About the association and how it came to be.  The Big Bend Bluegrass Association, representing the Big Bend region of Far West Texas, is a non-profit organization and an affiliate of the Play It Forward!® program, which promotes music literacy and performance skills among deserving youth. The association’s history is intertwined with the story of Harold Eugene Ferguson, the mayor of Wickett, Texas, who was passionate about music. From his early days playing the mandolin in Arkansas to forming the “Arkansas Travelers” and later organizing the Wickett Bluegrass Festival, Harold’s legacy continued through the festival’s twenty-one-year run, even after his passing in 2016.

Harold Eugene Ferguson, mayor of the City of Wickett, Texas loved to play music. Growing up in Arkansas, Harold began playing the mandolin at an early age. He loved music so much that while picking cotton as a kid, he would run into the family home when he had a chance to play his mandolin. Then run back into the cotton field to pick another row of cotton. Later, Harold and his friends formed a group and called themselves the “Arkansas Travelers”.

After serving in the Navy, Harold moved to West Texas to work in the oilfield, living in Kermit and Monahans, Texas. Harold and his childhood friend, who lived in Wink, Texas continued playing music when they could. They decided to start playing music for dances in the area at lodges and dance halls.

Harold continued playing at every opportunity, providing entertainment at rest homes for the elderly. He did not play music to make money; he played for the enjoyment and to make people happy. Carol, Harold’s wife, and his daughter, Cynthia, eventually joined Harold on the stage performing at dances and rest homes.