A DAY WITH "PORKY" JOHNSON

2010  THE YEAR OF VALLEY ADVENTURES

One of the most interesting people in the San Fernando Valley is "Porky" Johnson, Country-Western Music Historian. At 86, Porky is busy in his North Hollywood workshop restoring and preserving vital elements of Valley and American music history. Filled with fascinating stories, Porky is determined to share his historical memorabilia with future generations. Here is a sample of his legacy.

 Porky was about 18 years old when this photograph was taken of him at the eastern edge of North Hollywood Park. The automobiles parked behind him are facing South on Tujunga Avenue. The telephone poles go East on Weddington Street. 

 Porky Johnson holds a blue ribbon that he won in 1939 in a bicycle race. He's pretty sure that this helped create his lifelong love of racing.(click on image to enlarge)

 Porky Johnson rewarded himself last year with the first new motorcycle he's ever owned --- for his 85th birthday.  (Photo for the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley by Gerald Fecht - November 2010. - click on image to enlarge)

 Doye O'Dell shirt - collection of Porky Johnson

Made for the performer Doye O'Dell, this classic cowboy shirt was made in North Hollywood by Nudie, "the tailor to the stars." Below - leather label on the inside of the shirt's collar.