The Austin Blues Society recently received a message from Coy Prather, a writer for Texas Music magazine, who has researched and written about a seminal figure in blues music, Algernon "Texas" Alexander.
"Texas" Alexander was a native Texan who helped create and popularize the blues from the 1920's through the 1950's, making over 69 recordings for Okeh and Vocalion records. Along with Blind Lemon Jefferson, he mentored a number of original blues greats, including his nephew Lightnin' Hopkins, his cousin Frankie Lee Sims, and Lowell Fulson.
This pioneering artist passed away in poverty in 1954, and was buried in an unmarked grave, the location of which only recently was identified in Long Street Cemetery in Montgomery County.
Larry Foerster, Chairman of the Montgomery County Historical Commission, is raising funds for a historical marker to recognize the important contributions and achievements of "Texas" Alexander in blues music.
The Austin Blues Society is asking our membership and readers to consider donating to help Mr. Prather and Mr. Foerster reach their funding goal. It's estimated that the cost of the marker will be on the order of $1200 – any amount helps!
Mr. Foerster is accepting donations on behalf of the Montgomery County Historical Commission. This organization is tax exempt under IRS Section 115, so donations are tax deductible. To donate, make your check payable to the Montgomery County Historical Commission, and mail it to the address below:
Attention: Larry L. Foerster, Chairman
Montgomery County Historical Commission
414 West Phillips, Suite 100
Conroe, TX 77301