Topic starter
15/07/2009 5:32 pm
Franz has duly noted on the home page that today marks the 41st anniversary of the passing of Capt. J.W. Menke (1879-1968) long associated with the GOLDENROD SHOWBOAT, as well as other floating theatres operated by Capt. Bill and his brothers, Ben, Harry and Charley. 2009 marks the centennial year of the construction of the GOLDENROD, largest showboat ever built, at Parkersburg, West Virginia, by the Pope Dock Company.
A whistle salute to Capt. Bill's memory, and to his hardy colleagues who provided much appreciated entertainment to many landings at river towns, remote hamlets and bayous.
Photo; Capt. Bill Menke, actress Kathy Nolan (a native St. Louisan, she made her acting debut as a member of the GOLDENROD troupe and later went on to television fame on "The Real McCoys", etc.) and members of the St. Louis Ragtimers. Picture taken at the May, 1965 Grand Re-Opening of the GOLDENROD following restoration after the 1962 fire. Photo courtesy of Don Franz.