McDowell, Mrs L'Ada 1972-01-27

Mrs. McDowell discusses her early life in Langtry, her married life in South Texas, and her real estate business in Del Rio after her husband’s death.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Mrs. L'Ada McDowell

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: January 27, 1972

Location: Del Rio, Texas

Interviewer: Fred Carpenter

Length: 1 hour 40 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Grandparents recalled, Remembers move to Val Verde County, Judge Roy Bean at Langtry remembered, Father’s death mentioned, Brothers enumerated, Recollections of school experiences, Comments on adobe house, Describes early Langtry, Judge Roy Bean and his son characterized, Lilly Langtry’s visit described, Comments on boxing match, Importance of railroad stated, Expression of attitude toward the area Mexican population, Meeting with husband reviewed.

Tape 1, Side 2: Discussion of marriage ceremony and early married life (1908-1912), Moved to Del Rio and began ranch operations, Speculations on government sponsored sheep program (1933-34), Children listed, Description of tropical storm in Harlingen, Husband’s death mentioned, Real estate business examined, Explains compilation of historical scrapbook and its subsequent publication, Mention of building a Del Rio library.

Tape 2, Side 1: Reveals experiences learning to drive an automobile, Langtry families discussed, Mentions feud plan to kill Mr. McDowell, Dreams involving deceased husband explored, Once had government agents on the McDowell Ranch, Enjoyed dancing to Mexican and American songs, Husband’s jealousy recalled, Memories of early cameras and phonographs.

Tape 2, Side 2: Radio program broadcast out of Del Rio commented on, Explains famous glandular operation, Speculates on retirement activities.

Range Dates: 1880s-1972

Bulk Dates: 1908-1934

Access Information

Original Recording Format:

Recording Format Notes:

Transcript:

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