Refuge to Host History Day at Hagerman

By Kelby Archer

1944 was one of the keystone years of the 20^th century.  With June 6 came the landings of Allied forces at Normandy, which signaled the beginning of the end of World War 2.  However, 1944 also saw an event which happened locally that forever altered Texoma – the dedication of the Denison Dam and the filling of Lake Texoma.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of Hagerman would like to bring together local residents who have personal stories of the “before and after” of this big local event, as well as anyone who would like to hear the stories.  Of particular interest are memories from people who lived in the Hagerman area.  History Day will be held at the Refuge on Sunday, July 29, from 2 - 4pm.  Dr. Jerry Lincecum and Dr. Peggy Redshaw of Austin College will be leading the workshop based on principles they have developed for the Telling Our Stories series at Austin College.

The event is totally free of charge and all are welcome!  Participants are encouraged to bring vintage photos, clippings, letters, and other items from the era that can be copied and added to a Hagerman Archive.  Material can be copied from 1 – 5pm on July 29.

For more information, email friendsofhagerman@gmail.com or call the Refuge at 903-786-2826.  Hagerman NWR is located at 6465 Refuge Road, four miles west of State Highway 289 in Sherman, Texas.