The real record of history is found in the lives of the ordinary people who lived it. Collecting, preserving and sharing oral histories not only transmits knowledge from one generation to the next, it enhances our understanding of the past by illuminating personal experience.
Today, generations after the end of World War II, evidence of that historic era and reminders of its impact on Texas can still be found across the state’s cultural landscape. The Texas Historical Commission urges anyone interested in preserving the rich history of Texas in World War II to ensure future generations inherit a comprehensive legacy. We invite you to learn more about the real places that tell the real stories of not only Texas during the Second World War, but the Cold War, and more recent military conflicts.
The best firsthand record of the history of any military conflict before and after is found in the lives of the ordinary people who lived it. Collecting, preserving and sharing oral histories not only transmits knowledge from what many call the “greatest generation” to the next, but also enhances our understanding of the past by illuminating the personal experience and price of war. Military oral history (like all forms of oral history) is the collection and recording of personal war memoirs, home-front experiences and childhood recollections of a seminal event. It is also the best method to learn not only what happened, but also the memories of those who experienced it firsthand. This process involves eyewitness accounts and reminiscences about combat, patriotic support, pride and the difficulties that occurred during the lifetime of the person being interviewed.
Bridgeport, May 20, 2013 - Consider joining us for the Texas Historical Commission's next Military Oral History Training Workshop. Email william.mcwhorter@thc.state.tx.us to RSVP by May 16.
When the Lone Star State Met the Iron Curtain: Recollections of Texas in the Cold War
Later in 2013, once funding is in place, the THC will begin to provide 12 free oral history training workshops with a focus on Texans during the Cold War (1946-1991). If you are interested in learning more, please check back for new updates.
For more information on how to successfully conduct an oral history interview please see the THC's two publications on oral history technique and the following link on oral history programs below.
Fundamentals of Oral History (PDF)
Texas in World War II: Fundamentals of Military Oral History (PDF)
