James Carlton Owens WWII Collection

Collection

Identifier: A-0161

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection consists predominantly of letters from James Carlton Owens to his parents, wife, and children written during his Naval service in World War II. Also included are a letter from Rosa Lee Owens to James C. Owens, telegrams to the family from the military confirming the death of Owens, sympathy letters, military memorabilia, medals (including the Purple Heart), books, and certificates.

Dates

Creation: 1911-1952

Creator

Owens, James Carlton, 1911-1945 (Person)

Language of Materials

The collection is in English.

Conditions Governing Access

Open for research.

Biographical or Historical Information

James Carlton Owens of the Shady Grove community, Nacogdoches County, was born December 9, 1911, the son of William Jefferson Owens and May Elizabeth Holt Owens. In 1937, Owens married Rosa Lee Branton, and they had three children, Evie, Janie and James A. After entering the Navy during World War II, James C. Owens was killed during the invasion on Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945. Owens was first buried on Iwo Jima, but four years later his remains were returned to the United States where he was given a military graveside service at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

("James Carlton Owens, WWII Collection." East Texas Research Center. Ralph W. Steen Library. Stephen F. Austin State University).

Extent

1.70 Cubic Feet

Additional Description

Arrangement

This collection is described in 30 folders, 17 objects (books and realia) and 8 flat files all housed in three clamshell boxes and an oversize bundle.