Fantastic vintage wooden autograph album from Nashville, Tennessee, 5.5 x 3.5, signed throughout by more than 80 performers at the Grand Ole Opry, dated from 1948 to 1950. The highlight is a ballpoint signature, "Best Wishes, Hank Williams," with a collector's date notation of June 11, 1949—the day that marked his Grand Ole Opry debut. Among the other notable signers in the album are Cowboy Copas, String Bean, Minnie Pearl, Ernest Tubb, Roy Acuff, Bill Monroe, Tex Ritter, and WSM radio host Grant Turner. In fine condition, with the end of Williams' first name a bit light due to reduced ink flow. Accompanied by two Grand Ole Opry buttons (a backstage pass and a souvenir), plus five Grand Ole Opry ticket stubs from the era, and one WSM-Nashville Cedar-Crest Show ticket stub.
On June 11, 1949, 25-year-old Hank Williams made his historic debut at the Grand Ole Opry. With his distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unparalleled stage presence, Williams captivated the audience from the moment he stepped onto the stage at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. His performance that night, featuring songs like 'Lovesick Blues' and 'Mind Your Own Business,' showcased his raw talent and undeniable charisma, earning him thunderous applause—the crowd called him out for six encores and wanted more, but he had to stop to allow other musicians to play. The success of Williams's debut earned him a regular spot on the Opry stage until July 1952, when he was fired over his heavy drinking. Six months later, Williams died of alcohol-induced heart failure at the age of 29.
