FWD Directory - Convention Dedication Spring 2001

Blackie Blackwell

In 1945, Chief Petty Officer, USN, Blackie Blackwell was walking down the street in Hollywood, California, when he encountered four guys singing harmonious chords he had never heard before. He asked a few questions and the following week he attended his first chapter meeting. He joined the Hollywood Chapter on October 5th, 1945.

After chapter meetings, Joe Shane, manager of Art Linkletter's Bowling Alleys, would invite the members down for an afterglow. Blackie had the pleasure of singing baritone with Bing Crosby, who was on the International Board, Art Linkletter and Jerry Colona. Later Blackie formed a quartet named "Angel City Four" who, in their first year, competed in the FWD contest and placed second.

In 1975 Blackie was asked to serve as an Area Counselor. He served in the capacity for 22 years, assisting most chapters in Southern California. In 1987 the British Barbershop Association asked Blackie to travel to England to help establish an Area Counselor program. Over the period of five weeks he traveled throughout England, visiting over 47 chapters. It's a period in his life he will never forget.

Blackie has dedicated the greatest part of his life, 56 years, advancing the cause of our great Society, which could not be done without the support of his loving wife, Barbara. For these, and many other reasons, the Far Western District is proud to dedicate this 2001 Spring Convention and Contest to Blackie Blackwell.