Mattie Castlebury: East Texas Oil Boom Legend

<p>The discovery of the East Texas Oil Field in 1930 was a pivotal moment, reshaping the region’s economic and social dynamics. Mattie Castlebury emerged as a standout figure among the fervor of the oil boom, leaving an indelible mark on East Texas’ cultural identity. Castlebury’s story showcases resilience and resourcefulness as she navigated the challenges of the oil boom era. She established Mattie’s Ballroom, creating a bustling leisure and entertainment hub.Through her entrepreneurial strategies, Castlebury’s impact on the community is evident, shaping East Texas’ cultural fabric.</p> <p>The “Women of the Boom” exhibition at the Kilgore College East Texas Oil Museum honors Castlebury and five other influential women in video format only. The proposed exhibition would be the first stand-alone display for the “Women of the Boom” to specifically detail one of these women in the museum’s main hall. Through curated images and concise textual interpretation, visitors explore Castlebury’s world, understanding her lasting legacy.</p> <p>Castlebury’s story offers insights into East Texas’ history and entrepreneurial spirit. Her profound influence on the region’s cultural landscape during the oil boom era underscores her pivotal role in shaping its identity.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts - History

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

History

Year dc:date.available

2024

Author dc:creator

• Moore, Olivia L.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dr. Perky Beisel
• Dr. Dana Cooper
• Dr. Chay Runnels

• Oil
• East Texas
• Texas History
• Women's History
• 1930s
• Kilgore
• Other History
• Public History
• Social History
• United States History

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/etds/534

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarworks.sfasu.edu:etds-1583