Texas State A.A. Celebration — Dallas, Texas — June 28–July 1, 1973
Offered here is an original program flyer for the 28th Texas State A.A. Celebration, held June 28, 29, 30, and July 1, 1973 at the Statler-Hilton Hotel in Dallas, Texas.
This colorful piece of Alcoholics Anonymous convention ephemera captures a large regional gathering during a period when A.A. had already grown into an established international fellowship, yet still retained many of the personalities and traditions closely connected to its earlier generations.
One of the most notable features appears stamped prominently at the top:
“IMPORTANT LATE BULLETIN!!! LOIS W. (OUR CO-FOUNDER’S WIFE) WILL BE WITH US ALL 4 DAYS!”
Lois Wilson’s presence gives this piece added historical interest. As the wife of A.A. co-founder Bill Wilson and co-founder of Al-Anon Family Groups, Lois remained an important and widely recognized figure throughout the recovery community.
A Four-Day Texas A.A. Gathering
The flyer lays out the full schedule of events across the four-day celebration.
Thursday opened with an Early Bird Jamboree, entertainment, and fellowship.
Friday included speakers from A.A. groups throughout Texas and other states, a presentation of “The 12 Steps Story,” and an evening session featuring Norm A. of Hollywood, California, promoted on the flyer as “one of the greatest A.A. speakers.”
Saturday featured nationally known speakers, a banquet and dance, entertainment, and Jack B. of Hollywood, California, billed as the special banquet speaker and “Queen For A Day.”
Sunday concluded with a delegates breakfast and a Closing Spiritual Farewell led by Father Ed M. of Boston College, with the theme “A Fine Analysis of Spirituality.”
The program also advertises special Alkie, Al-Anon, and Alateen programs, reflecting the broad recovery community gathered around the convention.
Issue Details
Event: 28th Texas State A.A. Celebration
Dates: June 28–29–30 and July 1, 1973
Location: Dallas, Texas
Venue: Statler-Hilton Hotel
Format: Original printed convention flyer / program
Featured Guest: Lois W.
Additional Speakers: Norm A., Jack B., Father Ed M., and speakers from A.A. groups throughout Texas and beyond
The bold red-and-blue design incorporates a stylized Dallas skyline, a large “28th” anniversary graphic, and the complete four-day schedule.
Condition
This original flyer remains in very good condition overall.
The front retains strong color and clear printing, with light age toning, scattered surface marks, minor edge and corner wear, and a few small areas of spotting. There is a horizontal fold through the middle, consistent with the piece having originally been folded for storage or distribution.
The reverse is blank and shows corresponding toning, light handling wear, minor staining, and the original fold line.
There are no major losses affecting the printed program, and the entire schedule remains clear and readable.
Please review all photographs carefully for a complete understanding of the condition and appearance.
A visually striking piece of 1970s Alcoholics Anonymous convention history, made especially collectible by the prominent announcement of Lois Wilson’s attendance for all four days of the celebration.
