Byron Tunnell
Tunnell was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 1956, winning election as speaker in 1963. During his speakership, the Legislature created the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and transferred control of what would become the Padre Island National Seashore to the federal government. While he presided over the House, the Legislature also created the Texas Tourist Development Board and passed the Texas Regulatory Loan Act, popularly known as the "loan shark bill." Tunnell also instituted rules aimed at making the sometimes-raucous House a more dignified deliberative body. Jan Tunnell, wife of the late former speaker, is interviewed.
Jan Tunnell Interview
Source: Texas Speakers Oral History Collection
Tunnell, wife of former Texas House Speaker Byron Tunnell, describing her husband’s family background and his experiences as a
child in Tyler. She also discusses the circumstances under which she met the former House speaker, his memories of his speakership, his political philosophy, and his post-political
career. |
