SUMMER / FALL 2022 The Root of Life Chisholm C ry magazine Clifton’s Country Lifestyle Thriving South 31st St. Drives Down Memory Lane Lomax Legacy: Ballad Hunter Lives On & Engaging Events In The Heart Of Texas Old family homestead takes on new life as Catahoula Creek Ranch
In the midst of the Modern Age, we are witnessing change take place at a rate unimaginable during any other period in the history of the world. For those of us who have walked the Earth for 50 years or more, today’s world barely resembles the one into which we were born.
But when did this Modern Age we live in actually begin?
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SUMMER / FALL 2022
Welcome to the occupation of our modern minds.
E. BRETT VOSS Editor-In-Chief
Originally pitched using rosy utopian predictions of increased democratization and access to information and culture, the social and cultural impacts of the Information Superhighway points to scenarios that are much more dystopian than utopian, becoming the dominant socioeconomic system driven by commercialization, privatization and commodification of information. With that in mind, the new technology of the Modern Age can have an almost immeasurable impact upon peoples’ relationship to information and culture.
So that brings us back to what thinkers from all ages have pondered – the idea that we are all connected and that everything we do affects everything and everyone else.
While there’s plenty about modern life that makes our day-to-day easier, there’s also a lot of aspects that can cause and perpetuate anxiety. Sure, we’ve got a world of information and thousands of apps at our fingertips, but is that really a good thing? Did people in the socalled “olden days,” in a way, actually have it easier than we do?
Are we educated? Or are we mad? Or are we being consumed by the Modern Age?
Managing Editor Wichers-Voss
with tradition, which includes a profound reaction against established religious, political and social views.
The Root of Life
CHISHOLM COUNTRY magazine is published quarterly by Southern Cross Creative, LLP P.O. Box 107 Meridian, Texas 76665 (254) 247-5703
Contributing Photographers
In this fast-moving modern world, just the thought of it could create anxiety with many of us feeling the weight of the world on our shoulders. In fact, anxiety would be a normal response to the stressful situation the Modern Age throws at us every day, forcing us to deal with the constantly changing world, while exercising caution and remaining alert.
Editor-In-Chief Brett Voss
In reality, we have already moved into another age altogether, a period beginning in the last quarter of the 20th century when information became easily accessible through publications and through the manipulation of information by computers and computer networks. And with it, we are witnessing the principal characteristic of Modernism – a strong and intentional break
Marvin Grelle
By definition, the history of the world began with Ancient History, encompassing the earliest remains of human activity in the Stone Age, through the Bronze Age when humans began using the metal in tools, as well as the Classical Era of Ancient Rome – lasting roughly 6,500 years.The vast majority of academic historians date the Middle Ages from 476 AD with the fall of the Roman empire in the West to 1492 with the discovery of the “New World” of the Americas by Columbus. Also known as Medieval History, the major impact came when the Renaissance began, and the movable type printing press was invented around 1450. In other words, the Middle Ages lasted approximately 1,000 years. Generally, the term “Modern Age” refers to the history of the world since the advent of the Age of Reason and the Age of Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries, and the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. But the Modern Age has been so packed with change, it has been divided into three sub-periods – the Early Modern (1500-1750), the Mid-Modern (17501945) and the Contemporary periods.
Eugene SimoneVickieMazzuranaMitchellWichers-Voss
Chisholm C ry magazine
Clifton’s Country Lifestyle Thriving
I mean, anxiety was a thing in 400 BC, just ask Hippocrates. The Greek philosopher advocated a natural approach to the treatment of diseases and emphasized the need for harmony between the individual and social and natural environments. But did the ancient Greeks have to deal with Instagram or deciphering cryptic text messages or weed through all of the fake news for a grain of truth? I think not.
Notice a pattern here?
Lomax Legacy: Ballad Hunter Lives On & Engaging Events In The Heart Of Texas
One of the great philosophical questions across the ages has always been “Is everything connected?” Before even attempting to debate that question, we must determine what “everything” represents and what “connected” means today. After all, aren’t we all instantly connected and influenced by the Information Superhighway of the “Modern Age?”
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: All editorial and advertising materials are copyrighted by Southern Cross Creative, LLP. The entire content of each issue of Chisholm Country magazine is protected under the Federal Copyright Act. Reproduction of any portion of any edition will not be permitted without written permission from Southern Cross Creative. Chisholm Country magazine, as well as any reasonable derivative of this name, are trademarks of Southern Cross Creative, LLP and use of these trademarks without the express written consent of Southern Cross Creative, LLP is strictly prohibited.
ON THE COVER: Slip Sliding Away by Simone Wichers-Voss
Contributing Writers
Ruth SimoneNathanBryanCrawfordDavisDiebenowE.BrettVossWichers-Voss
E.
FROM THE EDITOR
Old family homestead takes on new life as Catahoula Creek Ranch
www.ChisholmCountry.com C hisholm C ountry SUMMER/FALL 2022
South 31st St. Drives Down Memory Lane
Jan & Doug Kieta Punky & Wally Penberthy
Simone
DRIVING DOWN MEMORY LANE
Bosque Art Classic showcases artistic skill by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
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CAPTURING A MOMENT IN TIME
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LOMAX LEGACY LIVES ON
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HEY, WHAT’S GOING ON?
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FROM THE EDITOR
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COUNTRY LIFESTYLE THRIVES
Ballad Hunter awareness efforts renewed by E. BRETT VOSS & SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Schmidt cousins deliver smooth classics by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
IN THIS ISSUE
by E. BRETT VOSS
FISHY FISHING FOLKLORE
Information Superhighway of Modern Age
Upcoming area entertainment & events by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Clifton: Small town with big ideas by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Volume 1, Issue 2 SUMMER/FALL 2022
Marvin Grelle shoots wildlife with a lens by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
ART NEVER DIES
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Superstitions, traditions & fishy stories by E. BRETT VOSS
HEALTHY SOIL, HEALTHY CROP
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Catahoula Creek Farm nurtures root of life by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
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SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Country Lifestyle Thrives
article & photographs by
TOWN ON THE BANKS OF THE BOSQUE: Life-size statue “On the Banks of the Bosque” by Bruce Greene at Clifton’s Heritage Plaza (far left); mural by Megan Major depicting the iron bridge over the Bosque (top); flags depicting Clifton’s and Bosque County’s heritages (above).
The City, Clifton Main Street and Preservation Society have taken major steps to improve the down town experience, enhance and revamp several areas. The Clifton Chamber of Commerce and Clifton Economic Development Corporations are working hard to stimulate
Deep in the Heart of Texas, Clifton flourishes as a small town with big ideas & the drive to see them come to fruition
Much of the beauty and heritage of Bosque County is closely entwined with its abundant water-ways – the Bosque and Brazos Rivers and two lakes, Meridian and Whitney. The county’s distinctive roads reflect its history – the Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway (FM 219), the Old Chisholm Trail, the Santa Fe Railroad, and the Texas Lakes Trail. That combined with a low cost of living, makes Bosque County a gem tucked away in Central Texas, where country lifestyle lives.The people in Bosque County cherish the empty roads, that they know their local retailers by name and that they watch out for their neighbors. But the small towns are ripe for rejuvenation and a controlled influx of new blood, renovating old homes, building new real estate, bringing in new businesses, and so increasing in sales tax and property tax revenues for the county’s upkeep and expanding of amenities.InClifton, they have steadily been improving the town, one project at a time. And looking back five years, longtime residents, those returning to their roots, those wanting to raise their children in a safe, rural environment and those seeking a beautiful place for retirement will see the numerous improvements on many different fronts.Thesmall-town revival amongst millennials and gen-X-ers fleeing sky-rocketing city rents and balancing work stress and play –as reported in the Aug. 2018 Texas Monthly magazine – might be a positive for the area. Certainly, the “Chip and Joanna Gaines” promotion of Central Texas is making people aware of the Heart of Texas region and the affordability of land and homes.
Adding to the parks accessibility and appeal, like adding a disc golf course, adding soccer goals, reinstating the basketball court, and adding landscaping to the park entrances.Repairing and painting the gazebo and reviewing the electrical system. The public restrooms received a new roof.
City workers mowed the grounds
With his mother growing up in Meridian, City Administrator David came to the area regularly as a boy. He came to the position a year ago with nearly two decades experience in city management as Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation and Deputy Director of the Community Education and Recreation Department in Burleson. He wants to grow the city in a steady manner, increasing its vitality while maintaining its unique small-town character. With McDowell’s arrival the path to improvements continues.
“Even if you stay small, you have to be progressive,” McDowell said. “It’s quality of life versus bustle and anonymity of a bigger city. We have a low crime rate and are community oriented. But you have to attract businesses and tourism, and to get people to shop more in town instead of driving to Waco.”Clifton has over 20 acres of public parkland for our residents and guests to enjoy. Multiple city departments, staff
“We have a great asset,” McDowell said. “We just have to clean it up. The use of the parks went up during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, which was a great trigger to improve the parks.
Clifton offers a bountiful selection of experiences and opportunities, including sports, live performances, parks, fairs, special events, and The Cliftex Theatre – Texas’ oldest continuously operating movie house. Clifton offers more than twenty acres of public parkland, and the Bosque River and surrounding countryside provide year-round outdoor enjoyment and beauty.
Along Mary Street, overgrown areas were cleared and levelled prior to new curbing and ribbon curbing. Base material was added, and the foundation prepared for a complete resurfacing of the street with asphalt. Theproject extended from North Avenue Q to State Highway 6. Additionally, curbing and ribbon curbing were added along a section of South Avenue Q. The site foundation was prepared before the avenue wasImprovingresurfaced. water supply. This spring Clifton City Council approved three infrastructure projects funded through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The City will replace a two-inch water main on Avenue A with a six-inch water main to comply with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality standards. This project was mad possible thanks to an American Rescue Plan Grant of $845,000.McDowell is happy with the end product of these projects aimed at serving a lot of people, and has received a lot of positive feed back on both the park and street improvements.
and painted flagpoles and structures in preparation for park events. Fireworks on the Bosque, hosted by the City of Clifton and the City of Clifton Event Committee, drew thousands to City Park in celebration of Independence Day.
Clifton acquired a new park space in 2020 through an interlocal agreement with the Clifton Independent School District – it is the former the Clifton Elementary School playground from 1940-2018. The CockrellThiele Park is the only public park in the southwestern quadrant of town. This latest addition to the public park system has probably seen more hours of play than any of the City’s other parks. The City of Clifton is planning several improvements for this setting of many childhood memories.
Cleaning out the river bank by the park. Six hundred feet of overgrowth was cleared along the banks of the Bosque River in the Pecan Bottoms, allowing for easier, safer access to the waterfront.
and elected officials, and the volunteer Parks Advisory Board collaborate on park development and improvement. The City’s Public Works Department participates in planning and leads physical projects as well as seasonal and routine maintenance. McDowell is a firm believer that wellkept and well used parks build the sense of community and family within a town. He wants to encourage people to bring their family picnics to the park; to be a beautiful backdrop for prom and senior photos; to give the youth a place to hang out and engage in leisure sports safely.
In the past two years, the City of Clifton addressed the needs of the city parks. ProjectsBringinginclude:theCity parks to compliance by removing unsafe areas like damaged bleachers and fencing, repairing bridges. The concrete slab that was once the foundation of the Veterans of Foreign Wars building was removed and the area graded.
In 2021, a sand volleyball court was added to Olsen Park near Clifton’s school campus, and a new backboard and nets were purchased for the tennis courts. Olsen Pool received new pool chairs, and the bathroom was re-plumbed. Clifton Lions Club volunteers cleaned and painted the pavilion and picnic area on the west side.
“We want to offer people a good, healthy community, where they enjoy living and where outsiders enjoy visiting.”
Set along the banks of the beautiful Bosque River, Clifton is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. City parks and the surrounding countryside provide the settings for hours of fishing, cycling, hunting, stargazing, and more. Clifton is a proud partner with the Texas Historical Commission and is featured on two Texas Heritage Trails. Clifton is also a stop on the Prehistoric Trail designated by Prehistoric Texas and the legendary Chisholm Trail.
Roads – The combined projects involved 2,004 tons of asphalt and were completed at an approximate cost of $638,000. Adding 140 man holes and other infrastructure brought the projects to $1.7 million. The funding came from a Community Development Block Disaster Relief Grants after the 2016 flooding.
economic growth and increasing quality of life.Conveniently located midway between Austin and Dallas/Ft. Worth, and only minutes from Waco, an oasis of pastoral beauty, gracious small-town hospitality in an enriching environment, Clifton is a diverse community and a haven for artists and historians. The community has a deep agricultural and pioneer heritage that is reflected in a generous, rich quality of life. It’s a true gem of a community where you’ll find fine arts, fine folks, a fine time!
The modifications will help prolong the street life by protecting the surface from the effects of aging, cracking, deterioration, and waterImproveinfiltration. theroads in town. Local street improvements continued into late June as city employees and contractors completed projects on Mary Street and S. Avenue Q.
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BEAUTIFICATION: Michelle Morris and 4H junior master gardeners help enhance the entrance to Clifton’s City Park with plants.
• Improving the digital infrastructure with broad band.
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But he is also trying to see 20 years ahead when it comes to planning major infrastructure changes. So often though there is not enough funding or equipment to get projects started and finalized. But with existing businesses doing well and growing, several new businesses are moving into town within the next six months, and construction projects on both sides of town the progression continues.Cliftonremains true to its roots but always looking ahead –investing in the local economy and tomorrow’s brightest hope, our children. It’s a small town with big ideas.
FutuRe PRojects include:
• Installation of LED lights the park basketball courts.
Besides these highly visible projects, much work is done behind the scenes to make the city a safe place to live. The City will prepare an Emergency Preparedness Plan, which will be shared with the Heart of Texas Council of Governments. The City’s plan will aid regional staff and committees to better assess the needs and priorities for funding of the rural communities in the region. The City of Clifton also applied for State Homeland Security Program funding for additional security measures at critical infrastructure sites. Determination of funding will be announced in the Fall.
• Upgrading the sewer plant from 2000 and adding another well.
On a side note, McDowell praised the city’s employees saying “they are diamonds; maybe sometimes in the rough, but they do an excellent job.”
• Creation of walking trails
• Making the town a favorable location for new businesses. Within two months, McDowell expects fiber optic capabilities in town.
• Renovating the Armory building with a new roof and windows.
As City Administrator in Clifton, McDowell is a “Jack of All Trades”
Lured by fertile, inexpensive land, settlers came to the area in the mid-1800s – mostly Anglo-Americans moving west with the frontier, and Norwegian and German immigrants. The pioneer farmers and ranchers were industrious and creative. They built homes, churches
• Upgrading the surface water supply.
Whereas his main, broad responsibility is to maintain and grow the city, he also oversees the day to day operations of the Public Works Department like mowing and sewer maintenance, personnel management, being liaison between city and state agencies, finding funding for all the different projects and renegotiating existing contracts, and setting the city budget.
• Council approved repairs to a drainage system on North Avenue H near West Fifth Street (FM 219).
The City of Clifton was established in 1852 and quickly rose as a center of commerce. German and Norwegian settlements nearby have strongly influenced the city’s culture, which is a truly Texas blend of European, Hispanic, and Western heritage. Clifton was designated a Main Street City in 1995, and in 1997 as “The Norwegian Capital of Texas.” Ancestries in Bosque County are German (17%), United States or American (17%), Irish (10%), English (9%), Norwegian (6%), Scotch-Irish (3%) and Scottish (2%).Clifton is proud of its cornucopia of heritages and celebrates its rich history through annual events and strong traditions. Clifton was designated as a Main Street City in 1995, and a transformation took place in the historic district with the rehabilitation and revitalization of its historic buildings. Clifton’s Main Street District continues to thrive – economically and culturally – and is the heart of the community.AsaMain Street city, Clifton recognizes the importance of a strong town center that provides both a vibrant commercial district and a community heart. Commerce is a blend of small sales and service businesses balanced by agricultural and industrial companies. The quality of goods and services offered is reflected in the dozens of longstanding businesses.
The Clifton Main Street Program is a preservation-based economic development program seated in local government. The Main Street staff and volunteers serve as advisors to city leaders and has a force
With the completion of the Home Economics Building (the “Little Alamo”) in 2019, Legacy Park regained its position in the community as a site for meetings, events, and various social and educational activities. In 2021, structural and roof repairs were addressed at the Auction Barn, providing an expansive, enclosed setting to the modern fairgrounds. The Auction Barn and the Little Alamo stand not only as event and meeting venues but also as architectural
and schools, mills for their wheat, gins for their cotton, and produced a thriving livestock business. Bustling communities sprang up, and small towns flourished through the turn of the century.
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Started in 2010, restoration of Legacy Park Historic District in Clifton’s Fairgrounds is a major preservation project of the 1937 stone fair buildings; emblems of an era when cattle ranching was king and such sites were instrumental in the industry as a link between independent ranchers and the major stockyards.
of diverse, passionate workers who assist in executing activities and cultivating a respect for history and preservation. Clifton Main Street addresses community development in a multi-faceted, balanced approach to strategically transform the commercial district to meet the ever changing needs of Clifton and Bosque County.
Clifton’s Downtown Commercial Historic District dates back to 1881, when the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroad was completed through Clifton. Many of the current buildings date to the 1880s and earlyThe Heritage1900s. Plaza project, featuring the life-size bronze “On the Banks of the Bosque,” began in 1997 and was one of the earliest major Main Street undertakings. In the heart of Clifton’s Main Street District, the plaza serves as a beautiful reminder of Clifton’s agricultural heritage and position on the Chisholm Trail. Clifton Main Street is also honored to be part in the revitalization the icons of the town’s agricultural history.
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monuments to Clifton’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.
“It’s humbling how easy it can be, and thrilling,” Smith said. “Because when you risk sharing your dream and admitting your
Daddy refers to as “The Brain Trust” of the localStakeholderscommunity.”from across a spectrum of Clifton businesses and interests gathered on weekdays, to discuss whatever may be determined as the day’s Hot Topics. Landing in a position to coordinate community planning and projects, Smith’s first concern was to gain a deeper, broader insight into community needs, concerns, and lapses. What are we doing well? Where can we improve? What is the priority and, thus, where do we begin?
Working in partnership with business and property owners, governments, residents and others, the Main Street Department focuses on projects that encourage the ongoing revitalization of the historic heart of Clifton. Volunteers work with staff to produce special events in the Main Street District and collaborate with local organizations to promote community wellbeing; they include: the community FallFest and Trick or Treat on Main Street drawing tourists from all around the area, the Heritage Plaza and decorative lamp posts upkeep, new directional signs in town and landscaping, sidewalk projects for safe strolls down town, renovation of the Legacy Park Historic District, History & Preservation Education upkeep of the Avenue D Gardens and Clifton’s Northern Entrance, the town’s Christmas decorations, DowntownTX.org, the Texas Treasures Business Awards and the development of the present city website.
limitations… you just may find an alliance of partners jumping at the chance to make dreams come true!”
Both historic sites will house permanent and temporary collections of historic fair memorabilia and of antique agricultural and home implements. These exhibits will include information on the invention of the disc plow by a local settler, the Chisholm Trail connection, and historic photographs of local agricultural activities. Continued rehabilitation of the Auction Barn and the installation of permanent collections remains in“Whileprocess.Anice
Read, serving as the Texas Historical Commissioner, was introducing the Main Street program to Texas, I was getting a crash course in Community Development – Clifton style,” Clifton Main Street Director Angela Smith said. “That summer I worked at Colvert’s – the fountain side. Now for those of you who don’t date back to June 1980 in Clifton, Colvert’s Pharmacy is now Albrecht’s. Colvert’s had a little coffee and sandwich shop where the gift shop is today. And, along with a delicious tuna fish sandwich and chocolate shake, Colvert’s offered a course in Small Town Texas Civics. You see, Colvert’s was the gathering place of what my
Other projects include historic preservation assistance, a facade grant program, consultation, promotion of the
So in 2019, she reinstated the Brain Trust in its new form “Perk Up.” It is a monthly mixer that invites everyone to the table (literally) to share ideas and encouragement one of the Clifton Main Street venues. Perk Up brings people from different backgrounds, ages, and interests together because they share concentric passions and goals. It’s a space – away from board and council meetings –for anyone to share a unique perspective for better community planning and development and come up with solutions.
Many out-of-towners enjoy coming to Clifton, for the restaurants, the shopping, chuckling at the iconic Uff Da trolls scattered around town and for the many events going on all the time. With a social calendar to rival larger cities, Clifton serves the perfect blend of activity and rest, society and sanctuary.
Clifton offers your team a support network of businesses, artists, and locations for your production needs. We will also be able to assist you while scouting for the perfect locations and be of assistance during your project.
In 2020, Clifton became a Film Friendly Texas Community in 2020 through a program offered by the Texas Film Commission. Film Friendly Texas certified communities receive continuing training and guidance from the Texas Film Commission regarding media industry standards, best practices and how to effectively accommodate media production.
IMPROVING INFRASTRUCTURE & BEAUTIFICATION: City of Clifton workers adding a flower be to the Children’s Park entrance (top); the colorful Art Alley in downtown Clifton (middle); road improvements on Third Street (above).
On October 22, 2011, the City of Clifton was officially designated a Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts and the State of Texas on Saturday. The executive director of the Texas Commission on the Arts Gary Gibbs, PH.D. presented the award at the Bosque Arts Center with Mayor Fred Volcansek, Senator Brian Birdwell, Representative Rob Orr, and Norwegian Minister of Research and Higher Education Tora Aasland in attendance.Cliftonboasts three distinct cultural district sites: the Gateway Cultural Area, the Downtown Cultural Area, and the Upper Cultural Area. Each offers a unique experience with events such as the Central Texas Youth Fair, FallFest, Norwegian Country Christmas, Bosque Arts Classic, and Fireworks on the Bosque, shopping and dining, several parks, three museums, fine arts exhibits and sales and the oldest continuously operating movie house in Texas – The CLIFTEX Theatre. Tucked between rows of historic buildings, Art Alley is a public alley and the site of an outdoor venue for contemporary and modern artists – street art with a positive impact on the community.
The district is also one of three state-designated Cultural Districts in Clifton. The National Park Service defines historic preservation as “a conversation with our past about our future.”
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Considered one of the best small art towns in the US, Clifton is home to a thriving art scene with art galleries, performance halls, a fine arts center, theaters, three cultural districts, and many talented local artists. In Clifton you’ll discover fine arts, fine folks, and a fine time “Deep in the Art of Texas!”
economic and cultural districts.
Because all of these projects did not happen overnight, but mostly step by step, the town folk might not realize the extent of the positive changes to their Heart of Texas haven. And how often so people miss what is right under their noses.
A LONG & WINDING ROAD: After many twists and turns in their life’s journey, Ken and Robin Baucom settle on Baucom family farm in Walnut Springs (top left), living off the land with a market garden, fruit trees (top right) and bees (left).
HEALTHY SOIL, HEALTHY CROP
the property Catahoula Creek Ranch, stemming from the creek on the property and their love for Catahoulas as pets and heads of ranch security. The present independent, protective, territorial and loyal head of ranch security is blue-eyed Khali.
article by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Technically, that road started with Tennessee transplant of German descent, Rufus Isaac Baucom and his wife Mary Leah settling just west of Walnut Springs in 1911, what is still called “Old Baucom Homeplace.” A true farmer, Baucom raised his
photographs by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS KEN BAUCOM
It was a long, bumpy and winding road via banking, politics, water management, managing fitness clubs that led Ken Baucom back to the family’s Bosque County homestead; back to a life away from the hectic, noisy city, away from all the mod cons to more or less being at nature’s mercy. It led to being more independent and able to watch the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world.Together with his wife Robin, they renamed
Soil, the root of life: Baucom’s create Catahoula Creek Ranch on old family homestead near Walnut Springs
& courtesy of
“Some people live their lifetime searching for their passion when it may have been within them all along,” Robin said. “Passion is something that you “can’t not do”... I know I am an English major but my math passion
Whereas Ken came to the family homestead regularly over the years, he slowly saw it deteriorating. So he and Robin decided they would eventually move to the country.Robin’s love of the land and horses was cultivated staying the summer at her grandparent’s home in Ranger. As a little girl she proclaimed she would rather be a dirty cowboy than a pretty little girl. Her highly successful agency publishing educational assessment materials though took her away from that love, and lead the couple to living in at a golf course estate in Austin.
Robin is Catahoula Creek Ranch’s face and the voice. During the school year, Robin’s focus is on the students in her fourth and fifth grade classes, and Ken does most of the heavy lifting at the farm. In the spring and in the summer holidays, Robin becomes farm hand, does a lot of blanching and canning, and focusses on getting the produce to the Bosque Farmers’ Market in Meridian. In spite of the hard physical work the farm requires, this period of working the land allows her to regenerate, to build her energy back up.
Growing up under difficult circumstances, making money was always important to
Surviving life’s losses, trials and tribulations changes people. It either breaks them or strengthens them. Ken and Robin both have had their share. In the end though, the crooked, twisted path led the couple by way of McGregor where their paths first crossed and Austin to this special place, a place that marries their quest for learning and getting back to basics.
“When we moved from Austin to Walnut Ken’s sister Ellen said we went from being City Slickers to Homesteading Hippies,” Robin said.“When things are taken away from you, you do not want that to happen everAndagain.”asaresult, whatever the couple undertakes together they do so with passion.
Robin. But now, she realizes she would rather be on the Walnut Springs farm without money than working so hard she couldn’t enjoy the money she was making.
Later, son John Moses Baucom bought out his siblings and operated the farm with his wife Zetha M. Estein Baucom. Their son, Ken grew up working that family farm, left the land for a career in banking, to finally come back to his roots with his wife Robin in 2013.
“I have a passion for systems and watching things grow, Robin said. “I am always in awe of how incredible it is that plants flowers fruits, people, and communities start with a single seed and develop into these beautiful, complex beings. I “can’t not” support, nurture and attend to their healthy growth and development. It is a miracle and I get to
FROM FARM TO MARKET: Robin Baucom harvests produce (above) for her Meridian Farmers Market booth (top right) in the summer months May-October, offering fresh peaches (right).
loves the double negative that makes it a positive – meaning you have to do it. You are so driven, the obstacles don’t matter. It’s what causes you to go the extra mile...this is what causes experts and champions. They just don’t know any better.”
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family solely on the fruits of the land. He provided for his family by selling homemade butter, honey, eggs and tending a large garden to grow the family’s vegetables.
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Each year is different, with different challenges. And Robin keeps track of each year’s specifics – planting, the harvest info and the sales – in a farm journal. Her journal entry for the 2021 season was pretty dismal – it was the worst farming season in 53 years. The one for 2022, will surely be worse. It will definitely include the following: Nobody’s garden is making this year. It has been difficult. There was a weird huge amount of hungry pests eating way at the plants, as are the deer. This year’s blooms were affected by the wind because the pollinators could not get to the blooms. The temperatures were already too high in May.
Having overcome different health issues themselves, including a breast cancer scare, and faced many dramas and tragedies in their lives has the couple saying “The past is gone. Tomorrow is not dependable.”“Ihavefound being in the present is so important during this time when we are bombarded with so many fears – financial, disease, famine, brutality, war, etc.,” Robin said. “Just when I think it’s about to get here, it turns in to today. I remind myself that it’s okay to get lost in the beauty and abundance of today; to treasure my family and friends; to awe over the small miracles of the day. I have found that tomorrow just somehow works out, especially when I am able to focus on today.”
witness it daily. I think every good farmer, teacher, parent, citizen has thatRobinpassion.”ispassionate about the Farmers’ Market and promoting it. There is a steady group of vendors and some regulars that come at the same early time. But it has proven hard to build up the traffic to theInmarket.agood year, Catahoula Creek Ranch produces tomatoes, peaches, pears, plums, apples from their small orchard. But, these fruits are notoriously difficult to grow in Texas because they need a certain amount of cold hours. To make sure her stall at the Farmers Market has a variety of produce, she enlists the help of her “Legacy Farmers” to supply the produce the Catahoula Creek Ranch does not have that season or at all.
Both these things affected the peaches and tomato harvest, and
those crops are necessary for a successful Farmers Market. Even her Legacy Harvesters – Hornick Produce, Majestic Farms, Mead Farms and Thompson farms could not provide those this year.
With the passing years her allies/collaborators are all experiencing health concerns due to their climbing age, keeping them from working their land as they used to. They are feeding their bees because there were too few blooms for them to create their honey.
But with that said, Robin is never without ideas for tomorrow – like adding a high tunnel to extend the growing season by protecting the crops from unpredictable weather such as frost, high winds, or an unexpected cold snap. With the United States Department of Agriculture approval in hand, the farming couple is working on
“One of the best lessons I have learned from the Legacy Harvesters is to plant another seed,” Robin said. “The dynamics for growing are constantly changing. So I will keep putting seeds in the ground and watch and wait for the miracle of life to make its grand appearance.”
The perils of grass fires nearby, their homestead was threatened in May – it reached the fence line. Like many other farmers and ranchers in Central Texas, the Baucoms are extremely grateful for the area’s volunteer fire fighters.
Center stated. “Land plants cannot move to find better conditions, they rely fully on the soil to sustain growth, development and reproduction. Soil is often treated as an inert material, a foundation into which roots can grow and expand. It is used and abused by humans. We forget that it is the basis of all life on earth, and that it is an important store of carbon in a world facing a climate crisis.”Atthe John Innes Centre – an independent, international center of excellence in plant science, genetics and microbiology – postdoctoral researcher Dr Maria C. Hernandez-Soriano and PhD Student Marco Fioratti are digging into the world of soil and say we need to start treating soil with respect. “We need to stop treating soil like dirt,” they say. “Soil is an even richer environment that the one we see above the surface; there are millions of bacteria beneath our feet, many of which we know nothing“Humansabout.”–despite their artistic pretensions, their sophistication, and their many accomplishments – owe their existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil, and the fact that it rains,” Hernandez-Soriano said.
Anothertoo.future project is writing a book about farm life, and the way it translates to teaching and child raising, like the Law of Proximity – the tendency to form interpersonal relationships with those close by and grouping of objects that are close together; the Law of Round Penning – assert the leader role by teaching the subject what you want and expect of them and the Law of the Feed Bucket – use an incentive to get theirRobin’sattention.original
At Catahoula Creek Ranch, the goal is growing food in a healthy system. This requires knowledge of what is needed by the plant and to make it available, starting with a healthy, living soil. Keeping a balance and understanding the impact of every element can become very complex. If the nutrients in the soil are not sufficient, the plant will not survive.Andthere needs to be an environment conducive for worms and bacteria. Earthworms are one of the major decomposers of organic matter. They get their nutrition from microorganisms that live on organic matter and in soil material. Earthworms also naturally increase soil aeration, infiltration, structure, nutrient cycling, water movement, and plant growth.
HOMEGROWN HEALTHY: With a table full of produce every Saturday (left), Robin Baucom remains passionate about promoting the Meridian Farmers Market (above).
finding funds. Solar and wind energy are the future, but installing them requires a lot of funding
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com 18LIFSTYLES
“If I use pesticides, I run the risk of killing what is good so I don’t. I also don’t want anything that will harm my pets or livestock.
reason to grow plants was to create a beautiful, edible landscape, with every plant in her yard having a purpose. She notes that she is nowhere near that, but they have added many plants that move them a little closer to that goal.
“Without soil, there’s no food,” a 2019 article from the United Kingdom John Innes
“There exists a delicate ecosystem where insects in particular are needed for plant pollination, protection and seed dispersal; it is a symbiotic relationship,” Robin said about another important factor in farming life. “It’s like a spider web. You can’t take out one strand without impacting the others.
“I truly appreciate beautiful abundant landscaping,” Robin said. “It’s truly a work ofGardeningart.” is so seasonal and so influenced by weather. And it all begins with the soil; soil is the root of life.
“I started out knowing nothing,” Robin said. “I did not realize the time and expertise and patience that this takes. I am constantly reading writing researching trying to find patterns trying to understand. The internet and Audible have given me insight that would have taken our ancestors centuries to develop and understand.”Sheisnow researching different weeds and their preferences of soil and weather, expanding her knowledge there. When it comes down to it, the only knowledge that really matters is, how to purify water, how to grow your own food, how to cook, how to build and how to love. Ironically – with Robin being an educator – this knowledge is not systematically taught at schools. Of course, Robin works these subjects into her curriculum where she can.
Clay soils hold more water than sandy soils, but tend to become waterlogged depriving the roots of oxygen and then dry op too hard for roots to grow. Vegetable roots are usually not strong enough to penetrate the dense clay. The most important passion that makes all of the others work is Robin’s love for learning.
“However, we have also needed to add fertilizers and minerals to accommodate for missing nutrients and PH-balance. It’s kind of like we as people taking vitamins for missing nutrients. Ideally for proper absorption you want those vitamins to come from your food, the same goes for the soil. Organic matter is best for the soil ecosystem, but without it you have to do something for plant survival.”
Besides the love of the land and how it can sustain you, another reason the couple retreated to a more self-sufficient, rural life was to distance themselves from present society’s dependency on electricity.Anelectromagnetic pulse attack would destroy the electronics and digital circuitry denying electric power to homes, businesses, and military, bringing the country to a screeching halt. The extreme dependency on technology, digital systems and computers adds to that vulnerability. The extreme cold snaps in the past two years causing power outages and the COVID-19 pandemic showed and magnified the negative effects of that dependency.
As for fertilizers, this soil has been farmed for over 100 years, and it is depleted. Soil is a non-renewable resource. You have to consistently feed it one way or other. Our hens play a huge role in soil development along with our compost. With that being said, it is not always enough. We have worked on building the soil for over 10 years with what we have here at our farm.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 LIFESTYLES19
The Baucom’s believe “God has put our heads, hearts and hands in charge of His creation; that He has made us stewards of the land and given us the responsibility to use it properly.” They respect that wholeheartedly, putting in hard work, showing perseverance, determination, resilience and adaptability when times get tough.
Complicating matters is the homestead’s location, with many different soil types, ranging from ancient sea beds filled with fossils, to Blackland soil to rock and limestone, to clay. Because of the limestone, it is high alkaline soil whereas most vegetables need acidic conditions, as do Robin’s beloved jasmine and berries. They keep adding sand, mulch, hay and straw to their market garden to counteract the clay element in the soil.
Faith, hope and love will have them conquer anything nature throws at them, to find the delicate balances to grow their crops and quality of life. The long and winding road has led to this door...are you hearing The Beatles song in your head too?
Under A HArmonicA
CARRYING ON A TUNE: Pipp Gillette plays the harmonica as Kristyn harris looks on during the Lomax Gathering in 2021 (top left); Lomax family members perform at Lomax Amphitheater dedication in 2022 (middle left);Audience enjoys the Lomax Gathering performers in Meridian (above); Meridian Public Library Director Marianne Woerner at the Literary Landmark dedication (right); John A. Lomax on the road recording one of 10,000 songs for the Library of Congress (top right).
background photograph by KYM MACKINNON
photographs by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS & courtesy of NATIONAL LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
on UNSPLASH Honoring BalladlegendarytheHunter,BosqueCountyembracesLomaxlegacy
moon With A Coyote tune
In addition to the building of the John A. Lomax Amphitheater in Meridian and it’s subsequent recognition as a Texas and
“Can’t sing for beans, but it’s not about the singer,” John Lomax III said. “It’s about the songs and the heritage of our shared culture. I’m looking forward to my first trip to Meridian since 1993.”
§ In the back room of the White Elephant Saloon in Fort Worth, he found cowhands who knew many stanzas of “The Old Chisholm Trail.”
Honoring the legendary Ballad Hunter, Bosque County embraces legacy of John A. Lomax Under A HArmonicA
Exposed to cowboy songs as a child, he befriended a former slave hired as a farmhand by his father at the age of nine. The friendship, he later wrote, “perhaps gave my life its bent.” And what a life that became.
§ In the 1930s, he traveled throughout the country making field recordings of Folk music for the Library of Congress.
His father raised horses and cattle while growing cotton and corn on the 183 acres of bottomland that he had purchased near the Bosque River. During his early years on the family farm, the boy became accustomed to the hard work that, along with a boundless energy, became a hallmark of his life and career.
As a young boy, he would sneak out at night and listen to the cowboys of the Chisholm Trail sing their campfire songs and ballads. He started writing them down, and so started his passion for capturing the lyrics and music of American folklore music and he became a folklorist and musicologist of note in the early 20th century.
A historical marker at the rest stop bears witness to his importance to Texas history in general and Meridian in particular. But thanks to recent efforts across Bosque County, the legacy of John A. Lomax stands of the verge of receiving its proper place.
And speaking of the Lomax story, John Lomax III will be visiting Meridian for the first time in almost 30 years to present “Lomax On Lomax” at the John A. Lomax Amphitheater on Oct. 12 at 6 p.m. Like his grandfather and father, John A. Lomax, Jr., he sings an assortment of cowboy songs and Lead Belly tunes a cappella and tells numerous stories over the 90-minute show.
In the beginning, the legendary Ballad Hunter’s story sounds like many others from the mid-1800s. A little over a century and a half ago, a boy born in Mississippi became a Texan at heart. Still just a toddler in 1869, his family traveled by ox cart from Mississippi to Texas settling in Central Texas, just north of Meridian in rural Bosque County.
§ In 1910, he published his book “Cowboy Songs & Other Frontier Ballads.”
“I have learned a lot working on this exhibit,” said Steve Harr, one of the museum’s board of directors and director of the Lomax exhibit project. “John Lomax was so much more than people think. He truly made a difference in the world, and we are honored at the museum to tell his story.”
In the past, Meridian was host to a series of Lomax Gatherings, honoring their native son. Although the event had gone absent for more than a decade, the Bosque Museum restored
§ In 2010, the Legendary Ballad Hunter was inducted into the Western Music Hall of Fame. And now, the rest of the story.
§ He collected “Git Along, Little Doggies,” as sung to him by a Gypsy woman living in an old truck near Fort Worth.
Often times, people just don’t realize the importance of things they have right under their noses; and this is especially true about local history or people. But, every small town has at least one hero or celebrity to cherish and honor in perpetuity. For Bosque County, and specifically Meridian, that honor goes to the internationally-renowned Ballad Hunter John Avery Lomax.
§ After his family settled near the Chisholm Trail in Bosque County, he heard many Cowboy ballads and other Folk songs, and he later began to write some of them down.
§ In 1906, he received a scholarship to Harvard University, where he was encouraged to take up seriously the collection of Western ballads he had begun as a youth.
§ In 1909, he learned “Home on the Range” in San Antonio from the singing of a black saloon-keeper who had been a chuckwagon cook on the Chisholm Trail.
RestoRing the lomax gatheRing
national literary landmark, the Bosque Museum resurrected the annual Lomax Gatherings in 2021 and established a committee currently developing and planning a permanent interactive exhibit showcasing the life and work of John A. Lomax.
Alan
Because of his John A. Lomax documentary “John A. Lomax – The Man & His Legacy” and his knowledge of the Ballad Hunter’s life work, filmmaker and editor William Godby was asked to put together the evening’s musical entertainment.
“I thought those artists would give a nice range of music and style for the evening,” Godby said. “The impact of Lomax’s efforts on the music world at large is one of history’s lesser-known chapters. Could there have been The Beatles, the Rolling Stones or Bob Dylan, just to name a few, without him? What would the world be like without rock-n-roll?”
LEGACY LIVES ON: John A. Lomax (near left) and his son, Alan Lomax (far left) spent their lives collecting and perserving music in the United States and around the world (inset); Putting the finishing touches on the John A. Lomax Amphitheater in Meridian (above).
it in 2021. After all, the perfect venue for such an event now exists in Meridian.Withthe construction in 2020 of the beautiful limestone John A. Lomax Amphitheater located by the Meridian Park, Meridian offers and iconic venue fitting for a revival of the cowboy music and poetry gatherings of yesteryear. And with the naturally beautiful site just recently being nationally designated a United for Libraries Literary Landmark, makes it all the more special.
By honoring Lomax’ work through an evening of musical entertainment from iconic cowboy poets and performers, the Lomax Gatherings transport the audience to a simpler time, where guitar, banjo, fiddle, harmonica and song were the sole evening entertainment.
With the audience appropiately dressed in cowboys hats, jeans and boots seated in lawn chairs collected in and around the amphitheater, Bosque Museum’s annual informal and unique musical evening delivers with iconic cowboy poets and award-winning performers. Each in their own special way, the performers at the gatherings capture what Lomax so passionately sought out in his youth – the Chisholm Trail ballads and songs, offering entertainment and calming the cattle as they settled in for the“Wenight.are so proud to be able to continue the strong history of storytelling and singing that John A. Lomax began here in Bosque County,” said Museum Executive Director Erin Shields following the 2021 event. “The concert was a dynamic show filled with tunes that Lomax collected, and many others tunes that have resulted in a successful fundraiser for the Bosque Museum. We are so grateful to all of our sponsors and supporters, and look forward to next year!”
So for the second straight year, the Bosque Museum, in conjunction with the Meridian Parks & Recreation, will host the John A. Lomax Gathering Sept. 17 at 6 p.m. at the John A. Lomax Amphitheater featuring traditional cowboy musician Pipp Gillette, the dynamic western swing duet of Kristyn Harris and Hailey Sandoz, as well as country music minister Jeff Gore.
“We added the voice of the common man to the written history of America.” Lomaxmoon With A Coyote tune
article by E. BRETT VOSS & SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
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The John A. Lomax Amphitheater was named one of the four 2021 Texas sites, and it will be one of only 10 Literary Landmark sites in the State of Texas to date. The four new Texas sites were approved this spring by United for Libraries, the national organization that administers the program, and all are made possible by funding from the Summerlee Foundation of Dallas.
“The City of Meridian is very excited about this literary landmark,” Meridian Mayor Ryan Nieuwenhuis said after offering some historical background on the Ballad Hunter during the plaque unveiling last year. “We are anticipating many new visitors to Meridian to view this landmark while visiting Bosque County.”
illustrious literary names like Truman Capote, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Mark Twain, Edgar Allen Poe, Spalding Gray, Woody Guthrie and Ralph Waldo Ellison.
And now, next year has arrived. seeking the lomax liteRaRy landmaRk
With the special designation, Meridian will now be included in the national registry on the United for Libraries website, which includes
Not only libraries were approached, but also historical associations, Chambers of Commerce, educational institutions, museums and literary societies, so it was imperative to present a convincing case to the selection committee.
“We are very excited to have this opportunity to pay homage to the rich literary history of Texas,” said TSLAC Director and Librarian Mark Smith. “These Literary Landmarks speak to the great variety of writers who hail from the Lone Star State and celebrate the diversity of their voices, genres and areas of interest.”
Sometimes something falls in your lap, and you have to grab the opportunity and run with it. So when Meridian Public Library Director Marianne Woerner received an email invitation from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission in Dec. 2020 to apply for a literary landmark designation, she and the library board started the process to designating the John A. Lomax amphitheater in Meridian as the literary landmark. Partnering with the Meridian Parks and Recreation Committee and the City of Meridian, the library proceeded with the application, supplying the United for Libraries with pages, and pages of background information on John A. Lomax, his significance to the area and the amphitheater that bears his name.
Whereas John A. Lomax – the Ballad Hunter –was most known for recording and documenting American folk music and the early blues in the antebellum South, he also wrote several books about the subject. To help educate, to share, to perpetuate Lomax’ legacy, the Meridian Public Library has most of Lomax’ books and those written in conjunction with his son Alan Lomax, and several CD’s with original Lomax recordings.
“The library is all about helping the town’s citizens, whether it’s books, offering a place to use a computer, read the newspaper or send a fax,” Woerner said. “And to grow as a community, we need visitors to come through our town. And this national recognition of our small town will be worthwhile to people who are interested in history and historic research. It was perfect that we already had the amphitheater dedicated to Lomax.”
The placement of the plaque honoring the Ballad Hunter’s legacy at the John A. Lomax amphitheater allows easy access for visitors.
“The music John and Alan recorded back then literally influenced every musician since, directly or indirectly. If not for my great-grandfather, we wouldn’t have any of the music we have today.”
The MPL is therefore very proud of the Literary Landmark designation. And they vow to take great care in preserving the Lomax materials in their collection vow to maintaining the heavy, foundry-produced plaque with information on John A. Lomax’ literary contributions.“Wearesoexcited that the Meridian Public Library’s submission for a Literary Landmark Award was chosen to recognize one of our hometown heroes – John A. Lomax for his contributions to our nation’s western songs and ballads,” Meridian Public Library Board President Pam Hardcastle said.
A national United for Libraries Literary Landmark designation goes to a special place in the community that is tied to a deceased literary figure author and his/her work. Literary Landmarks designate places located across the country that attract tourists, book lovers, and history buffs to educate the public about important literary works and history.
“The Meridian Parks and Recreation is deeply honored and proud to be part of recognizing the legacy of John A. Lomax,” Activities and Events Director Meridian Parks and Recreation Brett Voss said. “As his childhood home, Meridian will be a fitting place for a literary landmark in his name. And the John A. Lomax Amphitheater serves as an ideal setting to represent the folklore he worked so hard to preserve.”
LINDSEY SMITH great-grandaughter of John A. Lomax
With the partnership with the Texas Center for the Book, the landmarks aim to stimulate public interest in books, reading, literacy and libraries. These are all topics dear to the Meridian Public Library’s heart and soul.
With that hope in mind, the army of volunteers involved in the amphitheater construction held a festive plaque unveiling of the John A. Lomax Amphitheater as a state and national literary landmark Oct. 9, 2021. Lomax suppporters hope that Bosque County residents and people beyond the county’s borders will realize the importance of the legendary Ballad Hunter to music and literature, encouraging them to learn more about him and his life’s work.
Also, the amphitheater has a full calendar of events that draws people from the community and beyond, providing much exposure of the plaque and the local hero. The events include musical performances and
With the Literary Landmark in place, Meridian hopes people will come and visit and enjoy the amphitheater and its surrounding parks, the retail and restaurants. And if they choose to visit the town’s wonderful library when they’re here to view the cabinet containing the Lomax books and other artifacts, that would be even more added value for the town and for the visitors.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 202225HISTORY Say Yes to the Dress: A Community Exhibit September 17 Lomax Gathering John A Lomax Musical Amphitheater, Meridian Runs through October For questions about these events and others, visit BosqueMuseum org or call (254) 675 3820
“The [Lomax] family is thrilled to learn of the creation of a John Avery Lomax Literary Landmark in Meridian, Texas near his 1869 homestead,” John M. Lomax said speaking for John A. Lomax’ grandchildren Anna Lomax Wood, Naomi Hawes Bishop and Corey Denos.
free monthly outdoor movie nights.
During the plaque unveiling ceremony organized by the Meridian Public Library, Lomax’ granddaughter Anna Wood captured the importance of Lomax’ work through a quote from his great-granddaughter Lindsey Smith, who was also present at the ceremony.
Meraz called Lomax “a true visionary and the literary father of American folklore,” because of his contributions and lasting impact of his work. Nobody had attempted recording, preserving and sharing the stories and music on such a large scope before.
“As a Texan, I can say the Texas Code is that we love to share what we love,” Manley said. And she invited the audience to keep encouraging people to experience the amazing John A. Lomax Amphitheater.
”It is the love of these people that make this happen. Grass roots learning and education at its most palpable. We have so many school children that need to know these stories about John A. Lomax, about folklore, and this is how we grow it and how we make it a reality.”
10,000 recordings.
“He made his life work to restore, share and capture, make sure the music was heard and experienced,” Manley said about reading the Meridian Public Libraries application for the award. “I was blown away when I heard that he supplied the U.S. Library of Congress with
incarcerated prisoners;
With the folklore stories and music, Lomax’ work captured a segment of history that would have been lost.
“It is up to us to perpetuate the legacy, and encounter the value and spirit, that has borne us and what we leave to posterity,” Meraz said in her speech. “One of the extraordinary achievements of John A. Lomax was to capture the voices not often heard. If those stories through song had not been recorded by him, what a loss to the state, to the nation and to the world. Not to have these powerful and meaningful stories captured forever.
“It is fitting we are out here in the fresh air, in the breeze. If we close our eyes, we can
“The music John and Alan recorded back then literally influenced every musician since, directly or indirectly,” Smith said. “If not for my great-grandfather, we wouldn’t have any of the music we have today.”
State librarian of Texas Gloria Meraz herself is passionate about libraries, calling them anchors of the communities, and the one public place where people can be safe. She commended the Meridian Public Library for providing such an excellent application on “a giant in the field of preservation, of storytelling.” She also commended the MPL for putting on the special plaque unveiling event, setting a high standard for the following dedications.According to Meraz, Meridian’s application for the literary landmark included several important components the judges looked for: The connection of the author with the physical location; The richness of the literary heritage left by the author – Lomax wrote 10 books on folk music, folklore and lyrics;
It spoke to the narrative of people at the time; Lomax’ work promoted a diversity of voices that had not been heard, especially the African American voice and the voice of
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Texas State Library and Archives Commission’s Center for the Book Coordinator Rebekah Manley was one of the judges selecting this year’s Texas literary landmarks.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 202227HISTORY
In 1947, his autobiographical Adventures of a Ballad Hunter was awarded the Carr P. Collins prize as best Texas book of the year by the Texas Institute of Letters. In this memoir, Lomax recounts how his University of Texas English Professor Morgan Callaway dismissed the roll of cowboy songs Lomax had written down in childhood as “cheap and unworthy.”
Because of this harsh dismissal of his passion Lomax burned the roll, losing it for posterity. Finally attending Harvard University as a graduate student, Lomax studied under Barrett Wendell and George Lyman Kittredge, who were both known for their studies of American folklore. At the time, Harvard held the distinction of being the center of American folklore studies, and they encouraged Lomax to pursue his interest in cowboy songs. The success of the pioneering musicologist’s first anthology Cowboy Songs and Other Frontier Ballads in Nov. 1910 – with an introduction by former president Theodore Roosevelt –transformed him into a nationally-known figure.
imagine Lomax listening to the distant sounds of the cowboys singing on the Chisholm Trail. That is powerful; that is place and time; that is literature; that is poetry. That is everything this literary landmark should be.” the liFe oF the Ballad hunteR Lomax attended Granbury College and took his first job teaching at 22 in Clifton. He continued his education through additional courses, accepted a job at Texas A&M where he received his Master of Arts degree. He went on to major in English Literature at the University of Texas.
From the very beginning of his collecting of music and lyrics, Lomax insisted on the inclusiveness of American culture. His childhood friendship with African-American Nat Blythe and his Mississippi roots surfaced as he began to record songs in penitentiaries
Lomax’ greatest achievement to this day is the collection of over 10,000 recordings and ballads in the Library of Congress, preserved for all eternity. With Lomax’ extensive library of work as an inspiration, Ferguson expressed the intent to make the Bosque Museum Lomax Gathering an annual event, as well as the planned permanent exhibit, to pay homage to Lomax and his legacy.
With that promise, and an exquisite site that is the quintessential outdoor venue, we can be assured that cowboy poetry and music will regularly drift on the evening air, dance between the leaves of the growing Mexican sycamores, intertwine with bird song, weaving the past and the present together with the common thread of folklore and sense of place and being.
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and in the Mississippi Delta, where the blues were born. This led him to recording Huddie Ledbetter, better known as “Lead Belly.”
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 202229HISTORY Kathy Winters, Agency Manager 4471 Hwy 6 Clifton, TX 76634 kwinters@txfb-ins com 254.675.6456 Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation ©2022 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies BOS0422 MEETING YOUR NEEDS AS THEY GROW TIMELESS TUNES: John A. Lomax traveled throughout the Southern States recording more than 10,000 songs, which included slave and prison songs, as well as traditional cowboy tunes.
SMOOTH TUNES AND RYTHMS: South 31st Street duo Steve and Jimmy Schmidt regularly bring classic tunes with a jazzy vibe to Olaf’s courtyard.
photographs by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
& courtesy of SOUTH 31ST ST
Driving Down Memory Lane
article by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Talk about tone: Schmidt cousins play smooth tunes as South 31st Street duo
“my parents would dance to that tune,” from their audiences. With many, many years of experience, the musicians have the luxury to pick and choose from many genres, putting their own unique smooth touch to the classics like Frank Sinatra’s “I’ve Got You Under my Skin,” Dean Martin’s “Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime,” or Ray Charles’ “Georgia” mixed in with some “Tennessee Whisky” and maybe some more delicately cured Willie Nelson “On the Road Again,” thrown in. Needless to say, their “Call Me The Breeze,” has more of a rolling J.J. Cale vibe that the original Lynyrd Skynyrd version.Theduo appreciates the mellow, jazzy genre for some of the more complicated chord progressions and the syncopation “not like your standard three-chord country song” This melding of jazz with country probably stems from the duo’s musical inspirations.
Steve’s lies with George Benson’s combination of pure jazz, funk and pop, the timeless slow groovy Wes Montgomery and Grateful Dead’s Gerry Garcia – one of the most unique lead guitarists who combined elements of country, bluegrass, jazz genres to form a completely individual, unmistakable sound.
The duo melds jazzy with country and they lean towards the Great American Songbook and ballads. They play songs that have stood the test of time, mostly letting their audience dictate that evening’s song list – always wanting to trigger dear memories among their listeners. The duo loves to hear things like “my dad used to play that song,” or
Being of German descent, second cousins Jimmy and Steve Schmidt grew up with music with accordions, guitars, fiddles, harmonicas and singing being a big part of family gatherings. They now play together as South 31st Street – a reference to the street in Waco where Jimmy grew up near the former Floyd Casey Stadium where Baylor used to play football before McLane Stadium replaced it in 2014.
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The mellow, jazzy chords slide off the Taylor T5 melding with the bluesy fiddle that adds a bit of Western Swing to the song, capturing a time gone by between the limestone walls of Olaf’s outside patio in the warm summer evening. The soft tone, the smooth tunes and classic melodies make for perfect listening music while sipping that Mint Julep or crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio.
Jimmy on the other hand loves the tone of the Bakersfield Country
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 33THE ARTS
In the late 70s, Jimmy was band leader for Jimmy Schmidt and the Dutchmen, playing anything from fish fries to the notorious Cedars Private Club on Highway 56. To be successful in the 80s, you had to play dance music, and it was a majority of country and some rock and roll from the 50s, 60s and 70s. But
These pioneer farmers were fastidious and hardworking, but community-minded as they were, they brought with them the German gemutlichkeit with good times, good food, good music andJimmydancing.played the guitar since he was seven borrowing a guitar from a cousin, playing under a shade tree with other family members at family gatherings. Steve remembers how classically trained Alice Hancock who he played with at church helped him shape how he played – more jazzy than country.
Steve’s grandfather Charlie (Carl) Augustus Schmidt and Jimmy’s grandfather Otto were brothers who came to Texas from Posen, Germany in 1916. Together they walked from Galveston where they disembarked to Bosque County. The whole group was made up of four other brothers Hans, Bill, Dick and Herbert, with three sisters Grace, Annie and Freida, and their mother Bertha Schlobitz Schmidt. They had a horse and buggy, but they were reserved for the women on the journey. They followed the footsteps of their grandfather Rhinold and his half-brother Ernest Steinke who had settled in Womack, the German community in Bosque County.
Both Steve and Jimmy started out as drummers in bands. At a very young age, while he attended Lorena Junior High School Jimmy was a drummer for a Waco band. But when his grades dropped his mom made him stop that gig.
FAMILY & MUSICAL TIES: Steve Schmidt poses with his unique guitar; Jimmy Schmidt shows the accordion his great-grandfather brought with him from Germany when he immigrated (far left); Cousins Jimmy and Steve Schmidt bring mellow tones to the Bosque County music scene (above); South 31st St often plays with other Bosque County musicians, like here at Clifton’s Fall Fest with Scott Conrad and Steve Anderson (left).
sound developed by Don Rich and Buck Owens, which also included Merle Haggard. The Bakersfield Sound was the first subgenre of country music significantly influenced by rock and roll, relying heavily on electric instrumentation and a strongly defined backbeat. Another of Jimmy’s favorites was Central Texas guitarist Roy Robbins – Roy Robbins and the Availables were a mainstay at dance halls like the Bluebonnet in Troy, Lake Lounge in Belton and Melody Ranch in Waco in the ‘70s and ‘80s.“He amazed me and I could listen to his specific sound for hours,” Jimmy said.
He played with Joe Stampley and Moe Bandy. As it turned out, they were looking for a new “hat act” in Nashville with Polygram records and suggested Jimmy take the chance. Even though having a musical career was his goal all along, Jimmy did not pick up the opportunity. He had just become father to Sarah his daughter and had just bought a new home with Rachel his wife. He realized that Bosque County was where he was happy and he did not want to leave home. While he was happy with the validation of his talents, to this day he is thankful he made the choice to stay. Being on the road for gigs is a rich source of stories and memories for both musicians. Steve recalls an incredible moment in San Antonio in the early 70s when Billy Gibbons – before ZZ Top was well known – came on stage, took over the band’s equipment and just shredded the guitar.
Presently, there is more demand for smaller ensembles like duos and trios, as background music in restaurants or wineries, at weddings and private parties. Oh yeah, and at church
Steve saw firsthand that his mom who had
While Jimmy now has very special 1897 fiddle gifted to him by musician David Berry to replace the cracked one, he’s afraid to play it. He keeps it under his bead, because he’s afraid something will happen to it. His go-to
Steve runs sound and lights for the Bosque Arts Center and gets to work with a lot of big name acts. He studied pre-law and political science, thinking he wanted to go into city management, but after and internship he decided that was not for him. He ended up working at his dad’s Chevrolet dealership.
Alzheimer’s would always smile and tap her foot to music she knew. She loved music from Hank Thompson and the Brazos Valley Boys, a well-known Western Swing band from Waco back in the late 40s and 50s. That band still exists, continuing Thompson’s legacy as Morey (Sullivan) and the Brazos Valley Boys.
The musical gene has been passed on to their children who all played in school band, but at this point none of them perform.
Jimmy worked for Bosque County in different positons for 32 year, 10 of which as commissioner. He now is retired and enjoys making music, and teaching guitar and fiddle lessons.Inthe beginning of their musical journey together, the duo would play at nursing homes, perfecting their performances. They saw the music was therapeutic, triggering fond memories with the residents, stimulating their aging brains.
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com THE ARTS34
it was hard to manage a five-piece band, and later he played with Marvin Christy and Jerry Benfer in a band known as Jimmy Schmidt and the Unknowns.
too. In the late 80s, Jimmy and Steve started hanging out together and playing some music. Without having to manage a large band, for Jimmy it is much more fun just to play with the two of them. And South 31st stays within the central Texas area.
As for their instruments, even though Steve has eight guitars, his favorite remains the Taylor T5 – he calls it the station wagon of guitars – consistent yet versatile. Each of his guitars is a little different with different nuances, each with their own charm. For example his Gibson La Grande is his go-to jazzJimmyguitar.comes from a long line of fiddlers, but as a young man he was more wrapped up in his drums and guitar. Still, in seventh or eighth grade Jimmy once dreamt he was playing a blue fiddle, and saw that as a sign. He taught himself how to play Cotton Eyed Joe on the first cheap fiddle with a crack which he had traded a toolbox for.
fiddle is one he bought from Valley Mills fiddler Gene Wells in 1986. Jimmy also has a Taylor T5 and a Fender Stratocaster. And he still plays an old Penco acoustic guitar every day.
Besides being a multi-instrument musician, Jimmy is a prolific songwriter with half of his 100 songs copyrighted. In his process, the lyrics usually come first, and then he “hears” the music to go with it. Sometimes he wakes up with a song in his head and scrambles to put pen to paper before he forgets it.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 35THE ARTS
VINTAGE VIBES: Jimmy Schmidt playing the fiddle in the eighties with his band The Dutchmen.
His business card has one of his lyrics on it: “Songwriters, they paint pictures in their minds Turn a bad day to a good one Turn the water into wine Some Songs seem to last forever They don’t die so we don’t mourn. I think the good Lord’s kind of clever Every day a songwriter is born.”
photographs courtesy of
MARVIN GRELLE PHOTOGRAPHY
article by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
A MoMent In tIMe
CAPTURING
HUNTING WITH A LENS: Bosque County photographer Marvin Grelle captures area wildlife and landscapes with his camera.
Most of his wildlife photos are impromptu, catching the animals at a certain moment while he has his camera nearby. Or that shot of the cruise ship bow off the coast of France. It looks as if it was planned days in advance, but it was just that lucky shot at precisely the right time, giving the photo perfect symmetry and a “je ne sais quoi” art
His visual, analytical mind and being a good observer and listener that made him successful designing and building custom homes translated into “seeing” and taking a good photo – automatically taking lighting, composition, framing into account.
The result is crystal-clear images of the beautiful creatures around the home from Buckey the Deer to painted buntings, miniscule hummingbirds and the squirrel that shares the corn on the ground with the deer. According to Grelle, the trick to good wildlife photography is to focus on the animal’s eyes.
THE HEAVENS SHINE BRIGHT: On the eve of the 150-year anniversary of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church at Norse.
The air is quiet at Rattlesnake Mountain, except for the trilling of crickets. It’s a warm afternoon and the wildlife is hidden away in the shady spots on the property. Except for one audacious fox; he’s resting on the cool limestone of the retaining wall near the house. A cunning beast, and usually shy, but he knows his territory, and he knows these humans do not consider him to be vermin like so many others.
“I have loved photography for most of my life, but never seemed to have the time to get serious about it,” Grelle said. “I have always had the ability to see the photo in my mind before taking them.”
He started taking photos on family trips in the mid-seventies with a 35 mm SLR. With more time on his hands, Grelle invested time in studying to improve his technical skills and bought some new, better equipment. After a lot of research on equipment, he now shoots with a Canon EOS 5D, mark 4, with an all-round 70-200 mm lens and a 150600 mm telephoto lens.
Close Encounters of the Wild Kind: Photographer Marvin Grelle captures Bosque County wildlife, birds, landscapes in his lens
After retirement four years ago, he and his wife Karen felt he needed something to keep himself occupied with after a busy, busy life in the construction business.
Marvin Grelle does shoot wildlife, but only when they come within reach of his camera lens. His mate, steel-grey eyed Snarli is nowhere to be seen this afternoon, but Grelle can hear the kits playing in the culvert between the house and the shop.
The wildlife and birds on his property in Bosque County became the inspiration for Grelle’s main hobby, capturing the critters with his camera.
Chisholm Country magazine proudly highlights a selection of Grelle’s work in this Summer/Fall 2022 edition.
And capturing that moment in time to be perpetuated into the future.Snarli and her mate and kits are going to have to accept the fact that new stars will light up Grelle’s Facebook page in the future. With the couple moving into a new home, we can expect a whole new set of animals pass by his lens; and that old windmill on the property already has starred in a few shots.
deco elegance. His astrophotography though takes a lot more prephoto planning – knowing at what time the stars are at a certain position, knowing whether it’s going to be a cloudless night.
By no means does Grelle any aspirations of being a “big photographer” but he does enjoy the validation of his art. Not until he got large amounts of positive reactions from people on the photos he posted on his Facebook page, did he gain the confidence that his art was worthwhile and appreciated. It gives him pleasure to share his photos with people from all over the country.
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com THE ARTS38
One of his most popular photographs – the photo of the Milky Way with Our Saviors Lutheran Church in the foreground – was taken at 1:30 a.m. on the church’s 150th anniversary celebration, adding a historic significance to the exquisite night sky shot.
Since then he started selling his photographs, framed or unframed, on canvas or on paper, depending on the customer’s requests. They are for sale in the Bosque Arts Center gift shop, and on line. The exhibit of his work in the BAC atrium Gallery was also successful with many prints sold. Grelle also produced a calendar, capturing the seasons on Rattlesnake Mountain, which sold out it was so popular.
Catching those vibrant Texas sunrises and sunsets is another favorite inspiration for Grelle.
Besides offering his work for sale, Grelle in the past two years donated photos to the BAC Big Event online auction, which did very well. As a member of the BAC Photography Guild he also has displayed his work at Clifton Medical Clinic.
PHOTOGRAPHIC MOMENTS: Marvin Grelle with his wife, Karen (top left); A rare oriole sighting in Bosque County (top right); The brillance of a sunflower (middle); A fox relaxing on the ledge (above).
As he learns more about his craft, different techniques are added to his photography, adding a diversity to the types of photos Grelle makes. But he says “To me photography is a means to capture an event, an expression, a look, a feeling, a moment in time.”
Photo by Alfonso Cevola
FABULOUS FANDANGO at Texas Safari Ranch - 192 Private Road 4293, Clifton Saturday, September 24 at 6:30pm “Texas Cowboy” Prime Rib Dinner • Live Entertainment Silent and Live Auction • Open Bar Guest Speaker: Guy Stout, Master Sommelier Join us in support of Bosque Spay Neuter (BSN) $80 per person Join us for the Bosque Spay Neuter 2nd Annual Bosque Spay Neuter • 501(c)3 FMI: 254-253-6124 • bosquespayneuter.org CASH, CHECKS AND CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Sponsor
Guy Stout, MS, CWE
Texas’ first Master Sommelier is a soft spoken, unpretentious Texan who loves people and wine. “People are always telling me, you’re the cowboy sommelier.” Guy is one of only 223 Master Sommeliers in the world. He has been a featured wine expert on PBS cooking series, and a featured speaker at the Smithsonian Institute Folk Life Festival in Washington lecturing on the Texas wine industry’s current boom and the historical development of Texas wines. His one big love is educating and removing the stuffiness out of wine. Guy and his wife Kimberly own Stout Family Wines in Napa Valley where they partner with winemaker Tom Rinaldi, wellknown for labels such as Duckhorn and Three Palms Merlot, a 100-point wine.
6:00 pm - Come Early & Feed the Texas Safari Giraffes
Texas Safari is home to both endangered species and species that are extinct in the wild. In 2020, we welcomed two reticulated giraffes, JM and Anabelle, who was pregnant at the time. She gave birth to Betty in June of 2021. A special giraffe house was built for the family and has made it possible for visitors to engage with these gentle animals and enjoy their majestic beauty!
Photo by Texas Safari Ranch
photographs by E. BRETT VOSS of TEXAS PARKS
Fishy Fishing Folklore
& WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
& courtesy
have been handed down for generations.
Fishing
Of course, the most prevalent folklore beliefs relate to what you need to know to catch the big one.
Some men have discovered that your mouth is always right if you have a cigar in it. You don’t have to smoke it, just sucking on it will do.If you’re going to have good luck on this particular day, your feet will tingle when walking to your fishing spot.
Not shaving can be a harbinger of good luck. Shaving causes your hands to loose their natural scent. Fish do not like perfumed smells.
Some fishermen believe that if you talk while fishing, those wiggly critters will hear you and not bite. No one knows if this is true, but it can bring about a very quiet day. Of course, there’s the superstition that says you will not catch a fish if you swear, which can make for an unpleasant day.
uncomfortable and unsuccessful day.
Certainly, I can attribute most of mine to my late father, L.E. “Sonny” Voss, Jr., who took me fishing long before I could properly cast a line, and had me in the field dove hunting as soon as I could provide bird dog retrieval duties. It didn’t matter whether we were exercising our hunting heritage or our family fishing fortunes, the traditions and superstitions of past generations passed down as legends and “tricks of the trade” remained too powerful to ignore.
Certainfail.situations
If there’s one thing you can say we all have in common as outdoor sportsmen, it’s that we remain a remarkably superstitious breed.
First, you need to hold your mouth right. If you did not land that last big fish, you were not holding your mouth in the proper way. It is very important to remember just how you had it so you don’t do it again.
Run out of bait? Just dip your hook in motor oil, which ranks high on the list for attracting catfish. Of course, if you put a worm on your hook, then you must spit on it so you will have a successful fishing day.
One of the most popular remains having a favorite fishing hat. No matter how worn and ratty it is, it always goes along. It may be adorned by fishing lures that have performed faithfully in the past and have reputations for bringing in the biggest fish. If left behind, the fisherman suffer through a very
We all know that fish get excited when it rains, especially when it thunders. They get very hungry and you will be pulling in fish as fast as you can put your line in.
Without a doubt, the same stands true for a fisherman’s favorite lure. If it happens to be lost or left behind, the entire trip may end up in ruins. And most fishermen have a favorite rod and reel, one that has performed well in the past and assures he will catch fish when all others
Weather evokes all kinds of suppressions in many life situations. Fishing, too, has its share. Fish against the wind because this brings luck. However, if the wind blows from the west, the fish won’t be persuaded to eat for any reason. Best to bring along a book.
superstitions,stories,traditions&luckyluresclutterthewaterylandscape
article by E. BRETT VOSS
But let’s not forget the most important superstition to guarantee a good fishing day. Some believe throwing back the first fish caught will bring good luck.
God grant me the Serenity to accept the size of the fish I catch, the Courage not to fib about it, and the Wisdom to know that no one would believe me anyway.
Come on, admit it. All of you have them, too. And nowhere else is the tradition stronger than in the wake of fishing. The angler inherits his traditions from stories that were told over a crackling campfire as gentle conversations between grandfathers and grandchildren through the ages have impressed in the minds of children what needs to be done to ensure a successful fishing trip.
Bait also ranks as important in bringing about good luck. For instance, putting chewing tobacco on as bait will cause a feeding frenzy amongst the fish. Some food holds the power to entice fish to your hook. Using salty pork will lure in the biggest of bream and crappies to your line. If you choose cake, you will attract a lot of fish who have a sweet tooth.
have rules to live by. Being on a boat dictates certain protocol. Some fishermen must throw their lines off a certain side of the boat while others need to be in the bow or the stern.
It doesn’t stop there, though. Here’s a couple of superstitions regarding one’s body that
Thesunscreen.prohibition
• Fish the first time of the season on Good Friday and you will catch fish all year.
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com 44OUTDOORS
• If you take your rod into the house before going fishing it is bad luck.
Some in the fishing charters business extend their distaste for the fruit to include not only banana ingestibles, such as fresh or dried chips of banana, banana muffins, plus anything banana flavored, but even to items bearing the word “banana” or anything evocative of it, such as Fruit of the Loom underwear, Banana Republic apparel, and Banana Boat
• You will not catch another fish after being stuck with a fishes fin. Some traditions and folklore become vital in later years in the pursuit of fish, while some are the even more vital scripts of superstition.
• Someone stepping over your line is bad luck.
Another superstition that has to do with the eyesight of fish insists that if you take an old mirror and hold it so the sun can hit it, you will blind the fish. Thus, you can catch them with your hands.
• A person who swears while fishing will catch no more fish.
• If a dragonfly lands on your cork you will catch nothing more that day.
Some of the superstitions have to do with the prey being caught. Many folks say that fish can see upwards, but not downwards. This superstition gives way to the one that if your shadow falls on the water, you will scare the fish away.
Some think that fish bite best at night, especially if you play a fiddle. The fish cannot resist guitar music and come to the top to hear it. Then, wham, you have a big catch.
• If a fish flops out onto the bank the fishing will be no good.
• A fisherman that throws back his first fish throws his luck away.
• A rabbit crossing your path when going fishing is bad luck.
• If you see a pin on your way to fish pick it up for good luck.
Some things not only sound unlucky, but can prove to be disastrous too. Fishing with crossed lines is not only unlucky, but difficult, causing the loss of two fish at one time.
• If a fisherman fishes every Sunday he will catch the Devil and will be pulled into the water and may drown.
against Fruit of the Loom underthings stands out as particularly baffling. After all, the clothing’s logo depicts an apple, leaves, green grapes, currants, and purple grapes, without a single banana in sight.
Some supersititions make total sense, some don’t make any sense at all, while some seem to contradict others. Just take a look at this list:
• Play a fiddle or guitar at night to make the fish come to the top.
• Telling someone how many fish you have caught while fishing is bad luck.
• Turn your pockets inside out to catch catfish.
So much for man’s best friend. Some sportsmen believe that it’s unlucky to take a dog on a fishing trip.
Speaking of food, what’s the most deadly of all superstitions? You should absolutely never bring bananas on a fishing trip. If you do, the boat may sink or run aground. At the very least, you won’t catch any fish.Bananas are deemed unlucky by recreational fishermen and those catering to that trade. Usually, this rumor takes the form of the fish not biting on the day when bananas were discovered onboard, but point to mechanical breakdowns and other mishaps as well.
• It is unlucky to bait your hook with a worm left-handed.
For many families, it is the superstitions that are the best remembered and the last forgotten. In any family that fishes, the superstitions of fishing often play a central role in the connection of family members, even if the lore is not readily remembered. In that way, superstitions also play a role in capturing a moment, preserving it forever without the need for camera or words.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 OUTDOORS45
God grant that I may live to fish, until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then most humbly pray, When in the Lord’s safe landing net, I’m peacefully asleep, That in his mercy I be judged, As big enough to keep.
It is true, that superstitions have no basis in reality, but they are powerful and sometimes do affect our actions. And as a result, the outcome. To laugh in the face of fate is risky. Why chance loosing your fishing edge?
THREE FISH ON THE LINE: Rest assured, the size of those three fish on the line for the Voss boys – Zach (middle), Jake (right) and Derek (front) – have increased in relation to them over time.
We all see superstitions for what they are: beliefs based on irrational assumptions. Within a sport or hobby, though, these superstitions help to link generations that have few, if any, other connections.
The annual Bosque Arts Center’s Art Classic is a prestigious representational art show and sale that draws art lovers from far and wide, offering them a diversity of exceptional art to admire.
In the 37 years the show has been in existence, the annual juried and judged art show and sale art show has grown and thrived
thanks to the dedication of its art patrons to support the work of talented artists and has become synonymous with outstanding original representational art with a country and western focus. The exhibition kicks off Sept. 10 with the opening night sale, dinner and awards ceremony. After the opening weekend reception and sale, the remaining pieces will become available online beginning Monday, Sept. 12-Saturday, Sept. 24.
Lloyd Voges’ Creeking Along #3 - oil
As classic master Leonardo Da Vinci said, “A beautiful body perishes, but a work of art dies not.”
This year, 532 pieces of art in different categories, from sculpture, to pastels, to water color and oils were discussed and weighed on significance and quality by the BAC Art Council and this year’s judge Cowboy Artist of America Mikel Donahue; and 182 were deemed
photographs by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS & courtesy of BOSQUE ART CENTER
Captured, given life and color on canvas by an artist, objects, people, animals and landscapes in a specific moment of time are immortalized. Through the artist’s talent and skill, they live on to be admired for generations to come.
Art Comes Alive, Lives On Forever
37th Annual Bosque Art BosqueshowcaseprestigiousremainsClassicforArtCenter
AT THE HEART OF IT: Located in the former Clifton Lutheran College Building, the Bosque Arts Center is the beating heart of Bosque County and area’ssurroundingculturallife. article by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
Fascinated both by life on the ranch and the iconic art by the likes of Charlie Russell and Frederic Remington, as an adult, Donahue has become a perfect amalgam of his influences with a life breeding racing quarter horses with his wife Christie on their place outside Broken Arrow.
native is fresh off winning the Anne Marion Best of Show Award as well as multiple gold medals at the 2021 Cowboy Artists of America show in Fort Worth.
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com THE ARTS48
The Art Council welcomes back artists like Matt Atkinson, Cindy Long, Lloyd Voges, Jean Olliver, Patricia Rohrbacher and many other masterly artists.
The selected pieces are online available for viewing online at the Bosque Art Classic
Born and raised in Tulsa, Donahue, was taught about life on the ranch by his paternal grandfather who raised cattle in northcentral Oklahoma. It was Donahue’s maternal grandfather who exposed him to western art at an early age with memorable trips to Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum and what was then the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.
The BAC Art Classic is a treat for art lovers, allowing them to see exceptional art up close and personal; allow them a chance to allow the art wash away from the soul the dust of everyday life – as Master Pablo Picasso said.For the artists, the show is a validation of their talent, skills and place in the
A member of the Cowboy Artists of America since 2014, Donahue is a selftaught artist best known for his impeccable depictions of cowboy life. His drawings and paintings portray ranchers and their livestock during the dayto-day ritual of sun-up to sun-down work on the ranch.
worthy of being in the show.
What may seem as mundane chores are captured and translated through his artistic style into moments of meaning and reflection.
Donahue,Gallery.anOklahoma
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 49THE ARTS
Cowboy Artist of America Mikel Donahue – judge of the 2022 BAC Art Classic Show and Sale (far left); Mejo Okon’s Branding Day – oil (top); Katherine Irish’s A Forest Poem – soft pastel and sanded pastel paper (right); Lane Patsy’s Scratching Where it Itches -- sculpture; Ann Patton’s Cowbirds on a Cold Morning – water color (bottom).
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com THE ARTS50
Ezra Tucker’s Albrecht – acrylic on board (far left); Jean Olliver’s Wrapped in Red – oil on canvas (left); Patricia Rohrbacher’s Pansies – oil on Masonite panel (above).
September 11-24: Sunday, September 11: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Monday-Friday, September 12-16, 19-23: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, September 17 & 24: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
representational art world.
The exhibition is open free to the public
This collection is displayed throughout the year for the public to enjoy for free.
First and second place awards are given to pieces in each category. Additional awards include the Art Patrons Purchase Award, New Entrant Award, the BorenSelvidge Award and the coveted John Steven Jones Purchase Award.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022 51THE ARTS
Past winners of the distinguished John Steven Jones Purchase Award include Matt Atkinson, Joseph Barbieri, Cheryl Harley-Volz, Kathy Tate, Mikel Donahue, William Schneider, Jeff Segler, Don Weller, Romel de la Torre, Xiang Zhang and many others.
The purchase awarded art becomes a part of the Bosque Arts Center’s exclusive and beautiful permanent collection in the Roland Jones Memorial Gallery on the second floor of the BAC.
For additional information check the website at smorgasbord.html.oursaviorsnorse.org/
The 72nd Annual Norse Smorgasbord at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12. The unique buffet consists of a wide selection of Norwegian foods. Also various cheese and breads are included on the menu that boasts about 40 items.There will be two servings of 120 persons each. Serving times are 4:30 and 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 and each order should indicate a first and second choice of serving time. Ticket orders for this year’s Norse Smorgasbord must be postmarked
The Bosque Museum has a temporary exhibit showing wedding dresses from ladies of the community across the decades. The oldest is a 1930s dress.
www.ChisholmCountry.com chisholm country SUMMER/FALL 2022
The quintessential small town Texas celebrates their town and people with their annual Septemberfest. The event features a parade, barbecue cookoffs, a car show, kids activities and arts and crafts in the shade of the trees at the Cranfills Gap Wade Lee Park.
Checks should be made payable to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Women. Orders will be filled by a drawing on Sept. 30. Checks will be returned if ticket orders are not drawn. Orders should be mailed to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Women, 152 CR 4145, Clifton, TX, 76634.
Heart of Texas
August 20 – Free outdoor movie – John A. Lomax Amphitheater, Meridian
Celebrate Hamilton’s fun family annual event with a 5k run, a parade, vendors and food trucks, a rodeo, a fish fry and the huge dove festival dance with opening act Ed Vargas Band and Headliner The Huser
Brother Band. Doors open at 5 p.m. Line up for the parade is at 9 a.m. on Railroad Street.
article & photographs by SIMONE WICHERS-VOSS
AUGUST
June 23-Oct. 30 – Say Yes to the Dress – Bosque Museum, Clifton
SEPTEMBER
between Sept. 3 and Sept. 17 for the event. A self-addressed stamped envelope must accompany the order.
August 27 – Author Visit with Anita Dickason - Tolstoy & Co. Bookshop, Clifton
Please RSVP by Aug. 25 by phone 254-708-6028 and preorder any books you would like signed or write tolstoyandcompanybookshop@gmail.com.to:
September 3 – 50th Annual Dove Festival, Downtown Hamilton
September 10 – Septemberfest, Downtown Cranfills Gap
Email hamiltonchambertx@gmail.com for more information or to sign up as a vendor, or contact them at 254-386-3216.
September 3-17 – Smorgasbord signup – Our Savior’s Lutheran Church at Norse
Kids Que is Friday night starting at 7 p.m.
The Meridian Parks and Recreation Committee invites everyone to their monthly free outdoor movie showing at the John A. Lomax Amphitheater in Meridian. This month the movie is Hook (1991) with Robin Williams. Bring your lawn chair, or a blanket. Free popcorn, water and other snacks available. Check the Meridian Parks and Recreation Facebook page for the exact times.
This is your chance to meet former law enforcement officer and the author of many successful crime novels, Anita Dickason. She is visiting Tolstoy & Co. Bookshop, 113 N Avenue D in Clifton from 2-3 p.m. on Aug. 27. Her books include “Not Dead,” set in Meridian, “ Deadly Business” and “Sentinels of the Night.” Her newest book is titled “Deadly Keepsakes.”
Tickets for the Radney Foster Friday night concert on November 11 and the following book festival on November 12 will go on sale in late September/early October.
The Annual Bosque Art Classic juried exhibition and sale is renowned for its exceptional work, which always includes a preponderance of western art. The 37th edition opens with a sale, dinner, and awards celebration on Saturday, September 11, at 7 p.m. Multi-award winning Cowboy Artists of America Mikel Donahue is this year’s judge
Thethe parade is at 10 a.m. with line up at the Lutheran Church parking lot; the car show is from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
at
“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children“President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001Patriot Day is an annual observance on Sept. 11 to remember the 2,977 killed or those injured during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001. It also honors those valiant first responders who lost and risked their lives trying to save others. Bosque County Judge Cindy
The Lomax Gathering honors John Avery Lomax’ work through an evening of entertainment from Pipp Gillette, Jeff Gore, Kristyn Harris and others. Join us for an evening of music and fun. Lomax, was a folklorist and musicologist of note in the early 20th century who was raised in Meridian. In his work with Harvard
SUMMER/FALL 2022 chisholm country www.ChisholmCountry.com 54EVENTS Getting your printing done in Waco? PRINT Bosque 254-675-3048 213 N. Avenue G, Clifton (next to Ranch House Tire) www.BosquePrint.comYour Local Source for Printing
For the second year, the Bosque Museum holds their John A. Lomax Gathering fundraiser at the John A. Lomax Musical Amphitheater in Meridian. The event on September 17, starts at 6 p.m.
University, he documented the burgeoning music scene of the American South, focusing on folk music that ranges from prison work songs to cowboy trail songs. Over 10,000 of his recordings and his books are part of the Library of Congress.
September 10 – 37th Annual Bosque Art Classic – Bosque Arts Center, Clifton
September 11 – Patriots Day Tribute – Bosque County Courthouse Square, Meridian
The exhibition is open free to the public during BAC opening hours: September 1124: Sunday, Sept. 11: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; MondayFriday, Sept. 12-16, 19-23: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturdays Sept. 17 and 24: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The BAC is located at 215 S. College Hill Drive, Clifton. For more info, contact the BAC at (254) 675-3724 or visit its website www.bosqueartscenter.org/
Vanlandingham invites everybody to a Patriot’s Day service at the Courthouse Square in Meridian on Sat. Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. There will be a prayer, a welcome, a salute to the flags and a poem from Sherrod Fielden read by his widow Sue Fielden and a benediction.Thoseattending are encouraged to wear red, white and blue.
September 19 – Deadline to enter The Books on the Bosque writing contest –Bosque Arts Center, Clifton
The Books on the Bosque Writing Contest awards $250, $100, and $50 for first, second, and third places in the categories of short story, creative nonfiction essay, and poetry -- rhymed or unrhymed. Entry deadline is September 19 and winners will be announced at the Books on the Bosque Saturday luncheon November 12.
September 17 – Bosque Museum John A. Lomax Gathering – John A. Lomax Amphitheater, Meridian
Contest guidelines are available at the BAC and on the Books on the Bosque web pagehttps://www.bosqueartscenter.org/page/at:
BooksontheBosque-WritingContest.aspx
Bosque Spay Neuter is a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to affordable spay/neuter services for pet owners in Bosque County. They also relocate rescued dogs and cats from dire conditions to areas with a greater adoption demand, in collaboration with out-of-state rescue partners. In the first six months of this year they have already transported 360 dogs for adoption into loving homes.
September 24 – Free outdoor movie –John A. Lomax Amphitheater, Meridian
To pay for spay/neuters and transport costs, Bosque Spay Neuter is holding its annual Fandango Fundraiser Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Texas Safari Saloon in Clifton.
September 28 – 12th Annual Pioneer Day Pageant – Lake Whitney Chamber of Commerce, Whitney
If you wish to receive an invitation to this fun event with live music entertainment, full bar with specialty drinks, live and silent auction to support this organization and the invaluable services they provide, please send an email to bosquespayneuter@gmail.com.
The Meridian Parks and Recreation Committee invites everyone to their monthly free outdoor movie showing at the John A. Lomax Amphitheater in Meridian. This month the movie is Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (1991). Bring your lawn chair, or a blanket. Free popcorn, water and other snacks available. Check the Meridian Parks and Recreation Facebook page for the exact times.
Entertainment with music and cartoons starts one hour before the show.
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Scheduled interviews for the 12th Annual Pioneer Day Pageant September 28 will be the Lake Whitney Chamber of Commerce at 6 p.m. There will be a western and formal wear competition. The Queens will be crowned Thursday, Sept. 29 and will ride in the parade on Saturday. The pageant includes Miss Pioneer Day Queen (15-19 years old) Jr Miss Pioneer Day Queen (10-14 years old) Lil Miss Pioneer Day Queen (5-9 years old). Must be Hill or Bosque County resident to qualify. Please contact Janice at 254-694-2540
September 24 – Bosque Spay and Neuter Fandango Fundraiser – Texas Safari Saloon, Clifton
The First Baptist Church Clifton is hosting
a Women’s Day featuring speaker Tara Royer Steele. She is the owner of Royers Pie Haven in Roundtop and the author of Eat. Pie.Love – an illustrated devotional full of recipes.“Weeat of God’s goodness, and our hearts, mind, and souls are full. We are so excited about what we have tasted and can’t wait to go and share it with the world,” is Steele’s slogan.
October 1 – Meridian High School AllClass Reunion – Meridian Civic Center, Meridian
The first Saturday of October is the annual day alumni of Meridian High School gather at the Meridian Civic Center for their All Class Reunion. All former MHS students are invited to share good times and great memories Sat. Oct. 2 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
October 15 – 21st Annual FallFest –Downtown Clifton Autumn’s return is greeted with a deep sigh of relief and with the 21st annual FallFest on October 15. Clifton’s rich heritages are reflected in the foods, music, and performances of the day!
The event is from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Childcare is provided at the FBC. Market at the Mill is located at 317 W. Third Street, Clifton.
An upscale afternoon tea, culminating in a style show, highlighting fall fashions from local vendors. The show starts at 1 p.m. at the Bosque Museum located on 301 S. Avenue Q, Clifton.
Set along Downtown Clifton’s historic
October 8 – On the Trail of Goodnight –Clifton Civic Center, Clifton
Steele will present a program “Being the Fragrance of Christ.”
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The event starts with a carnival around 7 p.m. on Thursday. Saturday starts with a parade and is the Arts and Crafts, food and entertainment.Formoreinformation
September 29 – 47th Annual Pioneer Day – Downtown, Whitney
info@lakewhitneychamber.com.TheLakeWhitneyChamberof Commerce is located at 5516 FM 933, Whitney, Tx. 76692
OCTOBER
Please Call Janice at 254-694-2540 or email info@ lakewhitneychamber.com
Everybody is asked to bring a favorite food dish for the pot luck lunch and enjoy the opportunity for them to reminisce, reconnect and make new memories.
October 1 – Tea and Style Show –Bosque Museum, Clifton
October 1 – Women’s Day – Market at the Mill, Clifton
The Bosque County Genealogical and
For additional information please contact Clyde Herzog at 254-978-2543.
Historical Society offers a program featuring Lubbock songwriter, poet, storyteller and West Texas Walk of Fame inductee Andy Wilkinson. He will present stories, observations and anecdotes about his distant uncle Charlie Goodnight and his death, the Goodnight-Loving Trail, and the first chuck wagon. The lecture is free to the public.TheClifton Civic Center is located at 403 W. Third Street, Clifton.
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avenues from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., performers, artisans and crafters from around the state, and activities offer fall fun for the entire family. Unique shops, galleries, boutiques, and eateries welcome guests in addition to the festival vendors gathered with their distinctive wares and delicious foods. Enjoy music from Dallas Journey cover band Escape, see a . Sign up now for 3-on-3 Basketball and Cornhole Tournaments. Book lovers can stock up on their favorite authors at the Nellie Pederson Civic Library Book Sale. A large play space is reserved for The Kids’ Zone, featuring interactive exhibits, games, and attractions like rock climbing and the Superman obstacle course. Follow on Facebook @CliftonMainStreet or call 254-675-8337 or 254-253-0146 for more info.
For the tenth time, Cranfills Gap will be the center of the bacon-luvin’ world. Thousands flock to the small central Texas town for the annual Bacon Bash Texas
a bootshine and a great lineup of Texas Country music, a live auction and much more.Tickets are available online at www. baconbashtexas.com for $65 ($20 for children 8-14 years). There are only 2500 tickets available, and any leftover online tickets will be sold for $75 at the gate.
Ticket holders will enjoy bacon and pork butt samples and will be able to top it all off with selections of craft and domestic beers, Bloody Marys, mixed drink cocktails, and Texas wines. Additionally, the event will feature a bacon eating contest, Corn Hole Tournament, a photo booth, card game,
October 15 – Bacon Bash – Cranfills Gap
From 4-11 p.m. people can enjoy Bacon Bash Texas; a – you guessed it – baconthemed cook-off and festival hosted each year to raise money for two causes: Niki Warms The Cold and the benefit of children with Type One Diabetes.
October 22 – Free outdoor movie – John A. Lomax Amphitheater, Meridian
The Meridian Parks and Recreation Committee invites everyone to their monthly free outdoor movie showing at the John A. Lomax Amphitheater in Meridian. This month the movie is Sherlock Holmes (2009) with Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. Bring your lawn chair, or a blanket. Free popcorn, water and other snacks available. Check the Meridian Parks and Recreation Facebook
Try the People’s Choice or get your fill as a judge.TheNCBC
event was established three and a half decades ago as a fundraiser for local student scholarships and to support local non-profit organizations
page for the exact times. Entertainment with music and cartoons starts one hour before the show.
Several events surround the actual cookoff, like a parade at 10 a.m. live music throughout the day, a large classic car show, arts and crafts booths, kids activities and more.
The Bosque Arts Center celebrates and promotes country music songwriters and singer/songwriters by providing an opportunity nationwide for recognition of their talent in the great state of Texas with their annual Texas Troubadour Songwriter Classic. The competition is judged each year by well-known Country Music Songwriters. This year’s judges are husband-and-wife team TG Sheppard and Kelly Lang. They will be performing at the event. Contestants vie for the $1000 Song of the Year Award as well as the live competition for singer/ songwriters in October with the $1500 Texas Troubadour and $500 People’s Choice awards.
Doors open at 5 p.m. The BAC is located at 215 S. College Hill Drive, Clifton.
For more info, contact the BAC at 254675-3724 or visit their website www. bosqueartscenter.org/
October 29 – 9th annual Texas Troubadour – Bosque Arts Center, Clifton
October 31 – 27th Annual Trick or Treat with Main Street – Ave. D, Downtown Clifton
Start airing out your costume, or get a new one, practice the scary makeup and get a big bag ready for all the candy. Clifton Main Street hosts the 27th Annual Trick or Treat with Main Street on October 31, 2022 at 6 p.m. This event offers area children a safe trick-or-treating experience. The event is rain or Activitiesshine!are intended for children 12 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult. You can find more information and the event map on the Facebook page @ CliftonMainStreet.
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October 21-22 – 35th Annual National Championship Barbecue Cookoff –Bosque Bottoms, Meridian
For more information visit NCBCMeridian. com or contact them at: ncbc9414@ sbcglobal.net
The barbecue pits will be smokin’ hot as the pit bosses and their crew fired up their rigs in preparation of the 35th Annual National Championship Barbecue Cook-off on Oct. 21-22.
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