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By Kris Harrell

This week in 1953, The Greenville Advocate, readers could review headlines and pictures featuring the death of Hank Williams Sr. and contestants in a unique contest to support the March of Dimes. Here is what was happening Jan 8, 1953. 

Hank Williams Buried Sunday

Butler County native Hank Williams, Sr. died Thursday morning, Jan 1, 1953, in his car near Oak Hill, West Virginia. At the funeral in Montgomery, an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 people filled the auditorium and streets outside. 

Williams got his start in his musical career in Greenville, where he took his first music lessons from Mrs. P. V. Speir. As a student, Williams began playing with local bands in the Greenville area. Then, after moving to Montgomery, Williams organized his own band. 

Williams wrote multiple number one hits such as “Move It on Over,” “Cold,Cold Heart” and “Jambalya.”

Greenville March of Dimes is Sponsoring Unique Contest

The Greenville March of Dimes sponsored a local contest, where candidates had the chance to win the “Ugliest Man In City” title. Three candidates were selected to represent their area of the city: Herbert Decker (East Commerce Street), Howard Cheatham (North-West Commerce), George Gentry (South-West Commerce)

To vote, citizens donate a dime to the March of Dimes through a miniature iron lung. Voters were able to cast their vote and donate as many times as they wish.

Clothing is Being Collected for Shipment to Korea

Local Organizations collected large quantities of clothing to send to Korea during the Korean War. People with clothing of any kind were encouraged to donate at Stabler’s Standard Service Station on the corner of Commerce and Church. 

Additionally, the Rotary Club collected clothing to fill two 70-pound packages to donate. 

Ogly Massacre is Described in Little History of Butler

The site of the Ogly Massacre was marked by the Alabama Historical Society on Jan. 24, 1953, alongside four other points of historical interest in Butler County. 

The metal historical marker was erected by the Alabama Historical Society at the burial ground of the victims.