Freddie Smith and George Wallace

Freddie Smith and George Wallace
Location of Interview
Collection Name

New Jersey’s Delaware Bayshore

Description

The Bayshore Center at Bivalve’s Oral History program is dedicated to preserving the oral history and culture of New Jersey’s Bayshore region by saving for posterity the oral histories and material culture connected with the Bayshore region, by creating a repository of recordings and data that can be used for research, by preserving, treasuring and celebrating the environment, history and culture of the Bayshore region and by sharing the heritage of the Bayshore region today and with future generations through program related activities serving visitors, students and scholars.

Date of Interview
07-07-2008
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting

Principal Investigator
Audio
Abstract

George "Babe" Wallace and Freddie Smith are seasoned veterans of the oyster industry, having dedicated over half a century to shucking oysters. Their lives have been deeply intertwined with the local area, their work, and their families. Wallace and Smith's family backgrounds are rich with stories of work on oyster boats and the tradition of singing gospel songs while shucking oysters. Smith, in particular, has experienced the highs and lows of life, having been married multiple times and tragically losing his daughter in a car accident. Their lives have been shaped by their work, their community, and their personal experiences, making them a vital part of the local history and culture. Their stories provide a unique perspective on the local area, the oyster industry, and the social fabric of Bivalve and Shell Pile.

Scope and Content
The oral history interview conducted by Pat Moore and Olin McConnell with George "Babe" Wallace and Freddie Smith covers a wide range of topics, providing a comprehensive view of their lives and experiences. The interview delves into their family backgrounds, work history, and personal experiences, offering insights into the local area, the conditions of the packing houses, and the payment methods for their work. The conversation also explores their family relationships, marriages, and the tragic loss of Smith's daughter. The interviewees discuss their childhood, social life, and experiences growing up in Bivalve and Shell Pile, touching on their health, longevity, and living conditions. The interview also covers their experiences with hurricanes, family traditions, and gardening, as well as their involvement with the church and their love for singing. The interview provides a rich tapestry of their lives, their work, and their community, offering a valuable resource for understanding the local history and culture.


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