Margaret Dunn interview with Paula Thomas and Ann Thomas Stepka

The John Burrison Georgia Folklore Archive recordings contains unedited versions of all interviews. Some material may contain descriptions of violence, offensive language, or negative stereotypes reflecting the culture or language of a particular period or place. There are instances of racist language and description, particularly in regards to African Americans. These items are presented as part of the historical record. This project is a repository for the stories, accounts, and memories of those who chose to share their experiences for educational purposes. The viewpoints expressed in this project do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of the Atlanta History Center or any of its officers, agents, employees, or volunteers. The Atlanta History Center makes no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in the interviews and expressly disclaims any liability therefore. If you believe you are the copyright holder of any of the content published in this collection and do not want it publicly available, please contact the Kenan Research Center at the Atlanta History Center at 404-814-4040 or reference@atlantahistorycenter.com. Note: The audio for this recording is available upon request. This collection begins with 12-year-old Paula Thomas telling stories other children she knows in Rathfarnham, Ireland, including a story about a boys confirmation and other stories related to Christianity. At 1:17, Paulas sister, Ann Thomas, tells humorous stories about moving furniture and food in the military. At 1:48, Paula and Ann talk about Irish legends, including leprechauns and banshees, and burial customs. Then at 6:45, Paula and Ann sing Irish ballads, including Paddy the Peddler, Kevin Barry, If Youre Irish (Come Into the Parlor), and Bunch of Violets Blue. From 13:17 on, there is silence or inaudible dialogue. Ann and Paula Thomas are sisters who lived in Rathfarnham, Ireland. Ann immigrated to the United States in 1960. Additional biographical information about Ann and Paula Thomas has not been determined. A PDF transcript exists for this recording. Please contact an archivist for access. As archivists, we acknowledge our role as stewards of information, which places us in a position to choose how individuals and organizations are represented and described in our archives. We are not neutral, and bias is reflected in our descriptions, which may not convey the racist or offensive aspects of collection materials accurately. Archivists make mistakes and might use poor judgment. We often re-use language used by the former owners and creators, which provides context but also includes bias and prejudices of the time it was created. Additionally, our work to use reparative language where Library of Congress subject terms are inaccurate and obsolete is ongoing. Kenan Research Center welcomes feedback and questions regarding our archival descriptions. If you encounter harmful, offensive, or insensitive terminology or description please let us know by emailing reference@atlantahistorycenter.com. Your comments are essential to our work to create inclusive and thoughtful description.