When honorary General Walter Williams died in 1959 at the age of 117, one of America's most important periods in history came to an end. Williams was the last surviving soldier of the Civil War, having served in Hood's Texas Brigade during the final months of the war. When the last surviving Union soldier died in 1956, Dwight Eisenhower bestowed upon Williams the honorary rank of general. He was buried in a Confederate general's uniform. … [Read more...] about Texas History – Who was the Last Surviving Soldier of the Civil War?
Famous Estates – Legacy Champ or Chump?
Elvis Presley (1935-1977) - Singer Elvis Presley began his career working with Sun Records' owner Sam Phillips. RCA Victor acquired his contract in a deal arranged by Colonel Tom Parker, who would manage the singer for over two decades. Presley is regarded as one of the most important figures of the 20TH century popular culture. He had a versatile voice and unusually wide success encompassing many genres, including country, pop ballads, gospel, and blues. He is the best-selling solo artist in … [Read more...] about Famous Estates – Legacy Champ or Chump?
Thought for the Day:
If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader. John Quincy Adams … [Read more...] about Thought for the Day:
Choosing Trustees
If you are creating a Trust, the most important thing that you should consider is who to appoint to serve as a Trustee. In most cases, the best Trustee will be a bank or attorney who can give the Trust professional care. However, professionals cost money and they might not be right for every Trust. For example, if you are creating a small Trust for a grandchild of a few thousand dollars, a professional Trustee is not necessary. If you are not going to hire a professional Trustee, you still need … [Read more...] about Choosing Trustees
Texas History – How Many Texas Soldiers Served in the Civil War?
Approximately 75,000 served in the war. Of that number, some 50,000 to 60,000 wore the Confederate gray, and 15,000 the Union blue. … [Read more...] about Texas History – How Many Texas Soldiers Served in the Civil War?
Famous Estates – Legacy Champ or Chump?
John G. Shedd (1850-1926) - Businessman & Philanthropist In 1871, John Shedd arrived in Chicago and began working as a stock clerk for Marshall Field & Company. By 1901, he had worked his way up to vice president and took over as president upon Field's death in 1906. Under Shedd's presidency, Marshall Field became the largest wholesale and dry goods company in the world. Shedd was also a civic leader and founding member of the Commercial Club of Chicago, which continues to play an … [Read more...] about Famous Estates – Legacy Champ or Chump?
Thought for the Day:
Don't find fault, find a remedy. Henry Ford … [Read more...] about Thought for the Day:
Minors Have Immediate Needs
If you are primarily responsible for a child or grandchild, one of the most important things that you can do is to plan for what will happen if you should suddenly pass away. You should make plans for the long term care and financial well-being of any minors that you care for. You should also make sure that the minors have quick and easy access to funds after you are gone. Many estate planning instruments require time to access. If you leave something to a minor in a Will, for example, then the … [Read more...] about Minors Have Immediate Needs
Texas History – When did the Final Conflict of the American Civil War Occur?
The final conflict occurred near Brownsville on May 13, 1865, at the Battle of Palmetto Ranch, which the Confederates won. The Texans had not yet learned that the war ended officially with the surrender of General Robert E. Lee to General Ullyses S. Grant on April 9, 1865 at Appomattox, Virginia. … [Read more...] about Texas History – When did the Final Conflict of the American Civil War Occur?
Thought for the Day:
It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership. Nelson Mandela … [Read more...] about Thought for the Day:

