Darren's Celebrity Drawings

David Stoliar- Only Survivor of the Struma Sinking

2011-05-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

I had never heard of the "Struma" or of David Stoliar until a few months ago. The Struma was a ship carrying over 700 Romanian Jews from Axis-controlled Romania to British-controlled Palestine (Israel) in 1941-1942. The engine gave out in the Black Sea, and the ship sat at Istanbul while Turkish and British politicians tried to work out an agreement regarding the fate of the passengers. The British did not want such a large number of Jews to enter Palestine, and the Turks refused to let the passengers off the ship. An agreement could not be reached, and finally the Turkish government had the ship towed into the Black Sea and cast adrift. The night of February 24, 1942, a Russian sub mistook the Struma for a Nazi cargo ship and torpedoed it. 768 men, women, and children died that night, and only 18 year old David Stoliar survived.

David has spent his life keeping the memory of those who perished on that night alive. Were it not for his survival and his devotion to the memory of the victims, this tragic event might be a forgotten foot-note, buried on the back pages of seldom read history books.

Remembering Frank Buckles, America's Last Veteran of World War I

2011-03-16T13:57:00.001-07:00

Frank Woodruff Buckles lied about his age and joined the Army at the age of 16, serving at the Front as an ambulance driver. That was in 1917, over 93 years ago. Of all the "Doughboys" who answered the call to fight, fate would have it that Frank Buckles would be the last. The last few years of his life were spent as the representative of all of those who had passed before him- he more than willingly took on this role. He passed away shortly after turning 110 years old, and was laid to rest yesterday in Arlington National Cemetery.

His flag-draped casket lay in repose in the Chapel beneath the stage of the Memorial Amphitheater in Arlington, directly behind the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. An "Old Guard" soldier kept constant vigil as people from all walks of life passed by to pay their respects. As I stood outside waiting for the funeral service later, his daughter and other relatives walked past me as they made their way to the Chapel.

Military personnel and other security people soon cleared the area even further, and as I waited with others across the street a big motorcade showed up and parked nearby. The final two mourners, The President and Vice-President, had arrived to pay their respects to the Buckles family. In the pictures here, President Obama is obscured by the spear point being held by a Native American veteran, but Vice-President Biden is directly next to it.

A U.S. Army band marched to the front of the Amphitheater, followed by "The Old Guard" and a military cassion. The casket was brought out and placed upon the cassion for its final journey. As the horses pulled away, the band played "Over There" for Frank Buckles one last time. Myself and the others present were allowed to walk behind it to the grave site. I couldn't see or hear much of the graveside service, as there was a rather large crowd present. A group of Patriot Guard Riders (they shield the funerals of servicemen and women from protesters) stood in formation a short distance away.

Many people (myself included) thought Frank Buckles deserved to lie in state under the dome of the Capitol Building. That was not to be, but what was done for him was truly fitting, and I think he would have been pleased nonetheless. To me the most poignant moment was when the Cassion carried Frank Buckles and the memory of all of the Veterans of World War I on their final journey to the tune of "Over There," with military men and women and everyday citizens looking on, their hands over their hearts and saluting.

Rest in Peace Corporal Frank Woodruff Buckles February 1, 1901 - February 27, 2011

Robert Maxwell, WWII Medal of Honor Recipient

2011-03-09T12:33:00.001-08:00

Robert D. Maxwell recently turned 90 years old, but in fact he selflessly gave his life on September 7, 1944 in a farmhouse in Southern France. An American Command Post had been set up in the house, and Maxwell was standing guard that evening. The Germans opened fire and he could see them advancing, trying to launch grenades at the house to kill the American Officers inside. Maxwell and three other soldiers tried to defend themselves armed only with pistols, and finally one of the grenades managed to clear the fence that had been set up around the house, landing just outside the doorway. Maxwell ran over to toss it away, but there wasn't enough time. Thinking only of saving his comerades, he threw himself on the grenade, his body absorbing the blast. Although permanently injured, somehow Maxwell survived. He received our Nation's highest military honor on May 12, 1945. He is one of only 16 Medal of Honor recipients from World War II still living.

Barbara Kent, the Last Silent Film Star

2011-03-01T16:22:00.001-08:00

Barbara Kent, at age 104, is thought to be the only living person who had starring roles (as an adult) in Silent films. She began her film career in 1925, and made her last picture in 1935. One of her most notable films was "Flesh and the Devil" where she played the heroine opposite Greta Garbo. She retreated from public life following her film career, and in the nearly 80 years since she has apparently never granted an interview, and has been extremely private. I've read that for the most part she does not even acknowledge her film career, and neighbors simply know her as an elderly neighbor. She has been so private that many times people do not realize that she is still living, especially due to her advanced age.
I can't say how I obtained her address, but when I wrote to her I told her I would not give it out or make it known, and I only briefly mentioned her film career. I didn't really expect to get this back at all, but for some reason she decided to grant my request for an autograph. I'm pretty thrilled that she apparently made an exception in my case!

Jonathan Brandis- Tragic Child Star

2011-02-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

My sister used to be in love with Jonathan Brandis. I drew this picture of him, explaining how my sister liked watching him on the show "SeaQuest DSV" and asked if he could autograph it so I could give it to her for her Birthday (it was 1995, and she was turning 10). A few weeks later I got it backed signed. From what I read, despite getting volumes of fan mail, he would actually reply to fans who wrote to him. He had appeared in films and television since the age of 9.

Fast forward 8 years later, November 11, 2003- Depressed, subject to bouts of heavy drinking, his acting career in a slump; 27 year old Jonathan Brandis decided he couldn't handle his life anymore and hung himself .

Ricou Browning- The Gill Man

2011-02-04T15:53:00.000-08:00

Ricou Browning has been involved in many films over the last 55 years, but the one that everyone knows him from is the 1954 Sci-Fi classic The Creature From the Black Lagoon. Actor Ben Chapman played the Gill-Man in the on land scenes, but the under-water scenes had Ricou wearing the creature outfit.

When I sent this I didn't know what he actually looked like, so I asked if he could give me a photo of himself. He sent the one pictured, ona break from filming. He wrote me a letter thanking me for the picture, and stated about the photo he sent: "The picture was taken many many years ago but I'm still a handsome Devil!"

Sadie Delany, Had Her Say at Age 103

2011-01-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

Sadie Delany and her younger sister Bessie never let racism stop them from acheiving their goals. Born the daughters of a slave, Sadie became the first black person allowed to teach domestic High School Science in New York City. Her sister Bessie was the second black woman licensed to practice dentistry in New York State. The two never married, and lived together for decades. In 1991 they became famous with the publication of the book "Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters First 100 Years." At the time of publication, Bessie was 101 and Sadie was 103. Sadie passed away in January 1999 at age 109. She signed this for me in May of 1998. The actual author of their book Amy Hill Hearth also signed it. I'm still surprised that at ge 108, her handwriting was much better even than mine!

Dick Clark- American Bandstand

2011-01-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

Dick Clark made a name for himself as the longtime host of American Bandstand, a show which served as the launching point of countless of iconic Rock and Roll artists. Many classic performances were recorded on his show, and Bandstand was THE place to be if you wanted to check out all the latest dance crazes as well. He continues to appear on his famous New Year's Eve program, despite suffering obvious physical setbacks due to a stroke several years ago. My dad met him once at an American bandstand restaurant that used to be near by- He had Clark autograph his Bandstand Yearbook from 1955, when it was still a local Philadelphia program. Despite his celebrity status, he still made himself accessable to his fans- something that isn't common with today's "big" names.

Bill Erwin- Veteran Character Actor

2011-01-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

Notable people who pass away in the last days of December always get overlooked in all the year-end "Celebrity Memorial Tributes" you see on TV etc. Bill Erwin passed away Dec. 29, 2010, and as I expected, I saw barely a mention of it.

Erwin had just turned 96 earlier in the month, and had been acting up until 4 years ago. He is probably the only actor who appeared on television from 1948 through 2006 continuously. One of his memorable film roles was in the film "Somewhere in Time" starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, and he is widely remembered for a guest role on Seinfeld where he plays a cantankerous old man who Jerry is visiting as part of a Foster Grandparent program. He was always grateful and appreciative towards his fans, and will be missed!

Slim Whitman- America's Most Under-rated Singer

2010-08-10T06:38:00.001-07:00

Slim Whitman began his singing career in 1948, following his service in the Navy during WWII. He made a name for himself in a career that spanned the next 50 years, many times infusing his talent for yodeling. He never sang of bars and unfaithful lovers as many Country singers have, vowing not to record any song he wouldn't be ashamed to sing in church. He has sold over 100 million records during his career.
He and his wife were married when he was 17 and she was 15. No one thought the marriage would last since they were so young, but it lasted 67 years until her passing several years ago. She accompanied him on his many tours, and his fans always held her in high regard.
Michael Jackson listed Slim as one of his top-ten favorite singers, but he was always more popular in England and Europe than in America. His song "Rose Marie" held the record for longest #1 song on the U.K. charts for nearly 40 years. Elvis Presley's first professional gig was as the opening act for Slim Whitman, and comedian Andy Kauffman, a big fan, paid tribute by singing "Rose Marie" on David Letterman's show in the 1980's. One of his songs, "Indian Love Call" was even used in the film "Mars Attacks" -it was the only thing that could kill the Martians (his high pitched falsettos in the song caused the martian's heads to explode!).
In recent years Slim has retired from touring, although apparently he still sings in his church on occasion. He is still going strong at age 86, still living in the Florida home he and his wife moved into in 1955. He is a true American icon.

Nancy Wake, "The White Mouse"

2010-07-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

Nancy Wake was born in New Zealand, but moved to France shortly before World War II after marrying a French businessman. She joined the French Resistance against the Nazis in 1940. She acted as a courier and also manned escape routes, helping save the lives of hundreds of allied servicemen. So adept was she at eluding capture, the Gestapo dubbed her "The White Mouse." Wake was number 1 on the Gestapo's most wanted list, and they even placed a five-million price on her head. On one occasion she rode a bicycle about 500 kilometers in order to replace codes her wireless operator had been forced to destroy in a German raid. She risked her life every day, and her selfless actions helped save the lives of thousands of allied soldiers. As a result, she is the most decorated female servicewoman of WWII.

I sent this to her nearly five years ago when she was 93. No one else who had written to her had gotten a reply, but for some reason she signed this for me and sent it back.

Sarah Knauss, the World's Oldest Person

2010-05-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

Sarah Knauss was the second or third (documented) longest lived person ever. She was born in 1880 and passed away 30 hours before the year 2000 at over 119 years of age. Although nearly blind and deaf at the time, she was in good health and had not been ill at all before her death. At the time she was the only person alive who was born before 1885.

I sent this to her in 1998 when she was 117. Her daughter wrote me a note saying it was difficult to communicate with her, but they managed to have her sign it. Her daughter was 95 at the time, and ended up living to age 101 herself. I cannot even imagine being 95 years old, and one of my parents still being alive!

John Kenneth Galbraith Economist to Presidents

2010-05-07T09:57:00.000-07:00

John Kenneth Galbraith was one of the most well-known economists of the 20th Century. He served in the Administrations of Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Kennedy, and Johnson; and also served as Ambassador to India under Kennedy. He was in charge of the Office of Price Administration (OPA) during WWII, and under his leadership the US enjoyed rapid growth and price stability throughout the war. Without this work, the economy could have spiraled downward and kept us in a Depression.

Lord Denning, British Judge

2010-05-07T09:41:00.001-07:00

Lord Denning was a veteran of World War I, but made his mark in life as a Judge. He was seen as a Judge for the common man, and many of his decisions ran counter to the law at the time. Some of his decisions were overturned on appeal, but others were confirmed by Parliament and became new laws. At the time of his death in 1999 at age 100, it was said he was the best loved and most well-known Judge in Britain's history.

His assistant wrote me a note explaining that Denning's health was poor and he was nearly blind so the signature was not his usual one, but as he himself put it in front of him to sign, it was genuine.

Roy Rogers- King of the Cowboys

2010-04-25T04:39:00.001-07:00

Roy Rogers was the "King of the Cowboys" long after his movie career had ended. His wardrobe was full of western attire, and he and his wife Dale Evans always looked as if they were ready to ride the trail into the sunset.

The day he died, my sister brough home a big Husky dog- She saw all the news reports, and so naturally named her new dog "Trigger."

Alberta Martin, the (almost) Last Confederate Widow

2010-04-25T04:33:00.001-07:00

For the last few years of her life, Mrs. Alberta Martin of Alabama was celebrated as the last living widow of a Confederate Soldier. She had married William Jasper Martin when she was 21 and he was in his 80's. It was common back then for young girls to marry aged War Veterans- When the old Vet passed away his pension was a steady source of income. After her husband passed away, she married his Grandson and was wed to him for over 50 years! Following her death, another woman came forward as a Confederate Widow, and her claim was indeed verified (she and her family were reluctant as they did not want publicity). Mrs. Martin had a friend write a letter, and sent along several photocopies of articles/ pictures all signed by her.

Peter O'Toole

2010-02-05T21:55:00.000-08:00

Lawrence of Arabia launched Peter O'Toole to stardom. He has been a fine actor of stage and film for over 50 years, and holds the distinction of receiving the most Academy Awards for acting without winning- Although he was given an honorary Oscar several years ago.

When I sent this it did't come back, and I thought it was a lost cause. It was well over a year when a wrinkled and battered envelope came in the mail from overseas, and I was quite surprised when i opened it and saw it was Peter O'Toole!

Jon Voight- Prolific Actor

2010-02-05T21:49:00.000-08:00

Jon Voight has become a Hollywood legend, acting in such classic films as "Deliverance" and "Midnight Cowboy" and more recently in the "National Treasure" films. I've seen him in a lot of films, but my favorite of his performances is as Eddie in "The Five People You Meet in Heaven." It's a wonderful film, and his acting is superb. If you haven't seen it, I suggest you do- It's a poignent story and it showcases Jon Voight at his finest.

Max Schmeling, German Boxing Champion

2010-02-05T21:38:00.001-08:00

Max Schmeling was the World Heavyweight Boxing Champion between 1930 and 1932, and was the Pride of Germany. His late 1930's bouts with Joe Louis are still talked and written about today. People called him a Nazi, but although he served in the German Luftwaffe, his hiding of two Jewish children on the night of Kristallnacht as well as other actions during the war prove otherwise. After the war he visited many wounded Americans and would hand out signed photos and talk with the boys.

He and Joe louis became friends, and in Louis's later life Schmeling helped pay medical bills and even helped pay for his funeral.

Stonewall Jackson

2010-02-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

Stonewall Jackson was named after the famous Confederate Civil War General of the same name. He has been performing on the Grand Ole Opry for over 50 years, beginning in 1956. He had a string of hits in the 1950's and 60's, most notably "Waterloo" and "Life to Go" and has stayed true to performing a genuine Country Music sound. Several years ago he sued the Grand Ole Opry for age discrimination, citing that the Opry's manager had stated that he didn't want any grey hairs on the stage or in the audience. The case was settled out of court and Jackson is still a regular Opry performer. It's really sad that he and his fellow long-time Opry members would even have to encounter such a thing. I guess there's too much money to be made in the crap that people call "Country Music" these days.

Paul Mellon, Philanthropist

2010-02-05T21:19:00.000-08:00

Paul Mellon was born into a life of wealth. His father was Andrew Mellon, the son of the founder of Mellon Bank. Throughout his 91 years he was involved in many things such as writing, banking, art collecting, horse breeding etc- Despite his wealth he did not ignore his Country's call to arms, and served in the US Army during World War II, receiving four Bronze Stars. He donated millions to his Alma Mater Yale University, and donated many rare and valuable works of art to the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC. He passed away less than a year after he signed this for me.

Kevin McCarthy

2010-01-11T21:32:00.001-08:00

Actor Kevin McCarthy's most well-known role is probably that of Dr. Miles Bennell in the original 1956 version of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." Fans of the 1989 film "UHF" starring Weird Al Yankovic will remember McCarthy as R.J. Fletcher, head of the rival netwark station. He has been seen in over 200 films and television programs in his 60+ year career,and is STILL acting at nearly 96 years old.

I mailed this to him in 1997, and received it back 3 1/2 years later. It was well worth the wait, as besides signing the drawing he also sent me about 8 signed photos from various films he was in.

Bill and Earl Bolick, The Blue Sky Boys

2010-01-11T21:19:00.001-08:00

Bill and Earl Bolick first performed on Radio in their native North Carolina in 1935. They were raised in Hickory NC, and grew up listening to the Hymns and Ballads sung throughout the region for generations. They recorded quite a number of songs throughout the 1930's and 40's, but by 1951 they had become so dissatisfied with the direction music was taking that they quit performing. They recorded albums a handfull of times in the 1960's and 70's, and even performed occasionally at Folk Festivals and on College Campuses, and in 1975 they made their last recordings. Earl passed away in 1998, and Bill in 2008 at age 90.
I wrote to Bill Bolick several times in the years before his passing, and he was always very appreciative that his music was still being enjoyed. He even gave me one of the old songbooks they published back in the 1940's, which are next to impossible to find anywhere.

Edmund Bacon, Philadelphia Icon, Father of Kevin

2010-01-11T21:07:00.000-08:00

Edmund Bacon did more to transform Philadelphia PA into the city it is today probably more than anyone. His efforts beginning in the 1940's and 50's turned former blighted areas into what are today upscale neighborhoods. He famously led an unsuccessful effort to keep skyscrapers from being built in Philadelphia (There had always been a "Gentleman's Agreement" not to build any buildings higher than the William Penn statue that rests upon the tower of City Hall). People not familiar with him surely know his son, Actor Kevin Bacon.

Dom DiMaggio "The Little Professor"

2010-01-11T20:58:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows "Joltin'" Joe Dimaggio, but his little brother Dominic is not the household name that Joe is. Dom's baseball career always seems to be overshadowed by that of his brother Joe, but his was just as impressive. His entire Major League career was spent with the Boston Red Sox, from 1940-1953. He passed away in 2009 at age 92, unfortunately not being inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame during his lifetime. Someday Dom....

Adriana Caselotti, the Voice of Snow White

2009-12-25T21:58:00.000-08:00

Snow White is one of the most beloved Disney films of all time. Adriana Caselotti is the woman who gave Snow White her voice. Walt Disney blacklisted her after the film was made, as he did not want her voice used in any other film. She can be heard, however, in The Wizard of Oz- During the Tin Man's Song "If I Only Had a Heart" she can be heard uttering the line "Wherefore art thou, Romeo?"

Later in life she sold autographs. She sent everything back unsigned, with a price list. I figured what the heck, she's 80, I may as well- so I sent her $60, her fee for signing both drawings. She signed both of them, and also sent me a nice note on Snow White stationary, and a signed photo for free! Sadly she passed away just two months later at age 80, so I was glad I ended up paying her to sign them.

Richie Ashburn, Philadelphia Phillies Icon

2009-12-25T21:47:00.000-08:00

Richie Ashburn was one of the most beloved Baseball Players on the Philadelphia Phillies. He played ball from 1948-1959, and served as a long-time Phillies announcer, calling games until the day he died.

It took over a year before I received this back signed by him. About two or three weeks after I got it back, he sadly passed away from a heart attack.

Joan Baez- "We Shall Overcome"

2009-12-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

Joan Baez is one of America's most well-known Folksingers. She has been performing for over 50 years, and is probably most remembered for her involvement in the Peace movements of the 1960's. She continues to speak out on behalf of those who are oppressed and has always been a voice for those who have no voice.

Herman Brix/ Bruce Bennett- "Tarzan"

2009-12-25T21:29:00.000-08:00

Herman Brix made a name for himself as an athlete, playing tackle in the 1926 Rose Bowl and winning the Silver Medal for Shot-Put in the 1928 Olympic Games. From there he went to Los Angeles, and starred as Tarzan in films made by the production company owned by Tarzan's author Edgar Rice Burroughs. It is said that his depiction of Tarzan was the most accurate one of the time. He soon changed his name to Bruce Bennett to avoid being type-cast as Tarzan, and acted in many films during the 1940's and 50's. He enjoyed sky-diving, and last jumped at the age of 96. He passed away at age 100 in 2007.

James Leavelle, Dallas Police Detective

2009-09-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

November 22, 1963 was the day President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. His (supposed) killer, Lee Harvey Oswald, was soon captured. Two days later, November 24th, Oswald was being led from the jail to be transferred to the County facility. Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby had posed as a reporter and was lurking in the hallway with members of the press. On live television, Ruby jumped out and shot Oswald, who later died.

Dallas Police Detective James Leavelle was hand-cuffed to Oswald on Oswald's right, and is very noticeable in the footage of the event as he is wearing a light colored suit and hat (everyone else is dressed in dark suits). He is the last man alive who was in the group escorting Oswald.

I drew this picture on the exact 33rd anniversary of Oswald's shooting.

Leavelle just happened to be present at another historical event, having been stationed on the U.S.S. Whitney in Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941.

Roy Rogers, King of the Cowboys

2009-09-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

Roy Rogers was an icon for millions of children all over America. His image was plastered on all sorts of toys and clothing all throughout the 1940's and 50's. He and his wife Dale Evans inspired every kid to be a cowboy when he/ she grew up. Before starring in hundreds of Western films, he was an accomplished singer in "The Sons of the Pioneers," one of the best known groups singing songs of the Old West.

Roy and Dale dressed in western attire for the remainder of their lives, living up to the image they portrayed on the screen decades earlier. This was one of the first pictures I ever sent out, and is a little rough as far as quality, but I was thrilled to get an autograph from the King of the Cowboys!

Frank Perdue, Chicken Man

2009-09-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Perdue Fams was founded in 1920, the same year Frank Perdue was born. He quit college to work for his father's company, over the ensuing decades turning into the first well-known brand of chicken in America. He appeared in many commercials for Perdue Chickens, saying "It takes a tough man to make a tender chicken."

I never actually met him, but years ago in the grocery store I worked at, Frank Perdue came in with several other "high ups" to check out the Perdue section in the meat dept. This was after he retired from leading his company, and I was surprised how frail he looked compared to the man I had seen on TV. Still it was a neat experience to actually see this American business visionary in person.

The Osborne Brothers

2009-09-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

Bobby and Sonny Osborne had been performing together for over 50 years until Sonny retired a few years ago. Bobby, the older of the two, continues to perform to this day. They had their biggest hit in 1967 with "Rocky Top," a song which the University of Tennessee has been playing at sporting events since the 1970's.

They were criticized in the 60's for adding electric instruments to their act, but by the 1990's they had returned to their roots. At that time they had one of the few traditional sounding groups still performing regularly on the Grand Ole Opry.

Leni Riefenstahl- German Film-Maker

2009-09-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

Leni Riefenstahl has been called the greatest female filmmaker of the 20th Century. Her most famous film, however, is "Triumph of the Will" -a documentary of the 1934 Nuremburg Congress of the Nazi Party. She was personal friends with Adolf Hitler and Josef Goebbels, but she always denied that she deliberately attempted to make pro-Nazi propaganda- despite the fact that her films were used as such. She was arrested after the War but was never convicted of any crimes. Her later photography work won much acclaim, and she was active in photography and filmmaking right up to her death in 2003 at the age of 101.

Ricou Browning- The Creature From the Black Lagoon

2009-09-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

Ricou Browning's most famous role is that of the creature in the 1950's Sci-Fi classic film "The Creature From the Black Lagoon." Browning played the creature in the under water sequences, while Ben Chapman did the land ones. He wrote me a letter as well and also sent a signed photo of himself out of the costume (I had asked what he actually looked like). He wrote that he's a bit older now than in the photo but "I'm still a handsome devil!"

Byron Nelson, Golfer

2009-09-03T17:45:00.000-07:00

Byron Nelson has been labeled by Golf Magazine as the 5th Greatest Golfer of all time. In 1945 he won 18 professional tournaments, 11 of those in a row- These two records still stand to this day. Those who knew him always said he had such a positive energy about him, which extended off the green as well. He retired at age 34, but remained active in Golf untill his passing at age 94 in 2006.

Sheldon Leonard "Nick the Bartender"

2009-09-03T17:18:00.000-07:00

Sheldon Leonard's thick Brooklyn accent and tough guy looks earned him many roles playing bad guys in films and television over several decades. He was also involved in television production (The Andy Griffith Show for one).

The role of his I always loved though was that of Nick the Bartender in "It's a Wonderful Life." In the first part of the film he was a jovial nice-guy bartender. When George sees how things are if he had never lived, he finds that Nick no longer has love for his fellow man, and runs a rowdy flop-house of a bar. The end of that scene shows him laughing and opening the cash register again and again to make the bell ring "Get me- I'm givin' out wings!"

I sent this to him not long after I found out he was still alive, and was thrilled to get it back. Unfortunately passed away about a year later at age 89.

Peter Paul and Mary

2009-08-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

Peter Paul and Mary are one of the most beloved Folk Music groups in America. They've been singing together for nearly 50 years, despite some serious health concerns for Mary Travers. Their songs like "Puff the Magic Dragon" and "The Times They Are a Changin'" have become standards, and will continue to be listened to long after they are gone. I mailed this to Paul Stookey and asked if he could have Peter and mary sign it whenever he got together with them again- It was quite a while before I got this back, but I was thrilled when I saw all three signatures on it. It's one of my favorites.

Pete Gray, One-Armed Baseball Player

2009-07-23T22:26:00.001-07:00

Pete Gray lost his arm in a childhood accident. He didn't lose his interest in Baseball, and learned to catch and hit with the one arm he had left. He was quite exceptional in the minor leagues, and in 1945 the St. Louis Browns purchased his contract, making him the only one-armed player in the major leagues. His big league career ended on V-J Day, when the players who were serving in the War returned home. I remember watching a TV movie about him when I was a kid, and was surprised when I found out he was still alive and still lived in his hometown of Nanticoke, PA. He even wrote a note on the return envelope thanking me for the picture.

Billy Rogell, Detroit Tigers Shortstop

2009-07-23T22:09:00.001-07:00

Bill Rogell, at the time of his death at age 98 in 2003, was one of the last living links to Baseball in the 1920's. His career began in 1925 and ended in 1940. He was on the Pennant Winning Detroit Tigers in 1935. The Tigers won a trip to the World Series in 1934 as well, but lost. During game 4 of the series, Rogell was throwing the ball to first base to make a triple play, and hit Dizzy Dean square on the head! He later remarked that if he knew Dean's head was there, he would have threw the ball harder! He threw out the first pitch at the final game in Tiger Stadium, nearly 70 years after playing his first game there.

When i wrote to him I asked what he thought of Baseball today. He wrote back that "There are too many big league clubs. The good players are spread out too much..." He stated that he only watched Little League games.

John Hurt "The Elephant Man"

2009-07-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

British actor John Hurt has been giving memorable performances in films for over 45 years. My favorite of his many roles I have seen, however, is that of John Merrick, The Elephant Man. Hurt's skill as an actor is flawless in this role, and is a beautiful tribute to the sad case of Merrick. I think the real David Merrick would have appreciated Hurt's portrayal of him.

Russell Means, American Indian Activist and Actor

2009-07-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

Russell Means has been called the most famous American Indian since Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. He has been active in drawing attention to the plight of America's native peoples for decades, and has made a few memorable film appearances along the way. He was one of the activists who occupied Alcatraz for 19 months, and was involved in several other prominant takeovers, including the occupation of Wounded Knee in 1973. He gave a wonderful performance in "Last of the Mohicans" as Chingachgook.

Kurt Waldheim, U.N. Secretary-General

2009-07-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kurt Waldheim served as the Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1972-1982. During this time and afterwards, he worked to find peaceful solutions to International issues. His career was tarnished by claims that he had committed war crimes during his service in WWII, but he always denied this. Even his superior stated that Waldheim had mainly been "confined to a desk." In addition to signing the picture, he also included his signed business card.

Wade Mainer

2009-06-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Wade Mainer first recorded music in 1936 when he was 29 years old. Today he is still living at age 102, and still performs occasionally. He picks the banjo in an old-time style and performs songs that if you close your eyes you'll think you're back in the hills of North Carolina 100 years ago. His wife Julia, who was known in the 30's as "Hillbilly Lilly" is 90 and has been accompanying him for decades.

The picture on the top shows him in the 1930's (he's at the bottom) when he was in his brother's band "J.E. Mainer's Mountaineers." The one on the bottom shows him and his wife when they were performing at "Uncle Dave Macon Days" in Tennessee in 2002 when he was 95 years old.

James Stewart, Had a Wonderful Life

2009-06-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Stewart was one of the most successful and respected actors in Hollywood. He was a natural at playing the "Little man" - the regular "Joe" who despite things being stacked against him, comes out ahead in the end. "It's a Wonderful Life" is one of his best known films.

When his wife passed away in the 1990's, Jimmy became very depressed. He did not come out in public much after that, and stopped answering fan mail. His hometown of Indiana, PA opened The Jimmy Stewart Museum in the late 1990's. My dad went out there for the day and ended up helping out with some of the festivities. He took my drawing out there with him. Jimmy declined the invitation to attend due to his health, but his two daughters were there. My dad spent some time talking to them, and told them how much he and I both loved their dad's films. He gave the drawing to them to take home with them, and they told him they'd have their dad sign it for me. Sure enough, a few weeks later it came back with his autograph. I can't thank his daughters enough for their kindness, knowing that he was not in good health at the time.

Millvina Dean, the Last Titanic Survivor

2009-06-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Millvina Dean had the distinction of being the youngest survivor of the Sinking of the Titanic. She also ended up being the last. She passed away the other day at age 97, on the anniversary of the date the ship was launched in Belfast.

She was thrust into the limelight in the last 10 years of her life, as she was the only remaining survivor who was willing to talk about the disaster. She would spend hours every day answering letters that poured in from people all over the world. I wrote to her several times in the late 1990's, and she always replied and several times even wrote me letters back.

This drawing was done from a photo taken a few years after the disaster. Millvina's father was lost in the sinking, and you can see the pain of his loss on the faces of his family.

Arnold Palmer

2009-04-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

Arnold Palmer is one of the greatest Golfers in the history of the game. Despite his fame, he is still the same man who grew up in Western Pennsylvania 70+ years ago. He lives in Florida now but lived around Latrobe PA most of his life. His accomplishments on the course speak for themselves.

Eddie Dean- Singing Cowboy

2009-04-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

Eddie Dean was born the 7th son of a 7th son of a 7th son- That must have been a lucky thing, as he enjoyed a long life and a long and successful career as an actor and singer. When he died in 1999 at the age of 91, he had been singing professionally for 80 years. He continued to perform and record long after he retired from acting, and many of his fans commented he sounded even better in his old age!

He was very cordial in his response- writing "Thanks a lot! A good friend and good likeness when I was young." Ironically, I drew this picture exactly two years to the day before he passed away.

Gregory Peck- Captain Ahab

2009-04-23T21:27:00.001-07:00

Gregory Peck was one of the all-time great American Film actors. He is probably best remembered for his role as Atticus Finch in "To Kill A Mockingbird" but I always loved the film "Moby Dick" and his role as Captain Ahab. Even in his later films, he still brought a commanding presence to the screen. His final film role was as Father Mapple in a re-make of Moby Dick- a fitting end to an illustrious career.

Edward J. Smith, Captain of R.M.S. Titanic

2009-04-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Ok so it's not a drawing, but definitely one of my most prized items.

Nearly 100 years ago, the largest and most luxurious ship in the world struck an iceberg on her maiden voyage and sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. This was to be the final voyage for Edward J. Smith, Captain of the Titanic- After reaching New York, he would return to England and retire.

Some people have blamed Capt. Smith for the sinking of Titanic- claiming he ignored ice warnings and was going to fast- some even claiming he was drinking. The blame does not lie with him, or with any one person- there are countless "what-ifs" -any one of which would have created a different outcome. Capt. Smith's decision to keep the water tight doors closed saved many lives- Had he opened them in order to let the ship sink evenly, it would have rolled and prevented the launching of many of the life boats.

This Happy New Year card was sent in about 1910 to "Maurice," a friend of his- perhaps a fellow ship's Captain. He signed his distinctive "E J Smith" at the bottom of the card. I get chills every time I think that about 100 years ago, this very card was in his hands- he touched it- read it- His eyes looked upon it just as mine do now.

John Parkinson- Witness to RMS Titanic

2009-04-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

When John Parkinson was 5 years old, he watched Titanic sail away from the Harland and Wolff Shipyard in Belfast Ireland. His father had spent three years helping to build her, and took his son down to the docks to watch her depart. 90 years later he remembered it like it was yesterday- He could still recall the throngs of people waving good-bye to her. It would have been un-imaginable to any of them that they would never see the ship again. Titanic sank on her maiden voyage in 1912. John's father broke down and cried when he heard the news- as did nearly everyone else in Belfast- they all had family members- or at least knew someone- who had perished when she sank.

John still had in his posession his father's tools that were used in her construction. He was very proud of his connection to the ship, and enjoyed telling school children about "The World's Largest Liner" that was built in Belfast. John Parkinson passed away in 2006 at the age of 99. He was more than likely the last person alive who had actually witnessed her launch.

Bill Monroe- The Father of Bluegrass

2009-04-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

After Bill Monroe's first performance on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry in 1939, Opry founder George D. Hay told him "If you ever leave, it'll be because you fired yourself." He never left, preforming regularly until ill health forced him to stop shortly before his passing in 1996.
He kept his music pure, long after many bands were featuring electric instruments or drums. his band's line-up from 1946-1947 is said by some to be the best line up of any music group ever. Two of them, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, later left and formed The Foggy Mountain Boys- what is probably the second best Bluegrass group after Monroe's Bluegrass Boys.

I met Bill Monroe once, at a concert he gave ina small theater in Philadelphia PA in 1994. He and the band came in the main entrance, and as he made his way down the left aisle, Bill shook hands with people sitting on that side (including me). Later my dad lied to the manager saying it was my Birthday, and they let me go back stage to meet him- He signed the color photo shown above, and was very codial even though I had interrupted him while he was talking with a band member's wife.
After the show was done and everyone got up to leave, Bill walked back out on stage alone, no Mandolin, and sang "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" as the crowd joined in. He was truly a wonderful performer who really appreciated his fans and loved what he did.

Miep Gies- Saved the Diary of Anne Frank

2009-04-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

Miep Gies recently turned 100 years old. During World War II, The Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany. Many Dutch citizens, risking their own lives, did what they could to hide Dutch Jews- These were their friends- people they had known their whole lives- and now all of a suden these people were now "Juden." and subject to deportation and death.

Miep was employed in the Spice company owned by Otto Frank. When things became too dangerous, Otto Frank, his wife, their daughters Margot and Anne, along with four others went into hiding in the attic above Mr. Frank's business. For over two years, their secret was safe. Miep, her husband Jan, and three others kept their friends alive and hidden. On August 4, 1944, an informant informed the Gestapo there were people in the building. The Franks and their friends were discovered and sent to the Concentration Camps. Only Otto Frank survived the war. Miep found Anne's Diary in the rubble of the torn apart office, and later gave it to Otto Frank after she learned that Anne did not survive.

The Diary of Anne Frank is the second most widely read book in the World, second only to The Bible. Miep did not read it when she found it- She later stated if she had, she would have destroyed it due to the incriminating evidence in it against those who kept the Franks in hiding. Many people hail her as a hero, but she was simply doing what she knew in her heart was right- helping her friends.

Joan Leslie

2009-03-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

Actress Joan Leslie starred in many films in the 1940's, but pretty much gave up acting in 1956 to raise her family. I've always enjoyed her role in Yankee Doodle Dandy as Mary, George M Cohan's (James Cagney's) wife. I drew them in the scene when they're in the offices of theatrical producers Dietz and Goff, singing "Harrigan." I told her that was my favorite scene- and she wrote above her signature "My favorite scene too."

The Stanley Brothers

2009-03-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

Ralph Stanley has been performing Bluegrass Music for over 60 years. Over 40 of those years he has done so alone, as his brother Carter Stanley passed away in 1966. Despite the onset of electrified instruments and other modern changes to Country music, he never faltered and always stayed true to his roots and his music. He became known to a whole new generation of people for his rendition of "Oh Death" in the film "Oh Brother Where Art Thou?" He is in his early 80's now and is still performing.

Yvonne DeCarlo

2009-03-07T22:17:00.001-08:00

Yvonne DeCarlo is known to many as Lily Munster from the 1960's TV show 'The Munsters." She had been a very popular actress in Hollywood for nearly 30 years before that. One of the major roles in her film career was that of Sephora, Moses's wife, in "The Ten Commandments." She passed away in 2007 at the age of 84.

Dustin Hoffman

2009-03-07T22:02:00.000-08:00

Dustin Hoffman has appeared in countless films over the years, but my favorite of his roles has always been that of 121 year old Jack Crabb, who recounts the story of how he was the only white man to survive Custer's Last Stand at the Little Bighorn. I thought this one was long gone, but lo and behold a year or two after I mailed it, i got it back. Whether or not the signature is actually his I can't say for certain, but hopefully the long wait means that it actually got to him personally.

Buck Leonard- The Black Lou Gehrig

2009-03-07T21:51:00.000-08:00

Buck Leonard played Baseball in the Negro Leagues from 1933-1955, retiring at age 48. He played the majority of his career as a first baseman for the Homestead Grays, usually in the batting line-up right behind Josh Gibson. The Grays of the 1930's and 40's have been called the greatest team of any race ever assembled. Late in his life he suffered a stroke which affected his ability to write. You will notice his signature here is very labored- it looks like it took him quite some time to sign his name, but he was always very obliging to the fans who took the time to write to him.

Hank Aaron- baseball's Home Run Record Holder

2009-03-07T21:37:00.000-08:00

Hank Aaron played Baseball from 1952-1976, first playing with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues. His most well-known acheivement is breaking the Home-Run record of 714 set by Babe Ruth. He was one away from tying the record at the end of the 1973 season, and over the winter received numerous death threats and other racist mail. Some people did not want to see a Black man break Ruth's record. Ruth's widow even spoke out in support of Aaron, stating her husband would have enthusiastically cheered him on. Aaron ended his career with 755 Home Runs, a feat which has never been eclipsed except by a player who took steroids and cheated his way past that number.

It is quite difficult to get Hank Aaron to sign things these days. When i sent this, he was signing things if you sent a donation to his charity. I was more than happy to do so to have an autograph from this Baseball legend!

Gene Autry, The Singing Cowboy

2009-02-22T21:21:00.000-08:00

Gene Autry was always one of my favorites. I was too young to have grown up with him, but I always enjoyed listening to CDs of his old Western songs. He was one of the first people I ever wrote to. He was always a true gentleman- definitely lived up to the persona he portrayed on the screen. Needless to say I was pretty thrilled when I got this one back!

Sir Alec Guinness

2009-02-22T21:08:00.001-08:00

Sir Alec Guinness probably received a ton of fan mail from people who knew him as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars. Personally I preferred watching his other roles. I wrote to him in 1995 and I don't think i even mentioned Star Wars at all. The picture I chose to draw him from was from one of his first films, Great Expectations (if I remember right). His signature is in the lower left corner.

Ralph Fiennes- A Villianous Nazi

2009-01-27T21:20:00.000-08:00

Not in real life of course, but Ralph Fiennes won much acclaim for his role as Nazi Concentration Camp Commandant Amon Goeth in the film "Schindler's List." His portrayal was so realistic that one of the real Schindler Jews shook in terror upon meeting him on the set when he was in full costume.

The Weavers

2009-01-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Sixty years ago, four singers got together and formed a group, performing Traditional Ballads, Folk Songs from around the world, Blues, Labor Songs, etc. They sang about the common man, and were immensely popular. They popularized obscure folk songs which are now considered standards like "On Top of Old Smokey" and "Midnight Special." The personal beliefs of the members of The Weavers, combined with the many songs they sung that were supportive of worker's rights and other "Socialist" themes caused them to be Black-listed in the 1950's. Eventually this faded, and their concerts and later their reunion concerts generally sold out.

It is amazing that a group formed 60 years ago still has three of its four members living. Lee Hayes passed away in 1981, but Ronnie Gilbert, Pete Seeger, and Fred Hellerman are all still living. Seeger and Gilbert both still regularly perform. I first sent this to Pete Seeger, and he was very kind to provide me with addresses for Ronnie Gilbert and Fred Hellerman. Pete did not keep the extra one, and signed them both. I managed to get Ronnie Gilbert and Fred Hellerman to also sign two instead of just one. This is one of my favorites.

"Slammin Sammy" Sam Snead

2009-01-27T20:51:00.000-08:00

Sam Snead was one of the all-time great Golfers. His acheivements speak for themselves. Originally I had received the drawing back unsigned, with a price list enclosed of how much he charged to sign various things. I hesitated a bit, especially since the money was not going to a charity (I don't mind paying when the money is donated to charity). A few weeks later I sent it back (minus the extra one for him to keep....) along with a check for $40. I was kind of ticked off I had to pay so much for him to sign this, but now that he's gone, I'm glad I did.

Ted Briggs, Last Survivor from the Sinking of the HMS Hood

2009-01-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

Ted Briggs passed away October 4, 2008 at age 85. In 1941 he was one of over 1,400 British Seamen serving aboard H.M.S. Hood, one of the most celebrated ships in the Royal Navy. The Hood and HMS Prince of Wales were dispatched to intercept the German Battleship Bismarck. Bismarck's massive guns fired, and HMS Hood exploded, splitting in half and sinking. Ted Briggs was one of only three sailors who survived. Since 1995 he had been the last of these three survivors.

Living through such a nightmare is unimaginable. Not surprisingly, he couldn't ever shake the memories of that day. I managed to write to him through a fellow seaman who had served on the Hood before the War, and Ted gave me a gracious response. I really think he enjoyed the picture that he kept- he didn't seem to mind complying with my request. The true heroes are the ones who didn't come back, but we are only able to convey our thanks to those who did. I'm glad I got to thank him just 8 months before he passed away.

Gene Wilder- Willy Wonka

2009-01-18T18:33:00.000-08:00

Gene Wilder in my opinion always seems best when playing a quirky character. Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles, and of course Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. It's usually tough to get him to sign things through the mail. You have to catch him at the right time from what I've read. I found out that during WWII he served in a military hospital that was about 15 miles away from my house. When I wrote to him I barely even mentioned his acting career- but thanked him for his service in the War and mentioned that I live very close to where he was working at during that time. A few months later I got this back with his signature on it. I absolutely loved him as Willy Wonka- I was really glad to have hi sign this for me.

Into the West- Gordon Tootoosis and Simon Baker

2009-01-05T01:23:00.000-08:00

A few years ago TNT aired a mini-series titled "Into the West." I really enjoyed it- no matter how inaccurate it may have been according to some, I thought it did a wonderful job of illustrating what the Westward Expansion really did to the Indians. One of the main characters was played by Simon R. Baker- "Loved By the Buffalo." Veteran actor Gordon Tootoosis appeared in the first episode. Among other roles, Tootoosis played "One-Stab" in Legends of the Fall. I had to send this to each actor separately, and they were both kind enough to sign it for me.

Nicholas Winton "Save One Life, Save the World"

2009-01-05T01:08:00.000-08:00

Nicholas Winton will turn 100 years old later this year. In 1939 he was a stockbroker in London, who by chance ended up saving the lives of 669 Jewish children from Czechoslovakia. In the months before the German invasion of Poland, he managed to arrange the transport and adoption of children from the un-occupied part of Czechoslovakia, convinced that it was only a matter of time before the Nazis took control of the entire country. On September 1, 1939, when Hitler invaded Poland, the largest transport was to leave Europe. Because of the invasion, it never left, and those 250 children were never seen again. He is an ordinary person who saw a terrible situation and decided to do something about it. For saving so many lives- especially children- he is a Saint.

The Browns

2009-01-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

I've always liked the older Country Music, and also have always like music from the 50's in general. The Browns had some hits back then, most notably "The Three Bells." The harmony when they sing is perfect. Jim Ed has been a staple on the Grand Ole Opry for decades, and his two sisters still join him occasionally and sing some of their old songs. Over 50 years later, they still sound great! Jim was kind enough to have Maxine and Bonnie sign this for me as well.

Carla Laemmle, Spoke the first words in "Dracula" 1931

2008-12-02T21:20:00.000-08:00

"Among the rugged peaks..." So begins one of the great horror films, Dracula. Carla Laemmle, niece of Universal Studios founder Carl Laemmle, uttered those words in the opening scene of this 1931 film. At age 99, she is the last living cast member of the silent film "Phantom of the Opera" starring Lon Chaney (1925), and is more than likely the last cast member of Dracula. She still loves that fans continue to write to her after so many years have passed since her film career. In the drawing she is the one with glasses in the lower left, who has taken a tumble in the coach. She also wrote a touching letter about her Uncle Carl's efforts to sponsor the immigration of Jews from his native Germany, saving them from the Holocaust.

Billy Redden- Picked a Banjo in "Deliverance"

2008-12-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

"Deliverance" is a film about four friends who decide to take a canoe trip down an untouched river in the Georgia wilderness before a new dam changes the landscape forever. They stop at a local gas station, and in one of the film's classic scenes, guitar playing Drew picks out "Dueling Banjos" with an in-bred retarded Hillbilly boy (Redden) who was sitting on the porch. It was his only film appearance until he made a camo in the Tim Burton film "Big Fish." Today he works in a cafe in Clayton, GA and is still proud of his role in the film.

John W. Finn, Hero of Pearl Harbor

2008-12-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

John W. Finn will be 100 years old in 2009. When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Finn manned a machine gun and returned fire despite being hit in 21 places. For his actions on that day he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor by Adm. Chester Nimitz. Finn is the only Medal of Honor recipient from that day who is still living.

In 2002 after his Medal of Honor set off alarms at an airport security checkpoint, this American hero was detained, accused of fraud, disrespected, and not offered any assistance despite his age and the difficulty he had in trying to comply with the requests of United Airlines employees. Every one of those people who treated this man like shit that day should have been fired.

Joseph Kittinger, Jr., The Fastest Man

2008-12-02T19:59:00.000-08:00

Chuck Yeager broke the speed of sound on October 14, 1947. Joseph Kittinger broke the speed of sound on August 16, 1960. Chuck Yeager was in a plane. Joe Kittinger was free-falling.

Joe Kittinger jumped at a height of over 100,000 feet (Mt. Everest is only 29,029 feet), and fell for over four minutes. He attained a speed of 614 MPH. This and other feats attained from this jump have never been eclipsed.

Duke Snider, Pride of the Dodgers

2008-12-02T19:46:00.000-08:00

Duke Snider is one of the all-time great Baseball players, and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980. He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1947 and moved with them to Los Angeles in 1958. He is currently the last living Brooklyn Dodger who was on the field for the final out of the 1955 World Series. Sometimes he goes months at a time without signing anything at all, then all of a sudden he will start up again and be very accomodating to his fans. With Baseball autographs being one of the most forged in the hobby, it's great to know that a lot of the old players will still sign autographs, saving fans from the risk of shelling out a lot of money for a fake.

Don Keefer- All he wanted was to listen to Perry Como!

2008-11-18T20:32:00.000-08:00

Well known for playing Bernard in the stage and film version of "Death of a Salesman," character actor Don Keefer is best remembered by me for playing Dan Hollis- the subject of Anthony's frustration in the classic Twilight Zone episode "It's a Good Life." Little Anthony has the power to bring things to life, make television, basically make anyone or anything do whatever he wants. When someone upsets him, he sends them to "the cornfield." Poor Dan Hollis is celebrating his Birthday, and all he wants is to be able to listen to the Perry Como record he got as a present. He finds out the hard way that he shouldn't tangle with little Anthony. I had heard that in his 90's, Don Keefer is now virtually blind. His signature as he writes it now is in the lower left corner.

Janette Carter- Preserving the Legacy of The Carter Family

2008-11-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

Janette Carter was the daughter of Sara and A.P. Carter, who along with A.P.'s sister-in-law Maybelle, became one of the icons of Country Music- The Carter Family. She and her brother Joe performed with their parents in the later years of the group, much of which was spent on the border stations on the US-Mexican border. A.P. passed away in 1960, and since 1976 she and her brother Joe spent countless hours helping to preserve the rich musical legacy of their family in an amphitheater they built called "The Carter Fold." This was where Johnny Cash gave what would turn out to be his final public performance. She and Joe both continued to perform for fans until they were physically unable to do so.

Her daughter wrote me a nice letter, thanking me for the drawing for her mother. Janette at the time was not in good health, and was not always able to write due to Parkinson's Disease. She managed to write her name on it as best she could though. Just three months after she signed this for me, on January 22, 2006, Janette Carter passed away.

John Wooden, Legendary Basketball Coach

2008-11-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

John Wooden recently turned 98 years old, and still regularly attents UCLA Basketball games. I am not a Basketball fan by any means. Why would I draw him? I have a lot of respect for someone like Coach Wooden. His coaching skills have helped countless students to not only become better players, but better people as well. Many of the things he learned growing up, such as his father's "Seven Point Creed" were passed on to his players, instilling in them the skills they would need to become better citizens. Whether or not you like Basketball, John Wooden is a man to be admired.

The Gerber Baby (Ann Turner Cook)

2008-11-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

For 80 years, her face has been one of the most recognizeable faces in American grocery stores. Go down the aisle where the baby food is, and you'll see her face looking at you from hundreds of tiny jars. Her name is Ann Turner Cook, but we all know her as "The Gerber Baby." A neighbor of her parents, Dorothy Hope Smith, penned the now famous portrait that became the logo for Gerber baby foods. She grew up to become an English teacher, and after retirement, a successful mystery writer.

Fritz Weaver, Veteran Character Actor

2008-11-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

Fritz Weaver has been acting in films and television for over 50 years. He is a commanding presence and his voice is unmistakeable. He appeared in two classic Twilight Zone episodes; "Third from the Sun" and "The Obsolete Man." He also starred in an episode of Tales From the Darkside called "Inside the Closet." I remember watching that episode as a kid, and it scared the Hell out of me! I would always watch it though whenever they showed it!

It's well-known that he was a conscientious objector during WWII. I asked him why this was (as it just seemed illogical to me that anyone wouldn't want to fight to stop the advancement of the Nazis). He wrote me a very personal letter, explaining that his father had become a Quaker in 1938, and he and his brother were both strongly influenced by him. He admitted that in retrospect it caused him much anguish then, but the wars the US has fought since then have only reinforced his father's rightness.

The Armistice- 90 years ago

2008-11-11T06:14:00.001-08:00

Exactly 90 years ago, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, one of the most horrific war's the world has ever seen came to an end. In the United States anyway, today this "War to end all Wars" is largely forgotton. Mention Passchendaele, Flanders, Jutland, etc to any passer-by and they'll probably look at you like you should be in an institution. Its sad that an entire generation of men was virtually wiped off the face of the Earth, and school children are taught very little about it. Only when I was in college and took a class on WWI did I really understand how it happened and what it was all about.
"Veteran's Day" now honors all Veterans, and rightly so- but on this, the 90th Anniversary of "Armistice Day" we should especially pause and remember the millions on both sides who gave their lives from 1914-1918. There are just a handfull of men left who served in the military during this time. The youngest is 107, the oldest is 112. There may be several more Armistice days yet where there are WWI Veterans still living, but the likelyhood of that grows less and less with each passing year. Remember them today.

William Young, Last of the Royal Flying Corps

2008-11-06T21:36:00.000-08:00

William Young was 107 when he passed away in 2007, and was the last Veteran who served in the Royal Flying Corps. He had actually signed up for service before he was 18, but could not actually serve until his 18th Birthday. During WWII he was working in Borneo when the Japanese invaded. He was imprisoned in a Japanese Camp from 1942-1945. At the time of his death he had been living in Australia for 60+ years. I never got to have him sign this. It was sent back to me return to sender, and before I could try again, he passed away.

William Stone, Britain's Royal Navy

2008-11-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

William Stone was born in 1900, and is one of three surviving WWI Veterans living in England. He served as a stoker on H.M.S. Tiger. In the 1920's he served on board H.M.S. Hood. He was Chief Stoker aboard the H.M.S. Newfoundland and aided in the massive evacuation operation at Dunkirk. On the 90th Anniversary of the end of the war, Bill Stone, Harry Patch, and Henry Allingham are expected to be present for a wreath laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in London. This will probably be the final major anniversary of the Armistice where there are any Veterans of the War still living

Robley Rex, WWI- Era Veteran

2008-11-06T21:16:00.000-08:00

Originally there were newspaper articles etc. about Robley H. Rex touting him as a WWI Veteran. He claims to have enlisted in 1918, but records seem to show he enlisted in 1919, making him a WWI Era Veteran instead. He is 107 and still going strong. When I wrote to him, he was 104 and was still volunteering at a local V.A. Hospital. At the time he had logged thousands and thousands of hours helping his fellow Veterans. For that alone he is quite an inspiration.

He added a post-it note with his middle initial, and wrote me a short letter as well. WWI Veteran or not, he did serve his country about 90 years ago and for that he should be admired.

Lloyd Brown, the Last Navy Veteran of WWI

2008-10-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

Lloyd Brown served on the USS New Hampshire. He lied about his age and was only 16 when he signed up to serve his country. He joined because all the boys who were in the service were making headlines, and all the girls liked someone in uniform. He was 105 when he died in 2007, and was the last US Navy Veteran of WWI.

Harry Landis, One of the last...

2008-10-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

Harry R. Landis joined the Army in October of 1918, and barely served a month before the Armistice was signed. That one month of his 108 year long life earned him the distinction of being one of the last two American WWI Veterans. He never thought much of his time in the Military, and couldn't understand why he was "famous." The fact that he was one of the last American Vets only surfaced in the last year or two of his life. He had excellent health up until his last week, passing away in February 2008.

Howard V. Ramsey- Oregon's Last WWI Veteran

2008-10-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

Howard V. Ramsey was 108 when he died in February 2007. At the time he was the last WWI Veteran in the state of Oregon. He served as a truck driver- ferrying officers, carrying water to the front line troops in France, and bringing back the bodies of those killed in action.

A little French girl once asked him for a souvenir. He managed to find a penny to give her, and she in return gave him a lock of her hair wrapped up like a little present. He kept her lock of hair until the day he died.

Harry Patch, Last to Fight in the Trenches

2008-10-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

Harry Patch, British World War I Veteran, is the last "Tommy" who fought in the trenches. He is 110 years old. He is the last survivor of the Battle of Passchendaele, which waged for three months and left a Half-Million Allied soldiers dead or wounded. Harry and four others were hit when a German shell exploded- Harry was one of two who survived.

For 80 years, he never watched a War film, never spoke of the War, not even to his family. Only after he turned 100 did he finally recount the horrors he experienced. 90 years later, he still has nightmares about the trenches and losing his friends. Hearing him talk of it, you can see a sadness about him as if it happened yesterday. To him it DID happen yesterday.

Frank Woodruff Buckles, Last American WWI Veteran

2008-10-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

Frank Woodruff Buckles, age 107, is the last survivng American Veteran of World War I. While in the service, he sailed on the Carpathia, the ship that rescued the survivors from the Titanic. He is more than likely also the last living person who sailed on the Carpathia. During World War II he was working for a shipping line and was captured by the Japanese in the Philippines, spending three years in a prison camp. Over the years as he would read Veterans magazines, he noticed the number of WWI Veterans becoming smaller and smaller, until now, much to his surprise, he is the last.
He was most gracious in his reply, typing a short letter, and sending along several photographs, each item bearing his signature.

John F. Babcock, Canadian WWI Veteran

2008-10-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

John F. Babcock, age 108, is an American citizen who also happens to be the last living Canadian World War I Veteran. He has lived in the USA for about 85 years. The picture is of him in uniform about 1918. He kindly took the time to write a short letter thanking me for the drawing, and also included a recent signed photo.

Franz Kunstler, World War I Veteran, Austria-Hungary

2008-10-20T21:11:00.001-07:00

Franz Kunstler was the last surviving WWI Veteran from any of the Central Powers, having served in the Austro-Hungarian military. He was a museum guide in Germany up until shortly before his death at age 107 on May 27, 2008. One of his grandsons provided me with the photo I used, taken shortly after the War. He signed this just a few months before his passing.

Henry Allingham, World War I Veteran

2008-10-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

As we approach the 90th Anniversary of the end of World War One, I would like to pay tribute to those last few Veterans of "The War to End All Wars." There are about nine left worldwide as of this writing (depending on which source you check, the number varies). In most cases their minds are still sharp and talking of the War is still quite emotional nearly a century later. Henry Allingham of England, the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland, and the last founding member of the Royal Flying Corps, signed his name, his years of service, and his birth date (June 6, 1896). The picture shows him in uniform from WWI. When he signed this he had just turned 110 years old.