Doug and Pat O’Kelley
I met Doug and Pat in a old Texas Dance Hall in Schulenburg, Texas called Sengelmann Hall. I had stopped in Schulenburg for the night specifically so I could go dancing at the old hall. But I was more than disappointed to find out that they were not going to have music and dancing this Friday night. I decided to at least eat here and do my best to support this grand ole building in this beautiful town. I set down and order a beer and a menu and as soon as Doug realized I was sitting alone he quickly insisted I pull my chair over and join them.
“We’re just sitting here chewing the fat you might as well join in.”
There were 9 people at their table ranging in ages from 40 or so to Doug’s age which I expect is close to 80 (only because he told me he was married to Pat for 58 years) but let me assure you (look for your self in the photo ) they don’t look or act their age. I suspect it is hard to be a stranger for long around Doug.
As soon as I told them I loved old buildings and history they quickly gave me a complete history of this grand old building. Pat gave me a tour of the 2nd floor dance hall complete with stories of the benches and the wire enclosed bar, the porch (which is fantastic) . Told me of rebuilding the bar from photos, and the 1st floor backdrop which is stunning (see photo)
“It’s a shame that the locals here don’t support this place much. Most of it’s business comes from out of towners. It’s a shame but it had kind of a ruff start after it was restored and I think the locals have not given them much of a second chance.”
What is amazing about this couple is that they are not from Schulenburg. They moved here in the 1980’s and have grown to love the place. Pat is from Louisiana in fact she kept calling it “my Louisiana”. They meet while they attended collage at LSU.
“The first time I met Doug I did not like him.” Pat states
“But a year later” Doug interjects “ I found out she had broke up with her boyfriend and I made my move.” He looks at her with great pride and states “Haven’t let go of her since.”
This couple are the true salt of the earth. You can tell they love life and love sharing the beauty of Schulenburg. I wish I could have spent the entire day with them and let them show me the rest of the town. Both the town and Stengelmann Hall could not have a better ambassador.
Thanks Doug and Pat for taking me in and totally changing my evening. You two really brightened my day. I will never forget you!
