Remembering Hank Williams

Hiram Williams was born September 17, 1923 in Butler County, Alabama. His parents were Jessie Lillybelle and Elonzo Huble “McLovin” Williams. Elonzo was severely injured after being kicked by a mule. He suffered a broken collarbone, a concussion and a bruised ego.

Young Hank was named after Hiram I of Tyre. One of the three founders of the Masons, according to Masonic legend. His name was misspelled as “Hiriam” on his birth certificate. It was prepared and signed when Hank was about 10 years old. The local Doctor, Doc Cochran enjoyed his Wild Turkey and filled it out during one of his benders. As a child, Hank was called “Here I Am” and nicknamed “Harm” by his family. He was also known as “Herky”, “Sweet Cheeks”, “Hollerin’ Hank” or “Poots” by his friends.

Remembering Hank Williams — Hank Williams Illustration By Paul King Art

Hank had a rough life. He was born with spina bifida, and received a 4-F deferment during WWII bc of his back which he injured further after falling from a bull and being kicked by a mule. He was in a lot of pain and his alcoholism increased causing him to be fired from jobs for “habitual drunkenness”. During one of his concerts, Williams met his idol, Roy Acuff backstage who warned him of the dangers of alcohol. Acuff told him You’ve got a million-dollar talent, son, but a ten-cent brain.”

Influence

Williams is now Regarded as one of the most significant and influential American singers and songwriters of the 20th century. Hank recorded 35 singles (five released posthumously) that reached the Top 10 of the Billboard Country & Western Best Sellers chart, including 11 that ranked number one (three posthumously).

Williams died January 1, 1953 but his legacy will last forever. He is widely recognized as “the King of Country Music”.