Life in Oklahoma

Chester’s daughter Bernice recalled a vivid childhood memory of a serious accident while they lived in Oklahoma City. She remembers that a girl name Dixie (Riggs), who had horses, was nearly killed. Dixie and her horse were attacked by a dog, and a tragic accident followed. Bernice could not recall the year, but it is a vivid memory for her. She also recalled that her great-aunt, Launa Carson, helped her mother raise the family. Dixie was listed in a next-door home during the 1930 US Census, but the year of the accident is uncertain.


Above: Young Bernie and Bernice

On November 28, 1936, at the age of 32, Chester applied for his Social Security card. Chester listed his home address as 2212 SW 24, in Oklahoma City, but it’s likely that this is actually his work address. He was employed by Leo Sauders at 521 Tradesman Building, also in Oklahoma City.

While in Oklahoma everyone in the family learned how to ride horses. They even managed to purchase boots. The uniform of the day for school was overalls, with bare feet during the warm months. Kit was very athletic, and could ride very well.

On December 8, 1938, Kathleen applied for her Social Security Card. Either the family had returned to the home on Binkley Street, S.W. Oklahoma City, or Chester’s address was for a business.


Above: Kathleen's Social Security Registration form tells us her address, age, date and place of birth and the names of her parents