The Texana Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas met on March 10 at a century-old farmhouse near Cordele.
JoLynn Strane Littlefield arranged the meeting and secured the guest speaker, Reba Roberson. Reba is a former history teacher and a local speaker who also continues her work with Victoria College, and is exploring the strong women of Texas. Her topic, The Only Two Women, highlighted the lives of Miriam A. “Ma” Ferguson and Ann Richards as the only female governors of Texas.
Ferguson served as governor following the impeachment of her husband, James “Pa” Ferguson, from that position. The Fergusons campaigned that electing “Ma” would give “two for one.” She became the 29th governor of Texas in 1925, then the 32nd governor in 1933-1935.
Ann Richards became the second female governor of Texas in 1991, serving until 1995. A prominent figure in Texas politics, Ms. Richards gained national fame after a speech at the Democratic Convention. She was known for her wit, Southern charm, and for campaigning for the rights of women and minorities.
Cindy Janica was hostess for the 14 members and guests in attendance. On April 3, the Chapter will meet at the Chisolm Trail Museum in Cuero to hear Texas author Elizabeth Crook.
