Audio
Podcast episodes and oral histories — the recorded memory of Westlake. Episodes that have been catalogued into the archive (with cross-references and source notes) appear above. Below is the raw feed of every episode currently published in the Our Westlake podcast.
In the archive
Raw podcast feed
Ch. 1 · Developing Westlake · Episode 104
Emmett Builds First Business @ Future County Line
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells one of his favorite tales - His first Westlake business and a birthday surprise. Emmett was 24, a recently married college graduate in 1929. He and several partners built the Moosehead Lodge - where County Line on the Hill is now located. It…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 1 · Developing Westlake · Episode 103
Trading Diamonds for Austin Dam Site
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells us the story of securing the land for the Dam site in 1938. Emmett and brother Polk ran a tough primary against Lyndon B. Johnson in LBJs first Congressional race. After LBJ was elected in 1938, he made a visit to Emmett and Polk's office.…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 1 · Developing Westlake · Episode 102
LBJ's Tip, Roy Ranch and Our Future
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) Original developer of Westlake Hills, tells of a tip Emmett got from LBJ in1938 regarding the upcoming rehabilitation of the dams on the Colorado River. The Austin Dam had been broken for almost 30 years. LBJ advised Emmett of the WPA and plans to…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Austin Law · Episode 3
Greer n Yarborough Murder Trials
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Audio
Chap 5 KKK in Austin -1882 Lynching of Uncle Sam
'Mob Law' was common 'justice' in Central Texas, roughly 150 years ago. Emmett's Great Great Uncle Sam Shelton was a wild cowboy in Belton in 1880s. He was arrested one night for attempted murder of a deputy and his teen son was jailed with him. A Mob took Uncle Sam from the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Dems for Ike · Episode 3
WLH Hero's BBQ and flatbed Campaign for IKE with Ms. Davenport
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a life-long Austin Democrat BUT like many Texans in 1952, Emmett became a ' Democrat for Eisenhower '. Emmett tells of hosting Ntl. War Hero, Gen. Clements, with over 100 dignitaries, at a BBQ to celebrate at Emmett's Westlake Hilltop home. Gen.…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Dems for Ike · Episode 2
1952 Texas Dem Conventions Don't Back Stevenson
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a life-long Democrat BUT like many Texans in 1952, Emmett became an ' Eisenhower Democrat '. In the 1950s, Central Texas had become liberal. Emmett was active in the Texas Democratic Party and Gov. Alan Shivers asked for Emmett's help to swing the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Dems for Ike · Episode 1
1952 Austin Begins Swing to the Right
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a life-long Austin Democrat BUT in 1952 Emmett became an ' Eisenhower Democrat '. In the 1952, Central Texas had become so liberal that Dems would not allow the conservative Gov. Shivers to be the Travis County delegate in the State Democratic…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 104
Ch13Law Tales Ep 104 Tx Rangers v Capitol Bootlegger
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) Tells an interesting tale of how Capt. Frank Hamer of the Texas Rangers addressed a bootlegger operating outside their Capitol window. For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 20 · Tx Rangers · Episode 3
Leading Rangers Was a Family Job
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) shares first-hand stories involving Capt. Frank Hamer, Texas Ranger. Frank's brother, Capt. D.E. Hamer, was made head of the Texas Rangers when Ma Ferguson became Governor. Austin had a popular Skillball game. Emmett had to call on Capt. D.E Hamer…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 102
Ch13Law Tales Ep102 Capt. Frank Hamer Texas Ranger
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells a tale about Texas Ranger, Capt. Frank Hamer, and how he became the Head Texas Ranger. It started at the Tx Border and continued with a racial uprising near Sherman that resulted in a lynching and burned courthouse.. For maps and other info check…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Law Tales · Episode 101
Capt Frank Hammer v. Gammell Bookstore
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) shares an interesting law case from 1931. Texas Ranger, Capt. Frank Hamer, officed in the Capitol and uncovered a scheme by Austin's Gammell Bookstore to steal and sell Texas Session Acts. Emmett defended the Gammell Boys in court. They were guilty…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 4 · Austin Hustlers · Episode 7
Buck Stops with Capt. Frank Hamer - Texas Ranger
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) shares first-hand stories of cases he represented involving Capt. Frank Hamer, Texas Ranger. Frank's claim to fame was the killing of the notorious Bonnie and Clyde. In the 1930s, Capt. Frank Hamer officed in the Capitol during Prohibition. He…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 13
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Epis. 13 - Emmett Shelton Bridge
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells how he worked in the late 1940s to have a bridge built between Austin and Westlake Hills. This would make Westlake accessible to the city. Petitions, BondIssues. Emmett's effort was successful and in 1949 the bridge opened but went nameless…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 14 · Specials · Episode 7
Polk Shelton - WLH Original Music
Emmett Shelton Sr.'s son Polk Shelton shares a medley of his original tunes for the Austin radio station around 2000. Emmett Shelton Sr. raised Polk in Westlake. Polk followed his father's footsteps into criminal law in Austin. However, his real love was writing songs and…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 6
Ch5 Early South Austin Pt.1 Dice Winnings and Hill's Cafe
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a defense attorney for some of Austin's most notorious hustlers and shares first-hand tales from roughly 100 years ago, The Depression years brought out the hustlers who were looking for a quick buck. Emmett represented one such gambler who turned…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 5
Chap 2 - Peninsula - Epis 5 - Trail of Madrones / Bull Mountain History
Emmett Shelton, Sr. tells of his partnership with Sterling Holloway in developing the High Road and Trail of Madrones, making the Westlake Highlands accessible. Emmett also tells of riding horseback from where the County Line Restaurant is now located, to seal the deal with an…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 1 · Developing WLH · Episode 9
Toro Canyon Area
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) is the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. In this Episode, Emmett tells stories of his partnership with Sterling Holloway and putting in Toro Canyon Road and paving extensions of Westlake Drive. Emmett and his wife Joyce worked with Malcolm Fox…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 12
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Epis12 - Westlake Corner
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) is the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. In this episode, Emmett tells stories of working with Johnny Mussleman and Johnny's vision to develop the Westlake/Red Bud Corner. Johnny truly contributed to completing Emmett's Dream of Westlake…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 2 · - Developing WLH · Episode 6
Davenport Ranch
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 106
Ch1- Developing WLH - Epis 106 - Central Westlake - Stonehedge Estates
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) was the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. He recorded his history of the area to share with the community, even after he was gone. In this Episode, Emmett tells stories about developing the Chambers Survey which includes 500 acres in the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 2 · Building Roads · Episode 104
High Road and Partnerships
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) was the original developer of Westlake HIlls. He tells of the partnership of Sterling Holloway that lead to the expansion in the High Road and Bull Mountail. Music: Daddy's Dreams by Emmett's son Polk Shelton For maps and other info check out our…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 4
Ch2Building Roads Ep3 - Defending the Land
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) was the original developer of Westlake HIlls. He tells of expanding Westlake Drive to the Westlake Highlands and building Toro Canyon Road. In the 1940s, there was no Pennybacker Bridge or Loop 360 to provide access to this area. One old abandoned…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 2 · Building Roads · Episode 102
Westlake Drive North to Lakeshore
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) Original Developer of Westlake Hills tells of developing Westlake Drive from the current corner of Redbud Trail, North to Lakeshore Addition dating back to 1920. Even before Westlake Drive and Redbud Trail were thru, Emmett got a contract with a…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 2 · Building Roads · Episode 101
West Lake Drive to Redbud and Dam
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) Original Developer of West Lake Hills tells stories from the 1930s-40s about building Westlake Drive, connecting the Bee Cave Road to Redbud Trail and the Dam Site. The WPA had funding to improve access to the new lake. Emmett tells of negotiating the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 1 · Developing Westlake - · Episode 101
- Buying the Land Grants in 1930s
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) Original Developer of Westlake Hills, tells of this first big land deals. He acquired the center of Westlake in a few owner-financed deals back when $2 an acre was the going rate and terms were flexible. For maps and other info check out our…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 10
Ch13(3cc) Austin Law Ep 4(10) Tom Young Last Public Hanging 1906
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells the sad story of an Early Westlake Cedar Chopper, 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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Ch23Westlake Tales Ep1 Emmett Jr. Defends Freedom Land and Family at age 19
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) shares a Thanksgiving Special. It was 74 years ago that Emmett's namesake, Emmett Jr. graduated Austin High when he was called to duty as a Marine in the Korean War. After brutal battles, Emmett Jr. spent his 19th birthday with severe frostbite -…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 21 · Austin Tales · Episode 1
Texas '20s Hot Oil Fortunes
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) shares several stories about the "Texas Hot Oil" business, and its impact on struggling families and a ex-governor, roughly 100 years ago. Our first story is about the difference an oil strike can make in a family. Mrs. O.H. Davenport is the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 20 · Tx Rangers · Episode 2
Gammel Bookstore Skimming Session Laws
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a personal friend of Capt. Frank Hamer, Head of the Texas Rangers in the 1930s. Emmett shares their candid conversations. In this second episode, Capt. Hamer's lunchtime stroll down Congress Ave. results in a major confession from the boys running…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 20 · Tx Rangers · Episode 1
Buck Stops w Capt. Frank Hamer
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of his first-hand experiences with the famous Capt. Frank Hamer of the Texas Rangers in the 1930s. Emmett was a close person friend of Capt. Hamer and provides a glimpse of this famous Texan who took down Bonnie and Clyde. Capt. Hamer was called…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 4 · Austin Hustlers · Episode 10
John Newton Escape Artist in Jail
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) continues his new Chapter "Austin Hustlers" from his 50-year career as a criminal defense lawyer in Austin, roughly 100 years ago. Emmett tells first-hand stories of the actions and defense of a high-profile bank robber, John Newton in 1934. In Ep.9,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 9
Ch 4 Austin Hustlers Ep.9 John Newton Double-Dating Bank Robber
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) continues his new Chapter "Austin Hustlers" from his 50-year career as a criminal defense lawyer in Austin, roughly 100 years ago. Emmett tells first-hand stories of the actions and defense of a high-profile bank robber, John Newton in 1934. Newton and…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 4 · Austin Hustlers · Episode 6
Hattie Valdez Pt2 - An Honest Austin Businesswoman
Dear Listeners - this tape is old - please take the extra care to make it out - One-of-a-kind first-hand stories of our most famous Austin Madame! Emmett Shelton Sr (1905-2000) tells of his experiences as defense atty for the most famous Whore in Austin, Hattie Valdes. She ran a…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 4 · Austin Hustlers · Episode 5
Hattie Ran the Best Lil Whorehouse in Tx
Dear Listeners - this tape is old - please take the extra care to make it out - One-of-a-kind first-hand stories of our most famous Austin Madame! Emmett Shelton Sr (1905-2000) tells of his experiences with one of the most famous Whore in Austin, Hattie Valdes. She ran a famous…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics · Episode 11
1916 Prohibition - PaPa Opposed with an Open Pocketknife
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells the story of his second experience with Texas politics - South Austin Democratic Precinct Meeting. Emmett was 13. It was 1916 and women had gotten the vote 2 years earlier. The meeting was in a grocery on So. Congress in Austin. The question was…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 11
Gov.Ferguson 'Thought for the Day'
With all the recent campaigning makes you wonder how politicians deal with the outrage and anger. Of course, Emmett has a story about that. Emmett Shelton tells some advise Gov. Ferguson gave Emmett in 1911. For those not familiar, past Texas Governor Ferguson was governor of…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics · Episode 10
Meat Cleaver debate over Women Voting!!
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was my grandad) tells the story of his first experience with Texas politics - South Austin Democratic Precinct Meeting. Emmett was 10. It was 1915 and the question was whether Women could Vote. Emmett's father John E, Shelton, was a local leader,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Dems for Ike · Episode 1
Gov Shivers Swings Tx Right for IKE
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a life-long Democrat BUT in 1952 Emmett was an ' Eisenhower Democrat '. In the 1950s, Central Texas had become liberal. Emmett was active in the Texas Democratic Party and Gov. Alan Shivers asked for Emmett's help. Emmett became Chair of the Texas…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 4
Ch 4 Austin Hustlers Ch 4 Prohibition n Bootleggin' Tales
Emmett Shelton Sr. spent many years as a criminal defense atty in the Texas hillcounty, getting (and keeping) bootleggers out of jail! In this episode, Emmett tells 7 of his favorite first-hand experiences. Prohibition was ratified nationally in 1919 and it was repealed in most…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 3
Ch.4 Austin Gamblers Ep 3 Horses, Table Games and Payoffs
Ch4 Austin Gamblers - Ep. 3 Horses, Table Games and Payoffs Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a defense atty in the 1930s. He shares first-hand stories of rigged horse races, slots and payoffs to local officials. Alamo Downs was popular, but the jockeys rigged many races. In the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 4 · Austin Gamblers · Episode 2
Hustlers Easy Money & Hills Cafe
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a defense attorney for some of Austin's most notorious hustlers and shares first-hand tales from roughly 100 years ago, The Depression years brought out the hustlers who were looking for a quick buck. Money-making machines, kidnapping, pigeon drop,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Chap.4 -Gamblers - Epis.1 - Westlake's Cedar Crest Nightclub
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) shares stories about gambling halls around Westlake, roughly 100 years ago. Mervin Ash was a big-time gambler and had number of partners around Austin. He sold liquor and ran gambling houses - one at the site of St. Stevens School. He got the rich and…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 7
Gov. Shivers Swings Tx Dems. Right '51
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of his experience in the Texas Democratic Party in Texas after WWII. Liberal forces, led by Emma Long in Travis County, had control of Texas politics. Gov. Alan Shivers wanted a change to more conservative values and recruited Emmett to take over…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 6
LBJs Senate Win vs. Coke Stevenson but Questions Remain
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of his first-hand experiences with the 1948 Coke Stevens v LBJ Texas Senate race. In Path to Power, Robert Caro includes accounts of the race but omits details Emmett had shared with Caro. Emmett, and the Shelton law firm, represented the "South…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 4
LBJ's First Win v. Polk Shelton
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of LBJ's first political race against his brother, Polk Shelton, for Congress. Emmett starts out with insights of LBJs college years at Southwest Texas State. LBJ was a few years behind Emmett. When Tx Congressman Buchanan died in 1937, the Dems,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · TxPolitics · Episode 12
Honest Gov. Dan Fought the Klan
Emmett Shelton Sr.(1905-2000) tells first-hand stories of his experiences with Texas Gov. Dan Moody in the 1920s. He was a close personal friend of the Shelton Family. So honest - never took a drink - he smoked - he knew right from wrong and he stuck to it. He was the mortal…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 3
Impeached in Tx = Two Govs Ferguson
Impeaching a sitting official is a popular topic these days - Let's look back in Austin 100 years ago. Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) was a close friend of the two Governors Ferguson. He tells a number of stories about Gov. Jim and his wife "Ma" Ferguson. Jim Ferguson was a farmer…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics - · Episode 5
Old-Times Election Interference
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells first-hand experiences in the 1930-50s in South Texas Politics. He tells of Election interference using poll tax exemption certificates, vote reporting and other shenanigans. Austin's Shelton Law Firm represented many of the South Texas border…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 13 · Austin Law Tales · Episode 1
Frank Hamer - Texas Ranger - updated audio
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 3 · Cedar Choppers · Episode 6
Defending Hill Country Killings
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 5
Ch3 Cedar Choppers Ep.5 Hill Country Feudin'
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells first-hand stories of three early Westlakers: Tom, Homer and Jesse Teague. In the 1910-20s, Tom was a cedar chopper - a Hill Country "go to guy" for hard jobs. As a young man, he joined in a rock fight in Austin one night. He hit a boy and broke…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 3 · Cedar Choppers · Episode 4
Bootleggin' Brothers
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of the life of two early Westlake brothers who lived on Bee Cave Road, H.B. "Rush" Riley and John T. Riley. They were both hard-working cedar choppers. Rush was known by the authorities for bootlegging and selling it on Lake Austin Blvd in…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 3
Ch3 Cedar Choppers Ep3. John Teague - Defended His Sister's Honor
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells the story of one of the earliest Westlaker, John Teague, roughly 100 years ago. The Teague family was one of the first families in the Hills. At the turn of the Century, the family owned a large tract of land near Commons Ford and Bee Cave on…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 2
Chap.3 - Cedar Choppers - Ep.2 - Ernest Thurman - WLH Dance Pavillion Dreams
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of the life of Ernest Thurman in the 1920s and 30s. Ernest 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. The Thurmans were bootleggers and had a good…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Ch.3 - Cedar Choppers - Ep.1 - Buck Simpson Austin's WWI Hero
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells first-hand stories of the earliest Westlakers - many called Cedar Choppers. Westlake was a land rich with natural resources but no transportation and few business or educational opportunities. Cedar was a major resource for railroads and heating…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Audio
Ch 5 Shelton v. KKK - Ep. 2 - So.Congress Baptist Church Mayhem and PaPa's Memorial
Emmett Shelton (1905-2000) tells of the Shelton family's further conflict with the KKK in So. 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 singing at the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 5 · - Shelton v. KKK - · Episode 1
- Murder on 6th Street
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells the first-hand account of murder charges brought by his father against 21 prominent members of the KKK in Austin in 1921. The KKK promoted 'law and order' and many local officials in Austin and San Marcos were members. The KKK opposed bootleggers and…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 8 · Early South Austin · Episode 2
Growing Up 100 Years Ago
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of growing Up in South Austins 100 years ago. His was a 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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 8 · Early South Austin - · Episode 3
- Eastern Area Families and Businesses
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) tells of the Eastern area of South Austin in the 1920s. Emmett was born at home on West Live Oak in South Austin. A friend had the first bicycle, and they watched the first streetcar on So. Congress. We had a blacksmith Bakery, Feed Store, Livery,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics · Episode 11
Austin's 1952 Dems for Eisenhower
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of his passion as a Texas Democrat in support of Eisenhower in 1952. After being a key democrat in the Texas state convention - He declines the Governor's offer to the Ntl. Democratic Convention, explaining his support for a republican named…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Chap 6 - Tx Politics - Epis 1 Political Conventions 100 years Ago
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells the story of Mr. J.H. Patton, state 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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 8 · Early South Austin · Episode 1
West Congress Businesses and Families
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) was born and lived in on West Live Oak in South Austin, roughly 100 years ago. He tells colorful stories about life in the early 1900s on the streets of South Austin. This episode focuses on the West side of Congress Ave. Landmarks include the Lone…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 2
Chap 6 Tx Politics - Epis 2 - So.Austin Precinct Mtgs - Suffrage and Prohibition
As our Nation moves into election cycle - we want to look back for a glimpse of the local precinct 'conventions' held in store fronts on South Congress Ave. in Austin, Texas - roughly 100 years ago. My Granddad, Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) was born and raised on West Live Oak…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 1 · Developing Westlake · Episode 107
Rob Roy / Lakeshore
Emmett Shelton, Sr. shares a very interesting first-hand story about a tip he got from Lyndon B Johnson in the 1930s that encouraged his interest in developing West Lake Hills. Emmett knew the Roy Sisters were schoolteachers in Houston and had over 1,800 acres. Emmett negotiated…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 2
Chap. 2 - Peninsula - Epis. 2 - Early Land Grants
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) is the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. When Emmett got his law license, the Depression was on. On credit, he bought 120 acres of property way out on the Bee Cave Road on a hill that is now the home of the County Line Restaurant. He began…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Chap 2 - Peninsula - Ep. 1 - Bee Cave Road to the River - New Opportunities!
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. There were no roads between Bee Cave Road and the River. No Pennybacker Bridge, No Loop 360. Their new range covered the entire Westlake…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 19
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Ep. 10 - Early Bull & Westlake Highlands
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 9
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Episode 9 - The Bull and Thompson Mountains
Emmett Shelton, Sr. (1905-2000) is the Original Developer of Westlake Hills. In this Episode, Emmett tells of two high-finance land deals involved in selling these two picturesque mountain tops. The Bull family had offered to sell Emmett their 160 acres of Mountain overlooking…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 6
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Epis. 6 - Mt. Stroder and Putnam's Hill
Emmett Shelton, Sr, (1905-2000) tells of the challenges and reward in the sale of Mt. Stroder, more commonly known as Putnam's Hill. Prof. Mckorkell, from UT bought the tract for $3,000 in 1949. Emmett tells first-hand tales of building the Lakeshore Addition for access to the…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 6
Ch14 Ep6 Gen Cooper Reflects on Korean War and the Band of Brothers
Thirty-five years after the Korean War, Gen. Charlie Cooper reflects on his time in the Korean War to his B-1-5 Company men at their first Reunion in 1989. The all-expense paid, Atlantic city Reunion was hosted by Lt. Pat McGahn (B-1-5) who was then, Donald Trump's lawyer. Lt.…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 5
Ch.1 Hx of WLH Ep 104 Building Westlake Drive while Lake Austin Fills
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of the history of the efforts to develop the central area of Westlake Hills around Red Bud Trail. In the early 40s, the lake was very active with Riverboats and races. Locals built the Yacht Club on the Lake by Bee Creek. Emmett focused his…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 4
Chap 1 - Hx of WLH - Epis 4 - Bee Cave Road Land Deals
Emmett Shelton Sr. (1905-2000) tells of the early development of Westlake Hills along Bee Cave Road prior to the 1980s. He had to pay $1500 for the land where Eanes School is now. They doubled our community bingo games to raise the money. Emmett tells about the landowners 100…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 3
Chap.1 - Hx of WLH - Epis. 3 - Making Deals for Westlake Drive and Dam Site
Emmett Shelton, Sr. tells of stories 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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 102
Chap 1- Hx of WLH - Epis2 - Early Land Deals w/Rob Roy, Davenport and Bee Cave Auction
Emmett Shelton, Sr. original developer of Westlake Hills recalls a number of first-hand stories about the early land deals of the western area of Westlake Hills, he referred to as the "Pennisula". Emmett tells of incidents with interesting characters like Rob Roy and other…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Chap 1 Hx of WLH - Epis 1 - 200 years of investment (Updated Sound 1/1/2024)
Chapter 1 - Episode 1 - Early Land Grants in Westlake - 200 years of investment opportunities - as told by Emmett Shelton Sr. Original Developer of Westlake Hills 1905-2000 / Recorded 1976 (Updated Sound 1/1/2024) For the past 200 years, Westlake has been the land of investment…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 14 · Specials · Episode 1
Austin Post Pearl Harbor
Dec. 7 -- 83 years after Pearl Harbor, we remember. Our World was rocked by unspeakable act of national terrorism -- Japan's attack on US ground, Pearl Harbor, in 1941 - And So Was Austin ! Emmett Shelton Sr. recalls the day Pearl Harbor rocked his family - and events in Austin…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 5
Ch14 Ep5 Emmett Jr. in Korean War
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells of his son Emmett Jr. -- A young Marine Rifleman in the Frozen Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War. Roughly, 73 years ago today.! The temperatures were below zero. 15,000 Allied troops were attacked by 120,000 Chinese. By Late December, the remaining…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 14 · Specials · Episode 4
Westlake War Heroes - New Music
With the 2023 Wars in Israel and Ukraine, and Veterans Day, it brings to mind stories of our local Westlake heroes. Emmett Shelton Sr. knew four, personally. Some of their stories have been told on separate OUR WESTLAKE Episodes but their Valor deserves a focus. Unlike Austin…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 14 · Specials · Episode 3
Austin Ntl Bank Pt2
In Part 2, Emmett Shelton Sr tells memories of working with the Austin National Bank to develop Westlake Hills. One of Emmett's favorite tales is his work buying the land for the Low Water Bridge in 1937 to provide Westlakers access to the City of Austin. In 1920, Emmett got his…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 14 · Specials · Episode 2
Austin Ntl Bank Pt 1
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells memories of early banking in Austin, in particular Austin Ntl. Bank and its predecessor First Ntl. Bank of Austin -- Roughly 100 years ago. In the early 1900s, Emmett's father, John E. Shelton, partnered with AO Sambo and began his law firm in an office…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics · Episode 10
Inside Austin - From our Bridge to LBJ
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells of his experiences in state and local politics Getting bonds and acquiring the land for the bridge to WLH and then 40 yeas later named for him. Lobbyist for a state trade association. Emmett organized the "Good Government League" to change the direction…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 6 · Tx Politics · Episode 9
Sand Beach Reserve, Deep Eddy, and WPA
Emmett Shelton Sr. tells of his first-hand personal experiences as an Insider with state and local politics. His earliest experiences were with Governor and Mrs. Ferguson. Next, tale is set when FDR as president and the Work Progress Administration Relief Organization was…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 12 · WLH Lost '94 Tapes · Episode 3
Emmett Reflects at 89 Pt3
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 --…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 12 · WLH Lost '94 Tapes · Episode 2
Incorporate WLH Part2
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 12 · WLH Lost '94 Tapes · Episode 1
1994 Developing WLH Pt.1
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 11 · Dripping Springs Tales · Episode 5
Doc 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.…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 11 · Dripping Springs Tales · Episode 4
Grandpa W.H.Greer
Emmett Shelton, Sr. tells stories of the Greer-side of the family out in Dripping Springs -- dating back to a "plantation" in Navasota before the Civil War. Emmett recounts his earliest memory of visiting Great GrandMa Greer prior to her death. After a long life, with few modern…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 11 · Westlake Tales · Episode 6
Granddaughter Jennifer - Future
Emmett Shelton Sr. proclaims one of his greatest inspirations was the birth of Jennifer Shelton, Emmett's middle-son's, Gil's daughter. What a blessing! Sending love thru Gil and Jennifer's voices! Everyday love. For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 11 · Westlake Tales · Episode 3
Joyce Shelton Patron Saint of the Peninsula
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake · Episode 6
John Henry Faulk on Americanism
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake · Episode 5
- Americanism in Austin Schools
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake - · Episode 4
Jeffery Dochen
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake - · Episode 3
Young Men
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake · Episode 2
- Our Boys' Dogs
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 10 · Raising Westlake - · Episode 1
Little Boys
At the age of 70, Emmett Shelton Sr. tells a father's favorite memories of raising young boys in Westlake Hills, roughly 100 years ago. Stories include incidents with the boys and bus driver Della Edwards and the Bullian family. For Emmett, every day was Father's Day! For maps…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 9 · First Intl. Boy Scout Jamboree · Episode 2
There and Back
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 9 · First Intl. Boy Scout Jamboree London - · Episode 1
Getting There
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 8 · - Early South Austin · Episode 5
Westside Layout and Families
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 For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Ch. 8 · - Early South Austin · Episode 4
Growing Up
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.…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 6
Chap 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 6 Proud Marine Father's Tale
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 stories of Emmett Jr.'s Marine experience in the Korean War,…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 5
Chap 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 5 Chosin Interview KVET (5 0f 5)
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 4
Chap 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 4 Chosin Interview KVET (4 0f 5)
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 3
Chap 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 3 Chosin Interview (3 of 5)
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 2
Chap. 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 2 of 5 - Chosin KVET Interview
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…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 1
Chap 7 Baker Bandits - Ep. 1 Chosin Reservoir Battle
Emmett Shelton Jr. grew up in Westlake Hills. He joined the Marine Corps Reserves and at 16 and right after graduation from Austin High in 1950, was called to duty. Within 6 months, he was a BAR rifleman in one of the cruelest battles of the Korean War, Chosin Reservoir. His…
Listen on Buzzsprout →Episode 6
Chap. 1 - Hx of WLH - Epis. 6 - Westlake Drive
Emmett Shelton, Sr., (1905-2000) tells the history of the land and development of the Yacht Club Road (now Westlake Drive). For maps and other info check out our Facebook page: Our Westlake Stories told by Emmett Shelton / compiled and submitted by Cynthia Shelton.
Listen on Buzzsprout →