Latest content added for The Portal to Texas History Partner: Boyce Ditto Public Libraryhttps://texashistory.unt.edu/explore/partners/BDPL/browse/?sort=added_a&fq=dc_language:eng&start=402006-08-08T23:19:28-05:00UNT LibrariesThis is a custom feed for browsing The Portal to Texas History Partner: Boyce Ditto Public LibraryOak Street , Looking South2006-08-08T20:58:40-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16282/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16282/"><img alt="Oak Street , Looking South" title="Oak Street , Looking South" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16282/small/"/></a></p><p>We have here a picture of Oak Street, looking South. The Poston Company and the Palace Saloon are easily visible in photograph. The wording "Fishburn Dallas" appears on the photograph. The unpaved street, several horses and wagons in picture date the picture to an era before 1914, when the street was paved.</p>Petroleum Products, The Texas Company2006-08-08T21:01:37-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16281/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16281/"><img alt="Petroleum Products, The Texas Company" title="Petroleum Products, The Texas Company" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16281/small/"/></a></p><p>This is a picture of truck number D-677, bearing the identification of Texaco Petroleum Products, The Texas Company. A woman sits in the cab of the truck. The truck itself seems to date to about 1912.</p>"Baker Hotel" Menu2006-08-08T21:03:13-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16346/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16346/"><img alt=""Baker Hotel" Menu" title=""Baker Hotel" Menu" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16346/small/"/></a></p><p>This photograph illustrates an October 1929 menu from the Stephen F. Austin Hotel, a "Baker Hotel" (located in Austin, Texas), similar to the one that opened in Mineral Wells in 1929 is shown here.
The Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells was apparently one of a chain of hotels. This menu serves as a reminder of that fact.</p>A Program for the Coronation of the Queen at MWHS, 19342006-08-08T21:03:43-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16345/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16345/"><img alt="A Program for the Coronation of the Queen at MWHS, 1934" title="A Program for the Coronation of the Queen at MWHS, 1934" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16345/small/"/></a></p><p>The program for the Eighth Annual Mineral Wells High School Coronation of the Queen, held on January 18, 1934.</p>The Fiftieth Reunion of the Graduating Class of 19342006-08-08T21:03:58-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16344/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16344/"><img alt="The Fiftieth Reunion of the Graduating Class of 1934" title="The Fiftieth Reunion of the Graduating Class of 1934" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16344/small/"/></a></p><p>This picture reproduces a newspaper clipping that reports the fiftieth reunion of the 1934 class from Mineral Wells High School. It was published in the Mineral Wells Index on June 28, 1984.</p>Looking South on Mesquite Street2006-08-08T21:06:22-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16279/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16279/"><img alt="Looking South on Mesquite Street" title="Looking South on Mesquite Street" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16279/small/"/></a></p><p>A street scene, identified as Mesquite Street (now NE 1st Avenue)and looking south, taken at the turn of the twentieth century, shows businesses that antedate the coming of the automobile. On the right, in the middle of the picture, the Yeager Building is shown with a stone lion mounted on its roof. Many historians now refer to this building as the Lion Drug Store. However, current Yeager descendants now living in Mineral Wells do not remember the store as ever being named anything but The Yeager Drug Store. The third building on the left (with the spire on top) was the Star Well whose manager, Frank Richards was an active participant in Mineral Wells' early business and social activities. At the end of the street is Mineral Wells depot built in 1902. Absence of the "Dinky Car" tracks in the middle of the street indicates that the picture was taken prior to the building of the Mineral Wells Lakewood Park Scenic Railway in 1905.</p>Site of the New Frost Building2006-08-08T21:08:30-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16278/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16278/"><img alt="Site of the New Frost Building" title="Site of the New Frost Building" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16278/small/"/></a></p><p>Construction of Frost Building in Mineral Wells, Texas. A legend on the bottom reads: "Photograph by McClure." Some of the buildings illustrated here still [2018] survive.</p>[The Delaware Hotel on fire]2006-08-08T21:10:59-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16277/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16277/"><img alt="[The Delaware Hotel on fire]" title="[The Delaware Hotel on fire]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16277/small/"/></a></p><p>The destruction of the Delaware Hotel in Mineral Wells, Texas is illustrated here. The hotel was located at the corner of N. Oak Avenue and NE 3rd St. It was described at "Brick veneered." It was filled with guests at the time, many of whom narrowly escaped with their lives. the Louisiana House (damaged to the extent of$300, with no insurance), just across the street was described as "Damaged." The fire was fought by horse-drawn fire wagons and a pumper.
Trolley rails visible in middle of unpaved street date the picture as being between 1907, when the street car began operations, and 1914 when the street was paved.
A partly obliterated legend on the photograph declares that it was taken by "Ellis."</p>Crazy Hotel, Mineral Wells, Texas - America's Great Health Resort2006-08-08T21:17:29-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16343/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16343/"><img alt="Crazy Hotel, Mineral Wells, Texas - America's Great Health Resort" title="Crazy Hotel, Mineral Wells, Texas - America's Great Health Resort" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16343/small/"/></a></p><p>This picture shows a pamphlet that was presumably published for the purpose of enticing prospective guests to the Crazy Hotel. The text touts the hotel as being "Fire-proof" (Its predecessor was not), and it extends "Special considerations shown at many hotels only to a favored few." The text is surrounded with pictures of the accommodations, and the various activities available at the hotel. At the very bottom, there is an advertisement for Crazy Crystals. The text ends with a notice of where to inquire about rates.
If the dress of the ladies pictured is any guide, the pamphlet dates to the era of the 1920's.</p>Come to Mineral Wells2006-08-08T21:18:10-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16342/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16342/"><img alt="Come to Mineral Wells" title="Come to Mineral Wells" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16342/small/"/></a></p><p>Shown here is a pamphlet from the Chamber of Commerce, describing the healthful benefits of a visit to Mineral Wells, Texas.</p>[A Vacant lot in downtown Mineral Wells]2006-08-08T21:20:04-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16274/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16274/"><img alt="[A Vacant lot in downtown Mineral Wells]" title="[A Vacant lot in downtown Mineral Wells]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16274/small/"/></a></p><p>A vacant lot in downtown Mineral Wells, Texas, next to the Central Christian Church, located on NW 1st Street is shown here. Advertisements of products, and coming movie attractions, are displayed on a large bill board, and on an adjoining house.
The lot is messy, and a note indicates that it is to be part of a beautification project. The clean-up referred to in the accompanying note was probably more than a general "Spring Cleaning" campaign for the city of Mineral Wells. It was probably part of the "Wylie Park" beautification project. Smoke rising from stove pipes belonging to nearby businesses indicate cool weather.</p>The Oxford Hotel2006-08-08T21:25:18-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16272/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16272/"><img alt="The Oxford Hotel" title="The Oxford Hotel" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16272/small/"/></a></p><p>The Hubbard Street Trolley car is shown at Oak Avenue and Hubbard Streets on its way west to Pinto Lake, next to the Oxford Hotel. The First State Bank and Trust was located in the northwest (near) corner of the hotel.</p>Oak Street, Looking North2006-08-08T21:27:44-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16271/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16271/"><img alt="Oak Street, Looking North" title="Oak Street, Looking North" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16271/small/"/></a></p><p>An early view of Oak Street (now Oak Avenue), looking North is shown here. The first intersecting road is Hubbard Street. Part of the Oxford Hotel is visible on the southeast corner of Hubbard and Oak. Please note the utter lack of street lights.
Street car tracks and an overhead cable run on Oak. Mineral Wells Electric System (Street Car) ceased operation in 1913. The downtown streets were paved in 1914.
A hardware store, possibly Davidson's, is on the southwest corner of Hubbard and Oak.</p>[A Portrait Presentation at KORC]2006-08-08T21:29:54-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16270/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16270/"><img alt="[A Portrait Presentation at KORC]" title="[A Portrait Presentation at KORC]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16270/small/"/></a></p><p>Mrs. Jess (Ruby) Shattles presents a photographic picture of Achilles Corcanges, founder and owner of radio station KORC in Mineral Wells to the same Mr. Corcanges.
Mrs. Shattles owned and operated Pavilion Studio at 412 N. Oak Avenue. The picture was taken about 1946, when station KORC opened. The unidentified gentleman, with his back to the photographer,on the left is believed to be Mr. Shattles.</p>KORC 1140 On Your Dial2006-08-08T21:34:50-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16268/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16268/"><img alt="KORC 1140 On Your Dial" title="KORC 1140 On Your Dial" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16268/small/"/></a></p><p>A picture of a KORC-KBS Microphone--"1140 on your dial" is shown here.
Mineral Wells' radio history dates back to the 1930's when Mr. Hal Collins, owner of the Crazy Hotel, began sponsoring broadcasts originating in the hotel lobby. The radio station was founded and owned by Mr. Achilles Corcanges, and aired its first broadcast on December 5, 1946.
Radio station KMWT-FM began broadcasting from Mineral Wells in 1970. The broadcasts were aired nationwide, at noon daily, over the Texas Quality Network. It advertised Crazy Water Crystals. Both stations' call letters were changed in 1983 to KJAS-AM and KYXS-FM.
Many show business luminaries appeared on the shows. For instance, Mary Martin of Weatherford began her singing/acting career here.</p>[A Tamale Vendor on Oak and Hubbard]2006-08-08T21:37:58-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16267/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16267/"><img alt="[A Tamale Vendor on Oak and Hubbard]" title="[A Tamale Vendor on Oak and Hubbard]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16267/small/"/></a></p><p>Fred Estrada "The Mineral Wells Hot Tamale Man" sold "The Best Tamales Anywhere", is shown here. He purveyed them at 75 cents a dozen, at the corner of Hubbard Street and Oak Avenue for many years.
Automobiles, dating from the early-to-mid-twentieth century, and a U.S. Mailbox, may also be seen in the picture. The picture occurs on page 182 of "TIME WAS...", second edition.</p>[A Trolley Car of the] Mineral Wells Electric System2006-08-08T21:40:37-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16266/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16266/"><img alt="[A Trolley Car of the] Mineral Wells Electric System" title="[A Trolley Car of the] Mineral Wells Electric System" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16266/small/"/></a></p><p>This picture shows the Mineral Wells Electric System Trolley Car Number 23. The Mineral Wells Electric System operated from 1902 (?) to 1913.
The picture appears to have been taken in the 1400 block of W. Hubbard Street, where the street car unloaded passengers for a short hike north to Lake Pinto. The street car reversed here, and traveled across town to Elmwood Cemetery--around NE 17th Avenue. The trolley system was the brainchild of a Major Beardsley (who was not only not a Texan, but fought for the Union side in the Civil War), who apparently planned an interurban line. A proposed line, which would have gone from Mineral Wells, to Millsap, to Peaster, to Weatherford and thence to Fort Worth was actually begun, but it ended mysteriously. The Weatherford papers report that enthusiasm for such an interurban was still great in 1912 but investment money was lacking. The Panic of 1907 (never mentioned by the papers) may have a contributing factor in the drama. In any event, the advent of the motorcar would have been a serious challenge to any interurban trolley line.</p>[The Lynch Cabins]2006-08-08T21:42:28-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16265/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16265/"><img alt="[The Lynch Cabins]" title="[The Lynch Cabins]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16265/small/"/></a></p><p>A drawing of the Lynch cabins, done by Jarmon Alvis Lynch, grandson of James Alvis Lynch. The drawing says "Alvis Lynch 77" in the bottom right-hand corner. The picture was apparently done from memory.
The original mineral water discovery well is in the right foreground, with a windlass for drawing water. "Judge" Lynch and his family did not arrive in Millsap Valley until Christmas 1879. Note the tents in the right background.
H. M. Berry, Mineral Wells' first teacher, noted in an article that when the reputation for the curative powers of the water spread, the area looked like "an army on the move" with health-seekers temporarily camping in tents until housing could be built for them.</p>[Souvenir Views of Mineral Wells, Texas]2006-08-08T21:43:01-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16341/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16341/"><img alt="[Souvenir Views of Mineral Wells, Texas]" title="[Souvenir Views of Mineral Wells, Texas]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16341/small/"/></a></p><p>A pamphlet, shaped like a water bottle, with illustrations of the Mineral Wells area. Some pictures include unidentified visitors to the area that are enjoying the outdoor natural beauty. The statement "Patent and Trademark applied for by the Yeager Drug Company" is located on the lower left-hand portion of the photograph.</p>The American Legion Drum and Bugle Corp at Their 1933 Convention in Chicago2006-08-08T21:45:43-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16264/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16264/"><img alt="The American Legion Drum and Bugle Corp at Their 1933 Convention in Chicago" title="The American Legion Drum and Bugle Corp at Their 1933 Convention in Chicago" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16264/small/"/></a></p><p>This much-battered picture has obviously been pinned to a cork-board in order for it to be made into a photograph. Enough of the legend at its bottom survives to proclaim that the picture commemorates the attendance of the Drum and Bugle Corps of Mineral Wells' Farris Anderson Post No. 75, at a national convention of the the American Legion, in Chicago, Illinois, on October 2-5, 1933. The photograph was taken, the legend states, compliments of the Majestic Hotel.
Please note: The American Legion provided the following names to accompany the picture: David Burnswick,[sic] Director; Paul Grable, Drum Major; Tommie Burns, Trumpet; James W. Calvert, Trumpet; E.M. Davidson, Trumpet; Lawrence Davis, Trumpet; Sam Goldman, Trumpet; Jack Armstrong, Trumpet; Bob Echols,[sic] Clarinet; (?) Davidson, Clarinet; Lloyd Kendall, Clarinet; Bob Irvine, Clarinet; (?)Brady, Piccolo; Arly (?) Bolfour,[sic] S. Drums, B. Drums; Dan Raeffell,[sic] Bass; W.E. Davis, Bass; Roy Prince, Trombone; Vaughan Davis, Trombone; (?) Trombone; Franz Schubert, Baritone; Alex Pavlovsky, Horn; W. W. Woodward. Horn; George Oliver, Horn; Bill Chancellor, Color Bearer; W.H.H. Smith, Color Bearer; Allan Wallace, Color Guard; George Barber, Color Guard.
This band was awarded a state championship three times.</p>[A Parade of Automobiles]2006-08-08T21:47:33-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16263/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16263/"><img alt="[A Parade of Automobiles]" title="[A Parade of Automobiles]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16263/small/"/></a></p><p>A parade of decorated automobiles is shown crossing the intersection at North Oak and NE 2nd Streets,as seen from the west. A sign for Lovera Cigars is visible on the front of the Crazy Drug Company (the gray building at right middle of the picture.) The large white building in the left center back-ground is the Presbyterian Church.</p>Hotel Guide, Highway Guide and Where to Go in Mineral Wells2006-08-08T21:49:24-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16340/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16340/"><img alt="Hotel Guide, Highway Guide and Where to Go in Mineral Wells" title="Hotel Guide, Highway Guide and Where to Go in Mineral Wells" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16340/small/"/></a></p><p>The cover page of a guide to the town of Mineral Wells, with information about the different types of water available, recreation activities, sanatoriums, and hotels is shown here. The clothes of the"Dyspeptic" illustrated at the bottom left suggest the late 1920's.
Please note the gammadion (swastika) ribbons above and below the doggerel on the left side of the picture. The guide appears to have been printed considerably before the rise of the Nazis in Germany.</p>[Sam Whatley Presenting Check to Slogan Contest Winner]2006-08-08T21:50:12-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16262/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16262/"><img alt="[Sam Whatley Presenting Check to Slogan Contest Winner]" title="[Sam Whatley Presenting Check to Slogan Contest Winner]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16262/small/"/></a></p><p>Sam Whatley (dressed in a Cadillac uniform), the Service Manager for the Young Motor Company (a local Cadillac dealership), presents a check to Mr. and Mrs. Evans Holland, winners of a slogan contest. The winning slogan was "Cadillac every time for better motor service."
The microphone above them is labeled as belonging to station KORC, which opened December 5, 1946. It changed its name to KJSA in 1983, when the station was sold to Jerry Snyder.
A colophon on the lower right identifies "SW Photo" as the photographer.
(The picture occurs on page 185 of TIME WAS, second edition.)</p>[Two men Dressed as Bonnie and Clyde]2006-08-08T21:52:02-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16261/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16261/"><img alt="[Two men Dressed as Bonnie and Clyde]" title="[Two men Dressed as Bonnie and Clyde]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16261/small/"/></a></p><p>Two men, posing as the notorious gangsters of the 'thirties (Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow), standing beside a (1932 Ford?), are shown in front of Woods Camera Shop. Woods Camera Shop advertises (on a faded sign in front of the store) "Eastman Dealer - Enlarging Framing Finishing - Kodaks Loaned Free" The occasion of this disguise remains, as yet, unknown.</p>The Mineral Wells Guide2006-08-08T21:53:42-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16339/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16339/"><img alt="The Mineral Wells Guide" title="The Mineral Wells Guide" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16339/small/"/></a></p><p>The Mineral Wells Guide, as it itself proclaims, was published for the out-of-town visitor.
It contains facts about Mineral Wells, instructions about how to reach Mineral Wells, the water and baths to be found there, the Milling Sanatorium, recreation in the city, and various advertisements.</p>[People Marching in a Parade]2006-08-08T21:54:11-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16260/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16260/"><img alt="[People Marching in a Parade]" title="[People Marching in a Parade]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16260/small/"/></a></p><p>Shown here is a photograph of people walking south along North Oak Avenue in a street parade, with some individuals playing musical instruments. The prominent building in the middle right of the picture is the former Crazy Theater on the east side of Oak Avenue, across the street from the Crazy Hotel.</p>[Boyce Ditto's Social Security Card]2006-08-08T21:56:05-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16338/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16338/"><img alt="[Boyce Ditto's Social Security Card]" title="[Boyce Ditto's Social Security Card]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16338/small/"/></a></p><p>An envelope from the Crazy Water Hotel, containing Boyce Ditto's Social Security Card.</p>[A Parade in Mineral Wells on North Oak Avenue]2006-08-08T22:00:49-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16257/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16257/"><img alt="[A Parade in Mineral Wells on North Oak Avenue]" title="[A Parade in Mineral Wells on North Oak Avenue]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16257/small/"/></a></p><p>The Chamber of Commerce float, with the Parade Princess, greets visitors in the 1936 Centennial Parade in Mineral Wells,Texas. It is shown proceeding along the 200 block of North Oak Avenue. Businesses in photograph include, (bunting-festooned) Perry Brothers 5-10-and 25-cent store, City Bakery, and (to the left) part of Duke & Ayers 5-& 10-cent store.
Angle-parked automobiles and spectators line the street.</p>[The Crazy Water Company - Stock Certificate]2006-08-08T22:02:39-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16337/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16337/"><img alt="[The Crazy Water Company - Stock Certificate]" title="[The Crazy Water Company - Stock Certificate]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16337/small/"/></a></p><p>A certificate for 250 shares of Capital Stock in the Crazy Water Company, that once belonged to Boyce Ditto is shown here.</p>[A Man with a Catfish]2006-08-08T22:03:27-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16256/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16256/"><img alt="[A Man with a Catfish]" title="[A Man with a Catfish]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16256/small/"/></a></p><p>An unknown man is pictured holding a catfish that he has presumably caught. An embossed legend at the base of the picture states that the photograph was taken by Young's Photography, Mineral Wells, Texas.
(Palo Pinto County held the Texas record in 2005 for a catfish. A ninety-six-pound monster was caught at the outflow of Morris Sheppard Dam on Possum Kingdom Lake.)</p>[Inspiration Point]2006-08-08T22:06:19-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16255/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16255/"><img alt="[Inspiration Point]" title="[Inspiration Point]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16255/small/"/></a></p><p>The label on the photograph reads both "Possum Kingdom Dam" and "Inspiration Point". A. F. and Patsy Weaver are shown enjoying the view from Inspiration Point. A.F. Weaver himself took the photograph, using a tripod and camera timer,in the same vicinity where he had proposed to Patsy Weaver years before this photograph was taken. In the early part of the twentieth century,the internationally known evangelist, Billy Sunday, visited Mineral Wells. He was told about an outstanding view from a vantage point south of town. On seeing the vista for himself,the Rev. Sunday remarked it was truly an inspirational view. Since that time the viewpoint has been known as "Inspiration Point". This vista is seven miles south of Mineral Wells off US Highway 281, and approximately 40 miles below the Morris Sheppard Dam at Possum Kingdom Lake. It has been called one of the most beautiful scenic views in Texas. This picture has possibly been used in the course of the advertising of interesting things to see and do around Mineral Wells, which might explain the label attached to the photograph. Similarly captivating is a view from "Observation Point" the Dam at Possum Kingdom Lake. The two vistas, some 20 to 30 miles apart,overlook entirely different stretches of the Brazos, each with its own unique but spectacular view.</p>[Photograph of Lover's Retreat]2006-08-08T22:09:13-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16254/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16254/"><img alt="[Photograph of Lover's Retreat]" title="[Photograph of Lover's Retreat]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16254/small/"/></a></p><p>Photograph of small group of people sitting on a large rock on the north bank of Eagle Creek, reflected in the water of the swimming hole at Lover's Retreat.</p>[Walters International Factories, Inc.- - Stock Certificate- - Preferred Stock]2006-08-08T22:09:47-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16336/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16336/"><img alt="[Walters International Factories, Inc.- - Stock Certificate- - Preferred Stock]" title="[Walters International Factories, Inc.- - Stock Certificate- - Preferred Stock]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16336/small/"/></a></p><p>This photograph shows a certificate for 12 shares of Preferred Capital Stock in Walters International Factories, Incorporated, formerly belonging to Boyce Ditto.</p>[Photograph of the New Suspension Bridge at Lover's Retreat]2006-08-08T22:16:44-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16251/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16251/"><img alt="[Photograph of the New Suspension Bridge at Lover's Retreat]" title="[Photograph of the New Suspension Bridge at Lover's Retreat]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16251/small/"/></a></p><p>This is a photograph of a suspension bridge for pedestrian traffic across Eagle Creek at Lover's Retreat. Formerly a public park, and now on private property, it was located four miles west of Palo Pinto on the old Bankhead Highway (now U.S. Highway 180).</p>[Walters International Factories, Inc. - Stock Certificate - Common Stock]2006-08-08T22:16:53-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16335/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16335/"><img alt="[Walters International Factories, Inc. - Stock Certificate - Common Stock]" title="[Walters International Factories, Inc. - Stock Certificate - Common Stock]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16335/small/"/></a></p><p>This photograph illustrates a certificate for 12 shares of Common Stock in Walters International Factories, Incorporated, formerly belonging to Boyce Ditto. Further information is lamentably lacking.</p>[Social Security Award for Boyce Ditto]2006-08-08T22:17:51-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16334/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16334/"><img alt="[Social Security Award for Boyce Ditto]" title="[Social Security Award for Boyce Ditto]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16334/small/"/></a></p><p>An insurance award from the Social Security Administration for Boyce Ditto in 1948.</p>[1935 An Income Tax Return for Boyce Ditto]2006-08-08T22:18:34-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16333/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16333/"><img alt="[1935 An Income Tax Return for Boyce Ditto]" title="[1935 An Income Tax Return for Boyce Ditto]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16333/small/"/></a></p><p>An individual U.S. income tax return for Boyce Ditto for 1935. (Boyce Ditto's Last Will and Testament contained a bequest of money to build the current Mineral Wells Library, which bears his name.)</p>Mineral Wells, "The Carlsbad of America"2006-08-08T22:21:59-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16332/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16332/"><img alt="Mineral Wells, "The Carlsbad of America"" title="Mineral Wells, "The Carlsbad of America"" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16332/small/"/></a></p><p>Booklet about the history of, the various services available at, and the attractions in and around Mineral Wells, ("The Carlsbad of America")Texas. Published in 1905, it contains many photographic illustrations and a local map. Please note the colophon at the bottom of the pamphlet: "An empire--a nation within a nation."</p>[The Sunshine Special]2006-08-08T22:23:58-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16248/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16248/"><img alt="[The Sunshine Special]" title="[The Sunshine Special]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16248/small/"/></a></p><p>A locomotive engine pulls the Texas & Pacific "Red Eye" passenger train, named The Sunshine Special. These business-friendly trains were scheduled to arrive in the Dallas/Ft Worth area at about 9 AM from both the east and the west. This picture was taken by A.F. Weaver at Millsap, Texas in 1940.
It was published in the Rotogravure section of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The Series 700- (714-) series engine shown was replaced a few years later by larger, more powerful Series 600 engines capable of greater speed.</p>[A Christmas Card from Boyce Ditto]2006-08-08T22:26:04-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16331/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16331/"><img alt="[A Christmas Card from Boyce Ditto]" title="[A Christmas Card from Boyce Ditto]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16331/small/"/></a></p><p>Christmas card sent to Mrs. Weaver, signed "Boyce Ditto." The front cover has a picture of greenery decorated with red bells and silver balls; at the top it says "To A Special Friend." The inside has a similar illustration in the center with text on either side. The text on the left says, "Friends as fine/ as you are/ Don't often come/ one's way./ And special times/ like Christmas/ Don't happen every day." The text on the right continues: "And so this/ Christmas greeting/ Is coming to extend/ This wish--/ 'A Merry Christmas/ To a very/ special friend!'"</p>[The Gulf and Brazos Valley Railroad Depot]2006-08-08T22:33:32-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16246/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16246/"><img alt="[The Gulf and Brazos Valley Railroad Depot]" title="[The Gulf and Brazos Valley Railroad Depot]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16246/small/"/></a></p><p>A caption to the photograph states: "Gulf and Brazos Valley Railroad Depot 1899-1902. Erected back some 80 years ago, and served the Brazos Valley Railroad from Mineral Wells to Peck City near Millsap, now known as Bennett."
The area formerly known as Peck City is now the location of an Acme brick plant, and is named "Bennett" for the rail switch that serves the plant.
Standing on the right in the photograph is Noble Nuttall, father of Verne Nuttall, the first depot operator and telegraph operator. Please note the guitar near the woman at the window. The depot was once located on the site now occupied by the Hayes Lumber Company, in the 300 block on SE 1st Avenue.
The newspaper caption: "Passengers would ride on the Texas and Pacific to Peck City and come by the Brazos Valley train from Peck City to Mineral Wells" is incorrect. The GULF and BRAZOS RIVER RAILWAY was strictly a freight line that hauled coal from the Rock Creek mines (east of Mineral Wells) to the T&P main line at Peck City.
The first depot in Mineral Wells for passenger service from Weatherford was built when the W.-M.W.-N.W. that first arrived in Mineral Wells in 1891. It burned down, and it was replaced by the current brick depot in 1902, the year the GBV was sold at a sheriff's auction in Weatherford. (Photo courtesy of Verne Nuttall)</p>Inside Information about the Waters2006-08-08T22:35:10-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16330/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16330/"><img alt="Inside Information about the Waters" title="Inside Information about the Waters" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16330/small/"/></a></p><p>A souvenir booklet, shaped like a bottle from Mineral Wells. It is almost devoid of information, except to note that it was printed by the Harris Service of Ft. Worth, Texas (with its advertising mark of an arrowhead). A copyright was applied for is the last bit of information on the pamphlet's cover.</p>[Panoramic Photograph of Mineral Wells]2006-08-08T22:51:11-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16240/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16240/"><img alt="[Panoramic Photograph of Mineral Wells]" title="[Panoramic Photograph of Mineral Wells]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16240/small/"/></a></p><p>Panoramic photo taken from West Mountain, looking toward East Mountain over North Oak Street in Mineral Wells. The Convention Center, Box Factory, and The Crazy Water Hotel are visible. Native plants are visible in the foreground.</p>Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - back page2006-08-08T22:55:38-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16329/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16329/"><img alt="Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - back page" title="Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - back page" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16329/small/"/></a></p><p>Shown here is a picture of the reverse (back) page of a souvenir program from the Palo Pinto Centennial Celebration of 1957. It consists of advertising, extolling the virtues of the First National Bank in Mineral Wells.</p>Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - front side2006-08-08T22:59:14-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16328/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16328/"><img alt="Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - front side" title="Palocade - Palo Pinto County - Official Centennial Program - front side" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16328/small/"/></a></p><p>The obverse (front) page of a souvenir program from the Palo Pinto Centennial production, "Palocade," which tells the history of Palo Pinto County, which includes the names of the Centennial Queen and her court, is illustrated here.</p>Camp Wolters - Texas2006-08-08T23:03:34-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16327/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16327/"><img alt="Camp Wolters - Texas" title="Camp Wolters - Texas" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16327/small/"/></a></p><p>Illustrated here is a panoramic view of Camp Wolters, Texas. Labels on photograph identify (left to right) Area No. 4, Sports Arena, Service Club, Area No. 5, Area No. 3, Area No. 2, and Area No.1. Platoons of soldiers are marching on the left side of the photograph.</p>The Cullen Grimes School2006-08-08T23:08:56-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16326/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16326/"><img alt="The Cullen Grimes School" title="The Cullen Grimes School" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16326/small/"/></a></p><p>Principal Donald Bond, the teachers and the students of the afternoon group at Cullen Grimes School in Mineral Wells, Texas congregate in front of the building in March of 1954.</p>32.821995 -98.111796[Dry Cleaning Bag from Baker Hotel]2006-08-08T23:15:09-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16325/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16325/"><img alt="[Dry Cleaning Bag from Baker Hotel]" title="[Dry Cleaning Bag from Baker Hotel]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16325/small/"/></a></p><p>A dry-cleaning bag from the Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells, Texas is shown here. The bag has an image of the hotel, taken from the front, as well as "The Baker Hotel - Mineral Wells, Texas, World Famous Health Resort". Further information on this artifact has not been forthcoming.</p>[A Parade in 1925]2006-08-08T23:18:11-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16230/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16230/"><img alt="[A Parade in 1925]" title="[A Parade in 1925]" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16230/small/"/></a></p><p>A parade took placed during the West Texas Chamber of Commerce's convention of 1925. The parade is moving west on NE 2nd Street. The Whatley-Maddox Ford-Lincoln Motor Company (festooned with bunting)is shown on the corner with the U.S. Post Office across the street. East of the Post Office is the Mineral Wells Sanatorium.</p>The First Anniversary of the Aviation Engineer Force Activation2006-08-08T23:19:28-05:00https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16324/<p><a href="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16324/"><img alt="The First Anniversary of the Aviation Engineer Force Activation" title="The First Anniversary of the Aviation Engineer Force Activation" src="https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth16324/small/"/></a></p><p>Troops and spectators celebrate the first anniversary of Aviation Engineer Force Activation at Wolters Air Force Base on April 10, 1952, with Colonel A.B. Campfield, the Commander of Troops; Brigadier General H.W. Ehrgott, Commanding; Colonel Philip G. Kemp, the Base Commander.</p>