Interviewer(s): J. Piekielek. Houma, LA

Affiliation: University of Arizona

Jim Sell had interviewed Ed Henry on an earlier trip to Houma and suggested that I get in touch with Merian to see if she might be willing to do an interview as well. I called the Henrys and after clarifying that I wanted to talk with Merian, she agreed to do an interview. They have a home in Summerfield, on the west side of Houma, in a quiet neighborhood. Although I had explained to Merian and Ed both that I was interested in Merian's perspective, Ed stayed for the interview and contributed as well. Merian prefaced her interview by saying that she didn't really know much about the oil field, because Ed rarely talked about work while he was home. She said that only recently has she learned more about Ed's job and experiences since he has begun telling stories to his grandchildren.

Merian Henry was born in New Orleans, then moved to Houma as a child. She married Ed Henry who worked for Texaco. Merian received her bachelor's degree in 1958, as part of the first class to receive a four year degree from Nicholls State University. She taught seventh and eighth grade for 30 years, first at the Dulac Indian School, then at Bourg Elementary, and finally in Houma.