The passing of W.C. Womble on November 21, 1946, at the age of 73, marked the end of an era for Hutchinson County and the wider Texas Panhandle. Familiarly known as “Uncle Carson,” William Carson Womble was a quintessential pioneer whose tireless efforts profoundly shaped the development and infrastructure of the region he called home for nearly half a century.
Born on February 7, 1874, in Bosque County, Texas, William C. Womble’s life was a testament to the pioneering spirit that defined the American Southwest. His journey from a cotton farmer’s son near Cleburne to a leading figure in Hutchinson County exemplifies a life dedicated to progress and community building. His early years on the Brazos River laid the foundation for a future filled with significant achievements and a deep commitment to family and land.
Early Life and Family Beginnings
William C. Womble began his adult life with a commitment to both family and enterprise. On October 14, 1894, he married Miss Mollie T. Robinson, a union that would span over five decades and produce a large, influential family. Soon after their marriage, the young couple relocated to Knox County, where Womble quickly established himself as a local businessman, owning and operating a cotton gin. This early venture showcased his entrepreneurial drive and his ability to contribute to the economic fabric of his community.
The Wombles’ decision to move to Hutchinson County in 1900 (or 1902 as noted in a later section of the source) marked a pivotal moment, not only for their family but for the nascent region. They settled several miles north of Stinnett, near the future site of the Lackey schoolhouse. It was here that they formed one of their most significant early friendships, with none other than William “Billy” Dixon, the legendary figure of Adobe Walls fame. This friendship, rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences, endured until Dixon’s death, highlighting the close-knit nature of pioneer communities.
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Community Builder
W.C. Womble was not merely a settler; he was an innovator who recognized the potential of the rugged Panhandle landscape. He established the first sawmill in Hutchinson County, a steam-powered operation that processed millions of board feet of cottonwood lumber. This fact often surprises many, as the abundance of huge cottonwood trees in the breaks of the northern plains is now largely forgotten. The boiler from his original mill still stands today, a significant landmark on Moore’s Creek, serving as a tangible reminder of his early industrial contributions.
Beyond his business acumen, Womble’s leadership shone brightly during times of crisis. He, along with his wife and three older sons, displayed incredible bravery fighting the infamous prairie fire of 1910. This catastrophic blaze ravaged hundreds of sections of land, stretching from Dalhart to Perryton, reducing vast tracts to scorched earth. While the fire claimed thousands of cattle, horses, and wild antelope, the Womble family’s valiant, all-night battle against the onrushing flames, while smaller children huddled in the ranch house, underscored their indomitable spirit and commitment to protecting their home and community.
Civic Leadership and Public Service
William Carson Womble’s dedication extended far into public service and civic development. He played a crucial role in establishing the county’s foundational infrastructure, including hauling lumber and helping construct the first schoolhouse in Hutchinson County. This building, famously known as the Lackey School, served as more than just an educational institution; it was a vital community hub, functioning as a church, town hall, and general meeting place for many years.
His political career was equally impactful. Serving for 14 years on the county commissioners’ court, Womble was an active participant in political affairs for over four decades. His tenure as commissioner was marked by significant milestones, including the construction of the county’s present courthouse, the creation of the first paved road connecting Borger and Stinnett, and the engineering of the first bridge spanning the Canadian River between these two important towns. These projects were instrumental in facilitating growth and connectivity across Hutchinson County.
A Devoted Family Man and Enduring Legacy
The personal life of W.C. Womble was as rich and significant as his public contributions. He and Mollie celebrated their golden wedding anniversary two years before his passing, an event attended by over 100 people, 73 of whom were relatives. This joyous occasion highlighted the vast and loving family they had built. A testament to his deep family values, Womble once famously rejected a $1,000 per month salary from the Wheat Growers Association, stating he did so “just so he could be home with his family.” This decision speaks volumes about his priorities and character.
A man of faith, Womble donated land and contributed to the construction of the Baptist Church in Morse, described as the first church in that section of the country. His involvement in building and maintaining numerous churches throughout his life further illustrates his role as a community cornerstone and his commitment to the spiritual well-being of his neighbors.
Womble was a prominent ranchman, transitioning from stock farming in 1940 upon his retirement to Stinnett. His land holdings were extensive, measured in sections, with his largest ranch encompassing approximately 12,000 acres near Clayton, New Mexico. His distinct cattle brand, the ‘W,’ was a recognized symbol throughout the Southwest for over a third of a century, signifying quality and reliability.
The Final Chapter
William C. Womble’s death on November 21, 1946, followed burns suffered from a home explosion the week prior, with the attending physician attributing his passing to a coronary occlusion possibly hastened by the injuries. He was survived by his beloved wife, Mollie T. Womble, four daughters (Mrs. W.B. Lackey, Mrs. Lex Board, Mrs. Ralph Forester, and Mrs. Ben M. Foster), five sons (W.T. Womble, R.C. Womble, R.E. Womble, D.M. Womble, and A.C. Womble), one sister (Mrs. Jewel House of Bethany, Oklahoma), and an impressive 26 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The children of William Carson and Mollie Womble, including Allen Carroll “Kid,” Robert Edgar “Boy,” Roscoe Carson “Man,” William Travis “Tab,” Dwight Moody Womble, Sudie Lee Womble Forester, Ora Mae Womble Board, Betty Georgia Womble Lackey, and Thava Irene Womble Foster, all lie buried at Lieb Cemetery in Hutchinson County, Texas, a powerful testament to their enduring roots in the region.
Funeral services were held at the Pringle school, officiated by Rev. D.L. Egger and Rev. Jesse Bolin, with burial in Lieb Cemetery. His casket bearers and honorary pallbearers included a long list of prominent citizens from across Texas and New Mexico, reflecting the wide respect and admiration he commanded.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Endures
The life of W.C. Womble is more than just an obituary; it is a vital chapter in the history of the Texas Panhandle. From his early days as a cotton farmer to his prominent roles as an entrepreneur, public servant, and devoted family man, he left an indelible mark on Hutchinson County. His contributions—the first sawmill, his bravery in fighting the prairie fire, the construction of schools and churches, and his long tenure as a county commissioner—speak volumes of his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to his community. Womble’s dedication to progress, coupled with his deep family values, ensures that his profound impact and legacy endure, inspiring future generations to build and cherish their communities with the same fervor and integrity.
