Paper proposing a new railroad from Abilene, Texas to Cross Plains, Texas, discussing the projected revenue of a new line and the best places to locate depots. The paper also extolls the virtues of the country between Cross Plains and Abilene, stating it's likely to become more populated and need more freight capabilities due to the fertile farm land in the region. There are some corrections to the text and handwritten notes on the first and last pages.

Photocopy of an oral history with Emmett Robert Shelton Sr. detailing the land development of Austin and the life and times of the Brackenridge family. Shelton goes into how Austin was developed as well as various laws that were passed during this time. He also talks about interactions with the Native people of the area - the Comanche and how they were allowed to come into the country to trade.