation period, the loving solicitude of the male for his partner is touching. He is anxious that the location of the home be not discovered and sometimes his excitement actually leads one to the location. His song is rich and clear as a bell. It sounds something like "What cheer! What cheer! Ending with long drawn out cree.
Many females of our song birds are mute, but the mate of our cardinal is a transcendent opera singer. She sings in a different key, and with lower notes, but as sweet and musical as those of her mate. Day after day as the female is incubating her eggs, the male sits near and entertains her with love songs. The cardinal is a friend to the farmer and the nurseryman, for he consumes each day hundreds of bugs, spiders, moths, beetles, grasshoppers, flies, ants and their larva.
These birds are very properly protected by law and they boy who destroys one should be brought before a court of justice and receive the limit of legal punishment. The cardinals in my willow tree are my very dear and wonderful friends. I feel sure that they have been coming to the willow tree for several years.
About one year ago, a Hollywood pulchritude contest was held at the Metropolitan Theater in Houston for the purpose of selecting the most beautiful girl for a screen test. About three hundred entered the contest. When elimination began, one certain girl stayed and she continued to stay until only three were left and she was one of the three and was awarded the third place. This young lady will represent Collegeport at the Bathing Girl's Revue to be held in Palacios, July 4, 1934. The girl who defeats this entrant will have to be very beautiful in face and figure and have just two very lovely and beautiful eyes and charming ways. Her name is Gertrude Hunt, born and raised in Collegeport. If the causeway is open for traffic, she will pass over to the City By the Sea that way, but if not it may mean a journey of 32.6 miles, but anyway, keep your eyes on Gertrude. You'll be seeing something.
Wonder how many have watched the sun rise. I mean really saw it rise and with it certain effects. For instance have you noticed that with the rising sun it seems to lift perfume from the flowers and from the sweet breast of Mother Earth and the fragrance is wafted by early breeze to sensitive nostrils tuned to fragrant odors. Life seems to spring up about one, for night has gone to sleep and resurrection is here. Flowers lift drooping heads, petals unfold, fragrance is released, tall grasses bedecked with diamond drops glisten as they gently sway in the soft wind. Life begins at sunrise. It lasts through youth, middle age and comes the death of the nightfall and all nature goes to a well earned rest. If you are tuned, these things you see or rather feel. It's a fine sensation this sunrise exhilaration, almost as good as I imagine "Shopping with Jean" would be. Guess I'll try the latter some day.
The other day I was witness to a battle between two fierce tribes. It was from beginning to end a sanguinary affair--murderous--vicious, no mercy shown by either side. Out in the pasture, are two big ant hills, each about eighteen inches high and four feet in diameter. All about for a distance of five feet, the ground has been cleared, I suppose to better watch an approaching enemy. Radiating from the hills are two or three roads, over which caravans travel from foreign lands to the home port. Well it seems that the ants from hill number X tried to designate a new route, which unfortunately crossed the road of hill number Y. Soon after the crossing had been made, Y soldiers detected the fact and in a jiffy, I witnessed the massing of troops from both sides and the battle was on. Soon the field was covered with the dead, hundreds losing legs crawling to safety, but were quickly detected and destroyed. After the battle was over and the people of X almost annihilated, workers of Y were dispatched to the scene of this awful carnage and began to be busy carrying away dead bodies, killing any maimed that were left and soon all signs of battle had been obliterated and the business of transporting goods on the highway was resumed.
The Reverend Allen came to town Thursday and is being welcomed by our folk. He is a half time service man spending every other week in Garwood. He is a young man with a pleasant face and manners and thanks to the gods, he can speak clean, decent English. This will be quite refreshing to many of us. The last preacher we had probably gave me up as one of the degenerates for not once did he come to Homecroft. I am giving Mr. Aiken notice that if he will visit us, he may make a Christian of me. The field here is a rich one and promises a heavy crop of repenters for the right man. I know of only four Christians in this burg and two of them live on the north side. Mr. Aiken held his first service Sunday last and made a fine impression and most all predict that he will be a well loved pastor and accomplish much good. Mr. Aiken, I hope your auto will wear a path of Homecroft.
The new Merck home is nearing completion, with its five rooms and modern bath. I predict that Mrs. Merck will have much enjoyment in her new home and as it is a one story building, she will be free from fear during our north winds. Soon as the causeway is open for traffic Mrs. Merck can ride John's truck to Palacios and take in a movie.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, June 14, 1934
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Word was received here this morning of the accidental death of Hubert Bowers, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Bowers, formerly of Collegeport.
No particulars were learned except that young Bowers was working on a drilling rig at Mt. Bellvieu and fell from a derrick.
No other information is available at this time.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, June 14, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
I am confessing that the last sheets of this copy were written early in the week because I did not know how to write at the head, but the good Lord appears to look after scribblers as well as sparrows.
Saturday came my idea. Surprise! Is it not a charming word? It seems filled with delights, expectancy and anticipation. My friend Noah, to whom I go when I need information, tells me that surprise is "the state of being surprised or taken unawares by some act or event which could not be foreseen." Bartlett explains it as "a party of persons who assemble by mutual appointment and without invitation at the home of a mutual friend." William Shakespeare one time wrote "pure surprise and fear made me quit the house."
Well, this time Bill did not know the reason I quit the house so that during my absence the friendly horde might take possession. I was after ice, an article that in this burg is a rare thing and difficult to obtain and only then when family jewels are given up to the ice man. I do not know who organized this raid, but I am quite certain that a girl named Agnes was the instigator and that another girl named Carrie was her accomplice, not only before, but during and after the crime. When I returned with a chunk of ice weighing about two carats, I found eight autos in my yard and the front gallery filled with friendly folk, who came by mutual appointment and I was not only completely surprised, but struck dumb by the manifestation of my neighbors interest in my seventy-second birthday. I was greeted by Ethel Nelson who handed me a beautiful Magnolia blossom and then by the entire assemblage singing "Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday to you."
Each of these pirates, as they clambered over the rail of the good ship Homecroft, carried a bundle obtained from their piracy operations on other seas. When spread out on our old oaken board, there was food enough for an army. Meats, fried chicken, salads, tomatoes, cukes, sandwiches, pickles, jellies and a big plate of doughnuts as light as the spray from wind tossed waves. They floated ashore near the Hurd home.
Five big birthday cakes all Angel food. One from Mrs. Franzen was a "KO" and almost as tall as the Empire Building and good to the last crumb. Another from the famous Ramsey farm, made from home products by Lutie. A yellow cake all covered with white frosting and on top the letters LXII in pink with decorative dots. This from that mistress of cake makers, Mrs. Liggett. Then a big one from that old time chef, Hugo Kundinger, who has served Chicago's best exacting epicures. On top in letters like twisted rope half inch high were the words, H. P. Clapp, and around the sides "Birthday Congratulations, 1862."
Another dark colored delicious cake with pink frosting and art work from Mrs. Willbanks. A big jar of sauerkraut from the McCune gardens and a quart of Prairie Dew from "Birthday greetings from a Friend." I can guess who the friend was as I missed her cheery smile.
The Prairie Dew is hidden away and the forty good friends were irrigated with iced tea which appears to serve the purpose as they consumed about two barrels of that refreshing liquid. I must not forget the beautiful bouquet in a charming flower basket from the Hurd gardens.
Seventy-two years ago, I surprised my mother, for she expected a girl. Since that day, I have always wanted a surprise and this day my desire was gratified. It was a very happy day for me. It brought my tender memories of the years I have spent among these folks. As the days pass, I can count these memories as precious pearls on a string of spun gold and as I count them over day by day, they will bring to me happy thoughts. As I go over the memory beads, I shall remember the words of Omar: "The bird of time has little way to flutter and the bird in on the wing."
How much better to give these things while life is able to enjoy. The dead receive no benefit from perfumed blooms. During life is the time to open the alabaster boxes of ointment.
O, surprise! What joy, what happiness, what contentment, what felicity and delight, is brought in they name.
It was a grand and glorious ending of seventy-two years of life and I am from the bottom of my heart thanking my good friends for this gesture of friendship. A big box of many delights from Mary Louise and a letter telling me that "you are the best daddy a girl could ever have and the smartest."
From my son these words: "As I look back over the years I know that you have been a swell father and I rather have you than the whole world with a fence around it."
Birthday card from Emily, who is in Denver, from my sister, Lucy, and this from my good old girl C. B. "Dear Harry: Because it is perfectly legal to say things to little boys on their birthday, let me tell you, you are my 'Abou Ben Adham,' or rather I'm wanting you to know there is no name above yours in my friendly personal."
Isn't life wonderful? Life has been good to me. I have enjoyed rich experiences and through it all I acknowledge that God knows best and that He had blessed me in many ways.
Even the tide fell and as we prepared to snuggle in the husks, I filled two glasses with Prairie Dew and the miserable wretch, who has looked in the same face for forty years, said: "Happy days Pa" and I who have looked in the same face, most all the time, for forty years replied "Same to you Ma." Two happy folk slept the sleep of peace and contentment lulled with the music of the rippling tide along Pilkington slough.
Sunday, Mr. Korn called on me and stated that work would begin on Mopac House Monday morning. The news was received with delight for the project has been standing idle for two weeks. Monday morning opened bright and clear, but not one CWA man appeared at Mopac House, so delight was turned to bitter dregs, but the day was still bright for came a beautiful bouquet of flowers from the flower garden of Mrs. Carl Boeker, a big bag of snap beans from the ten acre beam farm of E. A. McCune, a bunch of beets and onions from the Burton Hurd garden and as if these bouquets were not enough, came this letter from Mrs. R. L. Bonnett, who lives at Hermleigh, Texas. "No doubt you will be surprised to get this letter. As I take the Matagorda County Tribune, I always get to read it first. So I am taking this opportunity to say I read "Thoughts About Memorial Day" written by you. I have not words to say what joy it gave me to see that our loved ones that lay in the City of the Dead are not forgotten.
I am so much indebted to the loving and loyal people of Collegeport as my lot has placed me where I can't possibly do the things I want to do. It makes my heart ache for my dear husband's grave to be without an enclosure and a stone placed at his head and feet. I must not close this until I tell you how very much I do enjoy your "Thoughts" as I always turn to them and read them first. I hope to read lots more of them. Please remember me to Mrs. Clapp and accept my thanks for the many nice things you write about." Our old timers will recall Mr. and Mrs. Bonnett who lived here for several years.
O, well, isn't it true that bouquets from such dear, thoughtful friends just makes life worth living?
Messrs. Miller and Cable are building a ship with which they will plow the main. Maybe it will be a pirate ship for Miller's daughter, Carey, knows all about pirates. I am informed that Miss Vera Williams has lost ten pounds since school closed, but is now making recovery. I do not know where she lost it, but if any one finds ten pounds from a very sweet girl, who thought she was forgotten, leave the package at the Palatial Pharmacy, buy an Angel's Delight and be happy.
My friend Andy has a skin as black as the ace of spades, if you know what I mean, but he has a white heart and is a good neighbor.
Wednesday, he went fishin'. Went and landed four, eight to ten pounds red and three sail catfish. Not necessary to say that we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, had fish for dinner. I think Andy caught them from the causeway, just where it crosses the channel.
An advertisement in a popular weekly says, "You don't need a telescope to pick out the new-swim suits. They stand out like a lighthouse on every beach." From the picture, I can testify that the advertiser told the truth.
Monday, June 11, was a very important day for it was the anniversary of the birth of one of our most charming young ladies. On that day, Ethel Nelson reached the eleventh milepost and she had a party honoring the event. About twenty young friends assembled at the Nelson home, played games, consumed large quantities of delectable food including birthday cakes, ice cream, et cetera. Since then, Ethel and I have talked the matter over and we see no reason to have two birthdays the same week, so we plan to have a double celebration honoring Ethel and Harry. It is going to be a whale of a party and we plan to have some of them there Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles, something neither of us had this year.
Ethel will be the bright star and play first violin and I will play second, but even at that we shall have music and flowers and a happy day. You kids better keep friendly with Ethel and Harry from now on until next June, else you may not be invited.
Saturday night, officers came down and took to the county jail one of our progressive business men. His only crime was the distribution of bootleg whiskey. It looks as though the gov'mint was determined to throttle all industry and prevent men from making an honest living. Looks as though our citizen is now in line for some permanent work. Some of our burghers will no doubt miss this distribution facility.
Thursday night was held a surprise party for Gertrude Hunt. It was a complete surprise, for Gertrude issued the invitations. Dancing, bathing, a weenie roast made up the entertainment. About thirty young people participated and they report a swell time.
The Matagorda County Tribune, June 21, 1934
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Gertrude Hunt Entertains Miss Gertrude Hunt gave a swimming party Friday night. The party went down to Coon Island where "hot dogs" and, etc., were served and then returned to the swimming hole. After the swim all returned to Miss Hunt's home to dance for a while. Everyone enjoyed the party very much. Miss Fawn Adams of El Maton and Mr. Wade Blackwell of Simpsonville spent Sunday afternoon in Collegeport. Little LaVerne Drenner of Alvin, Texas is visiting her grandparents Mr. and Mrs. S. E. Dickenson. The Four-H Club girls and the Canning Club ladies met at the home of Mrs. Walker's Tuesday. Mrs. Sides was present and an interesting meeting was held. A number of young people enjoyed an ice cream supper at Mrs. Underwood's Wednesday evening. Jones Sloan [Slone] was a dinner guest at the Dickenson home Wednesday. Mr. and Mrs. Bill Savage and son and Mrs. Elliott Curtis went on a fishing trip Monday and stayed until Wednesday. We hope he caught some fish. Mr. Melvin Spoor attended the ball game Sunday afternoon between Bay City and Palacios at Palacios. Mr. and Mrs. Dean Merck and Mrs. Merck were Bay City visitors Friday. Mrs. Elliott Curtis, Mrs. Douglas Whitehead, Miss Leota Hough and Mr. R. V. Underwood attended the theater in Palacios Monday night. Miss Frances King is visiting friends in Houston this week. The Chatterers were entertained at the home of Mrs. McCune Wednesday afternoon. Those seen on the streets of Bay City Saturday were Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Curtis, Mr. Merlin Spoor, Mrs. Pat Richman and son, Miss Opal Phillips, Mr. Verner Bowers, Mr. Harvey Foster, Mr. Manford Fosters, Mrs. S. E. Dickenson and LaVerne Drenner, Mrs. Douglas Whitehead and son, Layne, Misses Leota Hough and Violet Harris. Matagorda County
Tribune, June 21, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article about war.]
Came Mesdames Martyn and Dismukes to give me birthday congratulations. They live in a far distant city which I seldom visit for it is 32.6 miles distant. They brought me a very rare fruit, in color green and very large, but not quite as big as a barrel. On cutting it open, I found the inside to be a bright red and very sweet and juicy. They called it a watermelon and it appears to be well named. Mrs. Martyn, being a health nurse, said its juice was a good tonic for dried and cracked tonsils. Anyway, after eating the fruit, I have had no trouble with my tonsils. They also brought me a bundle of William Penns, which I shall use when I write.
Howard Morris, one time Collegeport boy, who has served two terms as state president of the Christian Endeavor, has been promoted to vice president of the World Christian Endeavor. Guess we are all glad to congratulate Howard.
...here is something peaceful for Mrs. Watson Barker came Wednesday evening with her two sweet children. I first saw Mrs. Barker when she was about ten years of age. She was a new kid in town and I asked her name. She was Ruth Mowery and as cute as a trick as my eyes ever looked at. Now she comes home bringing to her parents two beautiful grandchildren. Benjamin Richard is two years old and Peggy Marie is eight months old. Ruth has been away over three years and brings home this wonderful collection and no wonder our postmaster has put on new trousers and wears a gleaming smile of joy. Have not seen grandmother, but I know just how she looks. These are what make life so wonderful. I bet Ruth will enjoy the seawall and the causeway and I hope she catches a few flounders so Ben and Peggy may have fish for dinner. Mr. Watson Barker is scouting for oil for the Sinclair Company.
In the absence of the P. M., Mrs. Anna D. Crane and Mrs. Hattie [Kundinger] handled the affairs of the postoffice with dispatch and efficiency.
It is a pleasure to announce that Tessie, who is Mrs. Jimmy, gave birth to quads on my birthday, June 16, 1934. Two sons and two daughters and all of them have short tails and look like Jimmy. Jimmy feels mighty proud, haughty, vain, as he wags his stubby tail. Of course, quints is a great event in a family, but quads will do very well especially when they have royal blood.
Saturday, June 16, a letter addressed to Mr. Harry A. Clapp, was mailed in Palacios and it was delivered here Thursday, June 21. It appears that Palacios is each month farther away. Thursday, June 14, a postal card was mailed at Bay City addressed to Collegeport. It was received at this office on Monday, June 18. This certainly is swell mail service and General Farley has reason to be proud of the post office department. Via the causeway, Palacios is only three miles distant and soon as it is open for traffic, we no doubt will have a trifle better service. I trust the highway commission will cut out a measly sum of $150,000 from the millions they handle and build the causeway, for we need it for mail service, quite as much as for walking over it to attend service at St. John's Chapel.
Miss Ethel Nelson, with a bathing party near the seawall, stepped on an oyster shell. Result, a gash which, while not as wide as a church door or as deep as a well, will suffice to cause her to limp about two weeks.
My birthday lacked one thing to make it a perfect day. There were no noodles. Thursday the noodle maker brought me a big box of those Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles and as I inhale the delicious, nourishing, strengthening delectable vitamins count June 16, 1934 as one hundred per cent perfect.
Mr. and Mrs. Homer Goff and family are here from Houston to spend the week-end with Fred Goff and Mrs. Goff. They looked the seawall over and inspected the causeway site.
A party of young people from New Braunfels and San Antonio came Saturday night for the week-end and Mary Louise, much to our delight, was with them. The others went out on a boat for a fishing trip, but for twenty-three hours and twelve minutes, we had had our daughter with us. They were minutes filled with joy, happiness and laughter. Tears came with the parting. We have been blessed with a very wonderful daughter for which we give thanks to the God who gives all blessings.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, June 29, 1934
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Many of the Collegeport rice farmers and families attended the rice farmers' barbecue given by the Rice Farmers' Association at the LeTulle Park in Bay City Thursday. Some of them were Mrs. Charlie Williams and Miss Auldine, Miss Jane Ackerman, Mr. and Mrs. Tom McKissick and son Winston, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Savage, Mr. and Mrs. Keet Slone, Mr. and Mrs. Pat Richman, Miss Vera Williams, Mr. Vern Batchelder, Mr. Melvin Spoor, Mr. George Hill, Sidney Hill, Ted McClain, Mr. and Mrs. Manford Foster, Mr. Vernon Bowers, Mrs. S. E. Dickinson, LaVerne Drenner and Misses Leota Hough and Violet Harris. Everyone enjoyed the day very much.
Miss Rosalie Nelson returned home from her visit in Blessing Monday.
Miss Gertrude Hunt left Wednesday to spend a few days in Houston.
Mrs. Douglas Whitehear and little son left Sunday morning. She is going to join her husband in Carlton, where they will make their home. R. V. Underwood took her in his car.
Mrs. Underwood and two sons Jiggs and Billy have gone to visit relatives in Roger[s], Texas.
Mr. and Mrs. Bud Conover have moved to Bay City.
The Prunty girls, Viola, Ruby Grace and Bernice have returned from their visit in Boling with their sister.
Mrs. Jack Holsworth and children returned home this week.
Mr. Mowery's daughter, Mrs. C. W. Barker and two children are home for a visit.
Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard Fulcher's three girls are visiting their grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Tom Fulcher.
Mrs. Ramsey dined at the Liggett home Thursday night.
A large party went across the bay to Half Moon Reef Saturday night fishing. The water was too rough and not many fish were caught, but every one enjoyed the trip any way. Those making up the party were Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Curtis and Miss Mildred, Mr. and Mrs. Glen Payne of Palacios, Miss Esther Leifiest, Mr. Harvey Turner, and Mr. Raymond Waters of San Antonio, Miss Louise Walter, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Savage and Harvey Stuart, Mr. and Mrs. Pat Richman and Little Pat, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wilkinson, Miss Leota Hough and Billy Halfin.
The Chatterer's Club entertained their husbands Wednesday night with a supper given at Mrs. Keet Slone's ranch home. Many delicious things were served so many in fact that I just couldn't remember the names. After supper every one played bridge and everyone even the husbands said they enjoyed it very much.
Mr. and Mrs. John Ackerman received word Saturday that their son Johnny who is in the cavalry at Fort Clark is married. The bride's name was not disclosed. We wish the couple lots of luck.
Mrs. Bill Savage and brother, Billy Halfin were Bay City visitors Saturday.
Mr. S. E. Dickinson was a business visitor in Bay City Saturday.
Mr. S. E. Dickenson and Mr. Jones Slone went on a fishing trip to Oyster lake Saturday night. They caught twenty-four flounders. Some people have all the luck.
The Matagorda County Tribune, June 28, 1934 |
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Miscellaneous Shower. Mrs. Dean Merck honored Miss Louise Walter, bride-elect, with a miscellaneous shower Thursday afternoon at her home. The shower was not a surprise, but everyone enjoyed watching Miss Walter open each gift and exclaim over them. Many lovely as well as useful gifts were received. A lovely table held all the gifts. Refreshments of sandwiches, angel and devil food cakes and ice tea were served and enjoyed by all. Mrs. Dick Corporon, Mrs. Elliott Curtis, Misses Ruby Lee Corporon, Lottie Mae Johnson and Emma Franzen assisted the hostess in serving. Mrs. Thomas H. Lewis and Miss Ethel Gusman were out of town guests. Thirty-nine friends of the bride elect formed the personnel. After the shower Miss Walter went to Bay City with Mrs. Lewis to spend the week-end.
Four Girl Reserves, Misses Rosalie Nelson, Fawn Adams, Auldine Williams and Annette Johnson left Monday to spend a week at Casa Del Mar, the Girl Reserve camp at LaPorte, Texas. They were accompanied by Miss Berl Bell, who will not stay, but will return home.
The Chatterers met at the home of Mrs. Walter Wilkinson Wednesday afternoon. Games of bridge were played and Mrs. Elliott Curtis won the prize for having highest score. Refreshments of delicious cake and limeade were served. Everyone reported a delightful time.
Mr. and Mrs. Len Norwood and family of Carizzo Springs, Texas, came down Wednesday to visit Mrs. Norwood's father, Mr. Charlie Williams.
Miss Vera Williams went to Houston Wednesday and returned Sunday afternoon.
Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Cobb of Bay City were Collegeport visitors Thursday morning.
Mrs.
Bill Savage's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Halfen and daughter visited her this
week.
Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Alexander and son have returned to Collegeport to live. Mr. Alexander will work on the oil rig out at Citrus Grove.
Mr. Francis Goff of Houston is visiting his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Boeker.
Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Franzen of Houston spent the week-end at the Franzen home.
Mr. and Mrs. Travis Williams of Houston came down Sunday to spend a few days with Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Williams.
Mr. Johnny Ackerman of Bracketville, Texas, came home Sunday on a twenty-six-day leave.
Those seen on the streets of Bay City Saturday were Messrs. Fred Law, Billy Halfen, E. A. McCune, E. L. Eperson, L. A. Liggett, Jim Kucher, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. John Merck, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Savage and Harley Stuart, Mrs. S. E. Dickinson, LaVerne Drennan and Miss Leota Hough.
Mrs. Manford Foster is visiting her sister in Houston. She took her mother, Mrs. Sliva who has been visiting her, back to Houston.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, July 5, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Nearly every day someone asks me how the causeway project is coming. A man asked this question Monday and I replied, "Mister, we have a group of men, each one of them hounding our commissioner to build a road to their own dung heap. If he is not able, for lack of funds or other reasons, they are ready to jerk out their knife and cut open his belly and drag his guts along the roadside. These men will not concentrate their efforts on building the causeway and a twenty foot pavement across to connect with No. 60 near Matagorda. We have enough men here to organize a band the notes of which could be heard clear to Austin. None of them will join the proposed musical organization, so up to the present time, there is only one man in this section who plays 'The Causeway March,' and he plays a piccolo."
One of my readers writes from the North. "I read the birthday story with much interest and I know you had a happy day, but I regret that among the gifts was a bottle of liquor. I always thought you were an ardent prohibitionist." In explanation, I will state that I am an ardent prohibitionist. I believe in putting liquor down and keeping it down and that [a] "thorobred never throws up." The liquor was what is known as Prairie Dew and is the purest liquor known to man. If my critic will go out in the early morning, she will find that the grass, weeds, flowers are all dripping with drops of dew. These drops, my friend who sent the gift, collected until she had filled a quart bottle and then sent it to me with Birthday Good Wishes. This is Prairie Dew, a most delicious drink and not intoxicating in fact or otherwise. I hope my critic will collect a bottle of the liquor and drink to my happy days.
There comes a time in a girl's life when she feels an urge to change her name and station. This time is here for Louise Walter, but she will make little change. She will expunge the "L" add an "S" and become Mrs. Waters. Easy change and not expensive, in fact, it requires no extra ink to write the new name. It was to honor this anticipated event that about forty women friends gathered Thursday at the home of Mrs. Dean Merck prepared to give the bride-elect a shower. The shower turned into a deluge, the gifts were so numerous, so beautiful, so costly, but they were an expression of the love our folk have for Louise Walter. She was born in New York City, of an Austrian father and a French mother, so Louise in early life was able to speak, read and write Austrian, French and English. Since then she has acquired Spanish. Louise came to this community as a very small child and has grown up among us and she is our own. By perseverance and hard work, she gained her degree from the State University. She is a girl of charm, personality and intelligence, sweet, clean, sound and our people are glad to do her honor.
What about the groom? He is a necessity for a wedding, but as usual, is the forgotten man. No one gave him a shower or even a sprinkle. The bride-elect is fed on Angel's food, but the groom received Devil's cake. Poor man! Lucky man to have such a bride. Never mind, old boy, you will come into your own in good time.
Mrs. Dean Merck was a most gracious hostess and dispensed a charming hospitality, which adds to the joy, happiness and delight of this brilliant society event. I am forbidden to reveal the exact date when Louise will say the words which will not only change her name and station, but open to her a new life of fine service, but it will be sometime between this day and September 1. I give these young folk my wishes for a long, useful and happy life just because we all love this sweet young bride. Enough is enough. I have no desire to be considered dotty.
Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, July 5, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
The other day a friend said, "Harry how do you write the stuff the tribune prints? Do you sit down and write it as you would a letter? Tell me how it is done." In reply I told him "Thoughts" was a collection of a week's events which bring thoughts to me. As a rule, I write seven sheets of copy for I know that is about the limit Carey Smith will allow me in his religious paper. More often than not, I write the last sheet first. Sometimes the third or fourth is first and the first sheet is last. This particular copy finds me writing the first sheet first and this day I do not know when the seventh sheet will be written. Us scribblers have regular fads, for example I feel like writing when smoking a cob pipe filled with R. J. R. As the smoke curls up, I appear to more easily grasp thoughts. Mirth begins on the last sheet and writes to the first and if he can't wear a red neck tie, he is [apt?] to write some right funny stuff. Carey Smith writes copy with a lead pencil and because of some Hebrew ancestor way back in the past, begins production on the right hand side of the sheet and he is obliged to chew gum all the time. The gum is supplied by advertisers and thus costs nothing. If it did, the Tribune would be obliged to increase working hours of the staff or reduce pay rate. Now take the only Jean who starts in the center and writes in rings or at times wrings. She simply wanders around town giving cherry greetings, asking people how Maw is, has the baby cut the last tooth, has the cow dropped her calf, any rain down your way, has paw quit chawin 'terbaccer, what does that suit sell for, new hats at Penny's at a cent each, Rosenzweig has shoes at six for two bits and why give further illustration as to Jean's method of securing copy. She returns with red cheeks and brilliant lips and copy flows from her "masheen" like water from a new spigot. Oscar Odd must have a dog at his feet and a doughnut to munch. Uncle Judd is unable to write a line, unless he has a plate of carrots in front of him. A. D. Jackson requires at least two pretty girls near his desk. Girls with sweet legs.
This copy writing is a grand business, but a writer must be a nut and every thing must be jake or the flow stops. I guess all who attempt to write are inclined to be idiosyneratical. I am writing the third page of this weeks copy and it is the last for all others are complete.
As my friend Jed Prutz says "I'll be dogged if I know whereinthehell I'll fish next week." My friend knew what he was talking about when he called my copy stuff. That is all it is and the fact that it pleases some readers just shows that they have weak minds.
Reverend and Mrs. M. A. Travis of Alamo, Texas here to spend the fourth. They came on the Hug the Coast to Palacios and thought to cross over on the causeway, but finding this most desirable facility not open for traffic were obliged to drive 32.6 miles to reach an objective three miles distant. They are having a most delightful time visiting old time friends.
Monday Reverend William States Jacobs of Houston came to visit his old friend Burton D. Hurd. After his pleasant time at the Hurd home, he planned to cross over on the causeway to Palacios three miles distant, but when he found the causeway not open for traffic, he decided to forego the pleasure as it would mean a drive of 32.6 miles and returned to Houston. Wonder how long the traveling public will be compelled to put up with this annoying and irritating inconvenience.
C. W. Boeker left Sunday night for Houston where he has a position with the Western Union Telegraph Company.
Johnny Ackerman, who is with the United States Cavalry at Ft. Clark, is home on a furlough. Great improvements in the Collegeport boy.
Some weeks ago Mrs. Helen Holsworth journeyed to Chicago to visit her daughter, Margaret, who is a teacher in the Chicago Public Schools. They returned via auto visiting Lookout Mountain, the Mammoth Cave, Memphis, Birmingham, New Orleans and other points of interest. We are all glad to see Margaret back again, for she is one of our gals.
Have been lucky enough to feast on tomatoes from the McCune tomato farm. Big, red, juicy fruits, certainly proving that this section is able to produce the finest in vegetables.
Mr. John Shoemaker, who has been at the Liggett home for several weeks, left Monday for his home in Laredo. He arranged to spend several hundred on his farm three miles east of town and is planning to organize a hunting club for this season shooting. There will be twenty members only. Mr. Frank Bohuslav has taken over the place and will have charge of the club.
Fourth of July brought Oscar and Ora Chapin and Lt. Robert H. Flowers, U. S. Flying Service. They invited me to return with them to San Antonio and the Lt. would bring me back via a plane. There being good pavements between San Antonio and Collegeport, I decided that if I went, I would walk back as I desired to cross from Palacios on the causeway. I know where I am while on the causeway, but in a plane, well that is another thing. Ruth Boeker came with the Chapins for a short visit with her parents the Carl Boekers. Ruth operates a place in San Antonio, the business of which is attempting to improve on God's work, in other words, beautifying the human face. God knows that in many cases there is plenty of room for improvement and these are some of the cases Ruth works on. Ruth has a charming personality and will no doubt make a success of her chosen profession.
The Tribune prints a column under "Mirth." Now Mirth means merriment; that which causes laughter; jollity. In Tuesday's paper, Mirth commented on the awarding of a pin to a woman who had given thirty years of service to the Telefone Company. This caused us Homecrofters to become jolly. He also commented on the late San Antonio divorce case, where the man had forgotten his marriage or the resultant child. This produced laughter. But Mirth missed one point which I wish he would explain. The woman testified that she married the man July 25, 1933 which was eleven months ago and yet she produced as a result of eleven months of marriage, a seven months child. Wonder if Mirth wishes us to believe that pansies had anything to do with that. It must have been a jug of wine, a loaf of bread, a leafy bower and just us two.
I opened the Fourth with a burst of shot gun fire directed into the face of the rising sun. Sort of a sunrise salute. Old Sol simply winked his left eye at me, kept on risin'. The miserable wretch shot a few fire crackers and with five callers, we spent and quite but patriotic day.
Over at Palacios, the Collegeport entrant in the Bathing Girls Revue, Gertrude Hunt, just simply had no competitors. I know that when the judges looked into Gertrude's eyes and saw the light that lies in woman's eyes, first prize would be awarded to her. A Palacios girl took second and Opal Phillips of Sargent took third money. Palacios must go farther than Matagorda County to find an entrant who will compete with Gertrude. She not only has a fine figure, but a beautiful face and adorable eyes. Many girls attempt to improve on the beauty God has given them and they always fail. These attempts never fool any person and in the years to come, the users pay a severe price for the manipulation of God's product.
My Red Bird flew up into north east Texas and no longer sings for me. Probably found some more interesting feller. My red bird is easy to look at, early morning, high noon or as evening falls just because of her gold bronze locks. Wish she would song for me.
I read in the paper that Mr. Frank Giordano (whoever in the hell he is) needs six trumpet players. If Mr. Giordano reads the Tribune, here is notice that we have a real good saxofone player who could easily run a trumpet. He may be had on reasonable terms, small payment down and balance as he plays.
A Texas reader writes "Thoughts this week are fine and the poem one of your best. That squib by "Mirth" about the pin and about the preacher was good. Mirth is becoming quite a humorist."
I have received a copy of the program for the Texas A. & M. short course. It is printed on excellent stock and is a splendid example of the masters art. On the first page is a list of Who's Who in Texas and in the list I find my name listed as "Publicist." I have been called many nasty names. Some time ago one of my locals said I was a damned liar. But he may be right.
This man was a naughty man, but at that he may be right. I have never been called a Publicist. I acknowledge that I am a Republican and that is sufficient to ostracize me. Publicist! Suffering sardines! I find also the name of Cora B. Moore, listed as Clubwoman and Publicist.
I don't know why she is listed as a Clubwoman and Publicist while I am just a Publicist unless it is because "the female of the species is more deadly than the male." With two Publicists on the program, I feel sure that the short course will be a grand success. I shall not mention this matter again until and when and if I have made a complete investigation and exploration.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, July 12, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Last Sunday fifty two attended the church service and listened to a splendid sermon delivered by Reverend Aiken. I told a sister that if ministers understood psychology, as did the old time saloon men, they would provide a free lunch and attendance would at once triple. Jesus understood this when he caused five thousand folk to sit on the grass and after he fed them, he did his preaching. To day it would not be wise to feed them first. The same night where County Highway No. 3 joins State Highway No. 35, a free barbecue and wrestling match was given and I am informed that about two thousand people attended. This was a grand opportunity for a preacher, but not one grabbed it. Just illustrates the fact that people now days care more for good substantial belly fodder than they do for the weak brand of mental soup which is served as a rule from church pulpits.
Feed the brutes until they lay around half conscious and then pump religion into them.
I am informed that the Brownwood water reached Lane City at noon, July 10, and pumps began picking it up. It is expected to reach this county the same night. All day Tuesday this section was visited with heavy rains which were of great value to the rice industry, also much aid to corn and feed crops. The Brownwood water traveled about 450 miles to reach our rice fields. It cost the sum of $10,000 and is an illustration of the vigilance exercised by the water company. This water, plus the rain, no doubt puts the rice crop out of danger much to the delight of the rice farmers.
There is a void in the Mowery home caused by the fact that Ruth completed her vacation visit and taking her two sweet kiddies with her departed for Longview where Mr. Barker is now stationed. If the Mowerys never have known the meaning of void, they do now for a place is vacant, a corner is empty and they miss the laughter of children.
From New York City comes this: "I read your articles on your birthday party. It was good and I only with I could have been there to celebrate with you." Having enjoyed an intimate acquaintanceship with this writer for many years, I too wish he might have been here.
A Kansas reader of the Tribune writes these words "Like other non-residents, I read 'Thoughts' first. I cannot understand why the people of Collegeport are not all doing their utmost to get the causeway. Being able to cross to Palacios quickly is the only hope for a modern town as I see it. If it cannot be linked up with a coast highway in the near future, all hope is lost for development there."
The writer cannot understand, because she does not understand how thoroughly our folk enjoy lethargy, inaction, indifference. It is a difficult task to move the lazy, indolent, sluggish souls, who rather dwaddle along the line of least resistance. Resistance to the present situation requires strength and nerve and guts. These things our people do not have.
Fred Ballhorst's bright, intelligent dog is no more, much to my regret. His was a bright do[g] soul. He liked to play on the highway and there he met death under the wheels of a heavy truck. I am sure that his soul rests secure in dog heaven, the place where all good dogs go.
The school board received an application for a position on the local faculty. The applicant has a Texas Life Certificate, a Master's Degree from a northern university, has had fourteen years teaching in High Schools of the first class and in a Teachers College. The applicant is a Collegeport property owner, pays taxes in Matagorda County, and desires to live here and establish a home. I wonder if the board will employ such teacher talent or will it give the job, as usual, to those who own no property, pay no taxes, do not hold first class certificates and with limited experience. John Billings, if alive to day, would say "School trustees is queer critters."
The Matagorda County Tribune, July 19, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
[Dust catchers mentioned included: A wash rag knitted by Mary Louise when she was three A canteen carried through the Spanish-American war in Cuba Water bottle made from a gourd carried over Mexican trails A clock, no longer active, from his Chicago office An old 1831 brass lantern given to his father-in-law when he was chief of a fire department An old candle stick]
Roy Miller recently visited Matagorda County, giving some propaganda about water transportation. This gospel is needed, but it is about as hard to inject it into the minds of many, as is the job of getting folk to adopt the teachings of Jesus.
This morning the sun comes up in a cloudless sky which looks like an inverted bowl of turquoise glass. Not a flick of cloud, to mar the sublime beauty. Just overreaching blue that goes far beyond our sight. Underneath flowers bloom, grasses nod in the morning breeze. Winged insects buzz about their business. On the ground, ants scurry here and there and there and swifts drag their slim tails through the waving grass. All is like a great organ telling us of the watchful God. The world is beautiful this morning and after all, this old world is a delightful place for life. Isn't life wonderful?
Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Ash came back to Collegeport this week and are occupying the residence built by Mr. Tay Pay White. It is located on the north side of Fulcher Plaza and is the only residence in this burg with an attached garage. The Ash family are singing "There is no land that is fairer than this."
We are regaling ourselves with copious draughts of limeade made from limes raised on the Ramsey citrus farm which is located near Laredo. We are also nibbling roasting ears from the Gustave Franzen Junior corn lot and the Liggett demonstration plot. Both are excellent, well sopped with Morning Glory butter
July 14th, Louise Walter was married to Raymond Waters at the home of Thomas H. Lewis in Bay City. Reverend Norman Anderson of College Station read the words that changed the name of this fine girl. Mr. Waters being a regular cave man took his bride to the Carlsbad Caves for the wedding trip. All of their many friends wish them a long, happy, prosperous marriage life.
Wednesday, July 18th, "The Girl Who Thought She Was Forgotten" eloped with the man "The Man She Did Not Forget" and now that fine young woman, Vera Williams, is known as Mrs. Vernon Batchelder. They were married some place in the valley and on their return will live in the Travis house. Both are well known in this place and enjoy the respect and love of all those who know them. Vera has been a successful teacher in the local school while the groom is a substantial business man. When a match is a good match, it just simply is a good match and this is one of them. Two charming brides in this burg in a week is a good record and now we shall wait and see what we shall see.
As a result of the Williams-Batchelder marriage, our school faculty will not have as high an average and groceries will be slightly higher. The community loses both ways.
Dr. Hood, a welcome visitor Wednesday and we listened with pleasure to reports of the activities of Robin Hood.
Friday came George Harrison and Mrs. Harrison to inspect the sea wall. They found it still in place.
Clifford Franzen here for a week end with his friend Frank Maxwell of Port Arthur. Two fine young men, but after all just two boys. What attracted my attention was the two peaches in the auto with them. One was a Donna peach from the Pierce orchard and the other was an Ellen Louise peach from the Bugel peach tree. Ripe. luscious, with the bloom of youth on their cheeks. I am very fond of fine boys, but, O, boy, how I adore ripe peaches and so I fell for this fruit just as Adam did for an apple. I will plan to visit Port Arthur and see if I can find a peach tree. Clifford never forgets to call on us Homecrofters.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, July 26, 1934
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The Impress of the Dreamer on Agriculture.
By Harry Austin Clapp
When I wish to know the meaning of a word, I consult my dictionary. When I desire to know what it has done for humanity, I consult my Bible. I find by examining these authorities that a dream is "to have an idea or imagination in the mind while in the state of sleep. A dreamer is "one lost in imagination or schemes of anticipated good."
"At last in sleep their bodies they compose And dream of the future fight." --Dryden.
In the Bible I find that dreamer and dreams is mentioned more than forty times. From this I assume that the dreamer was a man of considerable importance. Searching profane and sacred history, one finds many references to the dreams of dreamers and it is strange but true that many of these men dreamed of a finer and more productive agriculture. Pliny was a dreamer and so was Confucius and Jesus was a Master Dreamer. All down the pages of history are accounts of the dreamer and his influence on agriculture. The Bible is filled with accounts of dreamers and the fulfillment of their dreams. The first that comes to my attention is found in Genesis, where sheep herders were assembled and "they said one to another here comes the dreamer." Thus was introduced to us the world's first and perhaps the greatest dreamer. Thus comes Joseph the dreamer.
He dreamed of methods for preserving the fruits of the soil. He conceived the first silo, the first granary and the result of his dreams has made such a profound impression that to this day, writers and speakers quote from the teachings of this man. Perhaps he was not the first dreamer of a progressive agriculture, but it appears to me that his philosophy has stood longer the test of time and has best benefited the human race.
It is a long cry to that day. Retrospection causes one to think that after all, we are only adapters, for in many cases, we use the methods of ancient dreamers with more modern mechanics.
Moses was another great dreamer. He also was the first great strike leader. When his people were denied proper material with which to make bricks, he organized a strike and led his people to a land which he had seen in his dreams, a land of succulent grass, flowing hills, luxuriant meadows, a richer soil and thus primitive agriculture again was planted in the Garden of Eden. Many of the methods used by these old patriarchs are in use to this day proving that dreams come true and are of value to humanity.
Napoleon was a man of war, but he was a dreamer and in his dreams he saw the necessity of some method by which food might be kept for the use of his soldiers. Napoleon had no dream of benefiting agriculture. He thought only of the success of arms, but his dream was interpreted by Nicholas Appert.
Appert at last discovered the secret. He never knew why food was preserved, but he knew that following certain rules it was preserved. The army was supplied with another arm. The Appert secret has long been solved and now we know the why and by improved methods, the Appert method has reached nearly every farm family of America. It has enjoyed a pronounced influence on agriculture. It has lightened the burden of farm life giving more time for higher culture and brought a splendid refinement to the farm home. At this time I know of no dream which has had a more profound and valuable influence on agriculture than this dream of saving and preserving food. It touches the very vitals of rural life, for after all, the final success of farm life is not to make money, but to exact from the soil a good living.
My paternal ancestor, Roger Clapp, landed in Boston Harbor, May 30, 1630. His memoirs, which are preserved in the Massachusetts Historical Museum, records that the sea journey required twelve weeks and that "we were short of vituals and much sickness." In his tale, he states that he and the others of the party, were loyal subjects of "Our Most Gracious King," but that they dreamed of a land where they might worship as they wished without fear of persecution and that they might acquire and hold exempt from an over burden of taxes, land more productive than they had in England. They dreamed of a land that would give generous yields to the faithful agriculturist. He acquired land in Little Neck, in Dorchester now a part of Boston. He relates that in his opinion some day the growth of population will extend agricultural development as far west as the Connecticut River.
These men, as well as the Roman Catholics who settled in Maryland and Virginia, were all dreaming the same dream, a dream of rich lands of an easier life and an agricultural development which would forever be denied them in the England they still loved.
The Spanish Conquistadores landed on these shores with a sword flaming with blood and dreams of gold, but with them came the gentle priests who carried seeds of grain and flowers which they distributed and instructed the natives in a new method. They built irrigation ditches, missions, chapels, cared for the suffering and held out as a reward the cross of Jesus. They dreamed no dreams of gold. Their dreams were for a finer life, a broader civilization, better crops of feed and food and we this day owe a great debt to these patient godly priests of the church.
Many of the plants they introduced are now considered as natives. All over the southern country, one may find this day the results of their constructive work.
McCormick, Deering, Oliver were also great dreamers. I doubt if any of them dreamed of growing into great powerful influences. They dreamed of an extension of agriculture by the use of tools with which a farmer might till more land and produce larger and more profitable crops. They dreamed of an extension of agriculture which would at last bring into cultivation the vast plains of the west and enable a rapidly increasing population room for expansion. In the memory of many of us, these dreams have become truths.
Go back with me for a moment and vision this country as farmers harvested grain crops with the sickle, threshed the grain by driving cattle on a threshing floor, corn planted and cultivated and gathered by hand methods. Don't tell me that the dream of these men has not been of benefit not only to agriculturists, but to every soul in the nation. They were entitled to financial response, but their great reward was the revolution in farm methods.
Every fine thing in the world has first been dreamed out and then wrought out. The only thing that approaches the dreamers influence on agriculture is the religion taught by Jesus Christ. Both taught the same thing, but in a different manner. Jesus, along with our man of vision, taught the world how to approach a better refinement of life and how to realize from the material God has provided those things which have counted so much in the development and progress of human society. Sleep is a suspension of body and mental powers. Heart action slows. Respiration slackens. Organs of digestion and elimination progress in lesser degree.
The sleeper lapses into an unconscious condition at times so profound as to be undisturbed by any exciting noises. Sleep in a phenomena that has engaged the thought of the world's greatest scientists and to day, they know little about it. In sleep, men dream. The thought comes to me that in this way God, with his mystic way, works on the sub-conscious mind and implants therein ideas which he desires to see fulfilled. Who can say that this is not true? We all have had experiences in dreamland. We all know that many times these dreams are so vivid as to be remembered in the waking hours and often from them have been evolved plans and ideas of value. It is my opinion that God has more times than we suspect planted in the sleeping brain ideas that may have in the waking hours been developed for the good of mankind. There are many mysteries about our God and what he has wrought. Dreamer of dream. What would the world be without these dreamers? The irrigation canals of Matagorda County, in the lower valley and other parts of the country, giant bridges, ponderous locomotives, gigantic ships ploughing the seas, planes in the air, mysterious radio activity in the air, wonderful electric generating plants, dams conserving water for the use of man and many others too numerous to mention, but each one an impression on agriculture. Many are so dependent on agriculture, that without land tillage, they would not exist. Every one of these great facilities first existed in the dream brain of some man and in the waking hours wrought out to the exaltation and benefit of the human race. God is a God to us, every watchful, ever guiding us in the path to a higher culture. Let us not forget our God. I close by paraphrasing Joquin Miller's immortal poem
Columbus
"The wery oxen staggered day by day Faltered and struggled on their way Urged by the wagon wheel squeeks Tracing in hub deep ruts curious streaks. The men-the women grew wan and weak As they tried their spirit to keep. At the end of the day at the fall of the night When the caravan rested in camy fire light They asked "Captain what if tomorrow We find no fairer land On which to lay plow or hand, What will you say?" "What will I say if at the end of another day We find no fairer, richer land?
When then I'll say dream on, dream on and on." Feliz suenos [Pleasant dreams]
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, August 2, 1934
Many Head of Cattle Found on Mainland
Mr. Frank King of Collegeport was a business visitor to the city today and he reported that he had found on his land 168 dead cattle, washed there from the island since the storm.
Undoubtedly the loss is much greater among the cattlemen who had cattle on the peninsula than at first thought. It will be a difficult task to determine the exact amount and none of the cattlemen attempts to a guess at his individual loss.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, August 2, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from the longer article telling about his trip to Texas A. & M. to attend the short course.]
Much to our delight, Mary Louise arrived Sunday morning at 4:20, spent the day with us and departed at 12:23 Monday morning. She brought sunshine to us and the Jackson home. All this time we were the guests of the Jackson family, a most wonderful, loving sweet bunch, no finer on this earth. Imagine trying to find a person among five thousand. For four days I tried to find Mesdames A. B. Pierce, Roy Nelson and Frank King. Wanted to invite them to the banquet. Did I find them? I did not until the day after.
Returned home with Oscar Wilcox and Lee Jackson who went a floundering, but all they got was the privilege of floundering about in the muddy water. Same day came Frances Mayfield, one time county health nurse on her vacation. She is now an advisory nurse of the state health department in charge of thirty counties. Delighted to have her with us for four days and especially were we pleased with the compliments she paid Patricia Martyn's work in this county and that the state board were well pleased with the result of Patricia's activities.
Bay City folk will be interested in learning that Cora B. spent the week in the hospital, her ailment being diagnosed as a weak back. In my opinion, it was not a back trouble.
Well, folks, the show is over, the last word spoken, the curtain is down, and house is dark. We were wined and dined and honored and now I and the miserable wretch are trying to beat back to normal and catch a little shuteye. Come with us next year.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, August 16, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article about Mr. Clapp being elected president of the Texas Writers Conference.]
Sunday evening was enlivened by a call from Mrs. Patricia Martyn and with her came Lieutenants Fieldham and Leighton of Battery 2, 132nd Field Artillery. Possible war was not discussed for neither of the Louies desire to shoot anything but rabbits.
I am informed that Postmaster Ben R. Mowery has been invited to be a member of the General Farley reception committee. I am very anxious to take the trip to Oklahoma with P. M. Mowery and have offered to go as valet, shoe shiner or general handy man. Mr. Mowery has notified General Farley that if he will send transportation and money for cakes, cawfee and two beers we will be on hand to greet him at any station he names.
Mrs. Jessie Kilpatrick is here for a visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Merck. Jessie resides in Dallas.
Mary Louise, who has been in the Phelps & DeWeese office in San Antonio for the past seven years, has been offered and accepted the position of private secretary to Dr. T. D. Brooks, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, A. & M. College. Her office will be in the beautiful new administration building next to number 211 used by the Writers Conference. Mary Louise reports for her new duties September first.
The triple club meeting was held in the McCune home Thursday. First the King's Daughters had their luncheon, then the Woman's Club discussed where, how, when we vote and who for, this was followed by the Woman's Union with the usual religious program.
Ruth Boeker, who has been visiting her parents, Mrs. and Mrs. Carl Boeker, returned to San Antonio Sunday. Ruth is a lovely girl with plenty of charm and intelligence. She is not content to live on dad, but is ambitious to make her own way. She has a good position in the Alamo City. To make a short story sweet and interesting, I'll tell the world that I love Ruthie, but hope the miserable wretch never finds it out.
Hattie, who is the boss over the Palatial Pharmacy, has installed a cute little ice machine. It is about as large as a cabinet fonograf and is incased in a steel jacket and has a capacity of fifty pounds of ice each four hours. It is a cute little cuss and Hattie allows Hugo to play with it from time to time. The installation of this plant is going to play hob with the local ice dealers.
It looks as though work might begin on removing and remodeling the old depot into Mopac House, but no one can tell about these CWA boards. We have been told so many times to begin work only to have orders to stop.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, August 23, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
While at College Station, I obtained from Doctor Hubert Schmidt a small vial of squeezy oil. It is used to lubricate rusty machinery with. I squirted some of it on the gears, cogs and springs of my wooden leg and it now works perfectly. I can dance, caper, and walk and at times I forget that I left my left leg on the Gettysburg Battle Field. But the best thing, is that A. D. Jackson had some dog biscuits rich in vitamine A. When I told him that the left side of my brain did not function, he gave me a supply and to my joy my right brain has picked up and begins to develop some bright ideas and the useless old left lobe has actually made a few feeble attempts to function. I am in hopes that it will come back to a normal condition. Some of our local people should secure some of those dog biscuits.
Well, anyway, we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, are back to normal. It is a good feeling. Monday opened "brite and fare" but old man Sol neglected to inform me that it was a day of prominence. It was the forty eighth anniversary of the birth of Mrs. Ellen Franzen and to do that worthy woman honor, fifty four of her friends gathered and brought with them loads of meats, pies, cakes, salads, fruits and tankards of ice tea. We never knew a thing about this, until too late to use the wash rag and get on our fresh undies so we lost out much to our disgust. They had a swell time and Mrs. Franzen was a happy woman.
That night the Burton Hurds entertained "the girl who thought she had been forgotten" and "the man she did not forget" at an elaborate dinner. At eight o'clock, fifty six friends surged in to greet Mr. and Mrs. Vern Batchelder, bringing with them many useful and costly gifts as evidence of their friendship. A delightful evening was spent in friendly intercourse and dancing. It was intended as a surprise and that the surprise was complete was evidenced by the expression on the faces of Vera and Vern.
The week started off in excellent shape, Tuesday morning a gang of men begin work on removing the old depot and the erection of Mopac House. The cement work is in charge of Mr. Linder of Palacios and Mr. Miller of this place is foreman on the building operations.
The library has been placed on a good and permanent foundation, water pipes being laid, shell hauled in by John Merck and much of the material is on the ground. If nothing happens, the community will soon have a Mopac House and the library will have some much needed room for expansion.
Wednesday being the birthday of Mr. Linder, he was entertained with a birthday dinner by us Home Crofters.
Thursday came Mrs. Patricia Martyn, County Health Nurse, to shoot typhoid serum into the arms of over one hundred applicants. She was accompanied by Louise Sharp, who brought us a quart of shelled shrimp. I am informed that the shrimp are coming into the bay in vast multitudes and that one boat took 4800 pounds in one day. At 2 1/2 c this runs into what is lovingly called "good money." Several of those who took the serum treatments said "I don't fear typhoid fever, but so long as the 'govmint' is paying for it and it don't cost me nuthin' I might as well take it."
Mrs. L. E. Liggett, president of the Woman's Club, her daughter Roberta and Mrs. Clapp, librarian, have spent two days this week making repairs on books, arranging them in order on the shelves and getting them in order for reopening the library first of next month. The library is free to any member of the community. There are no dues or fees or membership, but if books are kept beyond a certain time, a fine is exacted. This fine money is used to buy supplies such as paste, dating stamps and new books.
The run off primary went off without a hitch in this precinct. The board consisted of Mesdames Merck, Crane, Holsworth and Heisey. Of course, no ward heeler would attempt any rough house in the presence of these good democratic women.
Mrs. Jessie Kilpatrick, having spent two weeks vacation with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Merck, left for her home at Seven come Leven, Newell Street, Dallas. We regret that Jessie was not able to spend a day with us. She is one of the local girls who for years has never neglected to send us a Christmas greeting. For this delicate remembrance, we just have to love Jessie.
Work on the removal of the depot of the depot has gone on for a week and the depot is no more. The League lot is piled with building material. Trench dug for foundation. Gravel on hand, water pipes laid and water running. First class job to this date. James Gartrell here Saturday looking the job over and from the looks on his fine face, he must have been well pleased.
Received a delicious letter from my sweetheart over in the Plains country. She is a comfortable little kuss and it is a delight to snuggle with her.
For some time, the community has been expecting an increase in its population, but every one was surprised to learn Sunday morning that to Mr. and Mrs. Penland had been given two new children, a boy and a girl. If the rest of our families will do as well, our town will soon be well populated. I felt sure when Monday broke "brite and fare" that we were billed for a fine week and here comes twins to round out the week. This makes ten children for the Penlands, eight of them living. It is reported that the fine little mamma and the sweet kiddies are coming along in fine shape which is good. Every thing is lovely along Pilkington slough.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, August 30, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
No trouble to find women. They are every where every place. I counted fourteen in the post office lobby last night from the age of four up and only three boys dared intrude. But finding a man, Ah, that is something else. Where can one be found? When I was a boy, I read how Diogenes went about with a lantern hunting for an honest man. The use of a lantern suggested a dark night. I find by a little reading that Diog did not hunt in the night, but used a lantern in the bright light of day. He did not hunt for an honest man. He hunted for A MAN, and was not successful. On being asked what he was seeking, he replied "A Man?" He had found children in Sparta and women in Athens, but a man he had never seen. Diogenes taught in the streets and public places, speaking with plainness, often with rudeness and lived as a voluntary outcast until he was ninety years old. It is reported that he wrote several works, but none is extant. This puts a new light on Diogenes and what he was seeking.
Had he appeared in Collegeport on Thursday, he might have found a man without his lantern and then the old boy might have taken a well earned rest. On that day an auto came to Homecroft and soon a stranger used the knocker on our door. He was well dressed, smoothly shaved, hair well brushed, dark complexion, quiet and soft spoken. He looked and acted like a gentle man.
He stated that he was in the business of eye examination, the fitting of lenses and had for sale optical instruments of various kinds including microscopes, telescopes, field glasses, reading glasses. He asked if my glasses were satisfactory and I told him they were not. He asked what I paid for them and who made the examination and I answered his questions. Here I thought is another faker who will find fault with my lenses and state that he can give me something better. I was mistaken for once--once only. I have listened to the tale of callers so many times. He took my lenses and after careful examination, he handed them back and said, "Mr. Clapp you have as fine lenses as is possible to make. They are excellent, the price is low, the frames are substantial and well made. It would be impossible for me to improve on the service these lenses give you. I feel quite certain that you have some defect in your sight and no lenses will give you better service until the defective sight is remedied."
We had a pleasant visit and when he departed, I turned to the miserable wretch and said "If Diogenes were here he could find a man. I do not know this man's name or address or where he went, but in my opinion if any person in this county contacts him, they may feel sure of honest treatment. He not only looked like a gentle man, but acted like one and in my judgment, he is A MAN.
In this changing day men seem to grow crafty, suspicious, afraid to trust the other fellow and the other fellow is afraid to trust him with even his thoughts. It is therefore sort o' refreshing to meet a man who appears to be honest, decent, trusty. We are glad he called and if he by chance reads these lines, he may consider it an invitation to drop in and sit at our oaken board.
An Episode of a day.
In one of this month's magazines appears a picture of Oscar Odd McIntyre with his Aunt Emma. Aunt Emma is a sweet little, O, say about ninety pounds and looks comfy and I bet she is a swell auntie. She looks like a Dresden doll. Oscar is dolled up in the latest and his Fedora hat pulled down on one side in a coquettish way which covers one eye and one ear. He looks like the town's final effort to turn out some thing hot. He's a card all right.
Mr. Wooten, under contract as superintendent of our school, resigned and it became necessary to scout about for another super. He was found at Rockdale and his name is Cherry. A right tantalizing name and I hope it turns out to be a red, sweet cherry. Balance of the family will be composed of the Misses Bell of Black Cat fame, Harris of the doll eyes, Chapman the Juno, Parker and Mansfield. Of the two latter deponents knoweth not, but until proof to the contrary, that they are beautiful, capable and sweet. But the best and greatest thing about the faculty is Principal Curtis. When he is around, one knows that a full yard is offered or a full bushel, anyway, he makes four full pecks and a bit more. He does double duty. He teaches and coaches and should have double pay.
Have asked several of the kids, "school opens in a few days. Are you glad?" Most of them reply "No I am not. I wish there was no school. I just hate to study" but some of them say "O, yes, I am glad for I am tired of vacation and much wish to study and make my grade." Just two kinds of kids and very likely two kinds of parents.
Miss Frances King enters the San Marcos College this week. Frances has developed an ambition to be a school teacher. If I could shuck off a few years, I would enter her class.
County Superintendent-elect Tom Hale and his charming wife are here for a few days visit with the Fulcher family. The Fulcher family gave to the world some very sweet daughters.
The Kraft Cheese Corporation is building a new cheese factory in Victoria. The new plant is auxiliary to the one up in Denison and with the one in Bonham will form a triumvirate of model cheese making units for Texas. With the Victoria plant to service southeast Texas and with the Denison and Bonham plants, Texas becomes an important and model cheese producing state with Texas made cheese the equal of any produced elsewhere. At the opening, officials of the company and press agents will be present, and cheese will be glorified from that tantalizing Old English right down the list, each product better than the rest.
Wonder why the Bay City Chamber of Commerce allowed this project to slip by.
Work on Mopac House has progressed well during the past week. Roof rafters are ready for raising, studding all cut, windows and the frames ready to erect and now we wait for cement. Another week will see timbers in the air. A first class pit type privio is being built on lines furnished by sanitary engineers. Don't know when we will have the opening, but it is going to be an event in the life of the community.
This being a president is great stuff. Yesterday I went over to the Mopac House works and one of the men from Ashby greeted me with "Good morning Mr. President." Being president is a grand thing and if the reader doubts it go ask Vice President Cora B. She fells a bit swelled also.
As a matter of economy, it is a first class idea to have birthdays bunched up. This is to have as many as possible on the same day. It saves considerable good frog skins. I therefore, arranged to have the miserable wretch born on August 30th, 1867 and Mary Louise on August 30th, 1910. By this arrangement, I save quite a bit of cash which is necessary these days. Mary Louise, being in San Antonio, I had to buy postage stamps from that grasping postmaster Ben R. Mowery, for the refuses to allow me to frank any mail, the stingy wretch. I gave the MW a utensil which will enable her to do one certain part of work in less time giving her more time for other work. I detest to see an idle woman about the house. God made women for help meets and they should be kept employed. One has to watch an idle woman. Never know what she does or where she wents.
Well, we had friendly calls and a big layer cake and a pork roast from Mrs. L. E. Liggett and a big angel food cake from Mrs. A. D. Jackson of Bryan. These gifts solved the food question for the day and when we retired to our bundle of shucks, we acknowledged that we had enjoyed a very happy birthday.
Friday Mary Louise journeyed to Bryan and Saturday morning took up her new duties as secretary to Dr. T. B. Brooks, Dean of the School Arts and Sciences.
"Soon as the evening shades prevail The moon takes up the wondrous tale, And nightly to the listening earth, Repeats the story of their birth."
Much to our delight on Sunday came for a short visit Mr. and Mrs. Kay Legg, Mr. and Mrs. McRea of Hockley and their two daughters Zadie Zee and Sunshine. Kay had the smile I have known for twenty five years. Theora never looked so swell and the McRea family are interesting folk. I see small change in Viola except that she has matured like a ripe peach.
"Zadie Zee and Sunshine bright You bring to me radiant star light When I look on your bonny heads Life's blues turn to brilliant reds Zaide Zee, Ah, Zadie Zee, 'tis true That I shall always love you But Sunshine you're a heart so bright And I'll love you day and night." --Fragments From Hack.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, September 6, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Mesdames Mowery and Boeker journeyed to Houston Monday to see the bright lights and the Labor Day parade. They report that a feature of the parade was a group of men with the right arm in a sling and with them a banner "This is what the NRA did to us." Of course the tying up of the arm was only a symbolic gesture.
Much to our delight, County Agent F. O. Montague and his son, Frank O. Montague, Jr., visited us Monday in time for the luncheon hour. The senior was here on official business, distributing cotton sales certificates. The junior went down to the slough and investigated crabs. He caught several, each of them weighing less than twenty-seven pounds and brought two of the monsters up to the house. The heavy load left Frank Jr. completely exhausted. Well, anyway, we had a happy visit with these good friends.
Monday afternoon came big black clouds from the northwest and with it a stout wind and downpour of rain which soaked the ground and roads a plenty. The rain was not enjoyed by cotton and rice men.
Wednesday we were fortunate to have as a caller our old time friend John Reynolds. From his looks, I believe that Mrs. Reynolds, knowing how scare men are, feeds him well. John still sells Southwestern Life policies, but informed me that they had a policy that would interest me. It guarantees life. One pays a year's premium and the company guarantees to keep one alive one year. In order to keep receiving the annual premiums, the company must keep the subscriber living. I am taking out a ten year policy, which will carry me to the 82 age and then if I'm satisfied with life and the miserable wretch is still with me, I'll renew for fifteen years. It's bound to become a great seller and John is fortunate to be the exclusive agent in the coast section.
A few days ago we mentioned the Penland twins and now comes the last arrival with Gerald Wells as the proud father and she who one time was Mamie Franzen as the imperious mother. This new child arrived Friday the 7th and I am informed that she weighs 8 1/2 pounds with out her undies and this is pretty good for the first time.
Gust and Ellen Franzen now have a grandchild of each sex and I wonder which one they love most? We have in the Franzen family a splendid illustration of what the famous American Melting Pot accomplishes. Gustave and Ellen Franzen came here from Sweden with empty hands. They worked, they saved, they accumulated, not only money, but the respect of those near them. To day they are honored with eight fine children, two grandchildren, a good home, comfortable finances, the respect of all who know them. They have lived a fine American life and if this new grandchild lives in the same way, she is going to be a credit to her family. I, therefore, send congratulations to the parents and wish them many years of enjoyable association with their daughter.
Mr. and Mrs. Boeker Sr., having spent three months visiting in Illinois, returned Friday bringing with them their son, Hubert, and Mrs. Lashbrook. They all come back.
Real old timers will no doubt remember Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Goodman. They lived in the house occupied by the McCune family. They lived here when the burg had only two autoes; when it boasted of three hotels; when Legg & Paine ran a fine dray line and Tom Morris operated a bus between depot and hotels; when Herbert Adams was postmaster and Sterling sold groceries in competition with Clark and Yerxa and the latter doing a $50,000 business; when Charles Duller was cashier of the local bank; when Theo Smith & Son operated a fine hardware and lumber business and Bob Price was manager for the local yard of the Price Lumber Co.; when Lena Corse, Myrtle Morris, Martha Powers tapped the keys for the Hurd Land Co.; when Charles Heck pulled the throttle on the Frisco branch; Geo. Duckworth sold tickets and Tom Waite punched them; when Manuel Glaros was captain of the Dena H and took people to the O'Neal's on Sunday for fish dinners; when we had four round trips per day between here and Palacios by boat; when we had no cement roads; when 450 people lived on the townsite; when we had two school teachers and one all time preacher; when Roy Nelson was not a cattle baron but the prize chicken raiser; when Mr. Wright ran a milk route; when Wolpert ran an ice wagon with dispensable daily delivery; when the telefone company had forty subscribers; when we had a pleasure pier and pavilion; but why go on with such a tale of retrogression. The Goodmans were here to see us and look the burg over. Mr. Goodman said that this was the pleasantest spot on the gulf coast and that if we had cement roads twenty years ago, most of the people would have staid. They went over to Palacios, 32.6 miles distant, to visit the chapel which was formerly located here. We have a long hill to climb before we are back where we were in those days.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, September 13, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Tuesday I received a beautiful picture card from a sweet girl friend which showed her holding roses in each hand and standing between two jackasses. She writes "Will see you soon. It's me holding the flowers." Since when have I not been able to distinguish between chicken and a jackass? My sight is failing, but I am still able to pick out some fine pullets even if I do have a wooden leg, half a brain and a weak back.
Came a brace of four trout and a flounder from my fisher maid Louise Sharp and since feasting on them my brain seems to be enlivened, quickened, exhilarated. Nothing like fish to boost up the old brain cells.
Had a beautiful visit from Ruth Harrison and Dorothy Hood. The miserable wretch served a delightful luncheon and we kept up a gabfest until late in the afternoon. Ruth soon goes back to Rice and Dorothy back to her position in Chicago. Much to my disgust, Mrs. Lutie Ramsey announces that she will leave her sea side home and go to the land of the Illini for a stay long or short. This means we will no longer enjoy those fine lines.
Mopac House has received most of the inside finish on walls. Outside walls all on and waiting for shingles for roof and cement for floors. A fine job thus far. Strong and substantial. Trussed roof and sturdy 2" x 4" studding.
Coach Curtis viewed it and said, "why can't we use this for basket ball?" and I replied it may be used for that or any other proper community activity. When finished it will have a formal opening and then will be available. We hope to have a lighting plant installed very soon. We do not know just how or where it will be obtained, but as we all know, there are several methods by which a cat may be skinned.
A nasty hornet stung one of my sweet girl friends just above the left knee. I envied that hornet for would have enjoyed taking a bite from the right knee.
"A sweet, dimpled, luscious knee, A hornet, With a pricker at the end of his tee. He buzzed about that dimpled knee And said, I'll hang around and more I'll see. Just above that knee he selected a spot And inserted, His stinger with an end that was hot. The hornet certainly had good taste Although, Had he waited and shown less haste He might have enjoyed a sweeter bite By nibbling Just a bit farther to the right."
Clifford Franzen came from Port Arthur to visit his niece Mary Louise Wells and found her for a weekend in Bay City. Mary Louise came home the other day and said in her own language that she had enjoyed her visit in the City not far from the Bay. Hope she likes it here and decides to stay. Clifford, tiring of picking cotton and pitching horse shoes, goes back to his job with the Texas Company. After hours he hangs about several peach orchards and nibbled on the luscious fruit. I'd like to take a bite or two or three myself.
My imitibable and irresistible friend, Jean, has progressed so far that she dares to send me her love. It has taken her a long time to get up to this courageous point and she better watch my work next time I am with her. I get crazy over some of my girls. Guess I'll go shopping with Jean and buy a pound of cheese. Cheese makes a rarebit and take a rarebit, a tankard of golden brew and a beautiful girl and what more does a man want in this world? All right Jean, let's go cheese shopping.
School opened with a snap Monday morning. The faculty, so far as I am able to judge, is excellent. Mr. Cherry, the superintendent, appears to be a type of man we need and I hope he likes the school and the school likes him and that we have a successful year. Regardless of the feelings of the last two years, it is time for us patrons to stand for and aid the new faculty.
Mesdames Liggett and Clapp and Miss Roberta Liggett represented the Collegeport Woman's Club at the County Federation of Woman's Clubs which met in Palacios Saturday. A delicious luncheon was served and a most enjoyable program was rendered. Considerable business was transacted, resolution adopted. The M. W. was much pleased with the address of Eugene Wilson, who explained the nature and intent of the amendments which will be voted on in November. She has fallen for this boy and told me that he was so sweet looking, so clean, so intelligent, and such a charming personality. I okehed the statements for once she told the truth. Mesdames Hall, Wagner and Sissons invited her to attend the dances, the kind that are on the square and not on a pivot and when she told how difficult it was to go over because of there being no causeway, she was invited to bring her sweeter half along and stay all night. Mighty fine, but not one of them mentioned meals. A room is all right, but boy I want my vittles and I wants 'em strong. I can sleep on the scales, but bring me my eats. If they will amend their invitation to include vittles, I guess I'll be there. She visited the Arnold store and told me how clean it was and how the goods were displayed in an attractive manner. She asked "did you ever go into a grocery store soon as the door was opened in the morning and smell that stale, dank, musty air?" I replied that I had. Well, said she "I bet when the Arnold store opens you will smell sweet savory odors of delicate bread, pies, cakes, doughnuts.
Goods nicely displayed, alert service, prices generous. I guess from what the M. W. told me and the doughnuts she brought, that for twice she told the truth.
Much to our delight, the week ended with a call from our friends of twenty-five years the Farwells. About the first [people] we met when we came here in January, 1909, and firm friends every since. It was a joy to have them in our home and the hour passed too quickly. Thus ended another week.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, September 20, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Each day I have been watching the work on Mopac House and have been interested in the comments of the workers.
They draw thirty cents per hour for an eight hour day. This is the regulation and good or poor as workers all receive the same. Some are worth more, but most of them would be richly paid at one dollar per day.
Hattie, she who bosses the Collegeport Palatial Pharmacy from the garage in the rear to the gas pump in front, has developed a new ice cream confection which has been named "Delicado." She gave me the recipe in confidence and if I violated her confidence in this column, Bay City dispensers would be busy supplying it over their bars. Keeping it a secret, Bay City people must come down the "nine foot sidewalk" and after taking on a load must turn around and go back the same way instead of crossing the causeway and going around the scenic loop. It is a tantalizing fascinating frozen ambrosia. One taste and the call is for more. Just say "Delicado" when you see Hattie the next time. Sold in glasses and spoon provided without extra for the inculpation.
Monday night the Woman's Club tendered a reception to the teachers. About one hundred twenty five were present. Mrs. Liggett, as president, opened the program and then turned it over to Mrs. Burton D. Hurd, chairman of the entertaining committee. Each of the teachers, with Harris of the teasing eyes, Chapman the Juno, The Bob cats Bell ringer, the Penny representative, the missionary Parker, little boy blue who does the coaching and the red, sweet Cherry who is head boss spoke briefly. Most of them expressed themselves as happy to have their jobs. Mr. Cherry gave us the pleasure of hearing good English, something we have not enjoyed for several years. Punch was served by Mesdames Nelson, King and Guyer, but it had little punch. A quart of Old Holland Gin or San Crusian Rum would had added to the flavor and given it a real punch. With this addition, we might have worked up a dance. When the trustees were called upon, only one responded and that was Gust Franzen. One more sneaked in after roll call. Our trustees are timid mortals. The best part of the evening was the spirit of optimism, the friendly feeling that was evidenced by every one. It appears that about one hundred percent of our people are now interested in school.
When I see a woman who is well along in years trying to shuck off the lines of age and attempting to appear young, I think it would be a fine plan for her to sit down some day and count the buttons on her tail. That tells the tale of the tail.
Looks to me as though before spring opens, I'll join the financial nudist colony. The miserable wretch has cut down my dole. At times she does not even allow me money for R. J. R.
Several times in a while, Mirth writes something that sparkles and twinkles and produces a thrill. One of these sparkles appeared in a recent issue of the Tribune. It was about the planting of flowers and plants in the school yards to replace the bare, vacant, desert places that we dignify as a campus. He thinks such work would encourage and develop culture and a love for the beautiful. He is right, but in my opinion, the first place to plant bloom is in the souls of the parents.
Not all children have parents who have ideals for the things that are lovely, charming and graceful. If this is true, how is it possible for the children to appreciate the beauty of flowers and foliage? We have in the local school as good a janitor as is to be found. He loves flowers and shrubs and has planted borders and beds and placed young trees about the school yard. Do you think the rough necks appreciate this attempt to beautify? Not any. Instead, they have pulled flowers and shrubbery up by the roots and cast them away. They tramp on pretty flower beds, they rip up young trees. Just an exhibition of kid fun of course. It is just awfully cute, but it discourages and annoys the man who, loving bloom, spends so much time growing them. Superintendent Cherry should apply a stout cherry club to a certain portion of the anatomy where nerve forces would quickly transmit the message to the brain. Here in this community, we will never be able to have flowers and trees with flowing leaves until the parents begin to love such things and teach their children to do the same. If beauty is found in the home, it will follow the children to the school campus and they will delight in building fragrant bloom.
Charles Rutherford of Nevada, Mo., one of the original old timers, has been spending a few days calling on his many old friends. Charles is now 78, but is real pert and brags that he uses no spectacles. He says there is more grass in Collegeport, than in half the state of Missouri, and that our folk don't know how well off they are.
Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Franzen here for the week end to make a call on Mary Louise Wells. I guess Arnold waited until cotton was all picked before making the visit.
The Tribune carried a splendid report of the Federation meeting held in Palacios a week ago, but failed to mention the two spot lights. Two young men kindly gave their talent pleasin. I refer to the piano playing of Mr. Lee and the singing numbers by Mr. Appleton. Way above the average and each rendering his number with true tones. Two graceful numbers and greatly enjoyed by those who appreciate good good music.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, September 27, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Some time ago, I had a beautiful red bird and I was very fond of it. About three months ago it got away and I have not seen it since. The last trace was a report that it had been seen around Marshall, Texas. If it is there now, I hope some one will use a little salt and when it is caught, put a tag on it and ship to me. I also offer a reward for information about this bird. It may easily be recognized by the beautiful glorious red bronze top not.
Monday, being circus day, broke "brite and fare." This means that the circus will take out of this county seven to eight hundred frog skins. The circus is great fun. It is a wonderful organization. It is like a newspaper. Each set up for the day and tears down only to set up again. Organization makes it possible. The circus is a great educational medium. I don't blame kids for wanting to go to the show and some old people enjoy going just to take care of the kids. The miserable wretch will not allow me to go for she fears some of them there females will fascinate me and they might. I enjoy being charmed, bewitched, enamoured.
Oscar Chapin and Lieut. Flowers here from San Antonio to take a few flounders. First night they took two. Mrs. Boeker, who accompanied them and who is a very successful flounder fisher, stuck her gig into a flounder that must have weighed thirty pounds or less, but anyway, it was so large that it escaped hand in her effort to save it, she lost her lantern in the water and she was dragged under to a first class soaking. These big flounders must be fierce cusses. One party took ten the same night.
Fine weather this week for rice harvesting and the work is rapidly being completed.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, October 11, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Intracoastal Canal Convention in Galveston. I estimate that about four hundred delegates were present when the convention opened Friday morning. One could, by looking into the faces, realize that here were men bent on a serious business problem and not a group of pleasure seekers. The work of the convention was arranged like a well built and lubricated machine and one could see in the efficiency of its operation the master hand of Roy Miller. That boy knows how to organize and work a convention. The program was replete with bright lights from the foremost and brilliant minds of inland water way students. I have heard Roy Miller many times, but never have I listened to as brilliant an exposition of the water haul problem, as I did Friday morning. I doubt if there is a man in the nation who approaches him in knowledge of arranging for construction operations. Twenty-two years ago I attended the celebration of the opening of the inland canal and Roy was there, a slender youth. Since then he has grown in body and mind, until he is a giant in his devotion to the great problem of giving to the people of the coast country a transportation system that will not only save thousands of dollars, but add greatly to the comfort, pleasure and joy of coast life. Its reaction on the industrial, financial, agricultural, development of the coast country is now perhaps a vision in some respects, but the vision is rapidly assuming tangible position as dreams of the past thirty years come true. Roy Miller’s subject was “A Review of the Year.” That was a joke. He not only reviewed a year, but he reviewed thirty years of struggle and then he reviewed and brought to our vision, what this water way means to our children. Honorable J. J. Mansfield, the “G. O. M” of Texas, sitting in his wheel chair, told us about The National Waterway Program. A masterful discussion. His voice was strong, penetrating and carried truth, conviction, and purpose. Probably Judge Mansfield knows more about inland water transportation, then all the members of congress mixed into one mass. As chairman of the rivers and harbors committee, he is in position to acquire inside facts and he brings them to us in a pungent and trenchant manner. The report of Kyle S. Hamblen satisfied me that the tales of Roy Miller and Clarence Holland enjoying fabulous salaries were not true, for the money coming into the treasurer’s office was much too meager for the association to indulge in salary luxuries. The report disclosed that the year 1933 closed with a balance of $28.00 and that the total income for the year was about six thousand dollars. For the year 1934 to September 30th, inc., the income was about nine thousand dollars, with a balance of about $2500.00. It reflects credit on the officers that with such a small income they have accomplished so much. General T. Q. Ashburn, Chairman, U. S. Inland Waterways Corporation told the convention about The Utilization of Our Waterways. “The Menace of Federal Regulation of Water Traffic” was handled in a vigorous flow of language that left no doubts in the minds of the audience how Mr. Theodore Brent, Traffic Counselor of New Orleans, stood on that subject. Splendid addresses were given by Lieutenant Colonel Warren T. Hannum, U. S. Engineer for the Gulf Division, Major Henry Hutchins, Jr., U. S. District Engineer for Louisiana, Lieutenant Colonel E. M. Marks, U. S. Engineer of Texas. The high light of this array of engineering talent was given by General Edwin M. Markham, Chief of Engineers of the U. S. Army. Judge Mansfield in his talk declared that what is generally called “pork” has been entirely eliminated from the work of the Rivers and Harbors operations and now General Markham cinched the statement by explaining the method by which such projects as the Intracoastal Canal are brought before proper authorities First, approval by the local state engineer, then approval by the district engineers, then by the national board of army engineers and final approval or rejection by the chief of engineers. It is impossible for all this group of men to become contaminated and they are not. Any attempt to remove the work of these engineers on water way projects will be a back step and mean years of delay in construction of projects now under way. The convention in numbers was satisfactory, from necessity, but as I reviewed it and counted the number of counties and towns that will receive direct and positive benefit from the construction and operation of this great water way. I felt that many like “Peter followed afar off.” They staid at home. That is the trouble the men have, back of such projects. They work, they plead, for weeks before they organize. No one except those on the inside know the effort put forth to interest a goodly delegation from every point and so where there should have been one thousand the convention had less than half that number. “Peter followed afar off.” I wonder how many Collegeport folk realize that in the near future there will exist at their doors, the easiest and cheapest transportation known to man. It will be here for our use, in business and pleasure. With the proposed boulevard down the bay shore to and across the canal great fishing, hunting, boating, bathing field will be opened for us. Cotton may be carried through the canal cheaply and delivered at ship’s tackle. In connection with the Canal Convention a meeting of the Hug-The-Cost Highway Association was called. The business of the association was transacted behind closed doors and those present were invited to get into a huddle and endorse which was done. The meeting adjourned to meet in Corpus Christi October 18. Although Matagorda County people are interested in closing the gaps in this highway, only about fifteen were present from Bay City, two from Matagorda, six from Palacios, one from Collegeport. That is a hot delegation to go up against an organized fifty or sixty. Most all the Matagorda folk like “Peter followed afar off.” I shall rejoice to see the gap from Kennedy County closed and when it is open for traffic I shall send a message of congratulation to Nat Wetzel, who has worked for twenty years on that project. I am personally interested in securing the causeway across to Palacios and if possible the road extended to highway sixty near Matagorda. It is now 49 miles from Collegeport to Matagorda but with the proposed extension the distance shrinks to 13.5 miles. If the people of Matagorda and Gulf are interested in this project, it is possible to carry it through. I wonder how long they will enjoy driving 50.5 miles to reach Palacios. Convention entertainment features consisted of three numbers: a banquet, a ball at the Buccaneer Hotel, and a boat ride on the newly opened canal. The banquet consisted of fifty cents worth of food and a dollar dance, for which the visitors were required to pay the sum of one dollar and fifty cents. About two hundred consisting of myself and one hundred and ninety nine other suckers paid the 1 ˝ bucks. The boat ride was with the compliments of the Galveston Chamber of Commerce and was a delightful trip on the Galvez across the splendid harbor and up the canal for a distance of fifteen miles. Perhaps two hundred were on the boat which left at 1 P. M. and returned at 5:30 P. M. A box luncheon of fried chicken, potato chips, sandwich, celery, apples, oranges, was handed to each guest and with it plenty of fine ice cold beer. It was a rare treat and all present joined in thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for their kind and generous hospitality. This portion of the entertainment program will not soon be forgotten. As the Galvez passed up the canal, it passed several big tows coming in, also a dredge boat and several other craft. One may sit in a convention hall and listen to canal officials and army engineers and still gain small image of the project, but when one sees it with its banks, its flowing waters, its commerce then one has something tangible. Twenty-two years ago I was Scout Master for the county’s first and only Scout troop. In the year 1912 the Inland canal was opened with gorgeous ceremonies at Galveston. Accompanied by the miserable wretch, I took the Boy Scouts to Galveston by boat. We spent two nights enroute and arrived in time to pass in review before the Governor of Texas, and officials of the Inland Waterway League., who were on a big ship anchored in the harbor. The trip lasted a week and was a grand experience for the scouts some of whom had never been outside of Matagorda County. The Galvez Hotel gave the scouts, bath and toilet privileges and we made our camp on hotel grounds. On this trip I passed through two busy towns: West Columbia and Galveston. Both presented the appearance of an ant hill. Galveston streets, lined with cars, the store busy handing out goods, the main streets lined with blooming oleanders and the park up town, a dense bower of semitropical foliage, beautiful flowers every where, Miss Gale Stone had on her best duds and she looked sweet to me. Very few empty store rooms and dealers informed me that business was good and they had no fault to find with trade conditions. Galveston is not only a beautiful city but she is fragrant, wholesome, engaging. I love Galve Stone.
One of the delights of the week was meeting one known
as Bobbie Schwartz or maybe just plain Swartz, from New Gulf. He is one
of the owners of the Gulf Sulphur Co. but is very modest in his
statements. He has a swell figure, a sweet face and charming manners. He
brags that is a “blue bellied yankee from Maine.” I had a glimpse of his
belly and believe it or not it is a beautiful blue. Looks like an
inverted turquoise bowl. Hope he keeps his promise to make us
Homecrofters a visit some good day. I enjoyed the view from the eleventh
floor of the Buccaneer Hotel. By using the glasses, which were provided
one was able to see far out in the gulf and watch the ships come in.
Some of the glasses were powerful and of considerable aid to those
suffering from declining sight. Viewing the completion of this work to
Houston and Galveston, one must salute C. S. E. Holland, Roy Miller, and
other living workers and bow the head in memory of G. J. Palmer, Leon
Locke, George Culver and others who have passed down the way of life and
across to the other shore. |
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The Home Demonstration Club held its regular meeting with Mrs. Rena Wright last Tuesday. Plans were discussed concerning the rally day program to be held in the home of Mrs. Gust Franzen Friday, Oct. 19.
Two new members joined the club. Mrs. J. H. Cherry and Mrs. Jerry Lashbrook.
The following officers were elected for the coming year: President, Mrs. Frank King Vice President, Mrs. Dick Corporon Secretary-Treasurer, Mrs. Rena Wright Parliamentarian, Mrs. E. A. McCune Reporter, Mrs. Dean Merck
All of the above officers were reelected. Mrs. J. H. Cherry was chosen to sponsor the girls' 4-H Club work.
Those present at the meeting were Mesdames Frank King, Roy Nelson, Gust Franzen, Louis Walter, Jerry Lasbrook, Anna Crane, Dick Corporon, E. A. McCune, Steve Wilbanks, J. H. Cherry, Rena Wright and Dean Merck.
Achievement day program in Collegeport will be held in the home of Mrs. Gust Franzen, Friday afternoon, two p. m., October 19. Everyone is invited to attend.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, October 25, 1934
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Collegeport reports the greatest Achievement Day program in the history of the Home Demonstration Club at the home of Mrs. Gust Franzen, Friday, Oct. 19. Mrs. Dick Corporon entertained the group with piano music. Mrs. Anna Crane gave a reading on "The Seasons." "America" was sung by all. After the program Mrs. Franzen's pantry was shown. Many envied her of her well balanced and loaded shelves of canned display. From the pantry their eyes were cast on a beautifully set Thanksgiving table with all its tempting food taken from the pantry. The favorite recipe table was frequented and there were only a few samples left when the crowd dispensed. Many quilts, rugs, pieces of art work and cans of canned goods were exhibited.
Mrs. King reported that three new pantries had been
built during the year as a result of club work, the purchase of four
sealers and five cookers, twenty-five floors had been refinished and two
delegates had been sent to the short course. Over fifty people attended the program. The out of town visitors were Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Barber and Mrs. Leola Sides from Bay City; Misses Robinson and Elva McKissick from Ashby. Coffee and cake were served.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, October 25, 1934
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Besides reporting 5000 cans of food canned by members of their home demonstration club, Collegeport women reported on their recent achievement day 25 floors refinished and eight rugs and mats completed.
The rugs and mats formed a part of an interesting display at the home of the pantry demonstrator Mrs. Gust Franzen on the occasion of achievement day. Mrs. Franzen displayed a pantry built at a cost of 30c from material already on hand. It was abundantly stocked with 464 quarts of canned food.
Thanksgiving and Hallowe'en menu tables with the menus at hand, in cans, formed an attractive feature of Mrs. Franzen's display. Handwork on display included dresser scarfs and luncheon sets made of sugar sacks and attractively hemstitched by hand.
Announcement was made that an evening event would be held by the girls' demonstration club Thursday night, Oct. 25, seven to nine p.m.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, October 24, 1934
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By Harry Austin Clapp
A sweet blue sky over head. Sparkling waters of the bay. The soft lisp of the tide as it caressed the shores. The gurgle of running waters. The acres of yellow daisies nodding in the breeze. The song of happy birds. The evening hymn at the close of a perfect day. Such was the setting for a society event "Sans Pareil."
A picture framed in blue and gold. Perhaps not in the life of this community has a more brilliant society event been given than the reception at the Carl Boeker home Saturday, October 20th, honoring Miss Lydia Parker, a member of the school faculty. The Boeker home on Central Street was a bower of beauty, with flowers in profusion on every side and yellow daisies predominating. The tea table loaded with dainties of every description was presided over by Mesdames Braden and Mowery assisted by a group of charming young women consisting of Mrs. Mary Conover Reynolds, Miss Rosalie Nelson, Miss Aldine Williams, Miss Barker of Victoria and other enchanters. Fifty or more guests arrived to honor Miss Parker and on passing through the wide hospitable doors, they were greeted by Mrs. Boeker, the hostess, and Miss Parker, the honoree.
Among the out of town guests were Mesdames Braden and Duller and Miss Margaret Ruth Matthes of Blessing; Mrs. Barker and two daughters of Victoria; Mesdames Lewis, Loos, Robbins and Barber of Bay City, Mrs. Jenkins of Pearsall.
After the guests had partaken of the exquisite refreshments provided by the hostess, Mrs. McCune, in a soft, pleasing voice, sang "All the World Will Be Jealous of Me." Then came little Margaret Ruth Matthes, a sweet little cupid all in white and handed to each guest a card on which was the Flag of America and the words "Ruth Boeker" and "Lieut. Flowers." Thus was announced the engagement of the daughter of the house to Lieutenant Robert Flowers. Following the foot steps of the cupid, came a demure little bride in the person of Ethel Nelson on the arm of her soldier groom, personated by Kent Boeker, brother of the bride elect. The little bride was dressed in white and the groom in a complete soldier uniform, thus depicting what we may expect to witness in the near future. The secret is out. Ruth Boeker has passed most of her life in this community and she is therefore our girl. She is a girl of charm, of intelligence, sweet manners, and all together lovely in form and mind. All who know her know that here is a character on which love is built. Personally, I feel that when she marries, I shall love [lose?] one of my sweethearts, but I hope that where ever her home may be, she will remember that my mark is still on her left shoulder. I don't know when the final words will be said, or when, or by whom, but I trust that it will not be too soon. I want to love that girl a little longer.
O, well, it is the way of the world. Love comes, and at its call, children fly to new nesting. None of us would have it otherwise, so let us give hearty good cheer and words of endearment and encouragement to those who take the step that leads into a new life. I am wishing this girl a long, happy life of fine service, sweet sailing, wing and wing before a good breeze and at the end safe port.
"There are who say the lover's heart Is in the loved one's merged; O, never by love's own art So cold a plot was urged! No!--hearts that love hath crowned or crossed Love fondly knits together; But not a thought or hue is lost That made a part of either." --Thomas Kibble Harvey.
I write it with sorrow, but Mrs. Lutie Ramsey departed for foreign parts up near Springfield, Illinois Tuesday morning going by auto to Houston and thence by the Sunshine Special. She says she will never return, but that is silly talk for they always come back. She was a good milk customer even if she did pay her bills with dimes. We shall miss her daily visit. If she sees Doctor Van Wormer, hope she tells him that he owes me a letter.
I write this paragraph for "Men Only." The first week of October, I went to Galveston strictly on business. On my return, to my horror, dismay and disgust, I found the miserable wretch wearing shorts. Pondering on what action I might take, I passed a sleepless night. Morning came with the problem unsolved. When I entered the post office with my morning mail, I mentioned my predicament to Ben Mowery, our Postmaster General. By reason of his official position, he sees all, knows all, hears all. He told me that I might beat the criminal up, but that would be dangerous for the Texas laws forbid wife beating, but said he "if you move to Virginia, in that state there is a law still on the books that allows wife beating provided the stick used is no thicker than one's thumb." A club of that size is plenty and so I plan to move to Virginia where the law stands for a man's rights and soon as I arrive, I intend to beat the shorts. I don't know what the trouble is in the Mowery family, but Ben Mowery would like to move to the same state. I am telling you boys that when one lives with one woman for forty years and she reaches the age of sixty seven, it is a great shock to see friend wife sporting about in shorts. Up to this time I have had great confidence in the miserable wretch. I have trusted her. I have refrained from wandering too far from my own yard, but now I feel that I am released from most of my obligations. Wish I had four quarts of San Crusian rum. I would forget shorts.
The Kings Daughters met Thursday in the Church House and spent the time making two quilts for Mrs. Dickinson. This was useful work and the quilts will contribute to the comfort of the Dickinson family this winter way up north in Angleton. The usual bounteous luncheon was served, so I am informed, but as I had no invitation to attend, I write from information only. These girls are always busy and doing good work.
Friday, the local canning club members met at the Franzen home to observe Collegeport's Achievement Day. A good attendance was had and a very interesting meeting was enjoyed. I am told that part of the program was instruction on how to properly place a table for a formal dinner. As a member of the extension service staff, I have seen many such demonstrations. The work of the Home Demonstration Agent was splendid and a delight to those present. Many times after such a demonstration, I have gone home with the demonstrator as a guest and believe it or not, but she in most cases forgot about table placing as soon as she arrived home. Her table was a mess of disorder. Food slammed on any way to as to dump it on the table and all the family and the guests engaged in a spearing contest for meat, bread, spuds or whatnots. After being a guest for several times, I became an expert spearsman and could toss my fork cross the table and spear meat with the best of them. A good demonstrator plays the same tune in the home as she does when demonstrating. The trouble is that many of them just have one bag of tricks.
It looks as though we were to lose some of our best rice men. Several have arranged to farm on a new project on the Brazos River near Angleton and Mr. S. E. Dickinson and family have already moved. This is a fine family and I regret that they have decided to leave the community. They, like others, will return some day.
The Lolita basket ball team visited the local team Friday and played a game on Van Wormer Field. A large crowd witnessed the game and saw the local "Bob Cats" take the visitors' scalps to the tune of 27 to 7. At six o'clock the members of the High school, with others who wished to take a bus trip, went to Bay City to see the show "The Girl of the Limberlost." Some of the teachers went along, I suppose to keep order. Mighty thoughtful of the teachers. Say, did you know that this Penny girl is some good old top? Have you learned to know this Chapman girl? She is another of those good fellows. I am just getting acquainted with that gal. Miss Parker, because of her varied experience, adds dignity to faculty. Miss Harris is a flyer and seldom is found in one place. She flits from flower to flower. Miss Bell is the stand by. We all know that girl and have reason to appreciate her loyalty to the school and the work she does. When Coach Curtis is not teaching or coaching, he is fishing and always knows where the pescados are, but he brings no fish to me and for that reason, I hope his team gets a well earned beating. Now comes the main squeeze by name of Cherry. I have just finished half a cherry pie so I should be well qualified to write about a Cherry. This particular cherry is of the red, sweet variety and from what I have seen of him, and the cherries within the hands of Mrs. Cherry, I feel sure the cherry tree will give good results in the school and in the community.
Saturday, a car about a block long stopped and a voice asked "where is the Boeker home?" I opened the door to give the information and in jumped Jimmy and he felt so much at home that I almost lost my pooch. In the car I found my good lady friends Mesdames Lewis, Robbins, Loos and Barber. We had a nice visit right there on the "nine foot sidewalk," and I managed to rescue Jimmy from his fascinating company. Jimmy, like his master, is rather fond of the fair sex. Shows that Jimmy is a pooch of good taste.
This entire copy has been passed by the miserable wretch, who acts as censor. She cuts out all profanity, obscenity, vulgarity. She knows that after I toss down a few tots of San Crusian rum, I am apt to lapse into the language of my pirate ancestors. They had happy days sitting on a dead man's chest with a bucket of rum. Here am I, the child of piratical ancestors doing nothing more vicious than milking cows and baking pancakes for my miserable wretch. It's a dull life for one whose soul longs to be swept by the dashing spray of the Spanish Main. Guess I'll go down and look at the sea wall in the early morn when that Penny girl sniffs the salty breeze.
If Mrs. Patricia Martyn, County Health Nurse, is through with tonsilrotomy and typhoid soup, she might take down that old dust catcher, commonly called the bible and read Jeremiah, Chapter fourteen, verse eight.
One of our jocund school teachers spent the week end on the Franzen farm and for amusement rode a horse from early morn until evening. The next morning, she was unable to sit down because she had an awful sore--toe.
P. S. My account of the Boeker reception would not be complete did I fail to mention that among those present was my good friend "Little Bright Eyes" with her band of musicians.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, October 25, 1934
ALL THE WORLD WILL BE JEALOUS OF ME
(Al Dubin & Ernest R. Ball, written in 1917)
I was jealous and hurt
When your lips kissed a rose,
Or your eyes from my own chanced to stray;
I have tried all in vain
Many times to propose,
Now at last I've found courage to say:
Let's suppose that the lips I found kissing a rose
Were to tell me to look in your eyes,
if I'd find there a light that for me only glows,
More and more would my heart realize;
The roses all envy the bloom on your cheek,
And the sun even envies your smile;
The birds in the wildwood are stilled when you speak,
Their songs don't seem half worth the while.
The light in your eyes makes the bright stars grow pale,
They're jealous as jealous can be;
But when one word or sign tells them all you are mine,
All the world will be jealous of me!
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Perhaps not in the life of this community has a more brilliant society event been given than the reception at the Carl Boeker home Saturday, October 20th, honoring Miss Lydia Parker, a member of the school faculty. The Boeker home on Central Street was a bower of beauty, with flowers in profusion on every side and yellow daisies predominating. The tea table loaded with dainties of every description was presided over by Mesdames Braden and Mowery, assisted by a group of charming young women, consisting of Mrs. Mary Conover Reynolds, Miss Rosalie Nelson, Miss Aldine Williams, Miss Barker of Victoria and other enchanters. Fifty or more guests arrived to honor Miss Parker and on passing through the wide hospitable doors, they were greeted by Mrs. Boeker, the hostess, and Miss Parker, the honoree. Among the out-of-town guests were Mesdames Braden and Duller and Miss Margaret Ruth Matthes of Blessing; Mrs. Barker and two daughters of Victoria; Mesdames Lewis, Loos, Robbins and Barker of Bay City; Mrs. Jenkins of Pearsall. After the guests had partaken of the exquisite refreshments provided by the hostess, Mrs. McCune in a soft pleasing voice sang, “All the World Will Be Jealous of Me.” Then came little Margaret Ruth Matthes, a sweet little cupid all in white and handed to each guest a card on which was the Flag of America and the words “Ruth Boeker” and “Lieutenant Flowers.” Thus was announced the engagement of the daughter of the house to Lieutenant Robert Flowers. Following the footsteps of the cupid, came a demure little bride in the person of Ethel Nelson on the arm of her soldier groom, personated by Kent Boeker, brother of the bride elect. The little bride was dressed in white and the groom in a complete soldier uniform, thus depicting what we may expect to witness in the near future. The Beacon reporter had an invitation among others in Palacios, but was unable to attend, much to our regret, so are using a part of what Harry Austin Clapp said about the affair in his column, “Thoughts,” in the Bay City Tribune.
Palacios Beacon, October 25, 1934 |
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THOUGHTS ABOUT THEM TAXES By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Monday, two cars of fisher tourists drove down to Collegeport's Palatial Pharmacy and inquired if the boulevard road to Portsmouth was open for traffic. On being informed that it was not, they expressed disgust and drove down Central Street with the intention of crossing the bay to Palacios. When they arrived, they found no causeway. The Tribune being a strict sporting-religious family paper, I will not include in this copy the language used by these tourists. If I wrote it, Carey would pencil it out and it no doubt would melt the differential of my Corona. This fault finding situation that develops profanity that would shame my pirate ancestors, will never cease until the causeway is built and open for traffic. If the Texas Highway Commission is interested in the morals of our people, as well as those who visit us, they will look over this proposition and plan to give relief.
The other day I received a neatly printed invitation to attend two achievement day celebrations. One at the home of Rubye Lee Corporon, seven to nine P. M. on October 25th and the other at the home of Margery May Brown six-thirty to nine P. M. October 29th. Having no auto and my wooden leg being out of gear because of deficient lubrication of the depression spring, I was not present at the first number, but my representative was there. I am informed that about one hundred, thirty of whom were from out of town, were present and viewed the achievement of Miss Corporon which consisted of a renewed and refurnished bed room. Every cent spent was shown on an itemized statement, which included repainting the bed refurnishing the same, painting the walls and wood work, rugs, chairs, curtains all done by the young club girl without aid from any person. My brain working on one cell, pondered on what constitutes an achievement so I took it up and find that the word means "the act of achieving or performing; obtaining by exertion; successful performance." Now, understanding what it means to achieve, I give honor to these young girls who, following instructions given by The County Home Demonstration Agent, have not only learned to preserve food of all kinds, but to preserve and improve living quarters. I shall wait until next week to record the achievement of Miss Brown. Her project was a garden and I hope it grows some greens.
Friday was library day and fifty books were let out and about forty visitors. It was also the birthday of Joe McCune and a celebration was arranged. Joe did not have the heart to limit his invitations to a few, so invited the whole gang saying "there's only about two hundred and I invited them all." Well, during recess, escorted by Miss Harris, they marched to the McCune home, were fed on hot chocolate and cookies, presented with pretty green paper caps and all marched back a happy gang of kiddies. Thus was celebrated the sixth birthday of Joseph McCune.
Recently a circus visited this county and it is estimated that every man, woman and child and nursing baby handed fifty cents through the ticket window. A carnival comes to town and the rubes fight to hand in their cash, so they my see some belly flapper do her nude stunt. A foot ball game and thousands of "screaming fans" hand over money which in many cases should be paid on food bills or rent. Visit a show house, with hot films and listen to the clatter of the ticket dispenser. Go to a night club and see the husband of a trusting woman, the father of sweet daughters and a Sunday school teacher at home, now out for a time. He pays five dollars cover charge, just to sit, has the privilege of holding on his lap a painted fozzle gal and when he leaves, his bill is one hundred and fifty frog skins. O, yes, we have no depression.
This continual yapping about depressions makes me feel like a valetudinarian.
Friday, the Gulf Sulphates came over to tangle with the Bay View Bob Cats. Now the Sulphates are a brawny bunch, a gang of fearsome men and this community regarded their visit with fear. We were afraid that when they left, the Bob Cats would be busy licking their wounds. To our surprise, when the engagement on Van Wormer Field was over, the score stood 18 to 9 in favor of the Cats. The Gulf team has been undertraining for some time and is regarded as a strong basketball team.
Sunday was enlivened by a visit from Mr. and Mrs. C. H. (Hurt) Moore who used to live as our next door neighbor. They were accompanied by Sadie Powers, who will be remembered by the old timers as a slight young girl twenty years ago. Sadie is with the Fred Harvey System located at Hutchinson, Kansas. She is now on her way back from a trip to Chicago, Minneapolis and other points. Hurt Moore is operating a laundry business in Houston. Virginia, the daughter, is married and the son is with the bureau of physics of the Humble Oil Company.
Sunday the people of this community enjoyed a rare treat given by Miss Lydia Parker, a member of the local school faculty, who at one time was a missionary located in Bogata, U. S. Columbia. Her address was of so much interest that she was requested to continue a recount of her experiences in that interesting country Sunday night. She is a woman of fine personality and is a finished speaker with the ability to earn and hold the attention of her hearers. Our school board is to be congratulated on securing the service of Miss Parker who is well educated in Spanish.
Forty thousand people attended the session of the General Convention of the Episcopal Church at Atlantic City and only one of the bunch thought of us and for that we are indebted to Mrs. Fred W. Catterall of Galveston. I was silly enough to think I was the guy in the brown derby.
Lieut. Flowers is here for the week-end making a visit to his fiancee Miss Ruth Boeker. The Lieut. reports that he is now signed up for four years in the regular army stationed at Fort Sam Houston and has passed his examination for a captaincy with a score of 98.9. We will soon be saluting Captain Ruth.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 1, 1934 |
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COLLEGEPORT
Senior Notes.
The seniors have just finished reading "Hamlet" by Shakespeare and enjoyed it very much. We are glad we escaped reading "Paradise Lost," but are afraid that others to come are going to be as bad.
The class rings have been ordered and we hope they arrive soon. We are very much pleased over the selection.
Sophomore News.
We certainly have been having a tough time. Since our six weeks exams are over, it isn't so bad. We have our history notebooks now and this certainly does add to our list of worries. It seems that we are falling down in our Spanish since we have taken up the subjunctive mood. Algebra still seems to be rather easy, but you never can tell what is coming next. In English we are studying the "Idylls of the King." At first it did not seem to be so very interesting, but after reading "Launcelot and Elaine," we decided it wasn't so bad after all.
Sports News.
The Collegeport high school basketball team has had two games up to now. The first we played with Lolita on October 19. The score was ten to twenty-four in favor of Collegeport. The second game was with Gulf on October 27. The score was eleven to eighteen in favor of Collegeport. We hope we can continue this good work.
4-H Club Achievement Day
The great even of the 4-H Club was their achievement day at the home of Rubye Lee Corporon. It was on Thursday, 25th from seven to nine. Auldine Williams was in charge of the program which composed of songs, speeches and games. Delicious refreshments were served which consisted of punch and small cookies.
Among the guests were the Blessing 4-H Club girls. Mrs. Leola Cox Sides, Mrs. Pollard and her niece, Helen Pollard, and a number of the mothers and other ladies.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 1, 1934 |
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Queso equisito! Dos de queso! That is the way us Americans eat cheese. We nibble. We never eat cheese. We take a tiny portion with a big wedge of pie and many of us never think of cheese except with pie. And so we keep nibbling, until now we have thirty million pounds of excess. That is the reason why the governors of many states, including Texas, have proclaimed the week of November 11th to 17th, inclusive, as cheese week. They are asking us to become cheese conscious and to do so they want each of us to stop nibbling and eat just four ounces per capita and thus consume the enormous surplus. Four ounces? Just a taste and nothing more. Will it be done? Just wait until the statements appear from Washington. Now don’t get the idea that cheese is the most important item on the family menu. There are other things that are quite as necessary. Cheese is a very concentrated product, in fact, it is stated that one pound of cheese equals five quarts of milk in food nutrients. It, therefore, should be eaten with other foods, but always considered as a food and not a dancing partner with desserts. The common cheese which comes to us in big round cakes or in blocks is what is known as cheddar. Most of it is sent to market too green and is dense in texture and hard to melt. Cheddar cheese when well ripened becomes crumbly, tangy, tintillating, zestful, a bit sharp. Then it is so mellow as to melt readily into a smooth, cream like consistency and lends itself to the making of delicious cheese dishes. Some cheese makers now print the date of its making and this is a kindness to the purchaser. So far as I know, never has a well ripened cheese been offered for sale in this community. Several years ago a dealer brought in a big round cheese. It was so ripe that it crumbled to the touch. It was sharp and full of refinement and on breaking off a piece a few skippers were seen. Now these little fellows love good old cheese and their presence was a guarantee that here was a real cheese. I wanted some of it, for in it I recognized an article from which a wonderful rarebit could be made. Did I get it? Not I. The dealer announced it unfit to offer and shipped it back. For years I have mourned the loss of that cheese. There are many reasons why cheese is an important article of food. One of them is that it is a highly concentrated product, bulk being eliminated. Cheese is a fine source of calcium and phosphorus both of them being of much importance in building up strong bone and tooth development. Calcium is important and our ordinary American diet is too often deficient in this mineral. It is difficult to obtain a sufficient amount of calcium unless milk or cheese is an important feature of our daily menu. Cheese is rich in protein and vitamin A. It also, if especially made from full milk, rich in fats, casein and sugar. The ash milk contributes besides calcium, potassium, sodium and iron. Calcium is of much importance for its presence on the milk is necessary for the proper action of the rennet. In this age we hurry. We want to save time and so some manufacturers of cheese hurry in to the consumer. Cheese, when properly made, requires time. Time is the essence of the contract, in cheese making, for it requires time to ripen cheese and give it the character that delights the palate of the epicure. When I was with A. & M. extension service and as President of the Texas Dairyman’s Association, I had the privilege of meeting thousands of men who were producing milk. Many asked why no cheese was made in Texas. The only reply I could make was that the experts who inhabit the cubicles in Washington informed me that climatic conditions were not favorable to the development of commercial cheese. Since that time more cubicles have been built and each one is inhabited by an expert and his corps of assistants and they now find that not only can cheese be made in Texas, but it is being made in Texas. Mr. Kraft of the Kraft-Phenix Cheese Corporation has demonstrated that commercial cheese the equal of any may be made in the state. His company has now in operation a plant in Denison one in Bonham and a new one just opened in Victoria. In these plants objectionable climatic features are climated and cheese of many varieties are being made, chief among them being what is known as Old English. This cheese is a beautiful gold color, fine texture, a flavor unsurpassed by any other cheese. It presents to the palate relish, flavor, gusto, and has a tang and piquancy all its own. These are the results of careful attention to manufacturing details and the fact that this cheese is handled as one would handle a new born babe. It is a necessity in making that delicate dish known as a rarebit for it has supreme melting qualities. It melts into a rich golden creamy mass, free from strings or lumps and glory to the gods of cheese; it retains its creamy consistency until the last bit has been consumed and the rarebit platter licked clean. It is as soft as virgin’s breast and its aroma as delightful as the breath of a psyche. It plain words, Old English is just adorable. No article of food that has been such a contemporary with man can escape romance. For that reason although we have five hundred varieties of cheese we have the same number of romances, for in the discovery there is found a romantic tale which never fails to thrill the reader of cheese history. Not only does sacred history name cheese as a prized article of food, used in days of Samuel, but profane history abounds with romantic tales connected with cheese. Probably no food used by man goes back farther in antiquity, than milk and from that cheese is made. The history of man is the history of cheese. And yet with all this romance, all this antiquity, going back at least six thousand years we Americans continue to nibble. It is very probable that when God turned over to friend Adam the animals of the fields and Cain began to raise goats and a little hell on the side, that the entire Adam family ate cheese. This is as true as some of the other tales. I don’t know whether Adam ever ate Roquefort, the King of Cheese and the Cheese of Kings, and I do not know as he ever tasted that imitation, that aristocrat, known as Stilton, but if he never brought home to Eve a two pound box of Old English, that is one reason why the old boy became peevish and organized family quarrels. Perhaps Cain killed Abel because Abel tried to butt into Cain’s cheese business. I do not know nor do I care. I know that when I was a boy my mother thought cheese was not very digestible and that it encouraged faulty elimination and for that reason discouraged its free use. We know now that it is among the most easily digested foods. For many years this indigestible argument has been a cheese superstition. The U. S. Department of Agriculture, by many delicate tests, has proven that this superstition is erroneous. These tests have proven beyond question, that cheese is from 90 to 99 per cent digestible and readily assimilated by the body functions. All arguments, all experiences, prove that cheese is a highly important article of food and that its use should be a daily part of the American table menu. Although cheese consumption has increased in America, we are still using far less per capita than the people of many other countries. It is to encourage the use of cheese that Cheese week has been proclaimed. It might be considered quite unimportant if it meant just eating more cheese, but far and way beyond that is the fact that it means increased use of all dairy products, increased dairy development, brighter times for the producers of milk, better home conditions, more children given higher educational advantages, higher standards of farm life, employment to thousands of men and women. The effect of more cheese eating is far reaching. No man is able to measure the limits. Its influence goes into the dairy barn of the smallest operator. Come now fellows, let us be sports and next week just eat four ounces of some first class cheese, remembering as we eat this delicate delicious and nourishing food, that we are influencing the farm life of America. We have a plethora of alphabet codes now, in fact, we are swamped with them. Let us have one more “EMC.” Go to it boy! It’s grand grub. Last year I wrote about Cheese and Pretzels and gave my recipe for a rarebit. It brought to me, one whom I have never seen, but one whom I have learned to love. She is a wonderful girl of more than ordinary intelligence. For eighteen months we have enjoyed a marvelous correspondence. Rarebit brought this to me and that is one reason why I adore a rarebit provided what goes with it is on the side with its foamy, flowery cap. This effusion would not be complete without my recipe for a rarebit, so here it is just as given fifteen months ago. With it I give my recipe for another dish known as a soufflé. For many years I have on special occasions made a rarebit and they say I make a real rarebit. Here is my recipe but I warn my readers that they must observe and faithfully keep details. It is a dish that never courts cold. It must be hot and passionate or it becomes like a neglected sweetheart of small comfort. This recipe will serve eight people. A large platter which must be hot. Eight plates also hot. Sixteen slices of toast, of a delicate shade, also hot and kept hot. Two pounds of cheese preferably Old English, but if Cheddar is used the older and more crumbly the better and if it has a few nice skippers all the better, for skippers like good cheese. Run cheese through a coarse food chopper or cut in very small pieces. Place in sauce pan, a wide one, add lump of butter size of walnut, a tablespoon of mustard, as much chili powder as may be held on the point of a dinner knife twice, a dash of Tabasco sauce and a tablespoon of wine. If you neglect this last ingredient, you will be sorry, for it beckons from the intangible the tangible. While getting this ready, open a bottle of beer and when it is no longer talks, it is stale and stale beer is a necessity. Pour about one fourth of the bottle of stale beer into the sauce pan with other ingredients and place over a slow fire and when the mixture begins to melt and mix, stir, if you love your wife and sweetheart never stop stirring, gently good man, gently. Don’t forget the slow fire. Treat it as you would your adored one. Add more beer if necessary and keep on a stirrin’ until it is a rich creamy mixture free from strings and lumps. Having the hot toast on a hot platter, quickly pour the mixture over the toast and serve at once on hot plates. Don’t wait to ask God to bless this food. It has been blessed in the making. Have a cold tankard (if possible the kind they use in Place Viger) filled with ice cold beer. Go to it good people and you will sleep the night in ecstasy. No charge. Good nighty. Next time you feel cheesy try a soufflé made like this. It is a savoury dish filled with delights.
4 tablespoons butter Now is when you prove that you are a culinary artist for if you lack in skill, blooey. Blend butter and flour and cook until slightly browned. Add milk and stir until smooth. Add cheese and salt. Remove from fire and add yolks beaten until lemon colored. Cool, and fold in stiffly beaten whites. Pour into buttered baking dish. Bake one hour at 325 degrees. This serves six and by the way or by the side rather a good sized tankard is very nice. Writing copy is exhausting work and when I got this far I felt faint but the miserable wretch just brought in my four ounces of Old English and I now feel real frisky. Let’s be cheese hounds this next week. Hey?
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday,
November 8, 1934 |
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COLLEGEPORT SCHOOL NEWS
The 4-H Club is reorganizing for the new school year. Four girls are going to receive silver pins for having completed their goals. We will soon have an election of officers.
Girl Reserve News.
The Girl Reserves learned to do several steps of the schottische and the polka, old folk dances last Friday afternoon. Mrs. Hurd taught the steps to us and promised to teach us more of the folk dances. All the girls enjoyed the steps and are eager to learn more steps.
The club has decided to have meetings every Friday as that time seems to give more satisfactory work.
The candy sales given by the Girl Reserves at school to raise funds for the treasury seem to be very successful. Credit must be given to Miss Parker who suggested such sales.
Seventh Grade News.
We have been having a terrible time with arithmetic, especially when there are so many lovesick members in the class. We couldn't so without the Class Clown Charlie or Wimpy of the class, Fred. We've been studying propositional [prepositional] phrases and although we have been working on them two weeks, we still don't know them.
Junior News.
We are now studying English and is it hard? I don't see how Miss Bell ever learned it all. I think that in a short time we will all be perfect Spanish speaking pupils.
Biology is becoming more and more interesting every day. The frog is the subject now. The geometry class has about learned that a straight line equals a straight line.
Believe it or not, Reba represents Joan Crawford. Clara came to school on Monday morning. If reports are true, Irwon seems to have a new flame on the string. Poor Jack, we pity his fall. Wade was walking his baby back home through the rain Friday night.
Freshman Notes.
The seniors are progressing very rapidly in advanced arithmetic. In civics we are studying county government and we are surprised to see how very little our honorable officers have to do. We have been studying crawfish, fish and birds in biology until we feel like them. The girls were much relieved to know that the boys will have to bisect the animals.
All the students in the high school went up to Bay City Monday afternoon in one of the buses to see "The Count of Monte Christo [Cristo]." Miss Bell, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis and Mrs. Cherry chaperoned the trip. Everything was all right except a flat tire on the way home that made us get home late. Viola seemed to have a big time.
Sophomore News.
Thank goodness we didn't have to undergo an old history test. This was because Mr. Cherry was called away. We have finished the "Idylls of the King." Original compositions in Spanish are not so easy.
Things We Can Do Without.
Lottie Mae's smart remarks. Ralph and his grammar school flirtations. George Alice's heavily made up eye lashes. Roberta imitating Madge Evans. Dan's glances at Alice H.
[An essay, "The Angel Child Next Door," by Annette Johnson was included here in the original article.]
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 8, 1934 |
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THOUGHTS ABOUT "E. M. R." [Eat More Rice] By Harry Austin Clapp
When in Bay City Wednesday, I met a friend who had read my cheese story and he said "I was interested in that cheese table, but I wondered why you did not write about rice. You suggested that we adopt another alfabet code "E. M. C.," [Eat More Cheese] and I now ask that you add one more to your alfabet "E. M. R." and I hope you will remember that rice is of much value in these parts. It is true that the growing of rice and its allied industries mean much to this county and so aware of my unworthiness and lack of ability, I shall attempt to give some facts about this most valuable grain crop. When I was in my early years, my mother served rice occasionally, but always as a dessert and I never thought of it as a premier table dish. I have lived in the west and south for forty years and I have learned that rice is a food. Down here, I found rice served as a vegetable with gravy and it is a most delicate and delightful dish. I have learned to enjoy it in many ways besides as a dessert. When I have some new "Thoughts" to write, about the first place I look for information is the Bible, but my Bible reference book does not disclose the word, so I infer that even if those ancients used rice, it must have been wild grain and not a cultivated variety. I feel certain, however, that such a splendid grain must go back into antiquity and that about the discovery of its value as a dependable food a romantic story might be related. We all know that millions of people outside of our country, have depended on rice for their living for many centuries and they continue to do so and although they plant and cultivate the crop in the most primitive manner they in the aggregate raise an enormous amount of this grain, in fact, enough for their use and some for export.
Cotton has been called King in the Southland, so long that cotton has become quite set up with the honor given His Majesty, but he has a strong rival for his throne especially in the Gulf Cost section where the soil and climate and other conditions appear to make rice a close contestant for the royal scepter.
There is no question in my mind but that rice is contemporary with the white man's occupation of America. Before they came, Indians knew what we call wild rice and used it for food and good food it was. I read that before the end of the first century of the white man's occupancy, the colonists began to export rice. This crop was first produced in the Gulf Coast section soon after the war of the sixties by a small colony of Germans in what is now Acadia Parish, La. Extensive plantings are now raised all along the coast and Matagorda County plants annually from twenty to twenty five thousand acres.
At Collegeport, about eight thousand acres are devoted to this crop. Rice has been an important factor in the present prosperity of Matagorda County. The water company uses about four hundred miles of canals. With the financing, cropping, watering, warehousing, transportation and milling, rice is acknowledged as big business. In this article, we shall spend no time on its history of cultivation. We can and do raise rice at a profit to the grower. What we are most interested in, is its value as a food for man and beast. Among all the grain crops grown by man, rice without question stands first. A larger acreage is used, more people consume it and more people are used in its production and handling than of any other grain or cereal. Rice supplies the principal and in many cases the only food of more than one third the world's population. Think of what a world wide failure means. Poverty, starvation, death to millions. This importance can not be attached to any other crop grown by man. We raise rice and demonstrate it every year with increased production and better grades, but we Americans are not rice eaters. Perhaps it is because of ignorance of its food value. It certainly is not because it is not palatable. Let's us knock o the door of one of those cubicles in Washington and there we will be given some interesting facts regarding the value of rice as a food. Report No. 6, issued by the U. S. Department of Agriculture reporting on its nutritive value has this to say:
Total nutritive matters contained in Rice - 86 per cent Corn - 82.07 per cent Wheat - 82.54 per cent Oats - 74.02 per cent Fat Beef - 46.03 per cent Potatoes - 23.24 per cent
When it comes to heat values, Oatmeal raw - 1767 calories Corn meal - 1662 calories Rice polished - 1546 calories Rice flaked - 1526 calories Barley pearled - 1514 calories Buckwheat flour - 1471 calories Wheat cracked - 1501 calories Bread white - 1203 calories Beef steak - 950 calories Potatoes raw - 360 calories
The bulletin states that rice, as will be seen has a higher fuel value, stands higher than most of our foods.
Wondering about the food value of rice, we go to the same authority and find comparative analysis of
O, well, you say that is all right, but how about the digestibility of this grain.
Time Required to Digest Foods. Rice, 1 hour corn meal, 1 hour 15 minutes wheat bread, 3 hours 30 minutes oat meal, 3 hours potatoes, 3 hours 30 minutes roast beef, 3 hours oysters stewed, 2 hours 5 minutes fish, 1 hour 45 minutes eggs, fried, 3 hours apples, raw, 1 hour 50 minutes tomatoes, raw 2 hours 50 minutes
It appears from this, that the jury gives a decision in favor of the defendant, gives a clean bill and that rice is one of our valued foods and there appears no reason why us Americans should not consume more of this health giving, nourishing grain. On page four of the Daily Tribune of Monday, November 5th appears a rice advertisement giving several choice recipes and offering a booklet of rice methods. Among them is that wonderful grub known as "French Jambalaya with Rice." Try it out and you will have revealed to you one of the wonderful qualities of rice. You will notice it directs one to use a "large pot, preferably a black iron pot." Something about that old black iron pot our mothers used that brings our flavor, but be sure and put in the rice. If the gruff old boy who sits at the south desk passes this, I may have some to say in a future "Thoughts" provided the feeble brain flutters again. Moral is "E. M. R."
Some Halloween joker placed a banner in Mopac House inscribed "The Night Club" and named two of our distinguished citizens as proprietor and bar tender. One of them is an ardent prohibitionist and the other, while not exactly a prohibitionist, believes that all sorts of liquor should be put down. A fine combination I'll say. Hope I'll be there when the club opens.
Mrs. Patricia Martyn, Health Nurse, has started a movement to secure more funds for school health work. It consists in asking that every child attending a rural school bring an egg once each week. The eggs will be sold and the money used in rural school health work. Collegeport's school began egg collecting last Friday and about nine dozen were collected. At present price of 23 cents, this means the first week the sum of $2.07. If every school pupil in the county does this work, no small sum will be realized. Many of the children, thinking one egg too small a contribution, seek to bring more and in this are encouraged by the parents. The secret of success in this plan is just one egg. Soon as the kiddies began to bring more than one, the entire scheme will go bust.
Gustave Franzen (not old boy) had an urge to travel and see the world at the end of the big water. Being a bit timid about going so far from home alone, he engaged as a chauffeur a fellow called Abie and to make everything as respectable as possible, took Abie's charming young wife along as chaperone. Every thing being jake, they started and in due time landed in the big camp at the lower end of Lake Michigan. Gustave staid seventeen days, saw the big show from the belly dancers to the beautiful paintings in the art department, took his Saturday bath in the lake, talked with policemen and came back to the home port safe and sound and never during the trip did he see any person he knew.
The election passed off quietly. No fighting or shooting and no voter slapped his wife's face. The only excitement was the luncheon and bake sale given by the Woman's Club and that was not much due to the fact that there was not one smell of the Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles. A swell apricot pie made from the Cherry helped out. The exchequer was enriched by about eight frog skins.
Mr. and Mrs. Will Cutting of Lenora, Kansas passing through Collegeport en-route to Corpus Christi and the Valley where they will spend the winter stopped for a visit with their old time friends the Roy Nelson family. If Carrie Nelson was up to her job she would feed these folk on them there Famous Carrie Nelson Noodles and then they would not fall for the seductions of the Rio Grande Valley. They would stay right here on this beauty spot, fish, bathe, maybe swim, eat noodles, shoot a few geese and have a very enjoyable winter and maybe before spring they might cross to Palacios over the beautiful causeway.
Gust Franzen (old boy) has a big Swedish heart and so when he dressed a fat yearling, he sent us something less than fifty pounds. O, maybe, about one hundred sixty ounces of that fine meat. When I have any thing as seductive as that I can not trust the miserable wretch to prepare it so I became the chef, I put in an iron pot. This pot we have used for forty years and my mother used it before that. You may brag about your aluminum cooking vessels or porcelain pots and pans, but I am informing you that man has not invented anything the equal of the old iron pot and the older the better, for with use, it acquires character which it has the power to give to foods cooked in it. Get the idea? Into the pot went the meat, some chili powder about what might be held on two bits, a dozen green chiltipiquins cut up, a big onion, six cloves of garlic, a dash of tabasco. Let it simmer and simmer for about three hours. Slow cooking does the business. When about done, I allowed the miserable wretch to put in a cabbage and twenty minutes before serving some spuds. Put on a hot platter, thicken the gravy and go to it. With apple pie smothered in thick Holstein cream and Old English cheese on the side. O, my gentle man and possibly your wife, you have a dish that the gods would relish. If you try this dish, don't forget the iron pot, and if you have no meat hunt up Gust Franzen.
I found on exhibition at our local Palatial Pharmacy eight bananas cut from a bunch grown as stated by the card by "H. H. Foster." In my opinion, Little Bright Eyes had something to do with the production of this fine fruit. The fruit was about seven inches in length and one and a half inches through. It had a fine bright golden color and had the appearance of being excellent fruit. I was not allowed to eat one, so can only guess at the quality, but I know that Bright Eyes would not produce any thing but the best. I, yes, we have bananas.
No sooner do I get this off than here comes Gerald Wells with a big fat goose, the first we have this season. Gerald told me last week that on the following Friday, he would get a goose for us and so we have food for another day much to our delight. I am told that the flesh of a wild goose grows splendid active brain tissue and the Lord and most of the local burghers and gossips know that I need new tissue.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 15, 1934 |
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Collegeport School News
High School News.
The English class is wondering why Burke ever made his "Conciliation" speech. It surely isn't doing us any good. We'll wager that the English parliament didn't understand it any more than we do.
The biology class has made quite an extensive collection of birds, moths and butterflies, though we regret to say they're not alive--just pictures. However, we have several lovely collections of butterflies and moths.
We have decided to copy Samuel Johnson's style of writing and send the Star Engraving Company a letter in regard to our rings.
It's True That-- Rain participates. Emma doesn't come to her own parties. Rosalie doesn't seem to mind any more when C. W. isn't along. Billie can't keep her mind off a certain young man. Arthur was terribly blue Sunday night. It has been predicted by Irwon that Little Buddy will go to California and raise ranches.
Sport News.
The Collegeport Cubs basketball team matched a game with Lolita on Nov. 9. The game proved an overwhelming victory for us with a score of 34 to 20. All the boys played a nice game, even if Noel Adams and Arthur Liggett did forget basketball shoes in the excitement of going some place. Craig King was high point man, making 18 of the 34 points.
The players and their scores were as follows: King 18 Liggett 5 Blackwell 4 Adams, L. 3 Adams, N. 2 Kucher 2 Penland and Prunty did not score, but did some splendid guarding.
The Collegeport Cubs had two games for last Friday, but due to the excessive rainfall, the games were postponed. On Wednesday night, they will play Gulf in Gulf. A bus load of players and supporters will make the night trip.
Collegeport High School and Grammar School has organized a pep squad for the basketball season. The pep leaders are Rosalie Nelson, Fawn Adams and Charlie Domorod.
At present, the girls are playing volleyball, but as soon as possible, they will begin basketball practice.
Girl Reserve News.
The Girl Reserves all met last Friday afternoon and enjoyed a time of singing. The girls who attended camp last summer taught the less fortunate two new songs, "Down By the Old Mill Stream" and "The Big Red Rose."
Junior News.
The weather is affecting the juniors so that we can't concentrate. If it doesn't stop raining soon, I'm afraid we'll all flunk six-weeks exams that are just around the corner.
We have been studying description in English and we all had to write a description of some one in the class. I'm sure we all flattered each other--as you do when it comes right down to it!
We all miss "Specks" who has been out of school all week recovering from a tonsil operation. We'll all be glad when she gets back, as it is very dull without her.
Wonder why we are so dull in civics. It is us or the weather?
Sophomore News.
Has this been a tough week. With about thirty verbs to conjugate in Spanish for one lesson. We have just finished the "Sketch Book" and have started "As You Like It." In history, we are studying about that Big Little Man, Napoleon Bonaparte. He seems to be a most interesting subject.
Here are some of the things we wish would stop: Lottie Mae chewing gum. Ralph coming to school late. Wanda missing school. Alice H. making eyes at Lloyd. George Alice helping other reporters with their news. Alice Long staying in the room instead of coming downstairs.
Freshman News.
The eighth grade has been studying complements in English for the past week--we don't mean the kind you tell to make a hit with someone. In Algebra we've had parenthesis and equations. In Spanish we've been forming the singular and plural of verbs. And in history we have been studying the rise of Rome and filling in our notebooks.
Can You Imagine: Coda Harvey falling in love with Marjorie? J. O. getting his English for Miss Bell? Lloyd getting his Spanish without help? Glen sitting with Roberta in class and making eyes at her? Alice Long not trying to catch a beau effortless. Harold not on that bicycle?
Seventh Grade.
Our studies have been pretty hard since school started. Mr. Curtis gives a history pop quiz all the time, and if we make over 90, he gives us another.
Woody has about three girls, and doesn't know which one he prefers.
Orin is trying to be a poet and doesn't know the first thing about it.
Louise can't study because her eyes are getting bad from looking at Gilbert.
Our eyes must be going bad on us, too. Chester has stopped looking at Jessie Mae.
Chappy believes he's a basketball star, but I don't believe he knows what it's for.
Earl and Viola are casting one shadow in the moonlight.
Fred goes to the calendar all the time. He must have that important date with Marjorie. He told her his love was proved by the angels above.
Fifth and Sixth Grades.
At the last chapel program on November 16, we were in charge. Miss Chapman had the following: Play - Taking Teacher's Place. Piano Solo - Alietha Hill. Familiar Book Characters: Little Women, Ethel Nelson, Norine Harvey, Lucille Dickert and Mary Kathryn Hill. Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, Milford Liggett and Earl Thompson. Pinnochio, Wesley Jones. Rip Van Winkle, Ruby Grace Prunty. Heidi, Ella Guyer. Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, Nancy Sutton. Robin Hood, Duane Corporon. Song, Texas, Our Texas, entire class.
In celebrating National Book Week, we made original posters on some of the books we have been reading. There have been some splendid ones handed in.
Third and Fourth Grades.
Last Friday was a very rainy day and only 21 of us were there, so Miss Mansfield let us work in the sand table after the recess in the afternoon. We had a good time fixing it. All of us did something special and we had a very pretty Indian scene with figures, canoes, totem poles, tepees, and everything else that belongs to the Indians. Everyone sure does like it. We have decorated our windows, too, with Thanksgiving baskets of fruit.
We are going to lose one of our pupils, Curtis Dickert, and we are all very sad over it. He is going to move to Angleton.
Some of the pupils said they spent the day in Bay City, but Ray Lee spent it in a mud puddle--not that it rained very much. Miss Mansfield went to Wharton with Miss Bell Saturday. And that is the third and fourth grade news except that we have the Thanksgiving chapel program next Wednesday.
Primary News.
Alan McCune visited in Houston last week-end.
Miss Harris spent the week-end in Bay City.
Cleo Bond spent the week-end in Bay City.
Dorothy and Jessie McItyre spent Sunday in Victoria.
Zim and Era Mae Dickert are moving to Angleton. We sure do hate to see them go.
Among those on the honor roll in the primary room are: Cleo Bond, Betty Nicholson, Erma Lashbrook, Billy Mize and Gilbert Ross.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 22, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
From an article on fish and fisheries of the Geographical Magazine, I have this information: "Biologically, perhaps the most interesting of all species are the flat fish, flounders and halibut, with their changing forms and migrating eyes. By what strange quirk of nature, the left eyes of species inhabiting cold water usually migrate to right side of the head, while the right eye of most species inhabiting warm waters journey over to the left, no scientist will venture a guess. When they are hatched, all flatfish are of orthodox symmetrical shape, with conventionally placed mouths and eyes. While very young they swim about the same style as any other fish. Soon there is a tendency to turn on the side. The peculiar migration of the eyes according to students of the fish, is complete in three days and thereafter the flounder is a flat fish." I have never seen a flounder from the gulf waters with eyes on the right side. If any flounder fisherman reads this and catches a right eyed flounder please inform me about it and where and when caught.
Well, we have another fish in this burg. It is not a flat fish either, but round, plump, rosy, bright as a new silver dollar, weighs ten pounds in its stocking feet. It is a sweet beautiful girl, making its home for board room with Mr. and Mrs. Hendricks. Colonel Tom Fulcher is the proud grandfather. All first year students are called fish, so this is our newest fish. If it grows up to be a worm [woman] like its mama and aunties, it is bound to be one grand girl.
Last Sunday more than twenty cars were here seeking fish. I am told some rare catches were made that day. Geese still come in, but are getting a bit shy and difficult to approach. Ducks are here in a plenty and are fat. The library opened as usual on Friday, served out fifty-nine books and had more than forty guests who registered in the visitors book. The library is a peaceful place to spend the afternoon. There is always something restful in the presence of good books. Some come just to rest and discuss the books. Soon as Mopac House is finished, the library will have a nice reception room and be able to entertain many more visitors. When the Burton D. Hurd Land Company planned a town known as Collegeport, they first purchased the desired land from the owners. Next they had it surveyed into blocks and alleys, bay shore boulevards and lots, leaving adequate streets and alleys, bay shore boulevards and other places which they deeded to the use of the public. These streets, alleys, bay shore lands belong to no individual, but are public property and as such should be inviolate. Are they? They are not.
The townsite company, which above all others, should see to it that public rights and enjoyment should be preserved has through the acts of its agent, fenced up and thus closed every street and alley from Avenue I to the east town line and from Central Street to North Street, a little matter of fifty-five blocks.
This is about one-fourth of the townsite and includes much property that does not belong to the townsite company and neither the company nor its agents had any authority to include such property in the fenced area or exclude with a fence free access to such blocks or lots. Now comes a man who is erecting a garage in the middle of the street in front of his house. Plenty of room on either side, but it must needs be in the street. This is a violation of the public rights. This party, I am informed, does this because, as he says, the town is not incorporated. It is not, that is true and it is also true that this county only has two incorporated cities, Bay City and Palacios. Wonder what would happen if some person should start to erect a building in a street of Matagorda, Markham, Blessing or any other incorporated village. Nothing except notice to vacate and if not obeyed, demolition. There are in Texas many towns of as many as fifteen hundred people who prefer to be unincorporated for many good reasons. In enjoying this preference, they do not give up their rights to streets, alleys, parks or other public places. Acting under my rights, I now plan to erect in front of the Holsworth house a fish house, in front of Kundingers an oyster house, in front of Hurds a shrimp packery, in front of Mowerys a bath house and boat house. I also plan to extend the library by building an annex which will cross the street to the school campus. I do this so the pupils will not have to walk so far for books. Just south of the church is a fine place for a long garage which may be used to shelter the teams of Messrs. Heisey and Carrick. I am strictly within my rights for this town is not incorporated. There will be some objection, of course, but I shall stand on my rights as one of the public, to take my share when, where and as I wish. If the lot owners in any block desire the street to be vacated, the law provides the method and it is an easy matter. Just petition the county court and the job is done in a legal manner, but this taking possession of public property without right, rhyme or reason, is quite another proposition.
Central Street is 100 feet wide, all others are 60 wide, except Avenue L, which is 80 feet wide. This 80 foot street is closed by a fence just north of Central Street. It should be opened to North Street. Avenue D should be opened through to North Street. People live up at the north side of town and I am informed that quite recently an owner lost the sale of a property in that section because of its inaccessibility. The buyer wanted a place for summer and winter family vacations. We should provide such folk with entrance and exit, that is, if we desire to attract people to come here for play.
I could write two more pages on this subject, but must stop for wish to talk the matter over with Mrs. Holsworth as to just where I shall build my fish house. I also must get up a bill of material and sign an application to the PWA or FERA for funds with which to build. This will easily go through, for these buildings will employ labor in construction and operation and are for the convenience of the public. Of course, I expect to make some money out of the fish, oyster and shrimp business as well as the boat and bath house. Jack Holsworth will operate the fish house, Hattie Kundinger the oyster house, Bill Hurd the shrimp factory, Mrs. Mowery, O, boy, how the fellows will flock to that bath house with her as manager. I have it all worked out and you will soon see our town grow. The song of the hammer will be heard on bay shore, school campus and Church Street. That will be music.
"The good old rule Sufficeth them, the simple plan, That they should take who have the power, And they should keep who can."
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 22, 1934 |
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THOUGHTS PICKED UP By Harry Austin Clapp
Our Postmaster General, Ben R. Mowery, sports a jipper [zipper?] tobacco pouch that is the envy of all smokers.
Gustave Franzen shoots his gun once and slays three big geese.
The good ship Sea Haag dragged anchor and was dashed against the Collegeport Seawall and sank to the bottom of the sea. Salvaged by Douglas Whitehead is now in dry dock taking on repairs.
The garage is still standing in the street making another beauty spot for Collegeport.
Talking with one of our citizens about the Bankhead law, I gave it as my opinion that the only way to secure co-operation of farmers was by compulsion. Pretty soon, my friend told me that it also was his opinion that farmers should be compulsed. Pretty good word even if not in the dictionary.
Louie Walter still drawing on that crooked stem pipe.
Frank King swelling about in new cow man boots
A. E. McCune, manager of the McCune Trading Company hustling about seeking those who wish to trade anything from a rat hide to a house.
Rosalie Nelson looking nifty in a brand new jacket. Some stylish girl. Ethel blowing balloons and sometimes they bust with a loud report.
Entrance fee to Van Wormer Field Friday five centavos, but many not knowing about it passed in free of the exorbitant charge.
Heard at the Postoffice "Mr. Mowery I guess you hain't got no mail fur me is they?" Mr. Mowery sadly shakes his old gray head and replies "No mail to day." Thanksgiving packages by mail and express.
Vernon Hurd checking oil deliveries on the road work.
It is reported that work will begin on the Mopac House Tuesday. Have heard the tale so often that will wait until I hear the hammer.
Was in Bay City Monday on public business and the city looked as fresh and sweet as a young bride. Some of the clerks have swelled heads, others are intent on pleasing the customer and doing business.
Carl Boeker is hunting for his "Boeker's Grocery sign." Might find it if he will go to church.
One time a fellow, looking down a gun barrel, lost an eye. Gerald Wells should take warning.
When Manford Foster moves to Angleton, the president of the Night Club will have to secure another bar tender. Perhaps John Heisey would serve.
The Collegeport Supply Company brought in two cranberries last week.
If any of the Tribune readers has a fresh milk goat, inform Mason Standish Holsworth. The little Holsworth kiddie is hungry for some good sweet, luscious goat milk.
Because the government killed so many hogs, thus advancing the price of pork, about the best Jimmy Gartrell can do is to eat hog tootsies.
Us Homecrofters almost got a radio Monday.
John Fox plus Mary Ellen, plus another Mary equals one full "koop."
Milford Liggett drives his herd of cattle to the dipping vat.
Some of our burghers smoke twofer cigars and feel quite important especially when meeting a corn cob smoker.
Saw a young girl standing in the P. O. Lobby look disconsolate, forlorn, unhappy. I thought a face wash in clean water might raise her spirits.
Might be a life saver if some of our folk would use a few doses of hexylresorcinol. Good for what ails them.
Wednesday morning about 2:30 what appeared to be a diminutive gulf storm stuck this community. It appeared to be quite important and demonstrative and the wind had a velocity of perhaps fifty miles. I am informed by Ben R. Mowery, who has charge of the local weather bureau, that the barometer went down to 29.65 which [is] pretty near to storm limit. Considerable rain fell, but the morning broke "brite and fare" so we all rejoice and hope for fine weather during the days of Thanksgiving this week.
Fred Ballhorst, local representative of the townsite company, has the pleasure of a visit from his brother, August Ballhorst, from Beardstown, Illinois. He was accompanied by his wife and the latter's mother and his daughter. Tuesday they tripped down the coast to Corpus Christi and the next day departed for their home. Their departure was hastened by the continuous rain showers which denied them the pleasure of driving about this section. Having drunk water from our artesian wells, they will some day feel the urge and return.
Sometimes it requires a bit of time for advertising to begin to pull, but once started, it brings results always. Now for instance, several weeks ago in this column, I advertised that my Beautiful Red Bird had disappeared. Last week word came that the red head had been found in Marshall, Texas and now I am again happy and content for I have found my red bird. One may have black birds, brown birds, yellow birds, but a red bird is something else.
One of our business men, who moved to Bay City five months ago, has now moved to Huntsville and has taken a position as "trustee" on one of the State farms. This guarantees a large cotton crop for the coming season and he plans to return here in time to help handle the local crop, especially the picking.
Many folk read the Tribune and a few read "Thoughts," but how many ever think of the Editor, writer or typesetter. One did this week, a woman from north Texas. She wrote me a Thanksgiving letter, a beautiful epistle expressing thanks that our lines had crossed and closed with this:
"When the evening sun has faded At the closing of the day, And we sit beside the fire Just to pass the time away; There's a thought that comes a stealing When I'm feeling sort of blue; Just a little prayer of gratitude That I crossed paths with you.
So I'm sending you this letter Just because I want to say, That I'm glad the fates arranged it So that you would pass my way. Just to hear your voice and see you Made my sky a bit more blue; And I'm just a bit more happy Since I crossed paths with you."
And she adds "this is not original, but it does express my very thoughts and regards for you." Mighty sweet letter from a very sweet woman and I am thankful that she is my friend.
Say, but the fellow who operates that "line-o-type" sure played hob with my copy last week. Several errors, but the worst jolt was the setting of my copy about that sweet little kiddie that came to the Hendricks home. Copy read "if she grows up to be a woman like her mamma and aunties she is bound to be one grand girl." As printed it reads "if she grows up to be a worm like her mamma and aunties." If that line-o-type man will come down here and cast his eyes on Mrs. Hendricks, Barbara Hale and Myrtle Duffy, he will find nothing that resembles a worm. They are all fine looking young women with sweet faces and charming manners. Barbara will soon move to Bay City and may be seen around the court look see. If my left eye is still capable of vision, these girls are splendid examples of pulchritude or in other words, they are soothing and healing to the eye.
After we had finished the flounders brought by Douglas Whitehead, the miserable wretch said "well now what will we do when the wolf scratches at our door?" I replied "O let the Lord look after that damned coyote." He did, for from the Liggett hog farm came luscious spare ribs and O, boy, with sauer kraut, they certainly drove that lobo away. We then depended on Gerald Wells for a fat goose on Friday, but he failed to connect and, the gods be praised, here comes Gustave (young boy) Franzen with a beef roast that weighs about fifty pounds more or less perhaps, but it is a streak of lean and a streak of fat and it is in that old iron pot that mother used to use along with particular things that develop the tangible. I suspect that Gustave (old boy) had something to do with the elegant, graceful gesture, so when I thank God for his goodness, I shall tell Him about the Franzen clan.
Friday the Blessing Blessed Babes visited Van Wormer Field and tangled with the Bay View Bob Cats. The cats did the most scratching and at the end of the fracas, the "Empire" announced a score of 39 to 9 in favor of the Cats. About 150 witnessed the game and paid the sum of five centavos to secure admission. This is strictly good business and gives the school a little change for general expense.
The library open as usual and about fifty books let out and thirty five guests. Along about noon, just as I was lifting that roast out of that there old iron pot my mother used, a car roared into the yard and a giant emerged. I soon found it was John Fox, who with Vernon Hurd, is repairing our nine foot sidewalk. We had a joyous lunch and regretted the time when John was obliged to go back to the tread mill.
The Continental Oil Company, after spending many thousands of dollars on two deep tests east of Collegeport, became discouraged and have abandoned further operations and the big steel derrick is being moved to near Alvin. In both tests, at a depth of from 6500 to 7500 feet, what is called shifting shale was encountered. I am informed that no driller has ever been able to pass through this formation. Those fortunate to receive lease money are just that sum in the clear for no doubt none of them will be renewed.
Mrs. A. E. McCune gave a luncheon Saturday honoring Mrs. James Aiken, the bride of Reverend Aiken pastor of the local church. While quite informal, it was a dainty gesture and a most delicious menu was served. Mr. and Mrs. Aiken have been guests at the McCune home for two days.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 29, 1934 |
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The 4-H Club is enthusiastic over the plan of the club work for the year. Mrs. Sides met with us last Monday and outlined our work which is certain to prove very interesting.
Tuesday, Nov. 20, new officers were elected, much to the relief of the old ones. The officers are as follows: George Alice Jones, president; Auldine Williams, vice president; Rosalie Nelson, secretary-treasurer; Ethel Nelson, song leader; and Annette Johnson, reporter.
Senior Notes.
Our six weeks exams are here again, much to our sorrow. We had a test today in English on "Burke's Conciliation of America"--and Oh Boy! Did we reconcile that English parliament.
We really met our Waterloo today in advanced arithmetic. Oh well,--we reconcile ourselves with the coming of Thanksgiving holidays.
Believe It Or Not.
Rosalie is still making her choice. It's good perhaps that this isn't the time when affairs of the heart were settled by duels.
Wade was at the dance alone Friday night. Wonder what was wrong with Fawn?
When couples are counted on the school bus, Moely always puts in for five. What is this, bigamy?
Earlene is looking lonely these days.
Arthur made his regular Friday night visit, although "she" wasn't there.
Auldine is blaming her bicycle these days when she wants to get herself out of a tight place.
Emma and Monkey seemed to have a nice time last Wednesday night.
Sport News.
The Collegeport Cubs played the Gulf boys in a night game last Wednesday, Nov. 21, to win their fourth successive victory. Due to the weak lights and the Cubs first experience on such a court, the score did not run very high, being only 13-6. Wade Blackwell was high point man, making eight points.
The Cubs played the Blessing boys last Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock at Collegeport to win the fifth victory with a score of 39-9. Noel Adams was high point man.
Girl Reserve News.
The Girl Reserves met Friday afternoon in the community house. Miss Parker gave a most interesting talk on Personality. Friday was the regular day of candy sale. Miss Carter visited us last week. We have begun our handcraft work, and are all very enthusiastic over the projects.
Sophomore News.
We have just finished reading "Enoch Arden" in English. We had quite a disagreement over it, too. In history, we have finished the story of Napoleon and in Spanish we have completed the terrible exam. The theme in this week's paper is by one of our classmates and we're proud of her.
Seventh Grade.
In English we are studying comparison of adjectives.
Can You Imagine.
Ruby Lee saving places on the bus for Glenn? George Alice teaching? Geneva getting help from Woodie in history? Elizabeth wearing long stockings with her P. E. suit? Jane showing her love to Earl Shows? Fred not eating raw biscuits? Woodie falling for all the lady teachers? Mr. Curtis leaving a dance at 9 o'clock? Reva and Jessie Mae coming to school?
Fifth and Sixth Grade.
Since this is Thanksgiving week, we are making suitable posters. Miss Chipman [Chapman] is going to give a prize to the pupil having the highest average in spelling at the end of the school term.
Joke
A country boy was planting corn on a farm. A city guy came down the road. City Guy: Your corn is rather yellow. Country Boy: Yes sir, we planted the yellow kind. City Guy: You're not far from a fool. Country Boy: Just across the fence from one, sir.
Third and Fourth Grades.
We are having charge of Thanksgiving chapel program Wednesday, and are having two short plays, poems, and songs by members of our big class. We have started having P. E. three days a week instead of only two, and like it so much better that way. We have changed our sand table again and have a Pilgrim scene. The blackboards have been painted and are decorated with chalk drawings of National Book Week, a November calendar and Thanksgiving fruit baskets.
We are sorry to hear that one of our old schoolmates was burned real badly last week when the gasoline of the car flared up and all but killed him. The poor boy was Van Adams, and we surely do hope he'll be all right in a short time.
A "Rip Van Winkle" in Modern Life.
[Not included]
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, November 29, 1934
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Girl Reserve News.
At the regular meeting Friday, the girls chose the various articles that they want to make in handcraft. The girls are planning to donate several things to the Woman's Club bazaar that is to be held next Thursday, Nov. 6. One of the girls had already finished a purse and scarf. It is very attractive. Several of the girls have started on their weaving.
Sport News.
The Collegeport Cubs missed a game last week, but we have one matched with Markham for Wednesday, Dec. 5. We hope to add another victory to our straight win record.
Junior News.
Gee! We sure are glad that our six weeks exams are over. We are very proud of our grades, although they could be better. Miss Parker was as surprised as the geometry class at the grades made on the test papers.
We Wonder Why?
Clara and Wade didn't come to school today. The boys in the English III class didn't get their English today. Irwon thought next month was July. Something big must be worrying her.
Sophomore News.
We're back after the swell Thanksgiving holidays in the awful misery of school work. We had a nice little lesson in Spanish Wednesday. We did nothing but conjugate twenty-one verbs in the imperfect subjunctive. We're studying about the restoration of the dynasties in history--and we hope we hope they're soon in place. In English we have taken up the subject of short stories. It may prove interesting after we read some of these stories.
Can You Imagine.
George Alice coming to school and not complaining about indigestion! Wanda attending school regularly. Ralph staying "out of de westside" for a certain place near the bay? Lottie Mae reading her history lesson. Alice always telling Miss Parker she had up her algebra lesson?
Freshman News.
In English we are studying noun clauses. Last week we were having a terrible time with adjective clauses and noun clauses are easier. In history, we are studying about the Punic wahs and they are beginning to be very interesting.
Can You Imagine.
Lloyd making just a low grade in English? Glenn saving a place for Rubye Lee and then Rubye Lee refusing to sit by him. Marjorie being sick during all the holidays. Milford, Wesley and Harold being Miss Mansfield's Musketeers?
Seventh Grade News.
We are having a tough time in history. Woodie's average is 75 and Mr. Curtis gives us a test everyday.
Mr. Curtis went to Christian Endeavor meeting, but he didn't manage to be the first one to the "eats"--too slow--for once.
We have "The Three Musketeers" in the sixth and eighth grades.
Can You Imagine.
Maud trying to catch Wilburn without a net? Fred not wanting to draw Marjorie's name for Christmas? Chester not wanting to give his girl a present. Charlie not wanting to draw Jessie Mae's name. Jane not showing her watch to everyone.
Fifth and Sixth Grade News.
Have You Noticed?
Ethel and Dorothy doing the Twist? Milford beating Arthur's time? Frances heart broken because Ovin left? Wesley, Milford and Harold being Miss Mansfield's bodyguard? Durwood and Frances making eyes at each other? Ethel crying when Curtis left?
About half the room was absent the Monday after Thanksgiving. It looks like too much turkey. Bob Ackerman gave a particularly interesting talk on the Alamo, which he visited during the holidays. One thing in particular was amusing to us. After the report, Ethel Nelson said, "Well, Miss Chapman, if the Alamo fell when Santa Anna fought the Texas there, they must have rebuilt it didn't they?"
Third and Fourth Grade News.
Whether it rains or shines, we always have nearly 100 per cent attendance. And the old turkey didn't get any of us, either.
We had a lot of fun putting on our chapel program, although the second play wasn't very good. But Lola B. and G. R. really put on a good show. We have lots of talent in our room.
We're getting ready for our Christmas decorations. And we've names for the Christmas tree, too. We're going to have a party and everything.
Since we are having our P. E. periods with the other grades, we like it so much better. And our boys can really stand up against the larger ones in hitting that baseball.
Primary News.
The primary room is decorated to represent toyland at Christmas time. Our Christmas sand table will represent the shepherd's following the star across the desert to find the baby Jesus.
The chapel program on Wednesday, Dec. 12, will be given by the first and second grades under the direction of Miss Harris, the tiny tots rhythm band will be featured.
Those making all A's this month are Cleo Bond, Erma Lashbrook and Bettie Nicholson.
Miss Harris spent Friday and Saturday in Houston.
Donald King and Alan McCune were Bay City visitors Saturday.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 6, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
When a man brags that he has many friends, he brags that he has enemies. Friends are few and are consecrated in the inner sanctuary of one's soul. On the fingers of one hand, I can count my friends, the kind that would divide the last crust and if needs be, give it all to save my life. I am thankful for them more than words expressed. I am thankful for a roof, for raiment, for health, for wife, son, daughter, daughter Ann and grandchild Nancy and sister Lucy and all my kin folk. For these and other rich blessings, I give thanks to my God and I do it humbly knowing that all I have, come from Him and to Him I am indebted for my next breath.
Yes, I am thankful this day as I sit at our old oaken board and watch the smiles rippling over the face of Mary Louise like shining wavelets on the breast of a quiet sea. We have had a great day and beginning another year I hold up the Cross of Faith and believe that come what may, God will be with me and with those I love.
If I have been correctly informed, it might be well to either have the school bus lighted when it takes another night trip to Bay City, or if this is not possible, place the girls in straight jackets and handcuff the boys.
The last time I saw one of my young girl friends, she was in a hospital, but she evidently has recovered for she writes me from New York where the week back is spending a week-end. She writes that she is very near heaven and that is so, for she rooms on the 30th floor of the Hotel Taft. She wishes I might be there and so do I for we would go out and have a glass of "sody water" and maybe some peanuts.
For twenty-five years it has been the custom of the good folk of Citrus Grove to observe Thanksgiving day with a big community dinner. This year, in spite of the deluge that made rivers out of roads, they kept the custom and although only thirty four were present, a most enjoyable time was had, food was there in generous quantities from turkey, roast goose, to salads and fruits, but the most nourishing and satisfying was a big tank of those famous Carrie Nelson Noodles. No matter what sort of an affair is arranged, it is not a complete success without those noodles. The railroad station building being no more, the dinner was held in the church house where a splendid program was given and games provided other amusement.
The next number on the program will be Collegeport's annual New Year's day community dinner. This has also been held for twenty five years without a break. One year, because of a fierce north gale, driving heavy rain, freezing temperature, and deep mud, only two were present, but they kept the chain unbroken. All hail to the old timers who remember these events each year.
George Harrison, accompanied by chief engineer John Fox, were here Friday inspecting the sea wall. With they had cast an engineering eye on that garage standing in the middle of an important street.
Wednesday night at 10:10, an auto drove into our yard and there we had our sweet daughter, Mary Louise. She was accompanied by Mr. Rege Creede of Bryan who came to seek a goose or two or maybe four. Four days of delight, and then she was gone again, but glory be she will return Saturday night Dec. 22 for a week's stay. Mr. Creede was a faithful hunter Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and at last was rewarded with a big goose and a fat duck.
Two friends of Arnold Franzen down from Houston and with Gustave Franzen, took eleven geese Saturday evening. Dean Merck took one that weighed 9 1/2 pounds and many others were taken the last three days. The birds are here in thousands, but they are shy and approach is not easy.
The Collegeport Supply Company has installed a four story pyramid show stand and on it is displayed as swell a stock of high grade preserved, jellies, vinegars, soups, gelatins, candied fruits as I have seen for many a day. It is a sweet display and a credit to the store.
December 2, 1914, witnessed the marriage of Mr. Lester E. Liggett and Miss Agnes Spence at Buckeye, Texas. Each five years since that time they have entertained a few friends at dinner. Saturday night was the third time friends have met in the Liggett home to honor this couple. Twenty years has brought to them two sons and a daughter so they are well repaid for a twenty year journey on the more or less turbulent matrimonial sea. In addition, they have gathered choice friendships. This being the china anniversary, most of the gifts were of that ware and they were beautiful and serviceable. Although the day started "brite and fare," the evening was cloudy and held out some threats. Inside the home was comfort, peace, brilliant lights, happy chatter. The table arranged for fourteen guests was ablaze with crystal glass, china, silver and dainty linen, all suggestive of the festival occasion. The menu consisted of shrimp cocktails, cheese wafers, baby cut string beans, roast turkey, with mashed potatoes and oyster dressing, hot rolls and butter, jellies, pickles, fruit salad in orange cups, pineapple jello covered with whipped cream, angel food wedding cake decorated with a miniature bride and groom, coffee. Table service was a delight, as it was rendered by Miss Roberta Liggett, daughter of the house, assisted by Miss Ethel Nelson. The guests were Mr. and Mrs. Burton D. Hurd, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Nelson and daughter Rosalie, Mrs. Helen Holsworth, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Austin Clapp and daughter Mary Louise and Mr. Rege Creede of Bryan. Mrs. Holsworth enjoys the distinction of having been present at the wedding and each of the celebrations. After a most delightful evening, the guests departed thankful of the opportunity to give honor to this family and each one hoping to be on the list in 1939.
Every two weeks, the school holds an assembly in the church house the program being rendered by the different rooms. The Thanksgiving program was under the direction of Miss Mansfield and her pupils. It was fine that Miss Mansfield's toe had so far recovered as to enable her to sit with comfort. Two skits were given, one a Puritan scene and the other of the little boy who dreamed that turkeys were after him well acted by G. R. Hendricks. The turkeys were boys and girls adorned with paper caps and quite realistic. Singing by the school was inspiring and the songs given by little Lola Long were a feature of the entertainment and she could be called the "Crooner" singer of Collegeport.
Mopac house still stands unroofed, unfloored, unpainted, waiting, waiting for word from Austin to begin work. I am in hopes that the word will come before Mopac House is a crumbling mass of decay
Just time to have some of the faith I wrote about in first page. Even if the old pessimists sit on the buzzards roost and croak in dismal tones, I have faith.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 6, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article about Jack Hill and Judge W. O. Huggins.]
I am writing about two men who died suddenly within the past week. One was known as Jack Hill. Jack Hill lived in and near Collegeport for twenty years, but recently moved back to his home place near Nashville, Tenn. Last week he came back to Texas and preparing to begin farming was moving his goods and equipment into the new place when he was taken suddenly ill and passed away in a short time. Jack Hill was a successful cotton farmer.
About the production of cotton, he knew as much as the best. About the handling of cotton from the gin to the mill he knew more than a dozen. He could and did discuss with intelligence, the business of cotton exchanges, the compress, the loading of a ship, the world markets, the work of the mill and he knew what he was talking about. He was an interesting companion and it was a real joy to listen to him.
He loved fine stock, cows, hogs, chickens, but was particularly interested in running horses and of them he was well equipped with race information and horse records. He likes harness horses, but to him they were not in the same class as the runners. He was kind to his helpers and generous to those who needed aid. His outstanding feature was his love and tenderness to his sister with whom he lived for many years. One time during the absence of his sister, we had the pleasure of entertaining him at Thanksgiving dinner and we look back to that time with pleasure. Because of his sudden death, few knew of it until after the funeral service. Interment was in the Collegeport cemetery with some of those who knew him well present to show their respect. He leaves to mourn his death three sisters, one Mrs. Sam Primm, one who lives in Dallas and the one with whom he lived, Mrs. Sallie Taylor and besides a host of friends who admired and respected him. Jack Hill was a fine man. He should have lived thirty years. As one who knew him well, I mourn his passing.
"The Wine of Life keeps oozing drop by drop, The Leaves of Life keep falling one by one."
I am informed that Postmaster General Farley has instructed the local office that in as much as there are only three Republicans, viz: S. W. Corse, Mrs. Rena Wright and H. A. Clapp, in Collegeport that he might take action to keep them away from the postoffice as Republicans are not needed. Acting on these instructions, Postmaster Mowery has installed a Mephietis mephitica [skunk] under the post office floor. This should keep Republicans away and it may discourage a few Democrats. I am unable to vouch for the truth of this information except that Mephietis mephitica is there.
All children have read the story of how George Washington did not tell a lie, but this may also be true about our local George Washington. George has been in the oyster business for some time and has become quite a necessity and when he informed me that he was going to move to Houston I wondered if he told the truth. Hope not, for at least one George should be a liar.
...during the home gathering of Mary Louise, she and the miserable wretch talked until a late hour. This was disturbing to me and the next day I was unable to write "Thoughts."
The Woman's Union held their annual bazaar Thursday. Many fine articles were for sale and readily purchased. Oysters in stew, raw and fried, were served with delicious coffee. Because of the inclement weather, attendance was smaller than usual, but receipts were satisfactory. I had the pleasure of meeting a very sweet and beautiful young woman who introduced herself to me as Mrs. Aiken. Not until she added "I am the preacher's wife," did I place her. She had met the miserable wretch and wanted to know what sort of fellow the husband was. Maybe she found out, but any way she is a very interesting, refined, beautiful young woman and in my opinion, the Reverend James Aiken picked her where the picking was good.
Friday evening, a big bunch of geese dropped down near the old rail station site. Dean Merck drove there with three shells and in twenty minutes returned with one shell and two big fat Canadian Geese.
Saturday morning just before sunrise, there were two big flights. One on the east and the other on the west. Soon I heard an automatic belching death to geese and I suppose some fellow took his limit before sunrise. Shooting these days has increased the slaughter of migratory birds. After four days rest, they are tame and easily approached. These birds may easily be protected and at the same time give plenty of sport by allowing the use of only single shot guns. With such a gun, any good sport may secure his limit and the birds still have a chance. What more does a good sportsman want?
I hope Gerald Wells will have some better luck before the season closes for I want to can a few geeses.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 13, 1934 |
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Senior News.
The longed for class rings are almost here and we are elated. It has been so long since we ordered them that we hardly know what they look like.
It seems to us that our teachers are getting a test complex. Daily tests in civics, tests in English and a test today in advanced arithmetic.
Miss Bells leaving us has caused quite an assortment of sad feelings. Annette feels that she can best express hers through poetry, Miss Bell should feel honored.
Our senior class is slightly diminished. Noel left us to move to Angleton and Fawn left us for a junior matrimonial career. We certainly hated to lose them.
Sport News.
Collegeport played Markham on Dec. 5 at Markham and won another victory.
The lineup and points of the two teams was as follows: Collegeport - Adams, L, Penland 2, Kucher, King 2, Liggett 2, Blackwell 7, Adams, N. 8.
Markham - Kilpatrick 2, Darnell 3, Townsend, Darrell, Harger 8, Paige, Farthing 1.
The Collegeport Cubs played Markham again at Collegeport on December 10 and retained victory.
Players and points were: Collegeport - King 2, Adams, L. 1, Liggett 2, Adams, N. 3, Blackwell 4, Penland.
Markham - Kilpatrick 3, Townsend, Darnell, Harper 1, Teat, Farthing 1, Paige 2.
Girl Reserve News.
Friday the Girl Reserves practiced their folk dances. Miss Carter arrived just as we began and after we were through she showed us some things she had gotten from the Chicago World's Fair representing every country. Her stories of the different countries was very interesting. She also talked to us about our handcraft.
The Girl Reserve Club received hearty thanks from the president of the Woman's Club for our donations to their annual bazaar on December 6. The girls were glad to assist the club as they are always.
4-H Club News.
The 4-H Club is very industrious getting their shoe racks made. They are supposed to have them made by Tuesday, when the regular meeting will be held.
Sophomore News.
We seem to be getting along just fine in all of our subjects. I'll change that. We seem to be getting along alright in everything but history. Mr. Cherry has it in for us. He made us the nicest little promise the other day. He said we'd have a quiz or test every day before our lesson.
Did we like that? I should say not!
You know hints usually grow into something more than that. We know now that we will lose our English teacher. That is almost like pronouncing a death sentence to us. We don't seem to know just how valuable a friend we've got, until we lose it. (We'll certainly miss her even though she was hard on us.)
Algebra and Spanish are coming long just fine. We are almost typical Spainards, due to our splendid teacher.
Seventh Grade News.
Woody was awfully disappointed in his history grade. He made 76 instead of 100.
Mr. Guy Real and Ruby Mae Real were visitors Friday afternoon. We were all very glad to see them.
Mr. Curtis is still giving tests every day in history and geography. We are having a pretty hard time diagramming sentences in English. We sure hate to see our teacher leave us, but we wish her happiness. We also hope we'll like our new English teacher. We have our mid-term exams three weeks after Christmas. We surely hate that.
Third and Fourth Grade News.
Our room is getting ready for Christmas. We have a beautiful tree in our sandtable, paper and cotton Santa Clauses on the windows and one board, colored Christmas trees, pictures, just everything. We like the room all dressed up.
In language the other day, we had to write Christmas poems and stories. Some of them were very good and some were very funny.
We are having our Christmas party Friday afternoon. We've asked the fifth and sixth grade pupils and Miss Chapman to come, too. Several of the parents are coming, too. We can't wait to see all the presents.
And What Do You Know About It?
Fawn and Wade are married.
Mr. Cherry sat on a justice of peace. Tsk! Tsk! What a strong man.
Rosalie insists that an absolute error is something that is absolutely wrong.
Miss Bell wants us to wait and give Fawn a combination shower.
Annette wants to know if justice of the peace marry people--sounds suspicious.
Billie can't stand the cutting up in biology.
Arthur has proposed to a senior girl.
George Alice is becoming more and more interested in a certain young man who drives a model A Ford.
Ralph answered a question in history correctly the other day.
Wanda looks rather sad since Jack left school.
Lottie Mae apparently liked to sit with Wade.
Alice L. and Dan seem to have eyes only for each other.
Alice H. doesn't like algebra very well.
Can You Imagine It?
Miss Mansfield not having a dozen kids hanging around her. Chester not coming to school to see Jessie Mae. Charlie not talking to Louise. Gilbert being proud of making 28 in spelling. Rubye Lee making 100 in arithmetic. Woody killing a goose. Jane coming to church. Miss Bell not coming to English classes one day. Viola going to church twice in one day. Wilburn trying to catch Alice L. without a net. A Christmas tree without any decorations. Alex trying to catch Ethel, but not being able to take her away from Kent. Dora Mae getting mad at Miss Mansfield. Bernice going home with Dora Mae and then crying to go home. G. R. trying to catch Lola B., the songbird. San Antonio detaining Miss Bell. Coffee making Mr. Cherry stutter. Billie not being able to draw a parallel line. Rosalie not being happy the last two Friday nights. Earlene down with the measles. Miss Parker being on a rampage.
Road Progress in Our County. By Noel Adams.
The first roads of our county were only cowtrails. The ranchmen traveled on horseback or in big wagons therefore they did not need improved roads. The ranch houses were long distances apart and when the cowboys and ranch owners wanted to go to town or anywhere else, they would take the shorter route. These routes were the first roads.
When the country began to be populated, graded roads were introduced. At first the roads were only built from one town or postoffice to another and the farmers had to get on the main roads the best way they could. As the population grew and roads became necessary, branch roads were built. These roads suited the farmers at first, but when the towns began to grow, better roads were necessary. The roads were then made bigger and better and were kept dragged so that cars could travel on them with ease. These roads served the purpose during dry weather, but when a rainy spell began, the roads became impossible [impassable?]. The people then began to want a better road bed.
The first improved roads were shell. Some of the main highways were shelled. Others were shelled in the worst places. The first shell roads were built about 1920. The shell roads were a great improvement over the dirt roads, but they were rough.
They served well for the old model T Fords. When the cars were improved, it was necessary for the roads to be improved.
About 1927 the first concrete roads were built. The first good concrete roads that were built was the highway to Collegeport. About the same time, a road was built to Sargent. Then highway 58 was built. This concreted Bay City and Palacios. The highway was then built to Matagorda and several other small branches to all of the small towns. Some of these roads were only nine foot slabs of concrete with a shell curbing. These roads are sufficient to take care of the traffic.
The future outlook of the country roads is very favorable. The Hug-the-Coast has entered the county and is connected with highway 58, therefore it stands a good chance to be extended on across the county to reach Freeport. There is also some talk of a causeway being built across the bay from Palacios to Collegeport.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 20, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
Rosalie, intent on a fresh letter, I thought it the daily epistle, but it proved to be just an abracadabra.
I am informed that an affaire du coeur will interrupt our faculty during the holidays and that we will lose a very efficient teacher. As both of the men teachers are tied up very tight, it must be one of the girl teachers and I am worried about it for do not desire to lose one of those grand teachers. I shall look up the Law on this matter and advise my readers next week or two and when I find out for a certainty, I shall ring the Bell so all will have ample notice. Affaires du coeur are quite recherche or something like that. Since writing the above, I have been informed that shortly after Christmas, the Law will forbid the ringing of the Bell in this community. Bad cess? to the Law.
The Markham basket ball team came down Friday and tangled with the Bay View Bob Cats and like all the other visitors went home badly scratched. One kid on being asked what the score was replied "we beat him four points." Not knowing anything about points, I offer no explanation.
Wednesday morning, work began on Mopac House and we trust it will continue until finished and ready to be used for community pleasure. The library enjoys a new shingle roof, which was much needed and about half of one side of the main building is shingled. The front gallery roof is in place and it is a long, generous, friendly, sheltering room. Very soon the building will be wired for lights thanks to the kindness of the Central Power and Light Company whose engineers laid out the plan and supplied the material. A suitable location has been provided for a light plant, but up to date, it is not known where or how or when a plant will be arranged for, but be patient good men and women for as one of my readers wrote me "The government moves in a mysterious way its wonders to perform."
Out of those billions that are being distributed in so generous a manner, a light plant will evolve. It will probably pop out from some unknown place.
Two sad incidents last week. While working cattle, a horse fell on Leo Duffy inflicting several injuries which necessitated a trip to the hospital. The young son of Mrs. Charles Williams, taking the cap from a hot tractor radiator, was badly scalded on face, arms, breast and back. Both young men are improving and will soon be out.
I have often read about drinking from the same canteen, but that is nothing to eating on the same peanut bar with Susan Mansfield. She had the bar one end in her chawers and invited me to go into a huddle with her and chaw on the other end which I did much to our mutual pleasure. Eating a peanut bar alone is a joyful occupation but much more so when a peppy girl is on the other end. O, yes, I assure you that her toe is now fully recovered and she sits with comfort.
I can condone the drinking of liquor, the playing of cards, but I draw the line at lying and stealing. We have in this community some who will not only steal anything not securely nailed down, but they will be about the crime. A bar and a thief are outside my pale. Drink your booze, play poker or operate a wheel and I give you my respect, but a liar and a thief something else.
Friday, the Tribune came out an eight page paper, a credit to the publisher and to the county. The editor tells his readers that the issue is a valuable one. That may be so in his estimation, but among my treasures is something of greater value.
It is the first copy of the Weekly Tribune to run on the big new press installed by the Tribune Publishing Company.
This first paper is accompanied by a letter from the editor informing me that it is the first run. I shall keep it and pass it down and fifty or one hundred years from now, my great grand kids will display it with pride. It would be a grand idea if the merchants would use enough space so that the Tribune could issue an eight pager every day.
Wednesday we were delighted with a call from Mrs. Claire Pollard, County Superintendent of Schools. One reason why we delight in these calls is that Mrs. Pollard can talk with intelligence on many subjects. She is [a] well educated woman, a wide reader and an observer. She retires from public life the last of this month, after giving this county several years of rare service. Her friends, realizing her worth, trust that she may find a place worthy of her ability in the schools of the county. We have in our schools many teachers but with most of them teaching is a job for the time being. Few stick the job out for years and years and become devoted to the work.
Better get out the old snow shovel, clean up the coal shuttle, turn out the moth balls from the old overcoat for Winter begins Saturday, December 22nd, at 1:37 in the afternoon.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 20, 1934 |
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By Harry Austin Clapp
[Local information taken from longer article.]
We received from the Ben Milam Hotel, Houston a beautiful and unique Christmas card. Besides carrying an unusual greeting, it bore the facsimile signatures of every employee from manager to bell boys, elevator girls, painter and porter. It was a thoughtful remembrance of a two nights stay in that sweet house opposite the Union Station.
Thursday came George Harrison, Commissioner Precinct Three; Ed Baker, Commissioner Precinct Two and E. H. Taulbee, Diplomat and General Commissioner and useful man. They had enough shot guns to start a racketeering project, two dogs and ammunition sufficient. They fired nine times and took three quail. We, meaning I and the miserable wretch, "et" quail on toast for supper. I "et" two and the MW "et" one. I was afraid to let her have more than one for fear she would get too fat. A fat gal is inclined to be lazy. We discussed the causeway project, but it seems there are some complications. We must procure a right of way and that is where our friend Taulbee comes in. He not only knows what a right of way is, but he knows the way to right. I hope he will get busy on this right of way so that we, meaning I and the miserable wretch, may walk across to service at St. John's Chapel in Palacios.
The roof is on the Mopac House, windows in place and this week the cement floor will be laid. Not long now before we hold open house.
Sponsored by Mrs. Cherry and the Misses Parker, Mansfield, Chapman, Harris a shower was tendered the retiring teacher Miss Beryl Bell. The affair, a most brilliant occasion, was held in the sweet Hurd Bay Shore home which was tastefully and artistically decorated with greens and flowers. The central piece was a big tree over which presided Elliott Curtis as a Santa Claus. Refreshments consisted of tea, cakes and wafers. About sixty women were present in spite of the inclement weather. Out doors a continuous drizzle fell, while inside it was a pouring rain for the gifts were not only many but costly. It was a fitting climax to several year's service Miss Bell has given the community as a teacher. She has been loyal, hard working, efficient and her place on the faculty will be difficult to fill. Not only has she done most excellent work in the school room, but she has been in charge of the Girl Reserves and led that organization effectively and potently. Miss Bell leaves the school room to study Law and it is with genuine regret that the patrons of the school see her leave.
Heard at the post office a high school girl asked Mr. Mowery "has the mail came?" Mr. Mowery informed her that it was not due for twenty minutes and as she passed out, she met another girl who asked "has the mail came?" and the first girl replied "the mail hain't came yet." Why send kids to school when they can easily learn such English at home.
The school closed with a blaze of exciting programs. Miss Mansfield had her room decorated with a Christmas tree on which hung a gift for each pupil. An interesting singing and reciting program was rendered. Miss Mansfield was very thankful that her father contributed about thirty small rubber balloons, but much to her dismay when inflated they not only bore the slogan, "Merry Christmas" but "Trade at Penney's." she need not have suffered any consternation for that was a good advertising stunt. At one time fifteen autos were parked about the school and Mopac House. Most of the kids expressed themselves as glad school was out, but one bright, intelligent girl told me she never was glad and that she wished school would continue without vacations as she desired to finish and begin to prepare herself for a teacher. That girl will travel far. Lots of difference in girls. By six o'clock the campus was deserted and all teachers had pulled out for home ports. Observing the kids actions and language while hanging about the post office, one is shocked at the rudeness, lack of refinement, utter disregard for fine things.
Orrie [Orie?] Collins family are rejoicing over the arrival of a big fine boy [Orie Arthur Collins, Jr.]. Only yesterday, the mother (Lera Hunt) was tripping past our place singing her way to school. The Clyde Ware family also had a near Christmas gift in the arrival of a baby girl. It makes small difference how many folk move away, we manage to keep up with desertions and have a surplus and thus the burg grows.
I received three Christmas gifts that could not easily be placed in my stocking which hung at the fireplace--a cord of wood--a splendid Christmas tree--a twelve pound cheese.
All of my life I have hoped that some time I might possess an entire cheese. It is here, a Christmas gift from my beautiful and wonderful sweetheart who spends most of her time on the banks of the Chicago River. This cheese is five inches thick, ten inches in diameter and weighs twelve pounds. It has been ripening in storage so long that it is covered with delicate gray mold making beautiful figures and designs which delight the cheese lover. Using a sharp knife, I cut deep into its golden breast and then I sniffed. O, ecstasy! I tasted. O, lovely cheese! It was a real old cheese a fit home for skippers, sharp, crumbly, tantalizing and thanks to the god of good cheese, it melts down into a soft, yellow, golden cream that flows over toast like molten gold and makes a glorious rarebit. I could not put it in my stocking, but I know where I'll put this grand cheese, a Kraft-Phenix product.
The good ship Sea Haag dragged its anchor and went ashore on a bar near the Mowery home. There it rested until Friday. On that day Miss Bell had a final meeting with the Girl Reserves. It was a flood meeting and the flowing tears ran down to the bay and raised the tide sufficiently so that the Sea Haag once more proudly floated at her moorings.
Saturday night, well any way, about that time, came our wonderful daughter, Mary Louise. She arrived to be exact at one in the morning of the 23rd accompanied by John Fox, Muriel Fox, Alnee Hall and Patricia Martyn who drove to Bay City to meet her at 11:43 p. m. Well having that big cheese it suggested a rarebit, so I made one big enough for seven and when the platter was slick and clean and the soldiers all dead, it was three in the morning and so to bed. Now comes a week of happiness.
Sunday morning came Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Franzen and Clifford also Louise Walter and husband, Raymond Waters. All these children coming home make me think of homing pigeons seeking the home loft.
The Matagorda County Tribune, Thursday, December 27, 1934 |
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| Created May 31, 2009 |
Updated Jun. 9, 2009 |