I always enjoy walking through Zilker Park. Right by Barton Springs there is a statue called Philosopher’s Rock that I just love! What a wonderful local attraction. The first time I noticed it, I was taken with the laid back way these three men were deep in conversation and knew I had to learn more about them. To me time stood still with their smiles and obvious enjoyment of each other’s company.
Walter Prescott Webb, a historian and J. Frank Dobie, a folklorist and author are two of the men depicted and are buried at the Texas State Cemetery. The third man was Roy Bedichek, a naturalist. They were all known as the preeminent intellectuals in the city and arguably the state when they were in their heyday.
What an unlikely group to be friends but they conversed and debated everything from literature to philosophy. When the weather was warm they moved their pow- wow sessions to Barton Springs (Bedichek and Dobie often swimming in Barton 
Springs while Webb rolled up his pant legs). Webb was reserved, Dobie pretentious and confrontational and Bedichek was a thoughtful and warm individual. Can you only imagine the good-natured discussions on the meaning of life or somesuch? The statue captures the essence of their friendships and their free spirit of intellectualism. It’s a philosophy that clings to Austin today and may be one of the reasons our city is like a magnet for new innovative companies who are “feeling “ the vibe and want to be a part of it!
Are you planning on visiting Austin? I know you will love our city so if you are thinking of making Austin home, Let’s talk!
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