Author: bigbertha

My interests include writing, photography, marketing and sales. The Big Bertha's Adventures blog gives me a creative outlet to occupy my time while (hopefully) inspiring and entertaining others.
Dallas History, Details Count, Harry Hines Blvd, Hotels, Tower Hotel CourtsLeave a comment
The Tower Hotel Courts in 1955, Part 3

The Tower Hotel Courts in 1955, Part 3

bigbertha

Preface:  Hopefully you’ve been following along in this series.  If you’re new, the quick rundown:  I fancy myself the “caretaker” of the Tower Hotel Courts in Dallas, even though it has been demolished for many years. 

I was recently contacted by a stranger, Angelia McDaniel, who has ephemera from “my” motel.  Her parents, John Dennis Rush, Jr. and Letha Floyace Grimes Rush stayed at the Tower Hotel Courts for their honeymoon in 1955.  This initial contact with Angelia was the equivalent of finding a needle in a haystack.  While one can find pieces of ephemera for sale at antique stores or online, having the personal stories tied to the pieces makes it even more fascinating.  Angelia has been very gracious in sharing her family’s stories.  We’ve had a blast going down various rabbit holes during our research.  

Part 3 showcases the journey from the wedding ceremony at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls to the Tower Hotel Courts in Dallas.  As Angelia describes it, the “Honeymoon Road Trip”.  Continue reading The Tower Hotel Courts in 1955, Part 3

Dallas History, Harry Hines Blvd, Hotels, Local History, People, Tower Hotel CourtsLeave a comment
The Tower Hotel Courts on Harry Hines in 1955 - A Subseries, Part 1

The Tower Hotel Courts in 1955, Part 1

bigbertha

Who were the people who visited the Tower Hotel Courts during its prime and for what purpose?  I got my answer.

I was recently contacted by a stranger who has ephemera from the Tower Hotel Courts.  These are items that are unique and personal to her family.  I asked for permission to share the information and she agreed.  I am grateful for this privilege and excited to share the stories.  Enjoy! Continue reading The Tower Hotel Courts in 1955, Part 1

Curiosities, Dallas History, Details Count, ephemera, Local History, Paris Texas, People2 Comments
8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 - Paris, Texas

8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 – Paris, Texas: Part 1

bigbertha

I recently went to my favorite antique store in Dallas (Curiosities) to purchase an autograph book from the 1800s.  But by the time I arrived the book was sold.  Since it’s a long drive – I made the trip worthwhile.  I scoured the store and found a consolation purchase that ended up being an even better gem.  This little red autograph book belonged to Ramona Holmes, a student at J. G. Wooten School, in Paris, Texas.  The autograph book is dated 1946.  Continue reading 8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 – Paris, Texas: Part 1

Art Projects, Curiosities, Dallas History, Empirical Whimsy, MotivationLeave a comment

Resilience

bigbertha

Just recently I was rummaging through my garage and came upon a bucket of the metal junk I had apparently forgotten to discard.  With the launch of Empirical Whimsy, you can imagine my excitement.  Rediscovered objects!

The s-hook used in this piece is one of the objects removed from the streets of Dallas.  If you want a visual it’s the Walnut Hill / I-35 area of town, near liquor stores and other establishments.

I am absolutely thrilled to have turned pieces of junk into lemonade.  Continue reading Resilience