As far back
as I can remember, I always heard of Percy
Hullings. When his name was mentioned I got the
sense that he was well liked and a pretty good musician. I
don't recall ever hearing him play the organ,
but I did hear him on piano a few times.
If you know more history on Percy
Hullings, please put it in the comment box and I'll
integrate it in the text later.- Barry Worrell
(Click on photo for larger view)
Percy Hullings grew up in Colonial Beach, Va. Before leaving
Colonial Beach, he organized and was the leader of an orchestra
called "The Night Hawk Orchestra" in 1925.
He was a U. S.
Army Veteran having served in World War I, and a Foreign War
Veteran.
Formerly a theater organist in
Washington, D.C. movie houses, Percy came to Alderson after
the advent of talkies all but ruined music opportunities for
young organist at the time. At the same time had his own
music band in Washington, D. C.
Percy was one of the first members
of the Reformatory Staff to arrive in Alderson when the
Institution was opened in 1927. From the beginning of
his work there he was Superintendent of the Laundry as
part of the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. He and his wife lived on the Reformatory grounds in the
small home that after time was turned into the gate house.
He retired
about 1960,
making his
home between Alderson and Colonial Beach.
He was and active member in the
Alderson Lodge No. 70 A. F. and A. M., a member of the Beni
Kedem Shrine of Charleston, W.Va. and Chapter No. 119 of
the Order of Eastern Star. He became an active citizen in
Greenbrier County.
Percy played for banquets and other
events in Alderson. He
and Ossie Keadle played their pianos in Alderson together at various events.
He played the Shriner's Calliope in the
parades and other Shriner's functions. He also played the piano for the
Vaudeville shows performed at Camp Greenbrier.
One of the Charter Member of the Alderson Fourth of July Steering
Committee.
I
remember he would have the members of Committee and 4th workers move
his organ to where ever he was performing!
Lots
of great memories and good times for all that remember these times
and the "Music Man".
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