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INSIDE

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JUNE 2012 FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION THE ALBANY NEWS

www.thealbanynews.net

TO THE TO THE FORT GRIFFINFORT GRIFFIN

FANDANGLEFANDANGLEAgain beneath the stars of a summer night, we seek to invoke for you

the look and feel of times long since past... We celebrate the courage and toughness, horse sense and humor, innocence and earthiness, honesty

and humility of those who preceded us on this, our Prairie Land.

From the scriptof the 2012Fort Griffi nFandangle

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SMALL TOWN TENACITY The 1927 Aztec Theater, after falling into disrepair, “stuck out like a sore thumb” until local citizens worked together to restore it to its former glory. by Shirley Caldwell

FAMILY HERITAGEWearing her grandmother’s costume, a third gen-eration cast member remembers the importance of her own heritage. by Kathryn Stapp

FANDANGLE NEWCOMERS New members of the 2012 cast were looking for dif-ferent things when they decided to join, with most fi nding a sense of fulfi llment. by Kathryn Stapp

OUR PICTORIAL PASTThis year’s Fandangle theme of “The Journey” is de-picted through photos from past performances, show-ing how the pioneers came to Shackelford County.

FANDANGLE FOLKSLocals from many walks of life combine their skills and talents to achieve what in many small towns would be impossible. Photos by Donnie A. Lucas

DRESSED FOR THE PARTSelected scenes from the 2012 Fandangle feature various members of the cast all dressed up and ready to entertain. Photos by Donnie A. Lucas

WWEELLCCOOMMEE

PAGE FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 www.thealbanynews.net2

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Aztec rises as monument to small town tenacity

continued

bought it. He undertook extensive renovations to the interior in 1939, changing it from a “simple shoebox design to a West Texas vernacular version of a Span-ish courtyard. Evaporative coolers were installed and cool air blew through the newly added ‘castles’ to either side of the stage.” Shades of maroon, pale sand, royal blue and silver gave an elegant feel and carpet was added. Stars sparkled

overhead and faux windows on the side walls showed scenes of desert life.

By 1985, the Aztec’s beauty had faded. It stuck out like a sore thumb amidst a group of 1878-1920 struc-tures, most of which were restored and built of limestone, brick and wood. All were made part of the Shackelford County Courthouse Historic District in 1974 and listed on the

National Register of Historic Places. In short, the theater was a misfi t and a run-down one at that. The last of several owners had given up on it.

About this time an act of salvation oc-curred for what had once been billed as “West Texas’ Most Beautiful Small Town Theater.” Two members of the Harold Brittingham family not living in Albany bought the Aztec. The late Mrs. Harold (Lucille Matthews) Brittingham of Fort Worth grew up and was part owner of the historic Lambshead Ranch north of Albany. She had supported the restora-tion of Lambshead structures and the production of the “Fort Griffi n Fan-

BY SHIRLEY CALDWELL guest writer

AAt times, working within the confi nes of small town politics can be as dif-fi cult as raising large sums of money. In the beginning, while pondering a future of the Aztec Theater of Albany, it looked as though both obstacles

would be too great to overcome. In the end, neither proved insur-mountable.

The history of this small town movie the-ater, its glory days and gradual demise, is told in countless other small Texas towns. With the advent of television in the ‘50s and its steady growth in popularity, the once-charming old theater was on the skids. Even a valiant effort in 1971 by a dedicated group of citizens to provide proper movie entertainment for Albany youths failed.

By 1979, the Aztec Theater located on Main Street had permanently closed its doors. Six years later it was almost in ruins. The leaking roof provided a stagnant pool of water on the fl oor near the stage and part of the ceiling had caved in covering the seats with trash and happy housing for rats and termites.

When the theater was built in 1926 by local businessman Frank Whitney, its Spanish style stuccoed exterior and Mediterranean red tile roof provided a unique look. Four years later, after Whit-ney’s tragic suicide, H.S. Leon of Haskell

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continued

dangle,” a historical musical extrava-ganza presented by Albany citizens each summer in June. The new owners put a new roof on the building and waited for local people to get organized.

Meanwhile, rumors spread that it

would cost up to $3 million to restore the Aztec and make it usable again. Frankly, it was beginning to sound like an impossible project. No one made a move until Watt Matthews, Lambs-

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www.thealbanynews.net FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 PAGE 5AZTEC THEATER / continued

continued

head rancher, brother of Lucille Brit-tingham, and local benefactor of every cause in Albany, and Clifton Caldwell, a local businessman and devotee of Texas history and historical preservation, put their heads together. They made an on-the-spot decision that it could be done and for much less than the fi gure being circulated. Matthews asked Caldwell to form a board, get the tax exempt status and, in short, take charge.

The Aztec of Albany, Inc. formed in 1990, was composed of civic leaders representing many facets of community life in Albany. Joining the group was a rancher and oil man, pharmacist,

lawyer, banker, CPA, independent in-surance agent and a full-time mother and civic volunteer. The building owners provided the missing link by giving the building to the new organization. Bill Booziotis, Fellow, American Institute of Architects, from Dallas, who had family ties in Albany, agreed to supervise his then architectural intern Amy Wing-rove in developing plans for the resto-ration of the Aztec. The board decided to complete the work in two phases.

Phase One of the work enlarged the stage, restored the exterior facade, doors, ticket win-dow and lighting.

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PAGE FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 www.thealbanynews.net6AZTEC THEATER / continued

More than 100 local volunteers helped to cut initial costs by doing much of the site cleanup, the removal of the old stage and general interior cleaning. The work was completed at a cost of $85,000 in time for the Albany Nativ-ity to be performed there in December 1991. The Texas Historical Foundation assisted early on with a $5,000 grant from the Jeanne R. Blocker Memorial Preservation Fund used to encourage preservation in rural areas.

In the spring of 1992, the second and much more extensive phase began. It included raising funds, restoration of the theater interior, construction of new rest rooms, dressing rooms and storage, and of a new lobby extension. Additionally, the balcony that once had been the “colored section” became the tech room. Golden stars were repainted

on the ceiling. Beautiful new shades of sand, maroon, blue and green were carefully incorporated throughout by Ann Law Niemec, Albany native and now a Fort Worth interior decorator. She contributed her services to the project and assisted by her teenage daughter, even repainted the six desert scenes for the faux windows.

The lobby extension adjoined just south of the old theater on what had been a vacant lot. Kitchen facilities and handicap entrance with rest rooms completed the new addition. A landscaped terrace was built behind the extension. At the time, it was the fi rst new construction on Albany’s Main Street in 20 years and opened to rave reviews from local citizens and visitors.

When the beau-tiful building resto- continued

Local volunteers help with the initial cleanup of the dilapidated Aztec Theater in 1991, hauling out debris resulting from the partial collapse of the ceiling.

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ration was fi nished, the board agreed that the old seats looked badly out of place. Everyone was given an opportunity to put their name on a newly refur-bished seat for $100, although that was slightly under the cost of refi nishing the old wooden seats. The Albany News ran several stories entitled, “Take a Seat,” and within a

AZTEC THEATER / continued

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ALBANY NEWS / DONNIE LUCAS

A recent photo of the interior of the Aztec Theater (top photo) shows results of an extensive renovation by a nonprofi t foun-dation in the 1990s. The lower two photos were taken in 1939, after the fi rst makeover turned the auditorium from a “shoebox design” to a “Spanish courtyard.”



short time all 285 were sold.The restoration of the Aztec was a

monumental accomplishment made easier by the support of many generous people and organizations. Everyone in Albany would agree that at 96 years of age, the late Watt Matthews was Albany’s bellwether in setting the big goals and achieving them. As for the fundraising, Matthews led the way with a large endowment gift. Other local gifts came from the Matthews/Brit-tingham families, the Homer Stasney family, the A.V. Jones family, the Guy Caldwell family and the Chuck Jacobs family. More than 150 local people also made contributions and it all added up. The McDermott Foundation of Dallas, known for its strong support of the arts, gave the initial generous gift and the Meadows Foundation, also of Dal-

AZTEC THEATER / continued

las, matched it. The King Foundation from Dallas that has strong West Texas ties contributed. The Rockwell Fund of Houston has backed Albany projects for more than 20 years and generously gave to the Aztec restoration. Two West Texas foundations added their endorsement: the Dunnigan Foundation of Monahans and one given anonymously. The Mabee Foundation of Oklahoma that does not contribute to tax-supported institu-tions gave a substantial gift, enabling the Aztec board to fi nalize the project. The Rockwell Fund of Albany lent its fi nancial support. Nancy Birdwell of Austin offered her expertise in assisting the fundraising effort.

In the end, more than $650,000 was raised to restore the Aztec Theater and make it usable again. Even at that,

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ALBANY NEWS / DONNIE LUCAS

Even before the Aztec renovation was completed, citizens of Albany staged the Albany Nativity there in 1991, and have continued to perform the tra-ditional Christmas pageant at the theater every other year.

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the sum spent was less than one-third of what the original rumor had said it would take, but the casual observer might still ask how could so small a town do it?

The citizens of Albany, it seems, do not back down easily from a challenge and as a result, the town has a long history of accomplishments, including production of the annual Fort Griffi n Fandangle, establishment and ongoing support of one of the best small art museums in Texas, and a remarkable scholarship program for its small class of graduates each year.

And despite its small population, Al-bany is home to many antique, specialty and clothing stores that draw tourists from miles around.

Since the Aztec re-opened, it is regu-larly used for a variety of programs, including musicals and plays, as well as reunions, receptions, ceremonies, and meetings.

The success of the Aztec theater proves that small towns can work together and accomplish even large projects by marshaling their resources. They can revitalize their downtown areas using historical preservation to develop tourism. Albany has demon-

strated a long history of everyone pitch-ing in on the level that they are able to afford. These local traditions plus a sincere pride in community have cre-ated a small town that has accomplished grand things and surprises people who live elsewhere.

As remarkable as the restoration of the Aztec is, the story of the resurrected theater is not yet complete. Recently, Albany’s city council voted enthusias-tically to take on the operations of the theater, and legal work is currently underway to make that happen. Putting the theater under the umbrella of the city greatly decreases insurance costs and makes rental costs very reasonable.

Sitting proudly on Main Street in downtown Albany, a tiny town with much spirit and boundless determina-tion, the restored Aztec Theater is a brick and mortar monument to what can be accomplished by even the small-est community – especially one that is not content to part with its past. For as they say in Albany, “the last show hasn’t played here yet.”

(The original version of this article appeared in the Heritage, a publication of the Texas Historical Foundation, in 1995.) ❑

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PAGE FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 www.thealbanynews.net12 www.thealbanynews.net FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 PAGE 13

SEPTEMBER 13, 1908 to NOVEMBER 11, 1968

In a tribute to Robert E. Nail, Jr., following his death

on the 11th of November 1968, it was said:“In this Twentieth Century, it is not rare to fi nd some man or some woman who has given something of his or her talents for the benefi ts of others. It is rare, however, to fi nd a person who has dedicated all of his life, his energies, his intellect, his vision, his funds, and his accomplishments to the betterment of his community and its citizenry. Bob Nail dedicated his entire life to his mother and to his hometown of Albany.” The Ex-Student Association is dedicated to this most worthy project – The Robert Nail Scholarship Fund. The total in the accounts is $190,741.65, and the earned interest from this fund has pro-vided for 140 scholarship awards since 1967. Although interest rates have caused decreased awards over the past few years, the Fund was still able to award two grants this year in the amount of $1,000 each. Our appreciation to all of you, for in 45 years it has grown from a $100 annual grant in 1967 to $2,000 in 2012.

In these 45 years, scholarship awards paid through 2011-2012 amounted to $181,975 and with the $2,000 awarded this year for 2011-2012, the total amount will be $183,975. Bob Nail was very proud of this Scholarship Fund. Let us strive to make it what it should be by donating our “Dollars for Bob’s Scholar-ships.” We will honor the memory of a very outstanding citizen and friend. Your donations will be tax deductible and can be made by mail – payable to Robert Nail Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2650, Albany, Texas 76430. Your consideration will be appreciated.

The Robert Nail Scholarship Fundof the Ex-Students Association

THANK YOU FOR YOUR“Dollars for Bob’s Scholarships”

Robert E. Nail Jr.Robert E. Nail Jr.

THANK YOUROBERT NAIL SCHOLARSHIP BOARD

— President —Duveen Dillingham Russell

— Secretary —Melinda Viertel Lucas

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TThe theme for this year’s show is “The Journey.” Taken from historic diaries and prairie journals, the script focuses on the reasons for the move to Texas.

“For some it was to escape the desolation left by the Civil War, for others it was to soothe the disappointment of an unsuccessful search for California gold,” Fandangle director Betsy Parsons said. “But for all, it was a chance for a better life.”

Performers fi nd different reasons for joining castThis philosophy is echoed within several of the new Fandangle cast members.

Each came to the show looking for something different, and each found a sense of fulfi llment and accomplishment for having performed in the show.

Kelly and Jim Bob Hundhausen moved to Albany in February. He had grown up in Albany and moved away, but for Kelly, the move from Florence, Mississippi was a big change.

“Jim Bob grew up here, so he knows everyone, but he’d never continued

Kelly Hundhausen (l) gets fi tted for her costume by production assistant Jordan Lucas. Hundhausen and her family joined the cast to get involved in the community.

It’s all about the Care


continued

FANDANGLE NEWCOMERS / continued

been in the Fandangle. I didn’t know anyone here, so it was a way for us to get involved in the community and meet some people,” Kelly Hundhausen said.

What the Hundhausens discovered was that the experience benefi tted their entire family.

“We’ve had a really good time, and look forward to each practice,” Kelly said. “The whole family can get involved and it’s something we enjoy doing together. Everyone looks out for each other’s kids; it’s like a big family.”

The Hundhausens have 10 year-old twin girls and a four-year-old boy.

“It’s been great for the girls because they’ve become closer to their classmates away from a school setting.”

Mark and Charlotte White knew about the Fandangle before they ever moved to Albany because they were told about it when they fi rst interviewed for the interim pastor’s position at Mat-thews Memorial Presbyterian Church.

“Good news trav-els fast, and after I

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Charlotte (l) and Mark (r) White joined the cast of the Fandangle back in March to rehearse for the April sampler, after living in Albany for only a few months.

www.thealbanynews.net FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 PAGE15

continued on pg. 18


848 Rose Albany, TX 76430

THE ALBANY NEWSSince 1875

PublisherDONNIE A. LUCASEditorMELINDA L. LUCASAd manager TONY KITCHENSStaff WriterKATHRYN STAPPGuest WriterSHIRLEY CALDWELLOffi ce Manager / PhotographerJODY PATTERSONCompositionBETTY VIERTEL RATES: Subscriptions – Albany & Moran $35, Texas addresses $40, other U.S. addresses $45. Advertising – National rate $7.25 per column inch. Local rate $5.95 per column inch. Notices & classifi ed ads 10 cents per word per insertion net, $6 minimum paid in advance.

was hired, I soon received a call from a former Texas resident friend wanting to know if we were going to be in the Fandangle,” Mark White said with a chuckle.

The Whites are both in the general pioneer scenes, and Mark has just taken on the role of a circuit riding Methodist preacher.

“It’s truly amazing how generations of Albany residents have put together this show, but at the same time, I feel like as newcomers we’ve been embraced by the community to become a part of it,” White said.

The schedule can be a bit hectic at times, especially for Charlotte, who is a hospice nurse and is often on call.

“There’s something special about living here,” White said. “I can’t help thinking that the yearly tribute to the Albany heritage binds the community together. It’s the golden thread in the tapestry of this area, and instills owner-ship in the community.”

Trina Edwards returned to Albany in January after a 21 year absence. She soon joined the Fandangle sampler cast

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continued

FANDANGLE NEWCOMERS / continuedand began working toward fulfi lling a childhood dream.

“I’d seen the show many times, and I’d always wanted to be in it, but my parents discouraged it,” Edwards said. “I’m 43 years old, and I’ve been through some hard times, and Fandangle has renewed my faith in people. This came at a good time for me.”

The camaraderie and laughter, mak-ing new friends while being reunited with old ones has made her feel welcomed in her old hometown.

“I’m nervous and excited about the show, but there is a lot of love there, and I’m so happy to fi nally be a part of it,” Edwards said. “It has opened my eyes that people can be genuinely loving and caring.”

Tina Dacus moved to Albany in August 2010, and that December, her home was on the Chamber of Commerce Christmas Homes Tour.

“I love to dive into a community when I move there, to meet the people and get involved,” Dacus said.

“Fandangle has been great for that, and I plan to do it again. It’s been fun to get to really know people from other churches, and people we might not be introduced to anywhere else,” Dacus added. “Albany is our home, and we love getting to know the people here.”

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The history ofShackelford County is rich and

meaningful, steeped with the events of well over 100 years.

We welcome you as you join usin celebration of our heritage in

song and dance through the

FORT GRIFFIN FANDANGLE

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Welcome to Albany & the Fandangle

Tina Dacus performs Puttin’ on the Style with other members of the 2012 Sampler cast on the Courthouse Square. She is enthusiastic about the Fandangle, es-pecially the opportunity to get to know people she hasn’t met in other venues.


Lisa Barton was sitting in the audi-ence watching the Fandangle last year when she had an epiphany.

“I never thought that I had the time to do it,” Barton said. “But as I sat there watching I realized that everyone out there on stage is busy; most have jobs, yards to mow and other responsibilities.” Barton made up her mind that she was going to make the leap this year, and fi nd the time to be in the cast.

“It’s been very reward-ing to all pull together to make the show a success,” Barton said. “I feel like it’s a privilege just to be out there with the great talent we have in Albany.

“I had to make a few adjustments time wise, and I am losing sleep, but everyone out there is giv-ing up something, and it is completely worth it.”

As Fandangle ticket holders take their seats to begin their journey into the


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FORT GRIFFINFANDANGLE

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We are proud toWELCOME

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past, they may expect to be welcomed warmly, to hear lively music and to fi nd meaning in the stories of the people who came together to make history as they embarked on their journey.

Fandangle newcomer Lisa Barton has been involved in community events since she moved here several years ago, but decided last year that she would make the time to be a part of the show.


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The Fandangle fl ag —www.thealbanynews.net FANDANGLE SOUVENIR SECTION JUNE 2012 PAGE21

WELCOME TO ALBANY

JOIN THE CITIZENS OF ALBANY AS WE COMMEMORATE OUR PAST. WE REMEMBER WITH LOVE AND RESPECT THOSE PIONEERS WHO MADE THE LONG JOURNEY TO THIS PART OF TEXAS

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Narrators Donnie Lucas (l) and Connie Wood (r) will cele brate their 36th year of being the voices of the Fandangle this summer during the 74th anniversary performances of the production.

Voices of Fandangle —


Pictures from the PastPictures from the PastThe theme of the 2012 Fort Griffi n Fandangle is “The Journey.” Since the very beginning almost 75 years ago, the Fandangle has always been about the journey west – how the people of Shackelford County came to be here, what they endured and experienced once they got here, and why they stayed. How they actually got here varies from horseback to locomotive, and those stories have also been told through the years.

The late Watt Matthews (top right) harnesses up one of the horses used to pull the narrator’s buggy during a 1967 Fandangle Sampler on the LBJ Ranch. Open hacks, such as the one utilized for the 1950 Fandangle parade (at right), were also seen on the prairie. When Fort Griffi n was established as a military outpost, military wagons (bottom left) became commonplace, and later, when Albany became the terminus, or “end of the line,” for the Texas Central Railroad, the train brought many residents to the area.

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Most of the very fi rst settlers in this area traveled on horseback, as portrayed by this lone horseman, Harry Jones, for a publicity photo on the Mussel-man Ranch in 1964. Covered wagons of various sorts, (top right and center left) have always played a part in the Fandangle story, bringing whole families and all their earthly belonging to settle the frontier. Even though it was only in existence for three years, the Overland Mail Company, commonly known as the Butterfi eld Stagecoach Line (bottom left) had a big impact on the settling of this country, bringing both passengers and news from back home.

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1. SHACKELFORD COUNTY COURTHOUSE - Built 1883-84 from plans by J.E. Flanders, architect for several 1880’s Texas courthouses. Edgar Rye of Albany was construction superinten-dent. Kilted Scottish masons erected the walls of stone quarried a few miles southwest of town.2. SHACKELFORD COUNTY - First inhabited by nomadic Indian tribes, Shackelford County was fi rst settled in 1858 and named for Dr. Jack Shackelford. County offi cially organized September 12, 1874 with Fort Griffi n as temporary county seat. Albany chosen as permanent county seat later that year. 3. LYNCH BUILDING - Albany’s fi rst stone mercantile store was erected in stages starting in 1878 with the one-story east unit. A second story was added in 1881, the same time that local rancher J.C. Lynch built the two-story west unit. Lynch later purchased entire building. 4. SHACKELFORD COUNTY’S FIRST PERMANENT JAIL - Erected 1877-78, before the Courthouse was built, by Thomas & Woerner of Fort Worth. Gerard B. Allen of Saint Louis fur-nished ironwork. Initials on native limestone blocks show masons’ claims to payment for work. 5. MATTHEWS MEMORIAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - Constructed 1898, almost two decades after the Presbyterian congregation organized in 1880. The building was remodeled in 1954 under leadership of Watt Matthews. Beautiful stone fl oors, hand-made pews and a new tracker pipe organ were added at this time. The stained glass windows and tracker organ attract many visitors.6. TOWN OF ALBANY - chosen county seat of Shackelford in 1874, Albany had a 43 acre townsite donated by Sheriff Henry C. Jacobs. County Clerk W.R. Cruger named city for his old home, Albany, Georgia. 7. TEXAS CENTRAL RAILWAY COMPANY - In 1879, the Texas Central Railway Company was chartered to extend the rail branch to Panhandle, but because fi nancial problems in 1881 prevented further expansion, Albany remained the rail terminus for 19 years until 1900, when it was extended to Stamford. Discontinued 1967. 8. H.C. JACOBS HOUSE - First permanent home in Albany. Built in 1875 of stone by Henry Carter Jacobs (1842-94), fi rst sheriff of Shackelford County. Jacobs house was restored in 1973. (1974)9. FORT GRIFFIN CIVIL JAIL - Citizens of town of Fort Griffi n located 15 miles north of Albany built this jail in 1878 near the U.S. Army Post of Fort Griffi n. Used as a cowshed after the 1880’s, the jail was moved to Albany in 1954 and then returned to the original site at Griffi n Flat and restored in 2000-2001.10. LEDBETTER PICKET HOUSE - William Henry Ledbetter estab-lished a salt works on Hubbard Creek eight miles southwest of Albany in 1862. Built picket house near Fort Griffi n, using construction methods typical of frontier region. Moved to Albany City Park and restored by City of Albany in 1953. Moved to Bank Park on Main Street in 1982.11. TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH - Oldest church building in Albany. Methodists, who organized their church in 1873, built this sanctuary on Schoolhouse Hill in 1889, moved it to Main Street in 1909. Trinity Episcopal Mission, founded in 1910, bought the structure in 1913, remodeled it in 1914, moved it in 1954 to the present site. Church bell survived tornado which destroyed previous church building.12. REYNOLDS PRESBYTERIAN ACADEMY - This academy opened in 1898, with classes meeting in a vacant storehouse. A building was fi nished and occupied in 1899 and a dormitory added in 1907. In 1909, the school became a college; closed about 1915. Reynolds Presbyterian Orphanage used the plant 1916-1923. A fi re destroyed the two-story wood dormitory in 1920 and the original masonry building was sold in 1928 and razed.13. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF ALBANY - Oldest congregation in Northwest Texas Conference of Methodist Church. First church of any denomination founded in Shackelford County. Organized in 1873 at ranch home of J.C. Lynch. The present sanctuary and fellowship hall was built in 1948.14. COOK RANCH OIL FIELD - One of highest yielding fi elds in history. In 1895, William Ivy Cook and his brother-in-law J.H. Nail purchased 27.75 section ranch. During 1918 oil booms, Cook prophesied he could drink from his hat all oil under his land. In 1925, his widow leased all open acreage to Roeser & Pendleton, Inc., whose second well in 1926 struck oil at 1,241 feet. Of over 1,100 wells drilled, 850 yielded oil. Revenues from the oil fi eld fi nanced Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth.15. JACKSON WAREHOUSE - T.E. Jackson, prominent businessman from Fort Griffi n built this structure in the late 1870s as a general merchandise store warehouse. For more than 100 years, it served the town of Albany as the site of various businesses.16. COOK RANCH - This 17,760-acre ranch was purchased in 1897 by Missouri Matilda (Dude) and William Ivy Cook and her brother, J.H. Nail, who later acquired additional land. By 1899, the ranch con sisted of 20,675 acres. In 1926 a major oil discovery was made on the ranch as the developers struck a shallow well of oil at 1,241 feet. 17. RYE-CAPERTON HOUSE - Built in 1874 and used as an offi ce building, this structure was

SHACKELFORD COUNTYSHACKELFORD COUNTYmoved here in 1879 from Fort Griffi n. Owner Edgar Rye was a newspaper publisher, cartoon-ist, held numerous elective offi ces including county attorney, and was building superintendent of the Shackelford County Courthouse. Anna F. Caperton modifi ed structure’s appearance in 1902-06 and used it as a home. 18. BUD MATTHEWS SWITCH OF THE TEXAS CENTRAL RAILWAY - In 1900 the Texas Central Railway extended on a line northwest from Albany across this portion of Rose Ella (Matthews) Conrad’s cattle ranch. Ella and her brother John A. “Bud” Matthews promptly constructed cattle pens and a loading chute at this location. Ranchers shipped cattle from this switch to markets in Fort Worth. As many as 105,000 head of cattle were shipped annually until the railway ceased operations in 1967. 19. SMITH’S STATION - From 1858 until the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, a station of the Butterfi eld Overland mail route was located here. Despite a brief existence, it was an important stop on the early stage line that reached from Missouri to California. Located on

Chimney Creek between stage stops at Clear Fork (26 mi. SW), Smith’s Station was the only Butterfi eld stop located in present Shackelford County.

20. HARTFIELD BUILDING - In March 1884, Hart fi eld started construction on an elegant rock structure to house his business, but after his suicide later that year,

his wife sold the building. The Albany Masonic Lodge began meeting in the structure as early as 1893, and it became known as “The Masonic Building” to local residents. Also housed Homer Stasney’s oil offi ce.21. THE WHITE ELEPHANT SALOON - (Blach Building) Alabama businessman Max Blach began construction on a one-story stone structure in March 1884. The building was completed in April and leased to J.R. Davis, who opened the White Elephant Saloon May 1, 1884. Despite its popularity, Davis closed the saloon in February 1886. 22. LT. COL. WILLIAM E. DYESS - A native of Albany, William Edwin Dyess was trained as a pilot and fought in the Philippines during WWII. Dyess’ actions earned him a reputation for bravery and resourcefulness. He was captured, survived the Bataan Death March, and later escaped. Through his personal accounts of Japanese atrocities, Dyess infl uenced world opinion on wartime brutalities. He died when the P-38 he piloted crashed in California. Dyess Air Force Base at Abilene was named his honor in 1956.23. WESTERN CATTLE TRAIL CROSSINGS AT FORT GRIFFIN- In 1874, John T. Lytle drove 3,500 head of Longhorns to Nebraska on a new trail, and Fort Griffi n served as an important watering and sup-ply point. By 1879, the Western Trail became the primary Texas cattle trail and continued as such until the last drive in 1893. By then, three to fi ve million cattle and horses had crossed at Fort Griffi n on their way to northern markets. Often called the Fort Griffi n Cattle Trail.24. FORT GRIFFIN LODGE HALL - Fort Griffi n Lodge No. 489, A.F. & A.M., was chartered Dec. 14, 1878. Volunteers built stone hall, where

school, civic affairs, church services were held downstairs and the lodge meet-ings upstairs. Burned in 1974, restored by Lynne and Clifford Teinert in 2001.

25. FRONTIER TOWN OF FORT GRIFFIN - Touted as the “wildest town on the prairie,” the town of Fort Griffi n grew up in the shadow of the frontier fort by the same name. The settlement bustled with buffalo hunters, business men, cowboys, outlaws, gamblers, gunfi ght-ers, and “painted ladies,” quickly gaining a reputation for lawlessness. Some of these many people would later become well-known in western history, including Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp, who fi rst met in Fort Griffi n, along with Pat Garrett and John Wesley Hardin. When Albany became the county seat in 1874 and the railroad went there instead of Fort Griffi n, the town began to die. The military fort was abandoned in 1881, further sealing Griffi n’s fate.26. LEDBETTER SALT WORKS - W.H. Ledbetter began extensive development of salt de-posits on the Salt Prong of Hubbard Creek in 1862, and salt in large quantities was furnished for Confederate troops, area ranches and towns. Salt was produced until 1880. Monument erected in celebration of the Texas Centennial.27. JOHN BROWN, CLARA BARTON DROUGHT RELIEF - Brown, pastor of the Albany Presbyterian Church in the 1880s, was almost single-handedly responsible for prompting Texas’ fi rst disaster relief bill to help drought-stricken farmers in the area. It was due to Brown’s urging and persistence that Clara Barton, founder of the National Red Cross, made her fi rst trip to Texas to visit with drought-stricken farm families in and around Shackelford County.28. FORT GRIFFIN FANDANGLE - The oldest outdoor theatrical production in Texas, in which a diverse group of citizens chronicle the pioneer days of Albany and Fort Griffi n by dramatizing events based on historical accounts, adding humor, dance and original music. Created in 1938, fi rst as a senior play and then as a community event, by Robert E. Nail Jr. in collaboration with musician Alice Reynolds.29. DR. JACK SHACKELFORD - Hero of the Texas Revolution. In 1835, he raised a company of 66 Alabama volunteers, the Red Rovers, to join in the Texas War for Independence. Most of

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THE NUMBERS LISTED BELOW ARE NOT SHOWN ON THIS MAP.9, 23, 24, 25, 31. Located at Griffi n Flat 17 miles north of Albany off Hwy. 28316. Located west of Albany at the Cook Ranch headquarters18, 19, P2. Located on Hwy. 180, approx. 12 miles west of AlbanyM2, P3. Located Fort Griffi n Historical Site 15 miles north of Albany, Hwy. 28332, 33, 34. Located at Moran, 15 miles south of Albany

THESE PAGES COMPLIMENTS OFClifton & Shirley Caldwell

HISTORICAL MARKER GUIDEHISTORICAL MARKER GUIDEthe Red Rovers died in battle or were executed. Shackelford returned to Alabama, but when Shackelford County was es-tablished in 1858, it was named in honor of the contributions and sacrifi ces he made for the Texas cause.30. LT. COL. WILLIAM E. DYESS GRAVE MARKER - World War II hero who as squadron commander destroyed 40,000 tons of shipping in Subic Bay. He led remnants of Air Corps personnel in victorious Battle of Agoloma Bay. Survived the Bataan Death March and escaped after being held as a Japanese prisoner for 361 days. Holder of numerous med-als, including the Silver Star, he died in an airplane crash December 22, 1943 in California.31. MACKENZIE TRAIL - Following the Civil War, the Texas frontier pushed westward, giving rise to renewed hostilities as Indian lands were again invaded. Col. Ranald S. MacKenzie was foremost in the campaign to calm the frontier, blazing trails from Fort Griffi n to the Plains and from Fort Concho to Palo Duro Canyon, and freighting tons of supplies for his forces.32. TOWN OF MORAN - Established in 1883 by Swope Hull, who opened a grocery store at the railroad crossing on Deep Creek and was the town’s fi rst postmaster. First called Hulltown, the town’s name was changed to Hicks in 1890 and to Moran in 1892.33. COTTLE NO. 1 - First natural gas well in Shackelford County, located two miles northeast of Moran. Drillers struck natural gas at 2660 feet 13 months after beginning operations. Discovery opened the Moran Field.34. GRANVILLE E. WATERS - Came to Texas in 1871 from Ohio and settled in a log cabin near Deep Creek north of pres-ent day Moran. Remembered for his infl uence on the area economy through ranching and early oil and gas exploration.

MONUMENTSM1. VETERANS MONUMENT & HEROES MONU-MENT - Original Veterans Monument re-located from Albany Cemetery to Courthouse Square in 2003. Heroes monument dedicated in 2006 to the memories of World War II heroes Lt. Col. William Edwin Dyess, Rear Admiral Arden Grantham, and Lt. Gen. Robert Boyd Williams, Albany natives who contributed signifi cantly to U.S. victories in WWII.M2. FORT GRIFFIN CENTENNIAL MONUMENT - Origi-nally erected in 1936, the centennial monument commemo-rates Fort Griffi n and Shackelford County. Disassembled in 1969, the 14 ft. pink granite monument was restored in 2009 outside the park headquarters.

PRIVATE MARKERSP1. FIRST PRODUCING OIL WELL IN WEST TEXAS- Completed November 9, 1913 by The Texas Company, J.E. Wild A-1 Survey 65, University Lands.P2. BUTTERFIELD OVERLAND MAIL - The trail of the Butterfi eld Overland Mail passed this point in 1858. Marker erected 100 years later by Lee’s Legion Chapter DAR.P3. FAMILY FORTS - With little protection from the military but refusing to abandon their country, families on the Texas frontier during the Civil War gathered together in stockades and held out against the threats of hostile Indians.

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FANDANGLE FOLKS FANDANGLE FOLKS —— BETSY PARSONSBETSY PARSONS — — DirectorDirector

LOUANN GEORGELOUANN GEORGE — — Music DirectorMusic Directorpenned that are included in this year’s version of the Fandangle include “Goin’ to Texas,” as well as collaborating on a new song for this season, “Crooning in June,” which is featured during the enfare sequence just prior to the intermission. George also helps soloists learn new songs and meets with small groups at her home to work out harmonies.

Another of her duties is playing the Fandangle’s steam-powered calliope during the annual parade and prior to each show.

A graduate of Hockaday School in Dallas, Louann studied under Bernie Rae of Dallas. She attended Barnard College, the Women’s College of Columbia University in New York, and studied music with Grace Hoffheimer.

Albany native Louann George has served as the music director for the Fandangle for the past 28 years, and is only the second person to hold the position during the show’s 74-year history.

She was assistant music director to Alice Reynolds for several years, taking over the task of coordinating the musical portion of the show shortly before Miss Reynolds’ death.

Like most Albany natives, George grew up with the annual Fandangle production. She played several on-stage roles prior to becoming the musical director, and was one of the side saddle ladies.

In her post as music director, Louann plays the organ for Fandangle rehearsals and performances. She has also written a number of the original songs used in the show. Songs she has

show’s creator, Robert Nail.As a teenager growing up in Albany, she learned from Miss Rey-

nolds how to sketch dress designs. After a year at college, she came back for a summer of painting, building and sweating with the production crew. In 1975, she became Bray’s personal assistant.

Parsons just completed her 18th year as instructor of her own studio, The Dance Theatre. She has also written several songs for the show during the last few years, including the music and lyrics for “The Journey” and the music for “Soldier’s Wife” for this year.

Parsons attended Cisco Junior College and Angelo State Uni-versity, and she and her husband, Mike, have fi ve children and 12 grandchildren.

Betsy Black Parsons is serving her 18th year as show director for the Fort Griffi n Fandangle, an enormous undertaking that she has been well prepared to handle. Having been part of the Fandangle since childhood, Parsons served in almost every capacity possible before tackling the task of directing.

Parsons served as assistant director under Marge Bray for several years before the longtime director died in 1994. But her roots in the Fandangle run even deeper.

The Fandangle lapsed for a few years when Parsons was in el-ementary school, and when it was revived in 1965, music director Alice Reynolds asked her to perform in the show. Her very fi rst job was folding Fandangle programs under the guidance of the

JOHN CALDWELLJOHN CALDWELL — — Association President Association President

CHUCK SENTER CHUCK SENTER — — Production Manager Production Manager

Wade Jones has worked his way up from the bottom to the important role of technical director of sound, starting as a sound assis-tant in junior high and taking charge of the intricate and always evolving system in 1996 at age 16. He has a degree in fi nance from Texas Tech and works with his family’s farm and ranch business. He has two children in the show, 5-year-old daughter, Kate, and a 4-year-old son, Blake.

A native of London, England, Patrick Baker is serving as lighting technician for the 18th sea-son, helping coordinate all aspects of lighting necessary to bring to life a nighttime outdoor production that uses darkness as its stage cur-tain. He and his wife, Lyn, were both raised in England, but moved to the States in 1982. The couple and their three sons came to Albany in 1991. Patrick is a customer fi eld technician for Atmos Energy.

Chuck Senter has taken on the role of serving as Production Manager for the Fort Griffi n Fandangle after recently retiring as executive director of both the Albany Chamber of Com-merce and Fandangle. He stays busy coordinat-ing activities for both organizations, especially this time of year. He retired from IBM after 37 years in service management and is married to Albany native Betsy Rose Senter, who is a branch manager for Coldwell-Banker in Fort Worth.

This is John Caldwell’s fi rst year to serve as the Fandangle Association President, having been a board member since 1989 along with heading the fl ag parade and supervising livestock used in the show for the last 10 years. A graduate of Albany High School and Texas A&M, Caldwell manages his family’s ranches and often plays guitar with an area band. He wrote one of the Fandangle’s original songs, “Home on the Clear Fork,” which has been performed in several shows.

PATRICK BAKER —PATRICK BAKER — Lighting Technician Lighting Technician

WADE JONES —WADE JONES — Technical Director Technical Director


LUCRETIA JORDAN —LUCRETIA JORDAN — Costume SeamstressCostume SeamstressLucretia Jordan has been Fan-dangle seam stress for 15 years, helping design new costumes along with making repairs and alterations. She also sews for the public. Jordan and her husband Frederick have three children and two grandchildren.

JOEY BAKER —JOEY BAKER — Technical AssistantTechnical AssistantJoey Baker has helped with the lighting for several years and stepped up to the job of technical assistant 12 years ago. The 2004 Albany High School graduate helps set up the lighting prior to the annual summer show. He is employed by Albany I.S.D.

CORI AYERS BEZNER —CORI AYERS BEZNER —Parade Co-ChairmanParade Co-Chairman

Cori Bezner is another Albany native who “grew up” in the Fandangle, portraying everything from a prairie fl ower to a can can dancer. She has helped her father organize the an-nual parade for 14 years and serves as co-chairman again this season. She is married to Jeff Bezner.

LYNDA HEATLY — LYNDA HEATLY — Assistant Director Assistant DirectorLynda Heatly has been involved in the Fandangle for a number of years in various roles, but for the past 23 years she has taken on added responsibilities. Described as one of the creative talents behind the show, Heatly helps construct large and small props, such as the papier-mache animal heads worn by the children. She was an elementary teacher for more than 40 years, and she has two children and fi ve grandchildren.

SUSAN WALLER —SUSAN WALLER — Sales / Marketing Sales / MarketingA longtime Fandangle performer, Susan Wall er, has handled ticket sales and marketing for the Fandangle off and on for more than 10 years. The Abilene native says Fandangle has been a big part of her life since meeting her husband, Steve, at a Fandangle party in 1981. The cou ple has three children, Andy, David and Katie. Susan also organizes the annual fundraising gala for the Friends of Fort Griffi n.

DEBRA BOYETT —DEBRA BOYETT — Assistant DirectorAssistant DirectorAnother lifelong Fandangler, Debra Boyett, has worn a lot of hats for the Fandangle, in-cluding coordinating the maze of backstage activities for the last fi ve years. She and her hus-band Jearl have two daughters, Joanie and Laci.

NEMA WESTMOLAND —NEMA WESTMOLAND — Lighting Technician Lighting TechnicianNema Westmoland has been involved with the Fandangle for more than 30 years, manning the light dimmer board that controls the fi eld lighting. Nema coached for 35 years, retiring recently to return to her family farm near Knox City. She plans to continue her Fandangle job.

JOHN AYERS — JOHN AYERS — Parade Co-ChairmanParade Co-Chairman John Ayers has coordinated the Fan-dangle parade for well over 20 years. Ayers, who has been a member of the Fandangle board for about 20 years, also portrays the Indian chief. His wife, Lorna, and their daughters are regular cast members. Ayers is owner of Ayers Dozer and Omega Oil & Gas Services.

Open LateOpen LateEach Fandangle Each Fandangle

AfternoonAfternoonFor ToursFor Tours

ShackShackelford County Elected Officialselford County Elected OfficialsRoss Montgomery, County JudgeRoss Montgomery, County JudgeDavid EverettDavid Everett Precinct 1 Commissioner Precinct 1 CommissionerLarry CaubleLarry Cauble Precinct 2 Commissioner Precinct 2 CommissionerJimmy BrooksJimmy Brooks Precinct 3 Commissioner Precinct 3 CommissionerStan WestStan West Precinct 4 Commissioner Precinct 4 CommissionerColton JohnsonColton Johnson County Attorney County AttorneyCheri HawkinsCheri Hawkins County & District Clerk County & District ClerkTammy Brown, TreasurerTammy Brown, TreasurerJames BreedenJames Breeden Justice of Peace Justice of PeaceEdward Miller, SheriffEdward Miller, SheriffCreig Sherrin, ConstableCreig Sherrin, Constable

in welcoming our visitors!!

We join with the cast and crew of theFORT GRIFFIN FANDANGLE 7474THTH ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY

FORT GRIFFINFORT GRIFFINFANDANGLEFANDANGLE

James H. Cotter & Neff Co. CPA’s

Congratulations on the success throughout 74

years of honoring those who settled

this country!

MYRA HISE — MYRA HISE — Assistant DirectorAssistant DirectorMyra Hise, a local elementary science teacher, has helped with the show for 18 seasons. A longtime resident, Hise performed in the Fandangle as a child, as did both her sons. Her duties include handing out props and costumes, and coordinating backstage activities. She is married to Ellis Hise of Albany.

MIKE BEAN — MIKE BEAN — Grounds SupervisorGrounds SupervisorThis is the fourth year that Mike Bean has taken on the title of grounds su-pervisor, although he was in charge of the grounds crew before that. Bean and his wife, Pam, are house parents at the Ben Richey Boys Ranch, and boys from the ranch serve on the crew. The couple has a daughter, Jade, age 7.

JASON WEIR — JASON WEIR — Wagon MasterWagon MasterAlthough this is only his fourth year to be involved with the Fandangle, Jason Weir has a key role in making the show unique. As Wagon Master, he coordinates the appearances of rolling stock such as the prairie schooner and stagecoach. He is joined by his family – wife Joey, and sons Dylan and Hunter.


LAMBSHEADLAMBSHEAD

A RICH PART OF THE HISTORY OFA RICH PART OF THE HISTORY OF SHACKELFORD COUNTY SHACKELFORD COUNTY

PhotosOLD JAIL ART CENTER

from the

Featured on the next two pages are photographs borrowed from the Old Jail Art Center’s current exhibition “Two Women Look West: Photographs of King Ranch by Helen C. Kleberg and Toni Frissell.” Scenes depicted here, even though they were

taken in far South Texas, could just as easily have occurred on Shackelford County ranches. The exhibition, which is courtesy of the King Ranch

Museum in Kingsville, will hang until Sept. 9, 2012.

Sic'em, BetsParrott & Fox SupplyRobert, Heather, Hannah

& Trey Snyder


THIS PAGE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

PPat & A.V. Jones, Jr.at & A.V. Jones, Jr.

OPPOSITE PAGE – FAR LEFT: TONI FRISSELL. (American, 1907-1988). Roping A Calf, c. 1939-1944. Gelatin silver photograph. Courtesy King Ranch Archives, King Ranch Inc., Kingsville, Texas. TOP RIGHT: TONI FRISSELL. (American, 1907-1988). A Herd of Cattle Being Led through the Saca-huiste, King Ranch, August 1948. Gelatin silver photograph. Courtesy King Ranch Archives, King Ranch Inc., Kingsville, Texas. LOWER RIGHT: TONI FRISSELL. (American, 1907-1988). Helen and Bob Kleberg Riding Quietly into a Herd of Grade Santa Gertrudis Cattle Being Held for Selective Cutting in a King Ranch Pasture – August 1943. Gelatin silver photograph. Courtesy King Ranch Archives, King Ranch Inc., Kingsville, Texas.

THIS PAGE – TOP LEFT: HELEN C. KLEBERG (American, 1902-1963). On Top of the Pens, King Ranch, circa 1945. Chromogenic Photograph. Printed Posthumously from an Original 35mm Slide. Courtesy: Groves, Helen K. “Bob and Helen Kleberg of King Ranch”. Bright Sky Press, Albany, TX, 2004. TOP RIGHT: HELEN C. KLEBERG (American, 1902-1963). Zebu Parade, Brazil, 1953. Inkjet Photograph. Printed Posthumously from an Original 35mm Slide. Courtesy: Groves, Helen K. “Bob and Helen Kleberg of King Ranch”. Bright Sky Press, Albany, TX, 2004. BOTTOM LEFT: TONI FRISSELL (American, 1907-1988). Vaqueros at the Water Wagon, c. 1940s. Gelatin silver photograph. Courtesy: Groves, Helen K. “Bob and Helen Kleberg of King Ranch”. Bright Sky Press, Albany, TX, 2004. BOTTOM RIGHT: TONI FRISSELL. (American, 1907-1988). Helen Kleberg Seated on Pen with Camera in Hand, c. 1940. Gelatin silver photograph. Courtesy: Groves, Helen K. “Bob and Helen Kleberg of King Ranch”. Bright Sky Press, Albany, TX, 2004.


THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY

MMike & Betsy Parsonsike & Betsy Parsons

SCENESSCENES 20122012fromfrom

(TOP LEFT) Dugout: (l-r) Chloe Fields, Kate Jones, Hannah Snyder, Jeff Davis, Melissa Jones, Blake Jones, Sam Gillespie, Bryan Jones, Brodey Jones. (TOP RIGHT) Newlyweds: (l-r) Jared Husmann, Audrey Faith. (BOTTOM LEFT) Young Riders: (l-r) Madison Wilkins, Gracie LeMay, Blanton Belcher, Chelsy Parsons, Mad-elyn Connally, Madi Ratliff. (BOTTOM CENTER) Spanish Explorer: (l-r) Mason Denton. (BOTTOM RIGHT) Offi cers Ball: (l-r) Chandler Fields, Carson Wilson, Orrin Vinson, Lexa Willen, Rob Montgomery, Kim Davis.

DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS

DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS


Jon Rex & Ann JonesJon Rex & Ann JonesTHIS PAGE SPONSORED BY

(TOP LEFT PHOTO) Farmer’s Curst Wife: (l-r) Mason Mc-Cloy, Briley Pearson, Mimi Ivy, Madeline Stapp, Jaci Chap-man, Miles McCloy, Mary Beth Jones, Chance Winters, Cason Fairchild, Calhan Fairchild, Ginny Ivy, Cade Fairchild. (TOP RIGHT) Three generations: (front) Madeline Stapp, (back, l-r) Melinda Lucas, Jessica Stapp, Jordan Lucas. (LOWER LEFT) Seven Years With the Wrong Man: (front, l-r) Doris Miller, Lorna Ayers, Shelly Bartee, (middle) Melissa Fields, Kalico Leech, Tammy Brown, (back) Gaye Davis. (LOWER LEFT) Solo-ists: (l-r) Sara Head, Lanham Martin, Megan Schooler

DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS

DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS

DONNIE LUCAS / ALBANY NEWS


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