Rare Details About Gene Autry Are Exposing A Side The Public Hasn't Seen
Gene Autry took America by storm. Beginning in the early 1930s and lasting for more than three decades, the singer, songwriter, actor, musician, and rodeo star had a presence that spanned radio, film, and television. But most of the public never learned of the wild journey that "The Singing Cowboy" went through to achieve such great heights on the silver screen.
Modest Talent
"My friends kidded me about going so far on such modest talent. I always agreed with them," Gene once admitted later in life. "I had no illusions about my films, nor did I consider myself anything special as an actor or a singer." But what the famed entertainer did have was a grit that spurred him to follow his dreams.
Texas Roots
Born Orvon Grover Autry, Gene was born September 29, 1907, near Tioga in Grayson County in north Texas. His family had a long history in the region, his grandfather E.W. Autry having been a Baptist preacher at a local church. But Autry wouldn't stay in his family's hometown for long.
Oklahoma Bound
Just as he became a teenager in the early 1920s, Gene’s parents Delbert and Elnora decided to move the family to Ravia in Johnston County, a region of southern Oklahoma. The cultural influences of the region had a big impact on the boy.
Church Trained
Gene’s Christian heritage not only taught him right from wrong, it also introduced the young star to singing! In fact, the first time he picked up a guitar and belted hymns was at this local congregation. From that moment, it was clear that Autry's talent was set to "take off."
