The purpose of this study is to trace the role of music and music education in Abilene, Texas, from 1881 to 1911. The research presents historical data relative to five categories: Educational music, cultural music, religious music, music of the vernacular, and music merchandising. The study utilizes personal interviews, newspaper files, city directories, local histories, photographs, city and county documents, school documents, minutes of public school board meetings, minutes of meetings of churches, school catalogues, articles in journals, unpublished works, and published books.

This investigation into local government and politics surrounding the liquor question significantly unveils the turmoil within a community over an issue of intense interest, It illustrates how a gap in legislation enabled subversion of incorporation laws and violation of the majority will by a small but determined group. The pressures and tactics used by both opposing interests in this crisis reveal misuse of the law, possible pay-offs, secret meetings of public bodies, and other illicit occurrences. More importantly, it demonstrates the respect well-meaning citizens have for established law and order. Both sides fought hard for their interests and beliefs, but when appeals had been made to the highest authority, and the ultimate decision had been rendered, then all adherents accepted the reality of the situation, and co-exist on increasingly friendly terms.