She was born outside London, she started her career on the stage, and then set a record for Academy Award nominations for her films. She’s most recognized as Elizabeth Bennett in the 1940 Pride and Prejudice. By a turn of events (namely, a marriage to an oilman), Greer Garson found herself in Texas. In 1949, Garson married Buddy Fogelson, an extremely wealthy oilman and horse breeder. The couple came to Gainesville in April of 1953 for business purposes and they were given the tour.
The Register noted that Garson stated the beautiful scenes she saw in Cooke County reminded her of the English countryside. She also spoke about the ranch she and her husband owned near Pecos, New Mexico, which was distinct in that every animal on it had a white coat. Garson enjoyed showing her cross-bred white shorthorns and white Brahman at various fairs around Texas. Today, her ranch is a national park.
Garson had starred in many wartime films, and the quote she gave to the Register gives a sense of what that felt. She said “if I can give some person some good entertainment for a couple of hours that will take his mind off his troubles, worries, and sorrows, I feel that I have done him a good turn.” It’s clear that Garson’s desire to improve the lives of other people was strong, and she became known for her philanthropy throughout her life. There is a lot more that could be said about this successful and varied woman’s life. She certainly made an impression on the people of Cooke County.
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