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  • Oral History

Gabe Ward

March 31, 1975 OH191 149 min.
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Biography


Comedy performer. Born November 26, 1904. Died January 14, 1992. Real name: Charles Otto Ward. Member of the Hoosier Hot Shots, the popular comedy act from the 1930s and 1940s. Longtime star of the WLS National Barn Dance. Recorded for ARC, Vocalion, OKeh, and Decca.

Interview Summary

1975 March 31
(2 hours, 29 minutes)
Gabe Ward talks about being an original member of the Hoosier Hot Shots. Discussion includes the start of their career in the early 1930s; their movie career; their recording career and working with Art Satherley; memories from the WLS National Barn Dance; their work in the Special Services during World War II; and reflections on his experiences as an entertainer.