Small Tip of My Coonskin Cap to an Old Hero

I’m one of those people who have only spotty memories from childhood. I stand in awe of those who recall incidents when they were three. And, I admit, a little suspicion, as well, particularly when these recollections get detailed. Whatever, for me, only memory fragments here and there.

One of which was my beloved Davy Crocket Coonskin hat, which for a time could not be removed from my head.

As for many who were children in the 1950’s, Davy Crocket was a regular visitor to our house…

So, it’s sad to note that the man who gave my television Davy life, Fess Parker, died yesterday.

Seen today, some of the cultural elements portrayed are at best embarrassing. On the other hand the generally sanitized Disney version of Crocket that Parker played spoke to some genuine aspirations of the American experiment. Fess Parker’s Davy Crocket combined independence of spirit with care and generosity for all. These traits are admirable, they were part of the myth that we grew up with, exemplified by the likes of the Disney Davy Crocket, most likely, contributed to the cultivation of our better angels, and should not be ignored. This truth, I think, needs to be recalled together with the many shortcomings which surrounded the show’s unexamined assumptions.

All this said, it would be foolish, of course, to make too much of a children’s entertainment.

And that is was for me.

I like knowing he died at home surrounded by what seems a loving family.

Rest in peace, Fess.