O. Henry (William Sydney Porter, 1862-1910)

In American Literature O Henry is known as the Master of Short Stories. O Henry lived in Austin Texas from 1893 to 1895 and left Texas in 1897. While in Austin he worked at many different occupations that eventually he would use as material for his short stories. His first nationally published short story was "The Miracle of lava Canyon" which he wrote and published before leaving Texas. some of his Occupations while in Austin included a pharmacist, draftsman, bank teller, and journalist. Other occupation's while in Texas included Shepard, Ranch Hand, Cook and Baby sitter.

It's while working as bank teller that he ran afoul of the law and was accused of embezzlement. Federal charges were filed against him and before appearing at trial he absconded away to New Orleans and finally to Honduras. While there he coined the term "Banana Republic." Also while there he learned his beloved wife was dying of Tuberculosis thus he returned to Austin. Almost Immediately after her death probably suffering from depression he had little to say on his defense and was sentenced to 5 years in Prison. He was sent to the state penitentiary in Columbus Ohio.

The Austin home O Henry lived in has been turned into a Museum. It is located at: 409 East 5th street and is open from 12 noon until 5 in the afternoon Wed. thru Sun.

Every spring since 1978 Punsters from across America have gathered in Austin to compete in the annual O Henry Pun-off sponsored by the Museum. This years event will be held on May 19 it will be the 30th consecutive event.

• www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/ohenry.htm
• www.ci.austin.tx.us/library/ahc/ohpunoff.htm
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O._Henry
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wiiliam_Sidney_Porter_House
• www.Texas.gov/

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