Taylor, M T and Sylvan Sanders 1974-06-21

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M. T. Taylor discusses his job as a salesman for well drilling equipment, and Sylvan Sanders discusses land surveying.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: M.T. Taylor and Sylvan Sanders

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: June 21, 1974

Location: Lubbock, Texas

Interviewer: Jeff Townsend

Length: 1 hour


Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Sanders’ family background, Recalls early farmers, Taylor’s background discussed, Talks about blowing sand, Heating fuels described, Remembers credit and financing, Continues discussion of early farmers, Sanders began surveying in 1910, Explains Littlefield road system, Taylor worked with Fort Worth Well Machinery Company, Sold pumps, Describes selling terms, Mentions well depths, Comments on Mr. J. B. Rhea.

Tape 1, Side 2: Talks about the myth of an inexhaustible water supply, Early irrigation recalled, Comments on Don Biggers and Rollie C. Burns, Discusses improvements in drilling machinery, Company began making water meters, Sold 76 pumps one year, Mentions financing and terms, Had little competition until approximately 1925, Describes the company today, Sold out to another company, Began selling water meters to towns in 1928, Sanders worked in France during World War I, Worked for himself after the war, Land had to be surveyed, XIT Ranch mentioned, Describes W. D. Twichell, Had to poison prairie dogs.

Range Dates: 1910-1974

Bulk Dates: 1910-1928


Access Information

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Transcript:



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