Minnie Baker Shadgett (1871-1932) was the model for the character of MYRT BANNON in the novel DEVIL MAKE THIRD. (a "brag mule" is a large specimen that can act as the leader of a mule team. clipping from the September 10, 1932 DOTHAN EAGLE)

page 50 and 51 of DEVIL MAKE A THIRD:

Buck leaned forward and his eyes had an eager light in them. "Mother's havin' to work like a brag mule, feedin' everybody on this place." His father shook his head again.

"We made out with less," he said, stubbornly. "Reckon she can do it with the girls' help."

Buck slapped his hand on his knee, then held up two fingers.

"Myrt and Nance," he said, "both got married as soon as somebody found out they could cook. The others ain't no help now, and if they learn, the same thing will happen." He leaned closer. "Can't you see, Papa, how Mother is fadin'? Hell, she can't stay over a stove till she dies. Get her out of it, bring her to Aven..."