The bizarre tale of completely made up stories about one of Austin’s oldest trees — and an even more bizarre tale that’s completely true.
Episodes
June 5, 2025
Who was Austin’s first female lifeguard?
Laurel Seymour’s grandmother, Binnie Ruth Seymour, says she was the first woman to become a city lifeguard in Austin. Audrey McGlinchy looks at the record to see if Grandma Binnie is telling the truth.
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June 2, 2025
Who is the 94 year-old Texan who calls every state lawmaker?
94 year-old Reta Ward has been calling all the Texas state lawmakers for decades to weigh in on everything from water policy to school vouchers. One Capitol staffer wanted to know more about her.
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May 22, 2025
What’s the history of segregation at Barton Springs Pool?
Austin’s crown jewel has bought people together from all walks of life to enjoy a day in the sun. But before 1962, that wasn’t the case.
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May 8, 2025
Is it safe to live near an old East Austin ‘Tank Farm’?
Decades ago, there were dozens of huge fuel storage tanks in East Austin — in some cases right next to homes, schools and businesses. These days, the whole thing is seen as a case of textbook environmental racism. But one East Austin resident wanted to know: what still lurks in the soil long after the […]
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April 24, 2025
Why are there so many of the same kind of bars on Sixth Street?
Sixth Street is known for being party central, but it’s actually one of the most historic areas of the city.
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April 10, 2025
Why are there so many ‘Violet Crowns’ in Austin?
Violet Crown this. Violet Crown that. What’s the deal with this name for so many Austin things?
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March 27, 2025
Who has the oldest friendship in Austin?
This is a tough one. But we do our best, and maybe learn a little something about friendship along the way.
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March 13, 2025
How long have movies and TV shows been filmed in Austin?
We’re back with a new season of stories about Austin’s people, places and culture. As SXSW rolls through Austin this week, we answer a question from Sarah Dixon about the history of films and filmmaking in Austin.
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