Emil Eugene Plentl, Sr.

EMIL EUGENE PLENTL

The third son of Adolphus and Henrietta Plentl, was born July 1, 1876 in Shelby, Austin County, Texas, thus becoming the family contribution to the American Centennial.

As a young man, Emil was a sporty "dude" and was apparently quite a charmer with the ladies. On November 23, 1899, at the age of 23, her married Lillie Dullnig of Monthalia. They had two children: Emil - known to all as "Son" - born August 26, 1900, and Lela, born January 4, 1907.

The family moved from time to time, living in Taylor and Lott, among other towns, but at last came back to Monthalia and Gonzales County.

Although farming was his final occupation, Emil had other jobs through the years, including tending bar at Joh Bohls' Saloon in Taylor and selling Watkins Products.

Continuing the musical traditions of his father, Emil took up the cello. He and his group were much in demand for dances, barbecues and "school closings" all around Gonzales County.

Emil was blesed with a mild, eve disposition and a finely-honed sense of humor. A pitchfork in the leg gave him the characteristic limp of the last half of his life.

On January 19, 1927, his daughter Lela married Buford Luke of Houston. She had two children: Shirley and Buford, Jr.

Then, on March 22, 1930, Emil's wife Lillie died. He and "son" continued farming and batching it. Son became such a good cook, the local ladies were always after his recipes.

In 1944, Son married Martha Schweiss of Gonzales. They had no children.

Emil dies May 25, 1945; Son died September 2, 1969; Lela died June 4, 1970 and Martha died September 30, 1972.

Thus ends this branch of the Plentl name and legend.