100 Years of The Opry – Episode 1

Opry 100 Stage

By Chad J Country

Fruit Jar DrinkersFruit Jar Drinkers: History & Opry Appearances

The Fruit Jar Drinkers were one of the earliest and longest‑running old‑time string bands associated with the Grand Ole Opry. Their sound — raw, rhythmic, and perfect for square dancing — helped define the Opry’s earliest decades.

 

Origins & Line‑Up

  • The group is most famously linked to Uncle Dave Macon, one of the Opry’s first true stars.
  • Macon, known as “The Dixie Dewdrop,” was a banjo‑playing entertainer whose vaudeville‑style showmanship shaped the early Opry sound.
  • The Fruit Jar Drinkers were a rotating ensemble of old‑time musicians who backed Macon and performed independently as a dance band.

Grand Ole Opry History

Early Opry Presence

  • The Fruit Jar Drinkers were part of the Opry’s original cast, performing in the 1920s and 1930s as the show was forming its identity.
  • Their music was used heavily for square dancing, a core part of the Opry’s early broadcasts.

Longevity

  • They remained active on the Opry for decades, becoming one of the longest‑tenured groups in Opry history.
  • Their final televised Opry performance took place on March 14, 1981, introduced by Hank Snow.
Documented Opry Appearances

From the available public records:

  • March 14, 1981 — Grand Ole Opry House, Nashville
    • Their final televised Opry performance.
  • March 16, 1974 — Grand Ole Opry House
    • October 27, 1973 — Ryman Auditorium
  • October 15, 1970 — WSM Luncheon & Opry Spectacular, Nashville Municipal Auditorium

These are the publicly documented, verifiable dates from concert archives and setlist databases.

Induction Status

The Fruit Jar Drinkers were never formally inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.

This is historically accurate and consistent with the era:

  • In the 1920s and early 1930s, the Opry did not yet have a formal membership system.
  • Acts like the Fruit Jar Drinkers, Crook Brothers, Possum Hunters, and Uncle Dave Macon were simply part of the weekly cast, not “members” in the modern sense.
  • Therefore, no induction date exists for the Fruit Jar Drinkers.

They are considered foundational Opry performers, not inducted members.

Why They Matter
  • They were one of the foundational old‑time bands that shaped the Opry’s earliest sound.
  • Their connection to Uncle Dave Macon ties them directly to the birth of commercial country music.
  • Their square‑dance performances kept traditional Appalachian music alive on national radio for over half a century.