THE PUTNAM COUNTY PICKERS
About a hundred years ago I was the photographer
for The Putnam County Pickers. I cant even remember the first
time I met the group, because seems like I knew them forever.
We used to visit the gang all the time in the deep woods of Coon Creek,
Putnam County. I became their biggest fan and took a lot of
photos. The one above was taken in Coonskin Park. Left:
Rusty Wells. Center Back: Steve Hill. Right: Greg Harman.
Center Front: Ron Sowell.
I shot these in front of the Kanawha County Public
Library
"It's About Time" was one of only two albums
the Pickers made. The other was "Let The Cat Out".
| This is the back of the album with the photos I shot
at the commune in Putnam County. Yes, the gang was part of the
large "back to the land" group that came to WV in the 60s
and 70s, looking for another way of life. |
| This is another photo I shot in Coonskin Park. That's
Sandy Sowell in the background. She was with the group at the very
height of their career. Leaning against the tree is Bobby
Provosty-Hill the talented lady
that designed the first album cover, sang on some songs and ran sound for the
band. Greg Harmon (second left) was the only native West Virginian in the band |
Another Coonskin Park photo, used for a brochure that
the Pickers passed out.
At the Library
At the commune
| Today: The Pickers went through several
name and member changes over the years. Their "Stark Raven
Band" was popular for a while, and then the group disbanded,
electing to play as singles and duos and sometimes getting together
for a special occasion. I see Ron and Steve often in town.
Sandy too, as she has a popular entertainment business. She and Ron
were divorced years ago and Ron remarried. He is in charge of
the Mountain Stage Band at the Culture Center, which keeps him pretty
busy. |
WONDERFUL AUDIO SAMPLES FROM THE PUTNAM COUNTY PICKERS
Country Coming
To Town
Dark Eyed lady
Of The Hollow
No Better Feelin
The L & M Dont
Stop Here Anymore
Ace With The
Sweaty Brow
Baby Boom Rag
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