Description
Burkhart, James A.; Schmidtlein, Eugene F. (1995) Mules, Jackasses and other Misconceptions. Stephens College. 171 Seiten.
When Professor James A. Burkhart came to Missouri and Stephens College in 1944, he looked for a local subject that would fascinate him and provide a good research area. The mule became that subject and for the next thirty-five years Jim Burkhart searched high and low for information and interpretations of the mule’s role in American life and development. He particularly enjoyed talking with the people who raised, worked or traded mules. He loved to listen to their language and vivid descriptions. Upon retirement, he was going to write his Mule Book. Many ideas, facts, and stories were already recorded. But his life ended abruptly with cancer.
When I retired in 1992, I asked Mrs. June Burkhart if she would let me go through Jim’s research so that the book could be finished. What fun I have had reading all of the material Jim had collected over 35 years. My debts in this project are many. I particularly thank June, Deirdre and Jim for letting me do this. Melvin Bradley has been completely unselfish in sharing his knowledge and experience with mules. His eight volumes of interviews are a wonderful resource for mule lovers.
Burkhart gave many talks and wrote a number of newspaper and magazine articles on mules. From his notes and typed copy, it was sometimes impossible for me to determine what was his composition and what was taken from other authors. I have tried to acknowledge every source I could and I apologize if there are sources used of which I am unaware.
My family and friends have endured my preoccupation with mules in a very patient manner. My wife, Mary, has been extremely helpful and long suffering throughout this project. Uncle Jack has provided advice and encouragement. Mule fever overcame him as it did me. Rachel suffered through teaching me the intracacies of the computer for which I cannot thank her adequately
