The Grape Man of Texas

Learn the story of T.V. Munson, the Grape Man of Texas, from Sherrie McLeRoy.
During the nineteenth century, a scourge erupted in Europe that decimated the wine and grape industry. Farmers destroyed their vineyards all over Europe in a desperate attempt to protect the next year’s crops. In France, over 70% of the vines were dead.
A resident of Denison, Texas, T. V. Munson was a recognized expert in native American grape species, and the French government requested his assistance. He developed an insect- and fungus-resistant rootstock from native Texas grapes. Cuttings were shipped to France and grafted onto French vines. The hardy Texas grapevines thrived in the French soil and saved the vineyards of France.
The French government sent a delegation to Denison to present T.V. the “French Legion of Honor” in 1888. In France, monuments were erected in his honor. The Honorable Ben Munson declared, “I am proud that the highest honor that is bestowed by the French government was awarded to a Texan and family member.”
Sherrie McElvoy is the co-author of "Grape Man of Texas: The Life and Times of T.V. Munson" and author of "Texas Adoption Activist Edna Gladney: A Life & Legacy of Love."

[@bobbie9141]

What a delight to find this video. T.V. Munson was my great, great grandfather.

[@caseykirk9378]

Hey thanks so much!

[@willholmes7032]

I would like to see a video on the grapes themselves as I have five of the variety growing in my vineyard here in Northwest Florida. I am interested in the other possible varities and their potential.

[@FrogRogers]

I see some of the virtues are still available, but I haven't seen a site that has all of them. Mostly just 4 to 6 of the same ones. is there a place to find the Munson hybrids? thanks