Mason, Texas - Fred Gipson and Old Yeller

Fred Gipson was born in 1908 on a farm near Mason. After several years of ranching, he enrolled in the University of Texas in 1933. While at UT, he wrote for the school paper, the Daily Texan. He left school before graduating to become a journalist. in the 40s he began writing Western fiction. He published several books before publishing Old Yeller in 1956. The book was made into a Walt Disney movie in 1957, and has become a part of modern popular culture.

Old Yeller is the story of Travis Coates, a young boy left in charge of the family ranch while his father is away. Old Yeller is an adopted dog who helps protect the family and the ranch.

Gipson later wrote a sequel, Savage Sam, based on the experiences of Hermann Lehmann. It was also made into a Disney movie.

Gipson died at his ranch near Mason in1973, and by a special proclamation of the governor was buried in the State Cemetery in Austin.

A statue of a boy and his dog by Garland A. Weeks stands in front of the Mason Library.