William Carson Womble Obituary – Legends of America
The narrative of the American West is woven with the threads of resilience, innovation, and community spirit, and the life of William Carson Womble exemplifies these very qualities. Born on February 7, 1874, in Bosque County, Texas, Womble, affectionately known as "Uncle Carson," carved a lasting legacy in the Texas Panhandle, particularly in Hutchinson County, where he settled near Stinnett around 1900. His journey, marked by entrepreneurial ventures, civic engagement, and unwavering dedication to his family, paints a vivid portrait of a pioneer who helped shape the landscape and society of this region.
W.C. Womble’s story began on the fertile lands of Bosque County, where he spent his early years as the son of a cotton farmer, toiling along the banks of the Brazos River near Cleburne. This agrarian upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep connection to the land, qualities that would serve him well in his future endeavors. His life took a significant turn on October 14, 1894, when he married Miss Mollie T. Robinson. Shortly after their union, the young couple embarked on a new chapter, moving to Knox County, where Womble demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating a cotton gin.
The dawn of the 20th century beckoned Womble and his wife to Hutchinson County, a region that was then on the cusp of transformation. In 1900, they established their home several miles north of Stinnett, near the present-day Lackey schoolhouse. This marked the beginning of Womble’s deep involvement in the development of the area. One of their first acquaintances in their new home was none other than the legendary Billy Dixon, a figure synonymous with the storied Adobe Walls. Their initial meeting blossomed into a lasting friendship, a testament to Womble’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Womble’s contributions to Hutchinson County were multifaceted. Perhaps one of his most significant ventures was the establishment of the first sawmill in the county. This steam-powered mill became a vital resource for the burgeoning community, processing millions of board feet of cottonwood lumber. What many may not realize is that the breaks of the northern plains were once home to an abundance of towering cottonwood trees. Womble’s sawmill not only provided essential building materials but also stands as a testament to the region’s diverse natural resources.
The year 1910 brought a formidable challenge to the Texas Panhandle: a devastating prairie fire that consumed hundreds of sections of land, stretching from near Dalhart to the site of present-day Perryton. In the face of this catastrophe, Womble demonstrated remarkable courage and leadership. Alongside his wife and three of their older sons, he bravely battled the onrushing flames throughout the night. While the smaller children remained safe in the family ranch house, Womble and his family waged a valiant fight against the fire. Despite their efforts, the fire claimed a heavy toll, decimating countless heads of cattle, horses, and wild antelope.
Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors and acts of bravery, Womble was deeply committed to community development. He played a pivotal role in the construction of the first schoolhouse in Hutchinson County. The Lackey School, as it was known for many years, served as a vital hub for the entire county, functioning as a church, town hall, and general meeting place. Womble’s dedication to education and community welfare laid a strong foundation for the future growth of the region.
Womble’s commitment to public service extended to the political arena. He served as a member of the county commissioners’ court for 14 years, during which he played a crucial role in shaping the county’s infrastructure. His tenure was marked by the construction of the county’s present courthouse, the first paved road connecting Borger and Stinnett, and the first bridge spanning the Canadian River between these two towns. These projects were instrumental in facilitating transportation, communication, and economic development in the region.
Family was at the heart of Womble’s life. He and his wife, Mollie, celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at their family home in Stinnett. This joyous occasion brought together upwards of 100 people, including 73 relatives, a testament to the strong family bonds that Womble cherished. His commitment to his family was unwavering, as evidenced by his decision to decline a lucrative $1,000 per month salary from the Wheat Growers Association, simply so he could be home with his loved ones.
Womble’s faith was another guiding force in his life. As a young man, he embraced Christianity and played an instrumental role in establishing the Baptist Church in Morse, often regarded as the first church in the area. Over the years, he continued to support the construction and maintenance of numerous churches, reflecting his deep-seated religious beliefs.
Prior to his retirement in 1940, Womble was a successful stock farmer, managing extensive land holdings, including a sprawling 12,000-acre ranch near Clayton, New Mexico. His cattle brand, the W, became widely recognized throughout the Southwest, symbolizing his reputation as a respected rancher.
Tragically, Womble’s life came to an end on a Thursday morning in November 1946, following burns he sustained in an explosion at his home the previous week. According to his attending physician, his death was attributed to a coronary occlusion, which may have been hastened by the burns.
W.C. Womble was survived by his beloved wife, Mollie, as well as four daughters: Mrs. W.B. Lackey, Mrs. Lex Board, Mrs. Ralph Forester, and Mrs. Ben M. Foster; and five sons: W.T. Womble, R.C. Womble, R.E. Womble, D.M. Womble, and A.C. Womble. He was also survived by one sister, Mrs. Jewel House, 26 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held at the Pringle school, with internment at Lieb Cemetery.
William Carson Womble’s life story is a testament to the pioneering spirit, community leadership, and unwavering dedication to family that defined the American West. His contributions to Hutchinson County and the Texas Panhandle will long be remembered and celebrated.