Known as a premier historian and archivist of Kimble County and beyond, Frederica Burt Wyatt has been the driving force behind scores of area historical markers and designated, registered buildings. She has collected and archived extensive genealogical information, as well as referencing and indexing cemeteries in the area. Through her research and determination, Texas Ranger Crosses have been placed on sometimes-forgotten gravesites, with ceremonies honoring those buried there. Veterans dating as far back as the War of 1812, the World Wars, Korean and Vietnam conflicts -- some of whom gave their very lives for the cause of freedom -- have been honored through her efforts and writings.

At my prompting, Frederica takes a look back at her own life, family, friends and accomplishments, while considering the opportunities that lie ahead and future projects to be finished. It is obvious that family is what molded her and what she holds most dear -- a thread woven into her life as real as any tapestry -- handwork of a different sort.

Born July 2, 1930, on Cajac Creek in Kimble County, Frederica is the fourth of five children born to John Matt Burt Jr. and Bessie Lee Allsup Burt. In 1882, her grandparents and other family settled in London, in eastern Kimble County and the nearby Little Saline community.

“I was a child of the Depression,” she began, “but in our rural area we as a family never went hungry. We raised and grew all our own food, meat, vegetables and such -- there were no bread lines.”

“One of my greatest regrets was that I never attended a rural school; they have always fascinated me.” The year Frederica started school, the Evergreen bus picked up all the children in her South Llano River area and transported them into Junction. “In 1936, my first grade teacher was ‘Miss Ausie’ (correct spelling and still a well-remembered lady of Kimble County) Durst. She had taught my mother and eventually also taught my daughter, Charlotte, in ...

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