FREESTONE PAST/PRESENT
J. R. (Sonny) SESSIONS

W. O. BANKSTON

  During the WWII years my older sister Leah worked in Dallas for 
several car dealerships. One was Bankston-Hall on Ross Ave.; W.O. 
built this into Bankston Auto Sales one of the largest in Texas. Not sure 
where W.O. from originally, not sure who Hall, was possibly his uncle 
but definitely the man with the finances and background. At one time 
W.O. involved in the funeral business and kept a coffin during 
Christmas filled with fifths of whisky and such for friends and 
employees, some who would not take anything from the coffin when 
offered the opportunity, he enjoyed this very much.
  Due to the war there were no new cars being built and used cars the 
only thing available. W.O. learned there many in New York City and 
little demand for them. He made numerous trips there where good used 
cars purchased and driven back to Dallas for resale. He bought late 
model cars that owned by celebrities of the day.
  To me the most important one belonged to film star Humphrey Bogart 
a l941 black Chevrolet coupe. When back in Dallas I sat in it and even 
was allowed to drive it around the block. I do not know who bought it.  
Recently at the funeral home for Dr. N.D. Buchmeyer family visitation a 
big Bogart fan, a full size figure was displayed next to him. There were 
other vehicles brought to Dallas, formerly owned by dignitaries. During 
the time Leah worked there I visited her and was involved with W.O. I 
messed around and didn’t get my drivers license in time to make one of 
these trips, though offered the opportunity. but my Daddy wouldn’t let 
me go without a license. Have always regretted this mistake. Did drive 
numerous vehicles from Dallas to Mr. Smiths (Charlie’s dad) in 
Corsicana for W.O.
  W.O. loved playing with law enforcement, He and Dallas Co. Sheriff 
Bill Decker were big friends, I loved to ride with W.O. as had 
emergency lights siren and such and didn’t mind using them. For many 
years W.O. furnished Sheriff Decker a new vehicle each year.
  As most youths then we didn’t have any vehicle. Sister Leah always 
had a car or one from the dealership where she employed. Many times 
she came home she let me use them, which a big deal then. They were 
nearly always different, a few times they were convertibles which really 
something. While Peyton and Cannon Awalt in the car business they 
surprised to learn of my relationship with W.O. who asked about me. 
W.O. and Fred McMurray big pals along with other popular actors of 
the time, but W. O. always had time for this country boy. It a real 
experience being involved in all this. 
                              ***
                       Grandpa’s Report
  Memorial services for Dr. N.D. Buchmeyer friend and family doctor 
over the years having delivered son James in the old Fairfield Hospital 
and Ken in the new Wortham Hospital. Dr. Buchmeyer and family very 
involved in Wortham area for many years and will be sorely missed.

…
  Freestone Co. Historical Comm. annual Christmas Dinner Party 
hosted at the E.E. Wheat Memorial Center (Butler Center) with a 
delicious dinner special Christmas music. Interesting and informative 
program presented by Mr. Eddie Jones a descendent of Abe Jones and 
the community between Cross Roads and Lanely. Abe Jones born into 
slavery accomplished many things and a very good business man, 
accumulated some l000 of land, several cotton gins and other, Hopefully 
the program will be made available for publication. Always enjoy 
visiting here.
  The January program for the will be presented by retired Chief 
Deputy Charles Nicholson a veteran of the “Forgotten War” Korea. All 
are invited, be at Training Center on US 84 starting at 7pm.