“East Texas was noted for fiddlers from the time of Sam Houston and Dave Crockett. Every house raising, log rolling, quilting bee and corn husking was followed by a night of dancing, the square, waltz and the schottische till dawn. Fiddlers were in demand and plentiful. Every young swain had to learn to play for the popularity and a small amount of cash.” – Excerpted from Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion’s website.
The 81st edition of Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion was held on May 25th, 2012. It took place all day at Henderson County Courthouse yard in downtown Athens. A fairground was also set up across the courthouse.

Ms. Pearl Cantrell, playing her ukulele, accompanied by daughter, Malia Cantrell, from Seven Points, Tx. Ms. Pearl Cantrell has brought Hawaiian music programs as a visiting instructor to Kemp Primary students two years in a row.