Our Westlake: Recent Episodes
Emmett Shelton, Sr.
Austin/Westlake/Texas - Roughly 100 Years Ago. As told by Emmett Shelton Sr.(1905-2000). He was the Original Developer of Westlake Hills, Criminal Defense Lawyer, Political Operative and popular local Storyteller.
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2999) tells first-hand stories of two high-profile Murder trials in Austin, roughly 100 years age.
Emmett's father, John E. Shelton, had a prominent criminal law firm in Austin with his four sons.
In the 1920s, John E,'s Uncle H.C. Greer caught an ex-employee stealing from his feed store on So. Congress. The thief shot Uncle Greer and was charged with attempted murder. Uncle Greer lingered and then died without filing a statement, Dan Moody was a hot-headed prosecutor, and the case resulted in a mistrial.
The second case shook Austin in 1933 - the tragic death of the young daughter of Belton mechanic Cal Yarborough. She was burned to death with gasoline and an insurance claim resulted an Cal's indictment. Mr. Bomer defend Cal and, Emmett assisted
Cal had spent 6 months in jail before the trial and had a strong defense however, Emmett and Bomer tried to prepare Cal for prison time. Cal told Emmett "This jury cannot punish me at all." The jury returned a guilty verdict, and Cal was sentenced to 30 years. We appealed but Cal spent time at Huntsville prison. We won on appeal, but Cal had lost everything - his life was forever changed.
Music: Theme song from Matlock
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) starts a New Chapter "Austin Law Tales" with first-hand stories from his family's 50-year career as criminal defense lawyers in Austin - roughly 100 years ago.
The 1915-30s in Texas were the days of Prohibition, Ku Klux Klan, Lynchings and Bonnie and Clyde. The Texas Rangers took on the Devil himself -- in defense of Texas.
Capt. Hammer lived in South Austin and officed in the State Capitol. Emmett had lots of stories to tell. Capt. Hamer arrested a local bootlegger who serviced the Capitol. He tripped into a state book theft ring at Gammell's Book Store due to a couple of guilty consciences and poor state bookkeeping. Emmett defended the Gammell boys and won. Interesting case! Skillball came to Austin and the Rangers kept the peace.
And then, there was the famous case of Bonnie and Clyde. One day, Emmett asked Cpt. Hamer if he was ever afraid to arrest a man - Capt. Hamer replied "I can control a mob - but one guy alone can be more dangerous - there was a man hold out in house on the plains - I was sent to arrest him - But he was crazy and wanted to die and I didn't! And yes, I was afraid and I didn't do it."
NOTE: We first posted this Episode in Feb 2023 - but Frank Hamer deserves a repeat. Renowned for his toughness, marksmanship, and investigative skill, he was the Texas Rangers. Emmett knew him personally and it is deserving that Capt. Hamer set the stage for our Chapter of Emmett's Austin Law Tales, roughly 100 years ago.#AustinTexas
Texasrangers
Austinhistory
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Music: Theme song Walker Texas Rangers by Chuck Norris
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr, (1905-2000) continues his tales as a lawyer in Austin related to Hill Country killings, 100 years ago. The first story is that of Emmett's friend and right-hand man in Westlake, Earl Short. He was a hard-working cedar chopper, rock worker and bootlegger. He got crosswise with another bootlegger and killed him. Emmett tells an interesting tale about defending Earl and he was acquitted.
Another Austin bootlegger, Sonny Ross, took up with his competitor's cheating wife and Sonny shot the husband. After new evidence came out in court, the jury gave Sonny 5 years.
Blondie and Curly Wright were well-known Austin street-fighters in Austin and they beat a man to death. Emmett helped prosecute the case and they were sent to prison. Twenty years later, Curly was arrested again for a murder in Bastrop. Curly called Emmett to defend him. Emmett's son, Polk, got him off.
Cheating wives are often involved in murder cases. In another Austin case Emmett defended a man who killed a neighbor who he suspected of fooling around with his wife. An Austin jury sentenced him to 50 years. In a similar case, Tom Carpenter shot his wife. Emmett defended Tom but he also got 50 years.
In the 1930s, Mattie Collins lived across Bee Cave Road from the current site of the County Line Restaurant. Maddie's husband got to arguing with their daughter. He shot the daughter in front of the daughter's husband and the husband shot the father. Emmett represented the daughter's husband and he was cleared by the jury.
A particularly interesting case was that of Ms. Wells. She was from a wealthy Austin family. She and two men were popular local musicians. One of her musician friends was found dead in her living room and she was charged with the butcher knife murder. She denied it. Emmett defended her and saw that she was not indicted.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) rounds out the Chapter on developing the Westlake Peninsula with a first-hand story of the sale of the 1,000 acre Davenport Ranch in the 1940s. Nobody knew exactly where the boundaries were, but Emmett owned the surrounding ranches. Emmett traces this history back to 1840 when the Walsh family bought it to mine lime. Later, owners harvested cedar.
Emmett took Ms. Davenport out to the property with an asking price of $40 an acre. Ms. D was an oil-heiress from the Valley and the asking price was about one month's royalties. She planned to raise brahma cattle. He pointed out to four corners of the 1,000 acres and she sealed the deal with a little whiskey that day. Ms. D contributed to the colorful nature of Westlake for many years.
NOTE: In the 1960s, Ms. Davenport became active in Campaigning for
Republicans for Eisenhower. Emmett led the Dems for Eisenhower.
Emmett shares several colorful stories about the campaign in our Chapter on Politics.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells of expanding Westlake Drive to the Westlake Highlands and building Toro Canyon. In the 1940s, there was no Pennybacker Bridge or Loop 360 to provide access to this area. One old abandoned Land Grant in Westlake caught Emmett's attention. He got possession of the 500 acres by claiming and gating it for 10 years and protecting it from trespassers.
One Sunday in 1951, Emmett was hunting on the Survey and he found 2 groups of 4 men hunting - he told them to leave. When Emmett came home for Lunch, his son Emmett Jr. encouraged him to be tough on these trespassers. They went back out and told the trespassers to leave, but they didn't. Emmett, Jr. had just returned from Korean battles and went to help his Dad defend the land. When things got hot - Emmett Jr. leveled off his rifle at the trespassers. They left but later tried to file a complaint for attempted murder.
This conflict was a factor when we went to court to get the title to the land.
Music: Daddy's Dreams by Emmett's son Polk Shelton
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) is the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. In this Episode, Emmett shares the story of the initial development of the Bull Mountain area. Abe Bull, of Austin Ntl Bank, came to Emmett offering to sell the family's 160 acre Bull Mountain tract of land for $500/acre. The nearest roads were the High Road and Trail of Madrones.
Emmett took the offer to a fellow Westlake investor, Sterling Holloway. Both saw the challenge and opportunity. They borrowed the $80K from Abe's Bank and began building roads. They bought up the Right-of-way and deeded it to the County for Torro Canyon.
Westlake Drive was unpaved from Redbud Trail to the High Road. Sterling and Emmett Sr. and his son Emmett Jr. paved the road.
Emmett's wife Joyce, was a big inspriation in developing the area. She worked with Malcom and Becky Fax to develop the Fast Fox and Slow Turtle Subdivisions on Torro Canyon Road. While the city urged 1/2-acre lots, Joyce and the Foxs were firm and stayed with their 1-acre lot minimum. The Community Won!
Stories by Emmett Shelton, Sr. and Compiled by Cynthia Shelton
Music: Daddy's Dreams by Emmett's son Polk Shelton
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Lost Tapes - A 1994 interview by Linsey Lane
At the age of 89, Emmett Shelton Sr. reflects on the strength of family love through the generations of his family and in his law practice.
He tells some of his favorite stories, including Hattie, Rob Roy and land development -- always with just a few new details. And a special guest appearance by Joyce.
Emmett has an interesting perspective in answering a question about the anxiety the younger generation has about the future. He advices the younger generation to be honest, be the best you can, don't spend it if you don't have it - keep your head up -- there is always another day. He talks about the impact media has had over his lifetime and he talks about race relations in his family since the time of Thomas Jefferson.
He ends up with a question of how he spends his days: finishing up a New Civil War Novel, New Austin History Book, Tapes and Joyce always has something planned every day.
Emmett sums it all up by saying:
In the End, Really Time Doesn't Mean a Thing
It's What You Do with It !Music: Daddy's Dreams by Polk Shelton (Emmett's son)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
We Just Found More Lost Tapes!!
Emmett Shelton, Sr. recorded this 1994 interview about Developing Westlake Hills. (It's marked Kimmell WLH 94).
Emmett shares memories of his work over the previous 50 years. He discusses his views of the need for public parkland in Westlake - he felt each family should have their own parkland.
Emmett tells about bringing the newer Westlake children to the little country Eanes School and -- now, 50 years later Eanes Westlake are best in Nation. He talks of the first plan for a discount chain store that was re-buffed.
Emmett tells some WLH history about the 100% vote to incorporate in 1953. Next, was a turning-point for the village. In 1971, it proposed restrictions on its Extra-territorial Jurisdiction. Emmett owned the land and fought it in court. It was an interesting twist.
At the end, Emmett is asked what was the HighPoint - Emmett's Response: "Its a Picture that took a long time to paint and its realization is not finished yet. "
Music: Daddy's Dreams By: Polk Shelton - Emmett's Son
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
We Just Found More Lost Tapes!!
Emmett Shelton, Sr. recorded his 1994 interview about Developing Westlake Hills. (It's marked Kimmell WLH 94).
Emmett shares memories of early work with banks on appraisals, work with planners and issues like drainage and erosion control on hill country developments.
And, then Emmett shares a detailed, first-hand account of the 1961 fire that threatened our community's whole world.
Emmett was asked about his proudest accomplishment - the building of Our Westlake -- 4-5 thousand acres of purely residential development and it is an Anti-SOB Society. Emmett ends with his claim that there are fewer commercial endeavors in Westlake 1994 than there were in the 1930s -- back then there were few families and 4 illegal stills in the area.
(From Cyndie about the Fire - In 1961, We lived on Caravan Circle and us 4 kids were all under 7 and we had Chicken Pox. My Dad took our old firetruck and was fighting the fire for days. Our neighbors came over to survey the fire from the high hill. They helped Mother hose down the roof in case it came up the hill.
Funny what you remember - watching my Dad on Austin TV. "Uncle Jay" (Our local kids show's host , who moonlighted as a reporter) interviewed him about fighting the fire. We hadn't seen him for several days - never forget - his eyes were red, he was coughing and his voice was hoarse - I thought he might not make it home.)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Dear Listeners - this tape is a challenge - please take the extra care to make it out - One-of-a-kind stories!
Emmett Shelton Sr tells of his experiences with one of the most famous Austinites, Hattie Valdes. She ran a famous Austin bordello known as Hattie's Place. Texas legislators were rumored to be among her most frequent customers. Hattie was well-known by most folks in Austin in the 1950s.
Emmett tells of his first encounter with Hattie in 1929, she wanted a divorce but had no cash. She paid her bill with a fine set of bedroom furniture, with a twist. Then, she wanted to draw up her Will to include her illegal business. Austin Court Records show that in 1934 Hattie was charged with owning an illegal gambling device - called a 'marble table' - which was destroyed at Hattie's expense.
Hattie's first of many arrests was in 1955 by her buddy Austin Sheriff T. O. Lang. Eventually, District Atty Tom Blackwell filed for a permanent injunction to close her bordello, which Hattie promptly violated. Judge Garner ordered her to serve 3 days in jail and it wasn't the last.
Time Magazine (Jan. 1964) in an issue devoted to the Texas mystique - included a one-sentence description of Austin -- moonlight towers, broad and clean streets — and a well-known South Austin brothel where “the star attraction has a skunk tattooed on each buttock.”
Emmett tells of a real estate investment Hattie made in Bluff Springs that went wrong and Emmett tried to set it straight. Austin has many crazy stories regarding Hattie for instance: She catered the sheriff convention, and put the "party" in Democratic party. Hattie brought her girls from out-of-state to "earn" their college tuition. Her old lawyer Bob Flanagan slowed down the expansion of Austin city limits to keep Hattie's Place outside the city limits.
In the 1950s, Hattie developed a partnership with Tim Overton and his brothers. The Overton Gang was Austin's own band of men who robbed banks, stole cars and ran prostitution rings. Tim was a star football player at Austin High and got a scholarship to the University of Texas under Daryl Royal -- But, then he and his pals went wrong.
In 1960, Hattie was working out of the M&M Courts on So. Congress and was said to have partnered with the Gang. However, after an old west style shoot-out due to a deal gone wrong, Hattie left Austin.
Hattie then moved to her operations to Cuero where she also struggled keeping her businesses open despite numerous encounters with the law.
Hattie Valdes died in 1976.
After her death, Hattie left her three houses in So. Austin, the rest of her estate to her daughter, a Sister in the Order of the Holy Cross.
Music By: Best Little Whore House in Texas, Dolly Parton (Youtube)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells us about his uncle, a founding father of Dripping Springs, Dr. E.P. Shelton.
Emmett starts off with the aftermath of the Hanging of Uncle Sam and the disappearance of Great Grandpa Shelton. Great Grandma was left with 4 children in 1870s Central Texas. She became a school teacher.
Uncle Ed always wanted to be a doctor. In the summer of 1885, he and his brother John E. picked cotton at a ranch on Onion Creek. Uncle Ed went to Louisville for one year and after graduation, he settled in Dripping Springs and married Lulu Spaw. They had 13 children and he served as the only doctor in the area.
Emmett tells of everyday life in Dripping Springs, Roughly 100 years ago. Feeding the family, sharing their first car and daylong wagon rides from South Austin to Dripping Springs (25 miles) for a visit.
Emmett shares a story of the first Dripping Springs football game in 1925. They played Buda and there were seven Shelton boys on the field for the Dripping Springs Team. We Won!!
If you are from Dripping Springs - don't miss these tales!
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. tells stories of the Greer-side of the family out in Dripping Springs -- dating back to Navasota before the Civil War. Emmett recounts his earliest memory of visiting Great GrandMa Greer on her death (or was it "The Wolf").
GrandPa Greer (William Henry Greer) met and married Grandma in 1872 at the Johnson Institute. He was a horse trader after the War and they had seven children. Emmett tells a memory of a full day (25 mile) wagon trip from So. Austin to Dripping Springs. And, after Grandma Greer died in the 20s, GrandPa moved in -- Emmett has even more stories about GrandPa adjusting to life in So. Austin -- Roughly 100 years ago.
If you have any Greers in your family, or live in Dripping Springs (Fitzhugh Rd.) be sure to listen in.
Music By: Southern Rail - The Hills that I call Home (YouTube)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
With all the recent news of criminal charges against Trump and serious allegations against Biden - makes you wonder how politicians deal with the outrage and anger. Of course, Emmett has a story about that.
For those not familiar, past Texas Governor Ferguson was governor of Texas from 1915-17 when he was impeached. Gov. Jim thought the state should fund public education and not so much to higher ed. He vetoed the University of Texas appropriation. That outraged its Austin liberal advocates, and they got Gov Jim impeached. So, he got his wife Ma Ferguson to run, and she was elected for two non-consecutive terms ending in 1935. Gov. Jim was still in charge.
Emmett was a young lawyer in the Ferguson's inner circle. He was new to politics and got some good advice to live by from a very experienced Texas politician, Gov. Jim Ferguson.
Music by: Willie Nelson courtesy Youtube
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. shares an intimate portrait of his second wife and business partner, Joyce Shelton, his greatest inspiration in his life. They married in 1962 with a partnership that spanned 40 years. They worked hand-in-hand to envision a new community Westlake Hills. They wanted residential development of one-acre minimum lot size. They didn't sell houses, they sold land and dreams. She crafted property lines to save Westlake's majestic trees. When Loop 360 was proposed, Joyce and Emmett donated their Westlake right-of-way. They bought back Westlake property they had sold in the proposed easement and also donated it for the new highway.
Emmett tragically lost his eyesight in 1973, his dream would have been over, but for Joyce - she became his eyes and kept their dream alive. Emmett has many tales of big land deals and partnerships but none greater than his partnership with Joyce.
In the last story of the episode, Emmett tells of the ultimate gift Joyce gave him in 1986. Emmett worked to get the bridge between Austin and Westlake built in the 1940s, but it was left unnamed. In the 1980s, Joyce worked the Ausin mayor and Congressman Jake Pickle to finally name the bridge: the Emmett Shelton Bridge. Bless you Joyce.
Music by: Emmett's son, Polk Shelton
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. spent many years as a criminal defense atty in the hillcounty, getting (and keeping) bootleggers out of jail! In this episode he tells 7 of his favorite first-hand experiences. Prohibition was ratified nationally in 1919 and it was repealed in most counties in 1935.
Emmett's first story takes us to the days when Prohibition was just a proposal and Emmett's Papa, John E. Shelton, was against it at the South Austin Democratic Precinct level.
Next, is a story of local Westlake Bootleggers who ran a local dance pavilion on Bee Cave Road in the 20s. Albert Brust killed his stepson Ernest Thurman after a family feud and a night of drinking. Emmett defended Ernest and he got off. Next, Emmett tells of a murder case of a Westlake Bootlegger, Earl Short. Emmett got him off on self-defense. Next, is a story of Ike Young, his still on Bee Creek and Westlake Drive, a murder of a Revenuer, and a possible hiding place of outlaw, Ben Thompson.
Emmett follows with a tale about an interesting trial of a bootlegger where the defense atty drank the evidence, with a gulp, during the trial. Emmett has another tale about the Capitol Bootlegger Fred Roose who got cross-ways with the Texas Rangers and lost out on his planned trip to Europe.
And then, Emmett tells a very interesting bootlegger trial involving a state's stoolpigeon who (Emmett pointed out) had transported the evidence crossed county lines.
Finally, just before prohibition was repealed the liquor distributors were preparing - but a gun shot gave them away. Emmett had an interesting experience emptying a liquor warehouse before police could raid it.
Music: The Alcoholic Blues (Prohibition Song) by Bill Murray (1919)
The Alcoholic Blues by Slipdixies (2017)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. shares several stories about the "Texas Hot Oil" business, and its impact on families, roughly 100 years ago.
Emmett's first two stories are about the difference an oil strike can make in a family. The first tale, is about a black man from South Austin who reluctantly married into the Merriweather Oil Strike of 1923. It was a happy marriage although he still never bought an automobile. Next, is the tale of Mrs. O.H. Davenport (namesake of Westlake's Davenport Ranch). Her family struck it rich in South Texas when the railroad condemned part of their ranch. The family kept the mineral rights and made their fortune when oil was discovered.
Emmett's next is the story of Governor Dan Moody. He was so honest that when he left office, he had few resources. His work for then Gov. Sterling on solving the chaos of the Texas Oil Rush allowed him to buy a fine law library - his first.
Finally, we hear Emmett's first-hand experience in the "Texas Hot Oil" business. It was short-lived - You can smell the Hot Oil!
Music By: And for those who remember - the Beverly Hillbillies TV show lends us a hand with some memories to set the stage.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells the sad story of an Early Westlaker, Tom Young. (Bless his heart, Emmett calls him Jim by mistake. A search of local newspapers from the time, verify his name was Tom Young.)
In 1906, Emmett's father's first (and worst) criminal case was the defense of a member of the Young Family from Westlake. Tom was charged with the brutal murder of a young girl who lived in his house in Florence where he was picking cotton. The family hired Emmett's father, John E., to represent Tom however, Tom was quickly found guilty.
Emmett tells of the spectacle of Last Public Hanging in Texas (Georgetown, March 30, 1906) thru the eyes of this father, as friend and defense atty, as well as the eyes of two curious Austin boys who aspired to be lawyers.
Tom's family brought Tom home to Westlake, by wagon, for burial in the Young Family Cemetary little more than 100 years ago.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. recorded this Americanism Assembly at Fulmore Jr. High in 1982. The speaker is South Austin native, and Fulmore graduate in 1920, John Henry Faulk. Most of the students knew him from his recurring appearances on the TV show "He-Haw" but they soon learned there was more to John Henry.
John Henry focused his talk on the Declaration of Independence and how it ensures freedoms to every American.
A bit of Background: While a soldier at Camp Swift, Faulk began writing his own radio scripts. He got an interview at WCBS in New York City. The network executives were sufficiently impressed to offer him his own radio show. Upon his 1946 discharge from the Army, Faulk began his Johnny's Front Porch radio show for WCBS.
In December 1955, Faulk was elected second vice president of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists(AFTRA). Faulk earned the ill will of the blacklisting organization when other members and he wrested control of their union, the AFTRA, from officers backed by AWARE. In reprisal, AWARE labeled Faulk a communist. Wisconsin Senator Joseph McCarthy, offered a "clearance" service to major media advertisers and radio and television networks; for a fee to AWARE to investigate the backgrounds of entertainers for signs of Communist sympathy or affiliation. When he discovered that AWARE was actively keeping radio stations from offering him employment, Faulk fought them in court for compensation.
On June 28, 1962, the jury awarded him the largest libel judgment in history to that date — $3.5 million. An appeals court lowered the amount to $500,000. Legal fees and accumulated debts erased most of the balance of the award.
Faulk's book, Fear on Trial, published in 1963, tells the story of the experience.
NOTE: The Intro to this Episode is an excerpt from Emmett Sr.'s Memorial Service. Cactus Pryor is the Master of Ceremony. One of Emmett's final patriotic campaigns was after the Beirut Attack in 1982 where 220 Marines were killed by a car bomb. Emmett Sr. put up a flagpole at his office 1107 Westlake Drive. He would raise the flag and blow his bugle timed to coincide with the passage of the school busses and work traffic. Emmett recorded his Bugle call to be played at his own funeral in 2000.
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. records one of our family's proudest moments, Emmett Jr. was recognized in 1983 by the Ntl. Freedom Foundation for his Americanism Program in Austin Schools.
Recent National Surveys show Patriotism is in decline in 2023. How will Americans face our next National challenge? What is missing?
Dating back to Terry's Ranger in the Civil War, Shelton men have been eager to volunteer to fight our Wars. At age 38, with a wife and three boys at home, Emmett Sr. worked to get into the Marine Corp after Pearl Harber. Following in his Dad's footprints, Emmett Jr. joined the Marine Reserves at 16 and was called to fight in Korea 1 month after high school graduation.
In 1980, Emmett Jr. was Commander of American Legion Post 76 in Austin. He saw a need. He created a high school speaker program to bring our heroes to talk about Americanism. He brought in Texans like: Roy Benevides, medal of honor winner in Vietnam, Hardy Hollers Atty in the Neurenberg Trials, John Henry Faulk local humorist who was Red Listed in McCarthy Era, and many more. As Post Commander, Emmett Jr. also participated in Boys State to offer boys hands on experience legislating in the Texas Capitol.
As the State Commander of the American Legion reported, *" Under Emmett Jr.'s leadership, the Americanism Program in Austin Schools has reached over 35,000 students and left each one just a bit more patriotic."
NOTE:* In this Episode, Emmett Sr. plays Taps. In 1983, the Beirut Tragedy killed 220 Marines. Emmett Sr. put up a flagpole at his Westlake Drive office and began regularly blowing Taps as the school bus passed in memory of this tragedy, "I'm a bit hepped up on patriotism".
In his final years, Emmett Sr. practiced his bugle and recorded himself playing TAPS for his own Memorial Service. A Patriot to the end.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells stories of his second family, after marrying Joyce and her son Jeffery Dochen in 1962. The stories tell of working through many of the same issues other blended families face. Jeffery helped Emmett clear land, plan new subdivisions, build Westlake Hills and later took over for Emmett and Joyce as a major broker for people looking for that perfect piece of land in Our Westlake - Paradise.
Note: Many of you remember Joyce Shelton, the Patron Saint of the Peninsula. Joyce was Jeffery's mother and her birthday is July 4. We publish this Episode on her birthday in her memory.
By Polk Shelton - Emmett's Son
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
When Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, Emmett joined the Marine Corp and went overseas. He had three young sons at home. On return, He made up for his absence with a move to the "Big House on Caravan Circle - Our Westlake Wilderness".
At the age of 70, Emmett Shelton Sr. tells a father's favorite memories of raising young men in Westlake Hills, roughly 100 years ago.
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
At the age of 70, Emmett Shelton Sr. tells a father's favorite memories of raising young boys, and their dogs, in Westlake Hills, roughly 100 years ago. For Emmett, every day was Father's Day!
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
At the age of 70, Emmett Shelton Sr. tells a father's favorite memories of raising young boys, and their dogs, in Westlake Hills roughly 100 years ago. Stories include incidents with the boys and bus driver Della Edwards and the Bullians. For Emmett, every day was Father's Day!
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett was the youngest Eagle Scout in America just before this 12th birthday - he loved the challenge. In 1920, Emmett was 15 and the First Intl. Boy Scout Jamboree in London was announced.
In this second episode, Emmett tells us more about the Jamboree activities, his visit to Flanders Field, and the long trip home -- All through a young scouts' eyes and mellowed with age.
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett was the youngest Eagle Scout in America just before this 12th birthday - he loved the challenge. In 1920, Emmett was 15 and the First Intl. Boy Scout Jamboree in London was announced.
In this first episode, Emmett tells us the efforts he and other Austin scouts took to get to go, the long boat trip over and the sights of London thru the young scouts' eyes.
1st World Scout Jamboree – 1920
Olympia, London, England, 1920. 8,000 Scouts from 34 countries represented at the roll call. The location was a huge glass-roofed building covering six acres. The concrete floor had to be covered with earth for competitions. Some non-Scout participants: an alligator from Florida, a baby crocodile from Jamaica, a lioness cub from Rhodesia, monkeys from South Africa, a baby elephant, a camel.
Baden-Powell acclaimed the Chief Scout of the World lead the opening prayer, "If it be your will, let us go forth from here fully determined that we will develop, among ourselves and our boys, a comradeship through the worldwide spirit of the Scout brotherhood, so that we may help to develop peace and happiness in the world and goodwill among men."
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Sr. tells of growing Up in South Austins 100 years ago. South Austin was a different place 100 years ago but the boys were much the same!
Music By: Blake Shelton
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Sr. tells of growing Up in South Austins 100 years ago. His first story is of his difficult home birth without a doctor. As the 5th of six boys, that was not his mother's first challenge! No cars, no lights, no inside plumbing - life was very different in South Austin. Emmett tells of seeing the first airplane, the first street car and the Deaf School. Crisis shook the family when brother Earl was shot gathering pecans. South Austin was a different place 100 years ago but the boys were much the same!
Music By: Blake Shelton
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton tells of the families and businesses in the 1920s.
He watched the first streetcar on So. Congress. We had a blacksmith Bakery, Feed Store, Livery, Grocery, Saloon and others. Emmett tells of the families that build Travis Heights and about Fulmore School. John Wendy's Store at Barton Springs Rd. and Lamar was the last store before Dripping Springs and Bee Cave. If you live in So. Austin or had family living in So. Austin in the early 1900s - you will learn something about your South Austin neighborhood or family.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Sr. tells of growing Up in South Austins 100 years ago. His first story is of his difficult home birth without a doctor. As the 5th of six boys, that was not his mother's first challenge! No cars, no lights, no inside plumbing - life was very different in South Austin. Emmett tells of seeing the first airplane, the first street car and the Deaf School. Crisis shook the family when brother Earl was shot gathering pecans. South Austin was a different place 100 years ago but the boys were much the same!
Music By: Blake Shelton
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells stories about life in the early 1900s on the streets of South Austin. Landmarks include the Lone Oak Gas Station at the South edge of town; Gravel Pits on the floodplain banks of the Colorado; and the Deaf School. If you had family in the area, thier name is likely mentioned.
Music By: Blake Shelton
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. joined the Marines at 37 and served in WWII. Emmett Jr. was in his teens and joined the Reserve. He was called to duty in Korea only a few years after his Dad came back from WWII. Emmett Sr. tells his side of Emmett Jr.'s Marine experience in the Korean War, including the Chosin Reservoir. He tells what happened after Emmett Jr. was evacuated for severe frostbite. Austin Marines' efforts in Korea were honored with a visit from Marine General Clements and a celebration at the Shelton's Westlake hilltop home.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton was active in the Texas Democratic Party in 1950 but he heard a speech by Gen. Eisenhower that moved him. Instead of turning to the Republican Party, Emmett created "Texas Democratics for Eisenhower". It was a colorful campaign before TV and Radio. Flat Bed cars and loud speakers at community gatherings were the norm. And Eisenhower won!
Music by: Leonard Cohen
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Jr. grew up in Westlake and joined the Marine Corps Reserves at 16. He was called to duty right after graduation from Austin High in 1950. Within 6 months, he was a rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His buddy was shot within 10 minutes of his first battle. And it got tougher. Emmett suffered severe frostbite and received 100 percent disability. Thirty-six years later, on Thanksgiving Day, Austin Radio station KVET interviewed Emmett Jr. and another Marine from Chosin, Don Childs, in a call-in show about their first-hand experiences. (Part 4 of 5)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Jr. grew up in Westlake and joined the Marine Corps Reserves at 16. He was called to duty right after graduation from Austin High in 1950. Within 6 months, he was a rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His buddy was shot within 10 minutes of his first battle. And it got tougher. Emmett suffered severe frostbite and received 100 percent disability. Thirty-six years later, on Thanksgiving Day, Austin Radio station KVET interviewed Emmett Jr. and another Marine from Chosin, Don Childs, in a call-in show about their first-hand experiences. (Part 4 of 5)
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton tells stories of the strong-hold the Democratic organization after WWII. Alan Shivers was elected Governor and wanted a change. Emmett was recruited and worked the precinct and county conventions. Adelaide Stevenson was up for President. Emmett advised Shivers in choosing delegates for the National Convention but almost spilled the names to the press. While the Gov. offered Emmett a seat at the Convention, Emmett declared his support for Eisenhower.
Music by: Leonard Cohen
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Jr. grew up in Westlake and joined the Marine Corps Reserves at 16. He was called to duty right after graduation from Austin High in 1950. Within 6 months, he was a rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His buddy was shot within 10 minutes of his first battle. And it got tougher. Emmett suffered severe frostbite and received 100 percent disability. Thirty-six years later, on Thanksgiving Day, Austin Radio station KVET interviewed Emmett Jr. and another Marine from Chosin, Don Childs, in a call-in show about their first-hand experiences. (Part 3 of 5)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Path to Power by Robert Caro told of LBJs 1948 race against Coke Stevens. Emmett, and the Shelton law firm, represented the "South Texas Machine". They were at the table during this notorious election challenge. Caro interviewed Emmett Shelton Sr. in completing his account. But Emmett tells the rest of the inside story.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Jr. joined the Marine Corps Reserves at 16 and was called to duty right after graduation from Austin High in 1950. Within 6 months, he was a rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His buddy was shot within 10 minutes of his first battle. And it got tougher. Emmett suffered severe frostbite and received 100 percent disability. Thirty-six years later, on Thanksgiving Day, Austin Radio station KVET interviewed Emmett Jr. and another Marine, Don Childs, in a call-in show about their experiences. (Part 2 of 5)
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Jr. joined the Marine Corps Reserves at 16 and was called to duty right after graduation from Austin High in 1950. Within 6 months, he was a rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His buddy was shot within 10 minutes of his first battle. And it got tougher. Emmett suffered severe frostbite and received 100 percent disability. But he continued to fight as leader of the Austin American Legion Post 76, publisher of a Baker Bandits Newsletter, leader of an Americanism Speakers Program in Austin Schools and a cancer patient. Thirty-six years later, on Thanksgiving Day, Austin Radio station KVET interviewed Emmett Jr. and another Marine, Don Childs, in a call-in show about their experiences. (Part 1 of 5)
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells first-hand experiences of the Shelton Law Firm in representing the South Texas border county officials, including County Judges George Parr in Duval County and Judge Raymond in Zapata County. Due to the high number of illiterate and non-english speaking voters, these county officials had flexibility and they used it. LBJ learned how to use the machine and tried. His election win against Coke Stevens showed his emerging skill.
Music by: Willie Nelson
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of LBJ's first political race against his brother, Polk Shelton. We start out with insights of LBJs college years at Southwest Texas State. He was a few years behind Emmett. Next some background about the race. Congressman Buchanan had died. Feelings ran high with Roosevelt in office. Polk ran against his proposal to pack the courts. LBJ was a Roosevelt man and got the votes. The campaign was local, flatbeds and loudspeakers - no TV no radio. Emmett had to put up land in Stonehedge Estates in Westlake Hills to pay for the end of the campaign. The Sheltons lost but gained a lifelong partner in LBJ.
Music by: Leonard Cohen
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells a number of stories about Governor Jim Ferguson and his wife, Governor Marion "Ma" Ferguson. Emmett was close to the Fergusons after he graduated college. Govenor Jim was first elected in 1912 as an anti-prohibitionist. He was popular and was reelected in 1916. Gov. Jim got cross-wise with UT advocates and he vetoes it's appropriation. In 1917 he was indicted for crimes. Emmett's father was District Atty in Austin and declined to pursue the charges. But Gov. Jim was impeached, and Lt. Gov. Wm. Hobby served out his term. In 1924, Gov. Jim's wife "Ma" Ferguson ran for the office in 1924 and 1932 winning two additional terms as Governor of Texas.
Music by: Leonard Cohen
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells the story of Mr. J.H. Patton, delegate from Oak Hill, and his hair-raising buggy and train ride to the 1894 Dallas Democratic Convention. It was a tie vote to choose Charlie Culberson for Governor of Texas. Patton made it just in time to determine the course of Texas history. And then, there is the story of Emmett's first Democratic State Convention in 1931 in Lubbock when Ma Ferguson defeated Ross Sterling for Governor. Emotions ran high. Dan Moody's faction supported Sterling and one of them caught a hot mike at the podium.
Music by: Leonard Cohen
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
There is a good reason the Shelton's fought against injustice. Emmett's Great Uncle was Lynched in 1880 in Belton by a mob. His Grandfather revenged the killers and soon disappeared. Grandma was left to raise 4 kids in the 1880s. PaPa fought the hard battle all his life - to fight for the common man against injustice, including the KKK.
Music for this Episode: Johnny Cash
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the Shelton family's further conflict with the KKK in Austin. Emmett's father, John E., was Director of Sunday School but was kicked out of So. Austin Baptist Church for being an anti-prohibitionist. Brother Edgar was in town singing at the Baptist Church when robed KKK Members marched in with a donation. Someone shut off the lights, Edgar grabbed the mask and conflict ensued. Edgar was arrested and Buck Simpson helped in the defense. Emmett tells details of a phone operator foiling a KKK death threat against a judge. In San Marcos, KKK was a family affair but not all agreed. In Bellville a KKK parade led to a number of deaths. Memories of a bumper sticker slogan -- Ma, Barry, and Dan - to Hell with the Klu Klux Klan, and a very private Thank You.
Emmett tells a moving recount of his fearless father John E. Shelton's funeral in 1928 - Not in the Church - but instead on a flatbed in the front yard of their house in So. Austin with a eulogy by a Judge and about 300 citizens mourning on both sides.
Music by: Johnny Cash
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the Shelton Law firm being warned to "get out of town" by the KKK for its work defending bootleggers. Emmett's father, John E. Shelton, took the matter in his own hands - to determine who his friends were. A Klan meeting on E. 6th Street, and a mistaken identity, lead of the fatal shooting of Peeler Clayton - and John E. had the list of those present - including local officials.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Chap.4 - Gamblers - Epis. 4 - Capt. Frank Hamer - Tales of a Texas Ranger
Emmett shares first-hand stories of cases he represented involving Capt. Frank Hamer, Texas Ranger. In the 1930s, Hamer arrested Austin bootleggers, and cracked a case involving the Sec. of State and Gammell's Book Store. Frank's brother D.E. Hamer protected Austin's Skillball game from extortion from a San Antonio gang. Frank's claim to fame was the killing of the notorious Bonnie and Clyde. In a friendly moment, Emmett asked Frank if he was ever afraid. His answer is telling.
These were exciting times for Texas and Austinites, and the Texas Rangers kept a lid on a boiling pot.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Chap.4 - Gamblers - Epis. 3 - Austin's Horses, Table Games and Payoffs
Emmett shares first-hand stories of rigged horse races, slots and payoffs to local officials to look the other. In the 1930s, big stakes often meant big losses. Ring-leaders occasionally paid off the losses not wanting to bring down the law on the games. Payoffs to Texas Rangers and the local Sherriff, also kept the games going. Some games like skillball were considered acceptable, even financing the American Legion. Slot machines were in many Congress Avenue businesses and a common pastime for businessmen.
These were exciting times for Austinites looking for luck in a rigged game.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Chap.4 - Gamblers - Epis. 2 - Hustlers - Easy Money
Emmett shares tales of some of the most notorious hustlers in the Austin-area. The Depression years brought out the hustlers, looking for a quick buck. Money-making machines, kidnapping, pigeon drop, hot diamonds, loaded dice and the sign game were popular. Local leaders were often victims. Local music businessman, Isaac Bledsoe lost $10k on a money-making machine and was later kidnapped. His kidnapper refused to give the money back and went to the penitentiary; the bounty went to open a cafe in Austin. Blacky Hart sold hot diamonds out of the back of another local cafe. Posie Hill became an expert dice player in east Austin in the 30s. In WWII, he was stationed in Honolulu and in one night he won $30k in a gambling house. When he got back to Austin, Posie used the winnings to partner with Charles Goodnight in Hill's Cafe on South Congress.
These were exciting times for a number of hustlers looking for easy money in Austin.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells several stories about gambling halls around Westlake during the 1920s. Mervin Ash was a big-time gambler and had number of partners. He sold liquor and ran gambling houses - one at the site of St. Stevens another at the place of the County Line. One of his partners, Jack Duval got killed after years of problems with the law. In the end, Mervin Ash's brazen offer of a new car to the local chief of police was the last straw. His undoing was his own vanity.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the life of Ernest Thurman. He sold Emmett 50 acres of land for $50 worth of lumber. The family built a Dance Pavillion on Bee Cave Road across from the County Line during prohibition. They were bootleggers and had a good business with dancing. Ernest was a hard worker, who lived off the land and carried a gun. However, Ernest and his father-in-law (Brusk) did not get along when they drank. One night, the feud ended with the shooting death of Ernest Thurman on Bee Cave Road. For too many early Westlakers, defending life with a gun was an everyday challenge. Ernest was an honest man who helped build Westlake.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the life of two early Westlake brothers who lived on Bee Cave Road: Rush Riley and John T. Riley. Rush was known by the authorities for bootlegging and was arrested twice in one month. John T. was charged with pandering and went to the penitentiary. Emmett and Rush worked with Governor Ferguson to get John T. a pardon, while Emmett also helped him apply for a big check for his service in the War. Great story with a happy ending. These brothers lived out a good life together and they both helped build Westlake.
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the life of three early Westlakers: Tom, Homer and Jesse Teague. Tom feuded with neighbors in Oak Hill. Homer feuded with Tom. Jesse was drafted in WWII and on his return, he feuded with a neighbor over abuse of his goat. Each was a character on his own and helped build Westlake.
Music by Emmett's son Polk Shelton
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells the story of eldest of the Teague family, John Teague. John was a hardworking man. He had to defend his sister's honor one night in a South Austin bar -- the incident changed the course of his life. He became a man who served two life sentences and lived to face another.
Music by Emmett's son Polk Shelton
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Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett tells of the earliest Westlakers. Before Eanes, the Snuff Box School was their only education. Selling cedar and whiskey was their livelihood. They walked to Congress Ave. for groceries. One early Westlaker, Buck Simpson, was drafted into World War I and became Austin's War Hero.
Music by Emmett's son Polk Shelton.
For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake
Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Check out my Facebook page: Our Westlake
By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) Emmett explains the early land grants in the area, some date back to the 1840s. Emmett shares the history of the Brown Land Grant and the colorful history of TJ Chambers and his massive land grant. These two surveys cover much of Westlake Hills. Emmett also shares a story about the cedar wars regarding the harvesting of cedar ties off Westlake land for the railroad.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) opens this Chapter as he and his wife, Joyce, expand their work in Westlake Hills to the north and west. Their new range covered the entire Westlake Peninsula. In Episode 1, Emmett describes the territory in the 1930-40, access to Austin, existing roads, and the unclear ownership of much of the land. Emmett includes a colorful story about historic figure Ben Thompson using Bee Creek as a hideout in the 1860s.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells stories of Johnny Mussleman's vision to develop the Westlake Corner area and contribute to completing the Dream of Westlake Hills.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-20000 tells of defending the land and high-finance land deals involved in selling these two picturesque mountain tops.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Check out my Facebook page: Our Westlake
By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr, (1905-2000) tells of the challenges and reward in the sale of Putnam's Hill, more commonly known as Nob Hill.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr., (1905-2000) tells the history of the land and development of the Yacht Club Road (now Westlake Drive).
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells a short story about the wells and well-drillers that made Westlake possible. Emmett also introduces us to Sterling Holloway and his influence in the building of the High Road.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells tales about the early land owners, an old stone fence and a creative approach one Austin businessman used to sell Westlake lots before the bridge was built.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of the history of the efforts to develop the central area of Westlake Hills around Red Bud Trail.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of the early development of Westlake Hills along Bee Cave Road prior to the 1980s.
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By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of acquiring the land for Westlake Drive. Anticipating the renovation of the dam, Emmett bought the Stroder Tract at $10 an acre which he thought included the dam site. They financed the sale with family diamonds as collateral. Emmett worked with the City of Austin in a colorful twist of land deals Emmett made for the City to secure the adjacent land.
Emmett includes an intriguing tale of possible evidence of a Ben Thompson visit in Westlake Hills in the 1850s.
By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton
Emmett recalls the early history of the land he referred to as the "Pennisula", western area of Westlake. He includes the interesting characters who were the original owners of the Davenport Ranch area and the initial land deals. He includes personal recollections of the Rob Roy Ranch and a deal Emmett made to buy 500 acres of land from the Roy sisters in 1929 for $4 an acre.
By Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton
Developing Westlake Hills Pt. 1 as told by Emmett Shelton Sr. 1905-2000
Original Developer of Westlake Hills
Chapter 1 - LBJ tip on Colorado Dam project
compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton