Hello to All Former Bunker Hillbillies and Their "Fans"
Who were the Bunker Hillbillies? For those who are new to Charlestown and aren't familiar with the Bunker Hillbillies (or aged under 35!), they represent a very close link with the 40's when a professional entertainer, Bob Munstedt, joined the Boys Club (1941), and formed a bunch of rascals into the "Musical Ambassadors" of the Charlestown Boys Club. Many families were affected at the time by absent male family members during the war, and Bob became a surrogate father to many boys, until he was also called-up. He served in the 312th Bomb Group, Special Services in the U.S.A, Australia, New Guinea and the Philippines, and continued with his 'civilian career' in his spare time, entertaining the troops, sometimes performing with Bob Hope.
He returned to Charlestown in 1946 and reformed the Hillbillies, and maintained them as an active performing troupe of musicians for over 40 years, until his retirement in the 80's. They were regular performers on TV shows through the 50's, 60's and 70's. A smaller group, the Ranch House 7, made several trips to New York and Washington and played for, and with, President Nixon at the White House.
At a time when Charlestown had a reputation as one of the tougher neighborhoods of Boston, the Bunker Hillbillies were a testimony to Bob's belief in the Boys Club and the boys themselves. Young boys of 7-8 yrs were 'auditioned' by Bob for their ability to sing or bang out a rhythm on an old bathtub. Those that passed this basic test of their musical ability, were coached in the use of a real instrument - usually starting with a Ukulele. Much to their own surprise (and probably their parents even more so!), many developed a very reasonable degree of musical accomplishment. But, at 13, they were 'out'. It was Bob's concern to ensure that a constant flow of budding Billy's made it through the club house door. So, with only 5 years of active stage time, a large number of boys had the opportunity to be associated with the band - and this means that many Charlestown residents, past and present, must have Hillbilly connections somewhere in the family line.
The Hillbillies were a major PR asset to the Club, and for the boys it gave them the opportunity to participate in a musical group, with a minimum of training. They developed talents they might never have otherwise discovered, established a discipline of playing in concert with others, and pride in wearing a uniform and belonging to a team - much of which could be said is needed by the youth of today.
The Hillbillies had a short renaissance between 1986 and 1989, when Steve Coyne reformed them - as part of the Charlestown Boys and Girls Club. Steve is a member of the well known local band, Ground FX.
Purchase Bunker Hillbillies memorabilia online.
I wanted to update you on my enjoyable search so far - viewing and documenting many Bunker Hillbille photos and listening to past musical recordings that were amazingly salvaged.
Thank you to the former members who contacted me directly via email, "singing the praises" of their time spent as active Hillbillies.
The feedback I received was all positive, so the impression I came away with is that the Bunker Hillbillie organization was truly a memorable experience for all those who were part of it. Being a member of the group inspired friendship and high self-esteem, as well as a sense of accomplishment to those who participated.
It makes me wonder why such a remarkable enterprise did not continue to evolve...but I know it took the dedication and commitment of one man, Bob Munstedt, whose shoes have not been filled. I spoke to his son, Peter Munstedt, who was a former Hillbillie, and he expressed his gratitude that there were Hillbillies who still fondly remember his father's lifelong work at the Charlestown Boys Club.
Please feel free to contact me with any memories or memorabilia you would like to share, and pass this information on to others who may not have been contacted.
Thank you for your help!
Patty (keltownie45@hotmail.com)