Braley, Gene 1971-08-26
Gene Braley, formerly active in all phases of the Itasca Mill, discusses various aspects of the mill’s history along with personal anecdotes. His daughter, Stella Sample, also speaks occasionally, as does Miss Ella Pierce.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: Gene Braley
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: August 26, 1971
Location: Itasca, Texas
Interviewer: David Murrah
Length: 1 hour
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1:
Obtained first mill experience at Gonzales,
Moved to Itasca in 1904,
Various jobs enumerated,
Description of machinery in 1904,
Worker's learning process traced,
Discusses sale of Itasca mill in 1952,
Company houses were neat and clean,
Mill received World War II government contracts,
Explanation of workers' wags and work day hours,
Services for company renters were generous,
Mr. Sidney Files characterized,
Labor problems cited,
Strike and company discipline reviewed,
World War II labor shortage affected Itasca mill,
Technical process explained
Tape 1, Side 2:
Depression forced mill to shut down,
Waxahatchie mill shutdown occurred soon after,
Community fire and accident recalled,
Describes Postex and Mahara looms,
Ratline contract received from New York firm,
Lists technical problems,
Attempted to weave rabbit hair,
Company gave employees a Christmas party yearly,
Christmas bonus received in later years,
Other Braley family members also employees of mill,
Criticizes present Mexican employees,
Problems with loom fixing noted,
Anecdote about grievance filed
Range Dates: 1904-1952
Bulk Dates: 1904-1952
Access Information
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Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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