My post the other day on The Govenah reminded me that he was but one of many “characters” that have passed thru Buzzy’s Country Store over the years. And by characters I am referring to those unforgettable types of individuals who not only are colorful and entertaining but also are what I call one-of-a-kinds. These are people you will always remember.
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| http://www.dictionary.com/browse/character |
Not too long ago, the County in general and the Ridge area in particular had a whole host of characters. We remember all the Tommy Knotts, Ben Forests and Edelen Morgans as examples of genuine characters. Stories of their dealings continue to be told and re-told to this day.
Going back several years ago, those of you of a certain age will remember the 4 characters in this classic photo that I took in the early 70’s: my Uncle Cotton Ridgell, Shorty Miller, Wilbur Saunders and Gene Yarborough (who may or may not be picking his nose here.)
Photo was taken at a Memorial Day party I talked Buzzy into having one year. We set up a makeshift bandstand on the side of the Store where folks now park and had Lance Kebaugh and several of his buddies play some bluegrass while Joe Norris played some folk tunes. Cotton et al were sitting on a picnic table that was close to where Polock now parks his camper. (I’ve discussed this photo previously as to who that is just above Cotton’s raised hand. In spite of the resemblance, it is not Mike Fenhagen.)
Most small towns have their share of “characters” such as those the Band described very well in their song The Weight. In addition to Carmen, Luke, Anna Lee, Jake the dog and Miss Fanny, they also mention a character by the name of Crazy Chester. You know just the type of fella they are talking about. As explained here:
““Crazy Chester” was an eccentric resident of Fayetteville, Arkansas, who carried a cap gun. Ronnie Hawkins would tell him to “keep the peace” at his Rockwood Club when Chester arrived.
Poor Chester, he’d either be locked up or shot for carrying around a cap pistol nowadays.