McDermett, Hugh 1969-07-17
Hugh McDermett and Buck Kelton (father of the interviewer, author Elmer Kelton) discuss ranch work and various personalities of the Midland-San Angelo area in the early 20th century.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: Hugh McDermett
Additional Parties Recorded: Buck Kelton
Date: July 17, 1969
Location: Cross Plains, Texas
Interviewer: Elmer Kelton
Length: 1 hour 25 minutes
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1: Worked at C Ranch in Midland (1906),
Experiences roping horses, branding and spading,
Mentions Slaughter land in Mustang-draw area,
Wages listed,
Began farming,
Worked for Fred Cookberry,
Recalls friends and acquaintances,
Relates plans for barbecue,
Winfield Scott mentioned,
Standing horse guard was one of his jobs,
Wandering cattle created problems,
Tells of mending cow’s broken leg.
Tape 1, Side 2: Charley McDermett moved to area in 1874,
Droughts of 1917-18 discussed,
Names price of cattle curing drought,
Tried bronc-busting with tied stirrups,
Reunions mentioned,
Roping and bulldogging personalities listed,
Riding anecdotes,
Freighters (mule train) remembered,
Expresses attitude toward San Angelo,
Farming and stock-farming experiences reviewed.
Tape 2, Side 1: Cattle breeds and behavior compared,
Explains use of feedlots,
Wife’s background given,
Kelton family acquaintances reviewed,
Educated through correspondence,
Farm wages listed,
Discussion of rodeos,
Recalls Spanish gun horse,
Comparison of rodeo and ranch horses,
Experiences breaking horses.
Tape 2, Side 2: Blank
Range Dates: 1874-1969
Bulk Dates: 1906-1969
Access Information
Original Recording Format:
Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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