The Hank Williams Museum in Montgomery is set to celebrate what would have been the legendary artist’s 102nd birthday on September 13th. The day will feature a wreath-laying ceremony and a commemorative concert at his gravesite.
Activities will kick off at 9 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery Annex, located at 1304 Aupper Wetumpka Road. Wreaths are available for purchase at Williams’ grave.
The ceremony will include a performance by the Shepherd Family Band at 8:45 a.m. They are related to Audrey Shepherd Williams, Hank’s former wife.
Later that afternoon, at 3 p.m., a special concert will occur at Davis Theatre at Troy University in Montgomery.
“He left us far too soon at 29, but his musical impact remains timeless, resonating with new generations. We believe it’s crucial to honor our beloved Alabama native on his birthday,” organizers stated.
“Our concert draws performers who play the traditional kind of country music that Hank championed, making it a fitting tribute to celebrate his 102nd birthday.”
Fortune, a prominent tenor with the Statler Brothers for over two decades, will headline the concert. He’s known for writing hits like “Elizabeth” and “Too Multi On My Heart.”
The Statler Brothers have collected three Grammy Awards along with numerous accolades from the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music, and American Music Awards.
After the group’s disbandment in 2002, Fortune transitioned into a solo career while continuing his songwriting. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008 as part of the Statler Brothers.
Other scheduled performers include Hank Williams tribute artist Wyatt Aleman, country singer-songwriter Artihill, the husband-and-wife duo of blood and Tammy Magnes, and the Dewey Bass Band. JB, who is the son-in-law of Hank Williams Jr. Radio Personality Jay Dean, will host the event.
Tickets for the concert are priced at $35 for general admission and $45 for a reserved VIP seat. They can be bought at the Hank Williams Museum, located at 118 Commerce Street in Montgomery, or by calling (334) 262-3600.
The Hank Williams Museum, established 26 years ago, boasts the largest collection of privately owned Hank Williams memorabilia worldwide. Among its highlights is the Olympic Blue 1952 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible, where Williams sadly passed away.
