Boxcar Willie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Boxcar Willie
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Martin in Boxcar Willie garb
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Lecil Travis Martin |
| Also known as | Boxcar Willie |
| Born | September 1, 1931 Ovilla, Texas, U.S. |
| Died | April 12, 1999 (aged 67) Branson, Missouri, U.S. |
| Genres | Country, gospel |
| Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, train whistle |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Air Force |
| Years of service | 1949–1976 |
| Rank | Master sergeant E7 |
| Battles/wars | Korean War |
Lecil Travis Martin (born September 1, 1931 – died April 12, 1999) was an American country music singer. He was famous for his stage name, Boxcar Willie. He sang in a style that sounded like "old-time hobo" music. He even dressed the part, wearing overalls and a floppy hat.
The name "Boxcar Willie" first came from a song he wrote. Later, he decided to use it as his own stage name. Before becoming a full-time musician, he served in the United States Air Force. He worked as a flight engineer on planes.
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About His Life
Lecil Travis Martin was born in Ovilla, Texas. He joined the United States Air Force in May 1949. During the Korean War in the early 1950s, he worked on B-29 Super Fortress planes.
How "Boxcar Willie" Began
One day in Lincoln, Nebraska, Martin was waiting at a railroad crossing. He saw a man who looked like his friend, Willie Wilson, riding in a boxcar (a type of train car). Martin said, "There goes Willie!" He then wrote a song called "Boxcar Willie." This name soon became his own nickname.
In 1962, Martin met his future wife, Lloene, in Boise, Idaho. They later had four children together.
Starting His Music Career
Martin first performed as "Boxcar Willie" at a talent show in San Jose, California. He won first place and a $150 prize! This was a part-time job for him, as he was still flying missions for the Air Force. In the early 1970s, he helped refuel fighter jets in the air. This was part of an operation called "Operation Creek Party."
In 1976, Martin retired from the Air Force. He then became a full-time musician. One of his first big appearances was on a TV show called The Gong Show, which he won. In the late 1970s, he sold his own music on 8-track tapes. These were an older type of music player.
Becoming a Star
Boxcar Willie became well-known in America through TV commercials. These ads promoted his music to many people. In 1981, he reached a big goal: he became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This is a very famous country music show.
He also became popular outside the United States. His 1980 album, King of the Road, was a big hit in the UK. He traveled the world with his band. His loyal steel guitar player, Chubby Howard, was always with him.
Moving to Branson
In 1985, Martin moved to Branson, Missouri. He bought a theater there called the Boxcar Willie Theater. He also opened a museum and two motels named after himself. Boxcar Willie was one of the first big stars to open a show in Branson. This helped other famous musicians come to the city. He performed at his theater until he passed away.
In 1992, he appeared on a TV show called Tracks Ahead. He performed with his band at his theater.
His Passing
Martin was diagnosed with leukemia (a type of cancer) in 1996. He passed away on April 12, 1999, in Branson, Missouri. He was 67 years old. He was buried in Ozarks Memorial Park in Branson. Major League Baseball umpire "Cowboy" Joe West was one of the people who carried his coffin.
His Legacy
After his death, a road overpass in Red Oak, Texas, was renamed the Boxcar Willie Memorial Overpass. A small park in Washington, D.C., was also renamed Boxcar Willie Park. People still remember Martin by his nickname, "America's Favorite Hobo." One of his sons, Larry Martin, has also performed music as Boxcar Willie Jr.
Awards
Boxcar Willie received some important awards for his music.
- In 1981, he won "Most Promising Male Artist" at the Music City News Country Awards.
- Also in 1981, he was nominated for the "Horizon Award" by the Country Music Association Awards. This award is for new artists.
