James A. "Jimmy" Turman
Turman was elected speaker in 1961, the first speaker ever to hold a doctoral degree. During his speakership, the House Chamber was modernized, with the installation of air conditioning. His term as speaker marked the first time many rank-and-file members received private offices in the crowded Capitol. That session also saw the passage of the state's first general sales tax, approved in the House over Turman's objections. Turman successfully backed a law establishing a State Employees Classification System and guided through the House the "University of Houston" bill that provided state support for that institution through senior and graduate level classes.
Dr. James Turman Interview, Part I [side A]
Source: Texas Speakers Oral History Collection
Tape 1, side A of interview with Turman and his wife Joan, where he discusses his childhood in the East Texas town of Gober, the
racial politics of East Texas from the 1940s to the 1960s, his career as a teacher and principal in Texas and his military experiences in the early 1950s. | Dr. James Turman Interview, Part I [side B]
Source: Texas Speakers Oral History Collection
Tape 1, side B of interview with Turman and his wife, where he continues his recollections of his career as a teacher and principal
in Texas. He also recalls a visit to Sam Rayburn at his home in Bonham, and his early years in the Texas House of Representatives. |
