Parties can provide an excellent setting for meeting new and interesting people. A yachting party in 1936, proved to also be the perfect setting for young, rising star Texas Senator Allan Shivers to meet young, beautiful socialite Marialice Shary. The two were a good match from the beginning. He with true political aspirations and she with her own scholarly background.
The wedding of the decade took place on October 5, 1937, (which was also Allan’s 30th birthday) at Sharyland, home of the bride’s parents in Mission, Texas. Many guests made the trip to the Valley to be a part of the celebration. In fact, quite by fluke, the Texas Senate was adjourned the day before allowing many of the senators to be able to attend the nuptials.
The gown, pictured here, was full-length of ivory satin and Chantilly lace. The large affair featuring two matrons of honor and four bridesmaids was complete in every detail. The wedding party complemented the radiant bride.
Following the elegant reception, Senator and Mrs. Allan Shivers enjoyed a lavish wedding trip to Mexico that was ultimately to be repeated on their 25th Anniversary.
Upon their return they were located in Austin during that session of the Texas legislature, but their home would be in Port Arthur.
Shivers continued his political career through the ranks to become the 37th Governor of Texas, 1949-1957.
There is more to the Shary to Shivers wedding story to be told with the gift registry and other photographs on permanent display in the Marialice Shivers Room.
Allan Shivers grew up in Woodville. He and Mrs. Shivers purchased the R.A. Cruse home and had it moved to the current location to be opened as the Allan Shivers Library and Museum in 1966 as a gift to Tyler County.
The Allan Shivers Library and Museum is open for self-guided tours with a variety of options; signage, QR codes, and/or audio listening devices. An elevator is available for physically challenged visitors. The museum is open Tuesday-Fridays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
