Possum Holler Opry
The Possum Holler Opry was an American television show that consisted of performances by well-known country musicians and sketches . The program was broadcast by the television station WGEM-TV.
history
The Possum Holler Opry started in 1961, only after the "heyday" of country shows. The show was broadcast live every Sunday from the station's studio, which was located in Quincy , Illinois . In the three states of Missouri , Iowa and Illinois it was the most watched program of the time, the highest audience rating was 75,000 viewers per show. The show was hosted by “Toby” Dick Ellis, who had previously gained experience as a radio host and whose company Elsenpeter Productions sponsored the show. Well-known guests and members of the Possum Holler Opry included Al Harvey, Ron Hatfield, George Avak and Nancy Mitchell, Tex Ritter , Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs , the Wilburn Brothers and Billy Grammer.
The Possum Holler Opry ran successfully until 1965, after which its popularity steadily decreased until the show was completely discontinued in 1970.