Zesch, Gene 1976-02-03

Eugene Zesch, son of Mason County rancher Kurt Zesch, discusses his family, sheep and goat ranching in Durango, Mexico, and his career as a woodcarver and sculptor.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Eugene (Gene) Zesch

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: February 03, 1976

Location: Mason, Texas

Interviewer: Fred Carpenter

Length: 45 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Wood carving, Gene Zesch, Born: Mason, Texas (January 9, 1932), School, Graduated (1949), Ranch work, Whittling, Attended Texas A & M, Graduated (1953), Army career, Pilot, Married Patsy Underwood, Children, Carving, First carving, Inspiration, Mexico, Durango ranch, Conditions, Goats, sheep purchased, First goats in Durango, Anecdote, Cinco de Mayo, Language, Tom Harrison, partner, Carving (again), Marketing, Famous purchasers, Move from ranching to art, Tools, Amount of work, Subjects, Lyndon B. Johnson, patron, Abercrombie and Fitch, Bronze work, Work copied, Showings.

Tape 1, Side 2: Carving (continued), Scrap books, Prints, greeting cards, Wife’s involvement, Painted sculptures, Humble oil work, Children (again), Ranching (again).

Range Dates: 1932-1976

Bulk Dates: 1966-1976

Access Information

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Transcript:

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