The Day Boxcar died
Boxcar Willie was a great entertainer that used the Skills he had, and used them very well. I remember the Star tours video in the 70's when my brother and I were getting ready for school. On the screen they showed shots of Highway 76 and Boxcar Willie's theater. I thought to myself, now that is a business man and promoter. What I didn't know is he may have been the only show in Branson. But he helped start the boom here, by showing entertainers that if they came here, they could make a buck or two. As Branson evolved Boxcar was a staple on the strip. You might catch one of the new shows, an old show, and yes Boxcar. He had a full band behind him, and saluted the Veterans.
He never dropped his trademark conductors overalls and his train whistle. He billed himself as country Music's hobo, and became a living legend. When I would see him out I visited with him many times. And he was always down to earth. He amassed quite a legacy and at onetime, I got to walk through the actual house that was for sale after he passed away. He had an office outback where he had a phone room, and was taking reservations and doing packages around the clock.
The day of Boxcar's funeral they closed highway 76 down, and his Hearse made the 7 mile journey down 76. A great salute to another Amazing Branson entertainer.
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