Evander Shapard, Jr. (1893-1940), WWI - Royal Air Force - Ace Pilot

Lieut. Evander Shapard, Jr. (1893-1940), was a celebrated World War I ace aviator for the Royal Flying Corps [Royal Air Force], credited with six kills to his name. He was born in Shelbyville, Tennessee, to Evander Shapard, Sr. (1843-1921) and Emma F. (Lipscomb) (1852-1942).

His father, Evander Sr. (1843-1921), held great military distinction as a veteran of the Civil War, having served the Confederacy in Company F of the 41^st Tennessee Infantry. Early in the war, Evander was captured and suffered seven tumultuous months in a P.O.W. prison at Camp Morton, being released during a prisoner exchange in September of 1862. Thereafter, he rejoined his regiment, marching with the Army of Tennessee. Evander was elevated to the rank of Sergeant Major and served in every major battle of the Army of Tennessee, until the conclusion of the hostilities in 1865. One of his most noted claims of fame was having the hat shot off his head at the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. After the war, Evander, Sr., returned to Shelbyville, Tennessee, where he became a well-respected attorney and judge. In an effort to rebuild his devastated community and provide care for the valiant men who had served so honorably, yet were now left with so little, Evander became highly involved in Veteran services and organizations. In 1888, Evander established the William Frierson Bivouac of Confederate Veterans at Shelbyville, Tennessee, and was elected president. A year later he became a trustee of the Confederate Veterans Home that provided care and a residence to elderly or infirmed veterans. In 1916, Evander was elected as the Major General of the Tennessee Division of the United Confederate Veterans, being the highest rank possible for that organization. 

In 1869, Evander Shapard, Sr., married Emma Frierson Lipscomb, the daughter of Dr. Thomas Lipscomb and Rebecca (Stevens). They would be blessed with eleven children: Robert Paine Shapard (1872-1933), Thomas Lipscomb Shapard (1874-1937), Rebecca Shapard (1877-1965), Emma Shapard (1879-1905), Fannie Lipscomb Shapard (1881-1883), Evanda “Eva” Shapard (1883-1952), Juliet Stevenson Shapard (1885-1940), Mary Davidson Shapard (1888-1978), Stella Eakin Shapard (1891-1895), Evander Shapard, Jr. (1893-1940), Margorie Lee Shapard (1897-1989).

Evander, Jr. (1893-1940), was the tenth of eleven children of this union, and spent his youth among the beautiful surroundings of Shelbyville, Tennessee. In 1914, at 21 years of age, Evander was accepted as a student at Vanderbilt University, School of Law, at Nashville, Tennessee. As a young man, he was described as being average height and weight, with brown hair and gray eyes. He played football in 1914 and 1915 and held the office of second year class Vice-President, Historian of his senior class and was involved with the Student Council. During the summer of 1917, he was employed as a bookkeeper for the Hermitage Club.   

Evander, Jr., followed greatly in his father’s footsteps. His father attended university, before enlisting in the war, [Shelbyville University 1856-1860; Southern University 1860-1861; Cumberland University 1867] where he studied law and was a member of the of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity in 1867. In harmony with his father, Evander, Jr., attended Vanderbilt University where he studied law, and became a member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, before enlisting in the war.   

“When Senior goes forth from his dear college halls,

                To enter the battle of life;

All eager to match a sweet morsel of fame

                In the rush and roar of the strife; -

O Senior, remember, before you expend

                All the vigor of heart and head;

There’ll be plenty to do e’er you get to the end;

                There’s a long, weary journey ahead."

                                                                                -Pope Shannon.

In 1914, the public assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria sparked a series of events that lead to all-out warfare throughout Europe, becoming known as World War I. Initially, Austria-Hungary, Germany, and the Ottoman Empire, unified against Russia, Great Britain, France, Italy and Serbia. The first battle of the war occurred on August 4, 1914. Over the next many years, more nations joined the fight on both sides; yet, despite numerous battles and huge loss of life, the war efforts became entrenched in a stalemate. The soldiers and citizens of Europe, and beyond, suffered as disease, supply shortages and starvation became commonplace. In 1917, the Russian people rose up and overthrew their czar, Nicholas II, assassinating his whole family, before declaring a truce with Germany, et al., in an effort to return to normal life.

Up to this point, the United States had remained neutral under President Woodrow Wilson, choosing to continue commerce with all nations. However, after German U-boats began targeting U. S. merchant ships, as well as, sinking the Lusitania with hundreds of American travelers to England onboard, the United States declared war on Germany on April 2, 1917.

Although men first took to the skies in airplanes in 1903, over the next decade, vast improvements in these machines allowed for their use as cutting edge technology in warfare. Thus, with the outbreak of hostilities, WWI became the first war in which airplanes were used in combat.

After graduating from Vanderbilt Law School in 1917, Evander enlisted and was sent to Toronto, Canada, for his cadet training. He advanced to airman and then received his commission as a second lieutenant on January 5, 1918, and was ordered to sail to England. During the voyage there was an alarm of German submarines, and one of the vessels in his caravan of twelve, the Tuscania, was torpedoed and sunk, killing 210 men. Evander was placed on submarine watch for the rest of the night, as his ship quickened its pace. Upon reaching London, Evander was posted to the 92 squadron of the Royal Flying Corps, predecessor of the Royal Air Force that was organized in April of 1918, and received a few more months of flight training before being sent into combat on the French western front.

Upon reaching the French theater of war, Evander was issued a British S. E. 5a bi-wing fighter. With a top speed of about 120 mph, this plane had a 26 foot wing span, 21 foot length body and was armed with two machine guns: a Vickers .303 mounted on the port side of the fuselage and a Lewis .303 mounted atop the upper wing. On July 29, 1918, Evander had his first air battle. Just north of Estaires, his squadron of five encountered a German two-seater. Evander dove, riddling the Hun’s craft with bullets, bringing it down, like a shot bird, crashing into a bomb shell crater. He recalled that the brave tail gunner kept shooting at him until the aircraft impacted the ground, hitting Evander’s plane thrice to no effect.

His next kill occurred on September 5, 1918, at Cambrai. Though heavily outnumbered, Evander brought down a German Fokker, before the Huns turned in force on him, shooting his planes to bits. Evander’s plane had the good fortune of gliding down, just reaching the French side of the lines before touching the earth. Remarkably, despite the massive damage to his aircraft, he was entirely unscathed. Tragically, however, three men from his squadron were killed that day in that battle over the skies of Cambrai. After making it back to base, Evander was granted two weeks rest, by his commanding officer, due to his harrowing experience, and he spent his leave “taking life easy” in London with a few other aviators from his squadron.

Upon his return from leave, the men of the 92^nd squadron prepared their huts for the approaching winter. Evander and his comrades salvaged a wood-burning stove from the ruins of a nearby French town and reinforced any gaps in the plank walls with paper to keep the winds out. The only benefit of winter, was the natural suspension of war activities due to the cold, snow and ice.

On October 4, 1918, a great air battle commenced southeast of Bertry, and Evander brought down two German Hannover C escort fighters. Only a few weeks later, he was engaged in a fierce areal scrap with the Huns south of Pont Du Nord, where he again brought down a duet of enemy crafts, this time two German D. F. W. reconnaissance planes. On November 4, 1918, in low clouds and heavy rain, Lieut. Evander led his squadron on an attack of German ground troops. He flew his machine at such a low altitude that his plane received shrapnel damage from his own bombs. He successfully attacked a dense concentration of enemy troops in the face of heavy rifle and canon fire at point blank range.

During the latter half of 1918, German allies began to fall, forcing Germany to surrender on November 11, 1918. At the 11th hour, on the 11th day, of the 11th month, the fighting ended. The Great War officially came to a close on June 28, 1919, with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. In all, over 9 million soldiers were killed on the battlefield, and 21 million were wounded. Civilian casualties measured in the millions. However, the main killer of WWI was the influenza outbreak that claimed over 50 million lives worldwide. With all the death, destruction and sorrow the world had endured, it was hoped that this was the ‘war to end all wars,’ however, such was not the case.

With the war over, Lieut. Evander Shapard was hailed as a WWI ace fighter pilot, credited with six kills. In addition, he was honored with the British Distinguished Flying Cross for his skill as a pilot and his inspiration to his squadron by his intrepid daring and resourcefulness.

Evander left Europe on May 31, 1919, from Liverpool, sailing on the “Tunisian” arriving at port in Quebec, Canada, on June 10, 1919. From there, he returned to his residence on Terrace Place in Nashville, Tennessee, near Vanderbilt University. Despite his education, Evander did not pursue a career in law.

In April of 1920, he married Miss Levie Reynolds (1896-1975), daughter of Mr. James. P. Reynolds and Annie [Roper] of Nashville, Tennessee. Levie was a graduate of Vanderbilt University and a member of the Phi Beta Kappa sorority. Immediately after their wedding, Evander and his young bride moved to Griffin, Georgia, where his older brothers, Robert Paine Shapard (1872-1933) and Thomas Lipscomb Shapard (1874-1937), were established businessmen in the textile industry. Evander lived with his brother Robert and his family, and took employment initially as a shipping clerk for the Griffin Hosiery Mills, owned and operated by his older brother Thomas Lipscomb Shapard.

Evander’s brother Robert Paine Shapard (1872-1933) was the first of the Shapard family to move to Griffin, Georgia, circa 1910, being employed with the Georgia Cotton Mills. Robert then enticed his brother, Thomas Lipscomb Shapard (1874-1937), to move to Griffin, circa 1915, after informing him that community leaders were offering a building to any person who established a business in the town. Shortly thereafter, in 1916, Thomas founded the Griffin Hosiery Mills. Robert Paine Shapard initially joined his brother Thomas in operating the mill, however, in 1921, Robert established his own factory under the name of the Spalding Knitting Mills.

Thomas Lipscomb Shapard’s (1874-1937) involvement with the Griffin Hosiery Mills lasted until 1922, when he resigned as president, leaving the business to his estranged wife, who initially assumed the presidency, as he pursued a new life in Florida. In the chaos that occurred after Thomas abandoned the Griffin Hosiery Mill, Evander Shapard, Jr., assumed the position of Superintendent of the mill in 1924– a position he would hold until 1940. Interestingly, Thomas Lipscomb Shapard’s son, known as “Evander Shapard III” (1896-1977) [presumably so to not be confused with his uncle Evander Shapard, Jr. who worked at the same mill] had much experience in the textile business, having become the superintendent of his father’s mill circa 1919. Only a few years later, circa 1924, he became the vice-president and general manager of the mill - a position he held until the mill's closure in 1957.

Outside of his occupation, Evander Shapard, Jr., was highly involved in his community and served as an officer or member of numerous philanthropic and civic organizations, such as, the American Legion, Griffin Chamber of Commerce, Griffin Rotary Club, and the Boy Scouts. It also appeared that he greatly enjoyed the game of golf.  

For reasons only known to him, on April 15, 1940, at 10 o’clock in the morning, Evander Shapard, Jr., went into the garage at his residence on Tinley Avenue. After a few moments, a gunshot was heard. A jury was empaneled to investigate the death of Mr. Shapard, and determined that the gunshot was self-inflicted, ruling it a suicide. Evander was only 46 years old. He was buried the following day at Oak Hill Cemetery in Griffin, Georgia. There is some evidence to suggest that Evander had sustained crippling injuries during a recent car accident, that led him to take his own life. He was survived by his wife Levie and their only child, Ann Shapard (1921-1997). His daughter attended Vanderbilt University, graduating in 1942, and would marry Mr. Fred E. Strickland, Jr. (1919-1979).

PBS Series 'Finding Your Roots' Lead Genealogist Recognizes Shapard History Blog!

 A most delightful and unexpected letter honored the efforts of the Shapard History Blog in March of 2024. For all the family members, friends and interested public who have graciously contributed to preserving our family's history by sharing stories, sending photographs, as well as, reading this blog, I have the great joy of sharing this letter with you. Out of respect for the author, a few items of the letter will be redacted, including her name.

 

Mr. Shapard, 

Good evening! 

...I am a professional genealogist--currently, I am one of the Lead Genealogists and the Associate Genetic Genealogist for the PBS series Finding Your Roots... 

While this is seemingly quite random, I wanted to reach out and tell you that I came across your blog regarding your Shapard Family History while trying to identify the parents of Richard Shepard (ca 1799-1866) of Elbert & Butt Counties in Georgia, and that I spent a few hours last night reading it--and that I really enjoyed your work! 

I was particularly riveted by the sad story of David C. Shapard and his father, and the horrible car accident they were involved in with Tenny Shapard. 

You have a gift for writing, and again--I really enjoyed reading your family's stories and looking at the photos. (Tenny was a stunning woman, and your descriptions of her and David made them "come to life" for me.)

I hope that you continue to write the blog, and I look forward to reading more stories. 

Regards,

Recollections of Henry Clay Shapard (1843-1913) of Shelbyville, Bedford County, Tennessee

HENRY CLAY SHAPARD

 Henry Clay Shapard (1843-1913) was the youngest of six children born to Lewis Shapard II (1806-1848) and Thursa (Burdett) Shapard (1813-1883). He was born in 1843 and was raised throughout his youth in Shelbyville, Bedford County, Tennessee. The counsel, security and guidance of his father's influence upon their family was tragically cut short upon his sudden death in 1848, and Henry was left fatherless at the tender age of only 5 years old. His widowed mother never remarried, yet worked tirelessly to provide for her children and instill them with Christian values, industry and quality principles for living. His older brother William Rainey Shapard (1831-1886) assumed the role of 'man of the family,' at 17 years of age, helping to look after his mother and younger siblings. Interestingly, William pursued medicine, moving to Kentucky circa 1853, where he met, courted and married Miss Mary Mulligan in December of that year. Henry's other brother, Charles Ready Shapard (1841-1888) also became a physician, establishing his practice in Callahan County, Texas after the Civil War.

At 15 years of age, Henry C. Shapard began to learn the art and mastery of the Physician's trade in Shelbyville, Tennessee, under the tutelage of Mr. R. D. Decry. Shortly thereafter, war came to Tennessee and, in 1861, Henry C. Shapard, at 18 years of age, joined the Confederacy in defense of his homeland and to aid his countrymen. He joined the Hospital Department of the Confederacy and due to his experience was placed in a pharmacy tent, likely for the 41st Infantry. 

After the war, Henry returned to Shelbyville, Tennessee, and resumed working for his former mentor as a pharmacist in the town square. A few years later, Henry went into business for himself, forming a partnership with Mr. Nathan P. Evans (1836-1930) under the firm name of 'Evans and Shapard.' Their drugstore not only sold pharmaceuticals, but also beverages, paints, and other sundries. Henry's granddaughter, Dorris (Shapard) Sanders recalled in an interview, "From time to time Henry Shapard would display his Confederate uniform in the window of his drugstore."

'Evans & Shapard' became the bedrock pharmacy and drugstore for Shelbyville, Tennessee, serving the residents for nearly 40 years! Circa 1908, Henry C. Shapard became the full owner of the business, buying out Mr. Evans upon his retirement. Henry partnered with two of his sons to aid him in running the store, changing the firm name to 'H. C. Shapard & Sons.'     

Cassandra (Streeter) Shapard

In 1874, Henry married Miss Cassandra Streeter (1851-1916) and they would have nine children. In 1877, Henry and his bride purchased 40 acres of land on Fishingford Pike just beyond the Shelbyville city limits, where they constructed a beautiful antebellum-styled home. Shortly after its completion, Henry welcomed his mother to come live with his family at their new house, stating that she had cared for him when he could not care for himself and that it was his honor to now care for her.  The home remained the focal point of the Shapard family for many years. Dorris Sanders recalled, that during her youth, aunts, uncles and cousins would often visit on Sunday afternoons. The Shapard family of Bedford County were a very close family. 

Henry C. Shapard died at his home in 1913, at 70 years of age. It was noted in his obituary that, "he was a big-hearted, noble Christian gentleman, and no one knew but to love him...He was the oldest druggest in Shelbyville and was known throughout the county and was universally beloved by all classes of citizens for his noble traits and character. He possessed a gentle, happy disposition and scattered happiness and sunshine in his everyday dealing. He was spirited, generous, charitable and sympathetic...No one in distress was ever turned away by him." 

Belle Grove School, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 1891 Class Photo!!!

 Belle Grove School, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 1891. Third Grade class photograph. 

Dora Hunt (Mrs. John Carnahan) teacher. 

May Miller (Mrs. E. R. Shapard) is seated front row left end with finger in her mouth. 

Bessie Rogers (Mrs. R. M. Johnston) is seated second row right end. 

Will Eberle (Capt. U.S.N.) behind May Miller.

David Evander Shapard (Chapter 31) Aftermath

Chapter 31

Aftermath

    Directly after the accident, concerned motorists summoned the police to the scene, while the injured were transported 10 miles away to the hospital at Okemah, Oklahoma. David Conger Shapard and his wife Tenny Belle were treated for minor cuts and bruises, and Mrs. Davis was treated for a concussion, broken nose and other injuries. The body of David E. Shapard, was also transported to the hospital at Okemah, where his cause of death was determined to be due to significant head trauma.

    Upon arrival at the hospital, David’s son immediately telephoned his uncle Edwin R. Shapard, who drove 60 miles to the Okemah hospital from his home at Muskogee, Oklahoma. In tremendous grief, Edwin made the heartbreaking phone calls to his wife and children informing them of the tragedy and summoning them to Fort Smith. Then he made arrangements with Fentress Mortuary to have a coach sent to Okemah to return David’s body home. The coach arrived early Monday morning, and Edwin somberly drove all three of the injured passengers back to Fort Smith, following the hearse. The family was then set with the harrowing task of making funeral arrangements, and initially acquiesced for the service to be held at the Fentress Mortuary Chapel, however, later that evening, amended their decision to the First Methodist Church. While at Fort Smith, the Shapard family were guests at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Eugene Stevenson.

    The following day of Tuesday, December 3, 1935, at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, David Evander Shapard’s funeral was conducted at the First Methodist Church of Fort Smith, with Rev. H. C. Henderson officiating. The service was largely attended by the public, as well as, by David Conger Shapard and his wife Tenny Belle; her half-brother Fred Williams who arrived from Conway; Edwin R. Shapard and his wife May, who was call home from New Jersey where she was visiting her sister; their daughter Barabara Shapard who was teaching in Muskogee; and their son John Shapard who was attending the University of Arkansas.

    After the church service, the body was removed to Forest Park Cemetery, under the direction of the Fentress Mortuary. His casket was lovingly adorned with a lush blanket of flowers, flanked with ribboned floral wreaths. Members of the Belle Point Lodge No. 20, F. & A. M., were in charge of the graveside service, giving David E. Shapard full masonic last rites and honors. His final resting place was next to the hallowed graves of his mother and father in the Shapard family plot.

    On Thursday, December 5, 1935, Tenny Belle Shapard’s half-brother Fred Williams drove she and her husband David Conger Shapard back to their home in Norman, Oklahoma. The automobile unavoidably passed the scene of the crash on the way. It was said that David was burdened with terrible guilt from the accident and rarely talked of his father’s death. Understandably, he spent a lifetime trying to reconcile what occurred that fateful December night.

    David E. Shapard’s estate would not be fully settled until April of 1938. Although his brother Edwin R. Shapard had been listed as the administrator of his estate, the probate court determined he was ineligible due to his out of state residence. Edwin R. Shapard and David Conger Shapard agreed to relinquished the duty to R. L. Secrest, who was a Fort Smith resident, Mason and long-time friend of David E. Shapard. Upon completion of the inventory, Mr. Shapard’s estate had a total of $1,676.38 in assets. His debts to S.W.B. Telephone Co., Fentress (funeral expenses), Sheridan Motor Co., Fort Smith General Tire, Crane Tire and Service Co., Boston Store Dry Goods, Electric Appliance Co., Byars Service Station, Boston Laundry, etc., totaled $1,505.04. In accordance to the last will and testament, the balance of the estate of $172.34 was to be distributed between only two heirs: Edwin R. Shapard received the amount of $171.34 and David Conger Shapard received one dollar.

    It is important to note that although the last will and testament was written at an embittered time when David E. Shapard had been painfully rejected by his son, it did not reflect the sentiment between them at the time of David’s death. Edwin R. Shapard fully realized this and not only became a surrogate father to David Conger Shapard, but expended every dollar of his brother’s inheritance, and hundreds more, helping his nephew through law school. It was what his brother would have wanted. This gesture was so endearing to David Conger Shapard that he named his second child after his uncle Edwin. Befittingly, his first child, who was born six months after the car accident, was named in honor of his father.

David Evander Shapard (Chapter 30) 1935 A Greek Tragedy

Chapter 30

A Greek Tragedy

1935

“There is one hand that guides the destiny of all of us,

and we have been taught that everything is for the best although we cannot understand these things.”

David E. Shapard, May 19, 1931.

    On that special day, in early-September of 1935, when father and son finally reunited, David revealed that he had been constantly wearing his son’s 21st birthday gold pocket watch since its return. With each winding, it was a daily reminder to him of the fleeting essence of time and an unrelentingly urgency to restore his son’s faith in his father. David removed the watch and chain from his waistcoat and, for a second time, offered it to his son, which he affectionately accepted. David’s son cherished the watch for his lifetime, passing it on to his eldest son on his 21st birthday, who, likewise, passed it on to his eldest son. This extraordinary heirloom remains in the Shapard family to the present day.

    Another sweet moment to arise out of the restoration of the relationship with his son, was that David E. Shapard was introduced, for the first time, to his beautiful daughter-in-law, Tenny Belle Shapard (1913-1992), in September of 1935. Formerly, Tenny Belle Jennings of Conway, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Elias Swofford Jennings (1855-1946) and Eva (Willbanks) (1881-1978), and the third of five children. She graduated from Conway High School in 1931, having been active in theater and dance, and was voted as the “most popular” and “peppiest” student by her classmates, as well as, the Football Queen. She attended Arkansas State Teacher’s College from 1932 until 1934, having twice been elected as Homecoming Queen.

    In the spring of 1934, representatives from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture studio came to Arkansas in search of new talent. Twenty-five gifted girls from across the state were selected to participate in a movie screen test, held at the Pulaski Theater in Little Rock. Tenny Belle charmed the judges, winning the contest, and was offered a movie contract with the MGM Studio in Hollywood, California. Unimpressed with the allure

of fame, her parents refused to let her go, citing the loose morality and vulgarity of Hollywood culture as “a den of iniquity” and no place for a fine young lady. In 1934, she attended summer school at Oklahoma A & M College in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where she met David Conger Shapard while playing tennis. They instantly fell in love and were married only six weeks later.

    Mr. David E. Shapard informed his new daughter-in-law of the fact that he was acquainted with her parents, having professionally known her father for many years. He further had the joy of recounting to her the following story:

    In August of 1913, at a small boarding house in Plumerville, Arkansas, a group of traveling salesmen, welcoming relief from a hard day’s work, were settling in for the evening and conversing at the supper table. There was nothing remarkable about their conversations – just recalling the day’s activities, exchanging observations of moments past and present, sharing the news in their lives – much like a hundred other nights – in a hundred other gathering places.

    One of the men arose, “Gentlemen, last month, I was blessed with the birth of my third child – a beautiful baby girl.” The men raised their glasses, good-naturedly joined in the acknowledgement, and extended their congratulations.

    Another traveling man arose to his feet and asked for the floor, to make his own announcement. “My new friends, I too have similar news. The good Lord, and my wife, have also blessed me recently with the birth of my first born – a son! I propose a toast to my son, and to this fine gentleman’s daughter.”

    Everyone stood as the toast began, “May each of our young ones be hale, hearty and happy. May they be fortunate enough to wed the one they love, know the true joy of marital bliss and have a long and wonderful life.”

    To Tenny Belle’s delight, Mr. Shapard informed her that the ‘fine gentleman’ was her father and the two infants were David Conger Shapard and herself! The same boy and girl who found the “love of their life” at Oklahoma A & M College, had, unbeknownst to them, been blessed together by their fathers 22 years earlier.

    David learned that, after the wedding, his son and daughter-in-law first moved to an apartment, at 437 N. W. 26th Street, in Oklahoma City, and then to an apartment at 425 N. W. 12th Street. His son had not return to Oklahoma A & M College for his senior year, but instead became employed part-time at the office of the State Coordinating Board at the capitol building in Oklahoma City, earning $90 per month. Over the last year, he had been extremely industrious and dedicated - following work each morning, he drove 21 miles to Norman, Oklahoma, to attended afternoon classes as a transfer student at the University of Oklahoma for his senior year. To the delight of all, his efforts bore fruit, and he was accepted to law school at the University of Oklahoma, commencing on September 16, 1935.

    Since the Great Depression was still bridling the country, David was particularly concerned with his son and daughter-in-law’s meager financial situation. David’s son informed him that he had to quit his job in Oklahoma City on account of the commencement of law school and moving to Norman, however, he was taking military courses which would allow him a commission of $8 to $10 per month. He also informed his father that he and Tenny Belle would be looking for employment around the University. In an effort to alleviate their economic strain at a critical time and allow his son ample time to study, David lovingly offered to assist them through law school, initially giving them $65 to apply towards, school, books and living expenses. The young couple were overwhelmingly grateful at their father’s unsolicited kindness and generosity, which kept them out of debt and allowed them the comfort of renting a small house on campus, at 811 Boyd Street, for $25.

    The following month, David’s son was struggling to make ends meet financially, due to the amount he was studying, and he asked his father for $10 to get him through. In true character, David exceeded their expectations by sending them $25. His son and daughter-in-law thanked him a million times over, and explained that the extra $15 went to buy Tenny Belle some winter clothing that was needed badly.

 

   On the morning of Saturday, October 19, 1935, David E. Shapard left Fort Smith and drove to Norman, Oklahoma, to spend the day with his son and daughter-in-law, attending the football game between Oklahoma University and Iowa State. The crowd at Memorial Stadium topped 10,000 spectators, most of whom cheered on Oklahoma’s 16 to 0 win over their opponent. After the game, David was invited back to his son’s modest house, which was really just a remodeled garage, where the trio ate and amused one another with stories and news. One story pertained to the fact that David’s son had gained almost 30 pounds since his marriage, yet, he had only had one suit in his wardrobe - a light tan double-breasted summer suit that he purchased for his wedding, that was now clearly too tight. David knew the importance of a well-dressed man, and provided his son with the means to purchase a winter suit, navy in color, single-breasted, in the proper size.

    Another bit of news shared that night, was that Tenny Belle had greatly longed to return home to see her parents, grandparents and siblings, most of whom she had not seen in about a year. Evidently, her entire family had made plans to gather at her parent’s house in Conway for Thanksgiving, however, due to finances Tenny Belle and her husband would not be able to go. David’s character again shined, as he offered to provide their way so that they could join her family for the holidays. Tenny Belle was absolutely thrilled, forever becoming endeared to Mr. Shapard for this thoughtful gesture.

    As the joyful evening came to a close, it was time for all to retire. The little house had no extra room to hosts guests for the night, however, Mr. Brookes, the landlord, resided in the main house only 30 feet away, and allowed them the use of his sleeping porch when company called. That evening, Tenny Belle slept in their rented house and David and his son made use of the sleeping porch, talking well into the night. It was a dream come true for David to have his son back.

    The following morning, David returned to Fort Smith, however, not before his son and daughter-in-law expressed how much they enjoyed his visit, wishing to see him again soon. They emphasized that he did not need a formal invitation, as he was welcome any time at his convenience. Over the following weeks, there was much fruitful correspondence between David and his son about finances, grades, sports, and, in particular, the exciting details of the approaching trip to Conway for Thanksgiving.

    On November 27th, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, David’s son and daughter-in-law reached Fort Smith about 4 p. m., having procured a ride with Mr. W. D. Williams, the cousin of a friend. Upon their arrival, David was delighted to see that his son was sporting his new navy suit for the occasion. The Shapards socialized for a while, before supper, and then settled in for the night at David’s rented residence at 220 North Sixteenth Street. The young couple sleeping on the divan in Mrs. Buck’s section of the house, with her blessing.

    Early Thanksgiving morning, David drove his son and daughter-in-law to the train station, where he had purchased their tickets for Conway, to spend the day with the Jennings family. Before departing, they thanked him a million times over for this most wonderful gift. All hearts were full and life was truly good - there was much for which to be thankful. David spent the remainder of Thanksgiving with his brother Edwin Shapard, at Skelly Field in Tulsa, Oklahoma, cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks football team in their 14 to 7 victory over the Tulsa Golden Hurricane.

    On Friday, November 29th, David drove to the Fort Smith train station, welcoming back his son and daughter-in-law from their trip and transporting them back to his house. To David’s delight, he was to host the young couple for the reminder of the weekend, with plans to drive them back to Norman, Oklahoma, on Sunday. Once back at his house, his son and daughter-in-law sat him down to offer him some news about why Tenny Belle had been so anxious to return home, and why his offer had been so meaningful. That news was that David E. Shapard was going to be a grandfather! They explained that she wanted to tell her family first before the news was made public. David was beside himself with pride, astonishment and joy, with so many blessings in such a short amount of time.

    David and his son spent most of Saturday together, as Tenny Belle had been invited to a ladies’ afternoon bridge party at the home of Miss Connie Chastain on 18th Street. The two men, enjoyed the day discussing the future, family and fatherhood, and everything in between.

    On Sunday, December 1, 1935, David attended the morning service at the First Methodist Church with his son and daughter-in-law as his guests. David introduced the young couple to pastor H. C. Henderson, as well as, to numerous members of the congregation, many of whom remembered his son during his youth in Fort Smith. During the service, they sat on the right side of the church, which was David’s regular spot. After going to lunch, resting and some last minute socializing, the happy couple packed their belongings for their return trip to Norman, Oklahoma. As was customary at the time, an offer had been made to any family, friends or acquaintances needing a ride, and Mrs. Elsie Davis, the 37 year old nurse and widow of Dr. J. R. Davis, accepted. There is some evidence to suggest that David and Mrs. Davis were dating. Around 4:00 p. m., the traveling party left Fort Smith in David’s V-8 Ford Sedan, collecting Mrs. Davis on the way out of town. They were all wearing heavy coats as the temperature was quite frigid, and was expected to drop to the mid-twenties by nightfall.

    Approximately an hour and a half into the trip, as the sun was beginning to set, David stopped for the party to stretch and take refreshments. They had just finished traveling north of Eufaula, Oklahoma, the town in which David was born 48 years ago, certainly kindling a story or two. Before returning to the road, David’s son suggested that he should drive the next leg of the trip, as it was getting dark, to allow his father to rest. Acquiescing, the men switched seats - David occupying the passenger seat, his son driving, with Tenny Belle and Mrs. Davis in the backseat.

    Roughly thirty minutes later, at 6:15 in the evening, the car was traveling along highway 62, and came upon a sharp curve in the road, approaching a bridge, a half mile east of Boley, Oklahoma. A few miles back, the paved highway had transitioned to gravel. The lights of an oncoming car momentarily blinded David’s son, who lost the road, instantly striking a steel girder of the bridge at 50 miles per hour. The car was put into a spin crossing over the road, striking the opposite side of the bridge. The impact was absolutely horrific and unexpected – bodies violently launched from their seats among the deafening explosion of metal and shattering glass – followed by pain, moaning and stillness.

    David’s son, though extensively traumatized and in shock, had only minor physical injuries. Climbing out of the wreckage, he immediately rushed to the aid of his pregnant crying wife, who had been seated behind him, finding her miraculously spared from significant harm. Mrs. Davis, who had been seated next to her, on the passenger side of the car, was not so fortunate. She had been ejected from the car and was found on the road completely unconscious, having sustained blunt force facial trauma, among other injuries. Sadly, she was the only member of the party with extensive medical experience, yet her condition rendered her inefficacious. David’s son then rushed to retrieve his father, who had taken the bulk of the trauma. The impact had violently projected him out of the automobile, smashing his head against the bridge. His body was lifeless - in an instant it was just over.

David Evander Shapard (Chapter 29) 1935 The Box

Chapter 29

The Box

1935

    In 1929, Elise Shapard, her son David Conger Shapard and her teaching assistant Frances Reynolds, departed Fort Smith, Arkansas, for Enid, Oklahoma, where they reestablished the Blue Bird School at their house at 1122 West Broadway. Never to stay long in one location, the following year, Elise moved them to a more impressive home at 1224 West Main Street, where they continued to run the school. About 1932, a year after David Conger Shapard left for college, Elise and Frances moved to 430 South Garfield Street, where they resided and operated the Blue Bird School together for the next few years. It appears that during the summer of 1935, Elise and Frances secured arrangements to move the school to 1501 West Randolph Avenue, however, around that time, Elise became habitually ill, eventually having a nervous breakdown, requiring rest. Unable to fulfill her duties, she relinquished ownership to Frances Reynolds, who successfully operated the school at the new location, with Elise’s help, until Frances' marriage to Mr. Charles Ford in 1946, whereupon the Blue Bird School was finally disbanded.

    It was in early September of 1935, while David Conger Shapard was in Enid, Oklahoma, assisting his ailing mother, that God’s perfect timing softened his heart. In the midst of moving some items to storage for his mother, David opened a trunk and discovered a large box filled with a multitude of letters addressed to him from his father, spanning about six years. None of them David had ever seen. When he confronted his mother, she admitted that she had concealed almost every letter sent by his father to him at the Enid address, in a selfish effort for her to remain the most important person in her son’s life. David was infuriated at his mother’s deceitfulness and he abruptly departed, taking with him the nearly one hundred letters.

   Over the following days David read through his father’s words, each one chipping away at the years of bitterness and anger that had encased his heart. By the end, David realized that he had been led astray by those closest to him into believing a great many certainties about his father – none of which were accurate. He had condemned an innocent man based upon false evidence. He realized his venom all those years towards his father was misdirected, cruel and wholly unjustified. As he read the last letter, David Conger Shapard experienced an inconsolable contrition and allowed the humbling lesson to work deep within his mind and his heart. With the full support of his gentle and loving wife Tenny Belle, David yearned to reestablish a true relationship with his father, and thus he asked his father to meet him so they could talk.

    Perhaps in all their lives, there was no greater emotional moment than what was shared that day, in early-September of 1935, when father and son finally reunited in person with willing hearts. It was truly life changing for both of them. All the past woes between them were finally buried, all their wrongdoings and misgivings absolved, and all the bitterness and sorrow expelled in each tear shed that day out of forgiveness, concern and joy. There was so much lost time to reclaim. Yet, for the first time in almost a decade, the future shined with brilliant promise as a devoted father finally had the love and respect of his only son – and his only son finally received the love, security and dedication of his father that, unbeknownst to him, had always been there. From that day forward, David’s son no longer coldly referred to him as “Mr. D. E. Shapard,” but now lovingly as “Papa” and “Dad.” It was an absolute miracle.