(Photo : Photo by NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images) American actors Grandpa Jones (1913 - 1998) and Minnie Pearl (1912 - 1996) in a promotional portrait for the television program, 'Hee Haw,' circa 1978.Louis Marshall "Grandpa" Jones was born in western Kentucky's Niagara community on October 20, 1913 and died in 1998. As early as the 1920s, he was gaining attention with his boisterous performing style, old-time banjo playing, and powerful singing. By the 1940s, with hits like "Rattler" and "Mountain Dew," he was receiving national attention. He joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1946 and remained there throughout his career. When TV's Hee Haw debuted in 1969, he was on the show and he remained a regular throughout its 23 year run.
The Henderson County Historical and Genealogical Society in western Kentucky wants to honor Jones by marking his birthplace. They need $2,500 for a historical marker and thus far, have only raised a portion of the needed funds. Those interested in making a donation can do so by mail, directly to the historical society at P.O. Box 303, Henderson, Kentucky, 42419.
