Author and former Richardson resident Anne Rice wrote to the Richardson Echo recently. She is best known for her Vampire Chronicles series. From that series her novel Interview with the Vampire has been the most popular and was made into a movie starring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. We wrote to her when we were researching our article on rennovations in the Heights area because there were rumors she lived there. Her response is very enlightening about those times in Richardson.

Here is her response to us:

Andrew,

I'm glad they remember me in Richardson. I lived there from 1958-1959 before going up to Denton to TWU and later North Texas. I lived on Rorary Drive, off Dorothy Drive. My father bought the house with the G.I. bill as he had served in WWII. It was a small brand new house and he loved it. He lived there, working in his garage workshop on his woodwork and carvings up until about 1990, and I think was much beloved on the block, especially by younger people who visit him in his open and lighted work space. The house was sold some time after his death.

I went to Richardson High when it was one building on Abrams Road. I had a truly wonderful experience there, with very polite and helpful teachers and wonderful friends, some of the best ever. Later on my younger sisters went to different Richardson High campuses, larger ones I think.

I worked at Skillern's Drugstore for a long time, full time, on top of going to high school. Pay was 75 cents an hour -- below minimum wage.

I loved the newness of Richardson, and I loved that the kids I met came from all over America -- their parents drawn there for various jobs. Collins Radio and Texas Instruments were the big employers.

There was one Drive In movie to which we went; and I think maybe only one little old fashioned drugstore. I loved journalism class at Richardson High and fell in love with my future husband, Stan Rice, in that class. There was lots of open country all around between us and Garland, Plano, and McKinney. I went on to spend a very happy year and summer session at Texas Woman's University.

Life was good there at that time. Very good. My youngest sister still lives in Arlington, and another sister frequently stays in Dallas. My husband's people live in Dallas.

I hope this info helps you and gives you what you need. I remember those times as such wondrous and good times. Take care and love to all in Richardson. By the way I have been back many a time for big book signings.... I met one of my old boy friends there, Tommy Combs. I think he still lives in Richardson.

Love to all,
Anne Rice
Rancho Mirage, California.