MTSU,Tennessee Literacy Project:
Richard M. "Pek" Gunn
1904 ~ 1995
By ADDY HADDOCK
Tennessee folklorist and humorist Richard M. Gunn, more
commonly known as "Pek" Gunn, born in Pinewood in Hickman
County, was appointed Poet Laureate of Tennessee in 1971, and held the position until 1994. Married early to Frances Thompson, he furthered his patronage as a Tennessean. He became a member of ASCAP (American Society Composers, Authors, and Publishers),Tennessee Folklore Society, and a lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Si fraternity. He released two books of poetry that successfully depicted the south. Keep on Laughin was published in 1963, and Tumblin' Creek
Tales in 1975. His poems can be very nostalgic for a native reader, full of fervent enthusiasm towards Tennessee culture. A collaboration of his vivid imagery and precise diction provides a sense of culture. Gunn's usage of traditional southern pronunciations and quirky dialects elicits an inflection of hospitality and depicts the humanity of Southerners, allowing them to shine through his poems. Part of the territory that goes along with being poet laureate for a state is creating poetry that marks, illuminates, and emphasizes the importance of historical happenings. On March 13,1975, "Pek" penned a poem in dedication to the bicentennial. "The Tennessee Salute" is a motivational poem referencing economic
strengths and portraying the state in a subtle yet, exaggerated complimentary light. Gunn tied this speech-like poem of dedication to the patriotic tune and revisits the empowering words of "America the Beautiful" through the mention of "fields of grain" and "purple mountains." The line, "Tennessee, your lakes are playgrounds
where the water skiers sway" embellishes the state's abundant natural resources, bodies of water and agrarian opportunities, and makes them seem like daily adventures for its citizens, rather than a commerce benefit.
"Little Mischief" was written by Gunn when the raccoon was
inducted as the official state animal. His rhythmic phrases have often been called "Gunn shots," reflecting his quick wit. Gunn's poems are thought by many to
have subtle religious tones. They are not brazenly Christian, but the messages he sends are often encouraging and uplifting. In From Humble Beginnings: Songs of a Native Son, Frank Andrews, a man who knew "Pek," dedicated a poem to him for his 80th birthday. Andrews compliments Gunn by saying, "There'll never be another man whose pen will sing such words." Gunn died February 25, 1995, at 91, of congestive heart failure.
"A Resolution To Honor The Memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn,
Tennessee Poet Laureate." by www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/99/Bill/SJR0129.pdf
WHEREAS, it was with a profound sense of loss that the members of this body learned
of the death of one of our most cherished citizens, Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, a man of humble origins who, through hard work and accomplishment, became the longtime, honored and distinguished Poet Laureate of Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, "Pek" had the unique ability to take his listener back to his childhood days, growing up in the close-knit community he later immortalized, Tumblin' Creek, located
approximately 60 miles west of Nashville; and
WHEREAS, it was in that community that Pek and his family of three brothers and four sisters learned life's most important lessons expertly taught by Christian parents, lessons that he deftly incorporated into his stories and poetry for more than half a century; and WHEREAS, born with brilliant red hair, Pek's friends at school said he looked like a woodpecker, and when a childhood sweetheart started calling him "Pek" the name became animportant part of the legend he created; and
WHEREAS, he loved poetry as a child, especially the poems of such writers as Longfellow and Scott, but he developed his own dynamic style, using the language of the common man and woman. He summed up his approach to writing by stating, "I'd rather takesimple words and paint pretty pictures that will gladden the hearts of those who have long since ceased to smile, and die unknown as a writer, than to have the acclaim of the literary world with
everyone trying to figure out what I had in mind when I wrote."; and
WHEREAS, Pek loved to make people laugh and had a tremendous talent for doing so. He discovered this gift at an early age when he would entertain eager listeners for hours with stories of life in Tumblin' Creek; and
WHEREAS, it was not long before he and his wife, Aunt Frances (Thompson) Gunn, were appearing at club meetings across Middle Tennessee, with Pek speaking and his wife
performing a hilarious routine known as "the nervous politician"; and
WHEREAS, at a Nashville fire station where he worked, the fire chief would frequently send Pek out to make after-dinner talks; his reputation as a humorist and speaker increased rapidly; and
WHEREAS, in 1962, he was appointed director of prison services for the state Department of Correction. He developed a model crime prevention program that trained
prisoners to make speeches on how smaller crimes lead to greater ones to high school and college students. This exemplary program was adopted by the United States Department of Justice and was presented to more than 600,000 young people; and
WHEREAS, with confidence and knowledge of his interest and ability, Governor Frank Clement later appointed him as the Executive Secretary of the first Tennessee Alcoholism
Commission, a post he held admirably for almost five years. His highly regarded programs won praise from state, national and international leaders in the field; and
WHEREAS, a close personal friend of Billy Graham and the members of his evangelistic team, he coordinated 18 trainloads of persons going from Tennessee to Graham crusades in the United States and Great Britain; and
WHEREAS, among his numerous accomplishments was the writing of two very popular books: Tumblin' Creek Tales and Keep on Laughing, acclaimed by many of the leading writersand educators of the nation; and
WHEREAS, his books and framable prints of some of his best-loved poems may be found in a special rack at Crackle Barrel Country Stores, along interstate highways, at state
parks and in numerous Tennessee bookstores; and
WHEREAS, Pek gave the name of "Little Mischief" to the Tennessee state animal, the raccoon, in a poem he wrote; and
WHEREAS, he also wrote an excellent marching song, "The Tennessee Salute" that became the official Tennessee Bicentennial March by Senate Joint Resolution 19 of the Eighty-Ninth General Assembly; and
WHEREAS. Pek evinced his unending faith, even in times of trouble, as a valued 60-year member of Nashville First Nazarene Church, where he was a favorite with each of the
members and, in particular, the children, who were always ready for a kind word and a piece of bubble gum; and
WHEREAS, he was appropriately named Tennessee Poet Laureate for life by House Joint Resolution 250 of the Ninetieth General Assembly, in 1970; and
WHEREAS, Pek was inducted into the prestigious United Poets Laureate International and the group specially recognized his enormous contribution to poetry by bestowing on him their highest honor, a crown of golden laurels; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that on this sad occasion we pause in our deliberations to honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, Poet of the People; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING,
That we honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn and express our deepest condolences tohis family and friends. Good-bye old friend, we will sorely miss seeing you in the legislative halls but we know that heaven has gained a good storyteller.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That an appropriate copy of this resolution be prepared
for presentation with this final clause omitted from such copy
*************
Richard M Gunn
Age:16
Birth Year: about 1904
Birthplace: Tennessee
Home in 1920:
Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee
Street:
Tumbling Creek Road
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House:Son
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: William C Gunn
Father's Birthplace: Tennessee
Mother's name: Bettie E Gunn
Mother's Birthplace: Tennessee
Able to Speak English: Yes
Occupation: Farm Laborer
Industry: At Home
Attended School:Yes
Able to Read: Yes
Able to Write: Yes
Household Members:
William C Gunn 53
Bettie E Gunn 50
Richard M Gunn 16
Willie Mai Gunn 14
Sarrah A Carvin 56 (36)
Mandy P Carvin 57
Source Citation
Year: 1920; Census Place: Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee; Roll: T625_1746; Page: 8A; Enumeration District: 77; Image: 476
****************
The 1930 Federal Census:
Family noted living at 2119 Elliott Drive, Nashville, Tn. Richard's occupation is noted as an 'Overseer Blacksmith Shop'. Family:
Richard Gunn 26
Frances Gunn 22
Richard Gunn 0
[6/12]
Margaret Thompson 56
**********
Name Richard Mckeel Gunn
Event Type Marriage
Event Date 11 Jun 1928
Event Place Davidson, Tennessee, United States
Gender Male
Spouse's Name Frances Sanders Thompson
Spouse's Gender Female
Page 42515
Citing this Record
"Tennessee, County Marriages, 1790-1950", database with images, FamilySearch
Their son is noted buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Richard M. "Pek" Gunn
1904 ~ 1995
By ADDY HADDOCK
Tennessee folklorist and humorist Richard M. Gunn, more
commonly known as "Pek" Gunn, born in Pinewood in Hickman
County, was appointed Poet Laureate of Tennessee in 1971, and held the position until 1994. Married early to Frances Thompson, he furthered his patronage as a Tennessean. He became a member of ASCAP (American Society Composers, Authors, and Publishers),Tennessee Folklore Society, and a lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Si fraternity. He released two books of poetry that successfully depicted the south. Keep on Laughin was published in 1963, and Tumblin' Creek
Tales in 1975. His poems can be very nostalgic for a native reader, full of fervent enthusiasm towards Tennessee culture. A collaboration of his vivid imagery and precise diction provides a sense of culture. Gunn's usage of traditional southern pronunciations and quirky dialects elicits an inflection of hospitality and depicts the humanity of Southerners, allowing them to shine through his poems. Part of the territory that goes along with being poet laureate for a state is creating poetry that marks, illuminates, and emphasizes the importance of historical happenings. On March 13,1975, "Pek" penned a poem in dedication to the bicentennial. "The Tennessee Salute" is a motivational poem referencing economic
strengths and portraying the state in a subtle yet, exaggerated complimentary light. Gunn tied this speech-like poem of dedication to the patriotic tune and revisits the empowering words of "America the Beautiful" through the mention of "fields of grain" and "purple mountains." The line, "Tennessee, your lakes are playgrounds
where the water skiers sway" embellishes the state's abundant natural resources, bodies of water and agrarian opportunities, and makes them seem like daily adventures for its citizens, rather than a commerce benefit.
"Little Mischief" was written by Gunn when the raccoon was
inducted as the official state animal. His rhythmic phrases have often been called "Gunn shots," reflecting his quick wit. Gunn's poems are thought by many to
have subtle religious tones. They are not brazenly Christian, but the messages he sends are often encouraging and uplifting. In From Humble Beginnings: Songs of a Native Son, Frank Andrews, a man who knew "Pek," dedicated a poem to him for his 80th birthday. Andrews compliments Gunn by saying, "There'll never be another man whose pen will sing such words." Gunn died February 25, 1995, at 91, of congestive heart failure.
"A Resolution To Honor The Memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn,
Tennessee Poet Laureate." by www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/99/Bill/SJR0129.pdf
WHEREAS, it was with a profound sense of loss that the members of this body learned
of the death of one of our most cherished citizens, Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, a man of humble origins who, through hard work and accomplishment, became the longtime, honored and distinguished Poet Laureate of Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, "Pek" had the unique ability to take his listener back to his childhood days, growing up in the close-knit community he later immortalized, Tumblin' Creek, located
approximately 60 miles west of Nashville; and
WHEREAS, it was in that community that Pek and his family of three brothers and four sisters learned life's most important lessons expertly taught by Christian parents, lessons that he deftly incorporated into his stories and poetry for more than half a century; and WHEREAS, born with brilliant red hair, Pek's friends at school said he looked like a woodpecker, and when a childhood sweetheart started calling him "Pek" the name became animportant part of the legend he created; and
WHEREAS, he loved poetry as a child, especially the poems of such writers as Longfellow and Scott, but he developed his own dynamic style, using the language of the common man and woman. He summed up his approach to writing by stating, "I'd rather takesimple words and paint pretty pictures that will gladden the hearts of those who have long since ceased to smile, and die unknown as a writer, than to have the acclaim of the literary world with
everyone trying to figure out what I had in mind when I wrote."; and
WHEREAS, Pek loved to make people laugh and had a tremendous talent for doing so. He discovered this gift at an early age when he would entertain eager listeners for hours with stories of life in Tumblin' Creek; and
WHEREAS, it was not long before he and his wife, Aunt Frances (Thompson) Gunn, were appearing at club meetings across Middle Tennessee, with Pek speaking and his wife
performing a hilarious routine known as "the nervous politician"; and
WHEREAS, at a Nashville fire station where he worked, the fire chief would frequently send Pek out to make after-dinner talks; his reputation as a humorist and speaker increased rapidly; and
WHEREAS, in 1962, he was appointed director of prison services for the state Department of Correction. He developed a model crime prevention program that trained
prisoners to make speeches on how smaller crimes lead to greater ones to high school and college students. This exemplary program was adopted by the United States Department of Justice and was presented to more than 600,000 young people; and
WHEREAS, with confidence and knowledge of his interest and ability, Governor Frank Clement later appointed him as the Executive Secretary of the first Tennessee Alcoholism
Commission, a post he held admirably for almost five years. His highly regarded programs won praise from state, national and international leaders in the field; and
WHEREAS, a close personal friend of Billy Graham and the members of his evangelistic team, he coordinated 18 trainloads of persons going from Tennessee to Graham crusades in the United States and Great Britain; and
WHEREAS, among his numerous accomplishments was the writing of two very popular books: Tumblin' Creek Tales and Keep on Laughing, acclaimed by many of the leading writersand educators of the nation; and
WHEREAS, his books and framable prints of some of his best-loved poems may be found in a special rack at Crackle Barrel Country Stores, along interstate highways, at state
parks and in numerous Tennessee bookstores; and
WHEREAS, Pek gave the name of "Little Mischief" to the Tennessee state animal, the raccoon, in a poem he wrote; and
WHEREAS, he also wrote an excellent marching song, "The Tennessee Salute" that became the official Tennessee Bicentennial March by Senate Joint Resolution 19 of the Eighty-Ninth General Assembly; and
WHEREAS. Pek evinced his unending faith, even in times of trouble, as a valued 60-year member of Nashville First Nazarene Church, where he was a favorite with each of the
members and, in particular, the children, who were always ready for a kind word and a piece of bubble gum; and
WHEREAS, he was appropriately named Tennessee Poet Laureate for life by House Joint Resolution 250 of the Ninetieth General Assembly, in 1970; and
WHEREAS, Pek was inducted into the prestigious United Poets Laureate International and the group specially recognized his enormous contribution to poetry by bestowing on him their highest honor, a crown of golden laurels; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that on this sad occasion we pause in our deliberations to honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, Poet of the People; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING,
That we honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn and express our deepest condolences tohis family and friends. Good-bye old friend, we will sorely miss seeing you in the legislative halls but we know that heaven has gained a good storyteller.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That an appropriate copy of this resolution be prepared
for presentation with this final clause omitted from such copy
*************
Richard M Gunn
Age:16
Birth Year: about 1904
Birthplace: Tennessee
Home in 1920:
Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee
Street:
Tumbling Creek Road
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House:Son
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: William C Gunn
Father's Birthplace: Tennessee
Mother's name: Bettie E Gunn
Mother's Birthplace: Tennessee
Able to Speak English: Yes
Occupation: Farm Laborer
Industry: At Home
Attended School:Yes
Able to Read: Yes
Able to Write: Yes
Household Members:
William C Gunn 53
Bettie E Gunn 50
Richard M Gunn 16
Willie Mai Gunn 14
Sarrah A Carvin 56 (36)
Mandy P Carvin 57
Source Citation
Year: 1920; Census Place: Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee; Roll: T625_1746; Page: 8A; Enumeration District: 77; Image: 476
****************
The 1930 Federal Census:
Family noted living at 2119 Elliott Drive, Nashville, Tn. Richard's occupation is noted as an 'Overseer Blacksmith Shop'. Family:
Richard Gunn 26
Frances Gunn 22
Richard Gunn 0
[6/12]
Margaret Thompson 56
**********
Name Richard Mckeel Gunn
Event Type Marriage
Event Date 11 Jun 1928
Event Place Davidson, Tennessee, United States
Gender Male
Spouse's Name Frances Sanders Thompson
Spouse's Gender Female
Page 42515
Citing this Record
"Tennessee, County Marriages, 1790-1950", database with images, FamilySearch
Their son is noted buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery.
MTSU,Tennessee Literacy Project:
Richard M. "Pek" Gunn
1904 ~ 1995
By ADDY HADDOCK
Tennessee folklorist and humorist Richard M. Gunn, more
commonly known as "Pek" Gunn, born in Pinewood in Hickman
County, was appointed Poet Laureate of Tennessee in 1971, and held the position until 1994. Married early to Frances Thompson, he furthered his patronage as a Tennessean. He became a member of ASCAP (American Society Composers, Authors, and Publishers),Tennessee Folklore Society, and a lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Si fraternity. He released two books of poetry that successfully depicted the south. Keep on Laughin was published in 1963, and Tumblin' Creek
Tales in 1975. His poems can be very nostalgic for a native reader, full of fervent enthusiasm towards Tennessee culture. A collaboration of his vivid imagery and precise diction provides a sense of culture. Gunn's usage of traditional southern pronunciations and quirky dialects elicits an inflection of hospitality and depicts the humanity of Southerners, allowing them to shine through his poems. Part of the territory that goes along with being poet laureate for a state is creating poetry that marks, illuminates, and emphasizes the importance of historical happenings. On March 13,1975, "Pek" penned a poem in dedication to the bicentennial. "The Tennessee Salute" is a motivational poem referencing economic
strengths and portraying the state in a subtle yet, exaggerated complimentary light. Gunn tied this speech-like poem of dedication to the patriotic tune and revisits the empowering words of "America the Beautiful" through the mention of "fields of grain" and "purple mountains." The line, "Tennessee, your lakes are playgrounds
where the water skiers sway" embellishes the state's abundant natural resources, bodies of water and agrarian opportunities, and makes them seem like daily adventures for its citizens, rather than a commerce benefit.
"Little Mischief" was written by Gunn when the raccoon was
inducted as the official state animal. His rhythmic phrases have often been called "Gunn shots," reflecting his quick wit. Gunn's poems are thought by many to
have subtle religious tones. They are not brazenly Christian, but the messages he sends are often encouraging and uplifting. In From Humble Beginnings: Songs of a Native Son, Frank Andrews, a man who knew "Pek," dedicated a poem to him for his 80th birthday. Andrews compliments Gunn by saying, "There'll never be another man whose pen will sing such words." Gunn died February 25, 1995, at 91, of congestive heart failure.
"A Resolution To Honor The Memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn,
Tennessee Poet Laureate." by www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/99/Bill/SJR0129.pdf
WHEREAS, it was with a profound sense of loss that the members of this body learned
of the death of one of our most cherished citizens, Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, a man of humble origins who, through hard work and accomplishment, became the longtime, honored and distinguished Poet Laureate of Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, "Pek" had the unique ability to take his listener back to his childhood days, growing up in the close-knit community he later immortalized, Tumblin' Creek, located
approximately 60 miles west of Nashville; and
WHEREAS, it was in that community that Pek and his family of three brothers and four sisters learned life's most important lessons expertly taught by Christian parents, lessons that he deftly incorporated into his stories and poetry for more than half a century; and WHEREAS, born with brilliant red hair, Pek's friends at school said he looked like a woodpecker, and when a childhood sweetheart started calling him "Pek" the name became animportant part of the legend he created; and
WHEREAS, he loved poetry as a child, especially the poems of such writers as Longfellow and Scott, but he developed his own dynamic style, using the language of the common man and woman. He summed up his approach to writing by stating, "I'd rather takesimple words and paint pretty pictures that will gladden the hearts of those who have long since ceased to smile, and die unknown as a writer, than to have the acclaim of the literary world with
everyone trying to figure out what I had in mind when I wrote."; and
WHEREAS, Pek loved to make people laugh and had a tremendous talent for doing so. He discovered this gift at an early age when he would entertain eager listeners for hours with stories of life in Tumblin' Creek; and
WHEREAS, it was not long before he and his wife, Aunt Frances (Thompson) Gunn, were appearing at club meetings across Middle Tennessee, with Pek speaking and his wife
performing a hilarious routine known as "the nervous politician"; and
WHEREAS, at a Nashville fire station where he worked, the fire chief would frequently send Pek out to make after-dinner talks; his reputation as a humorist and speaker increased rapidly; and
WHEREAS, in 1962, he was appointed director of prison services for the state Department of Correction. He developed a model crime prevention program that trained
prisoners to make speeches on how smaller crimes lead to greater ones to high school and college students. This exemplary program was adopted by the United States Department of Justice and was presented to more than 600,000 young people; and
WHEREAS, with confidence and knowledge of his interest and ability, Governor Frank Clement later appointed him as the Executive Secretary of the first Tennessee Alcoholism
Commission, a post he held admirably for almost five years. His highly regarded programs won praise from state, national and international leaders in the field; and
WHEREAS, a close personal friend of Billy Graham and the members of his evangelistic team, he coordinated 18 trainloads of persons going from Tennessee to Graham crusades in the United States and Great Britain; and
WHEREAS, among his numerous accomplishments was the writing of two very popular books: Tumblin' Creek Tales and Keep on Laughing, acclaimed by many of the leading writersand educators of the nation; and
WHEREAS, his books and framable prints of some of his best-loved poems may be found in a special rack at Crackle Barrel Country Stores, along interstate highways, at state
parks and in numerous Tennessee bookstores; and
WHEREAS, Pek gave the name of "Little Mischief" to the Tennessee state animal, the raccoon, in a poem he wrote; and
WHEREAS, he also wrote an excellent marching song, "The Tennessee Salute" that became the official Tennessee Bicentennial March by Senate Joint Resolution 19 of the Eighty-Ninth General Assembly; and
WHEREAS. Pek evinced his unending faith, even in times of trouble, as a valued 60-year member of Nashville First Nazarene Church, where he was a favorite with each of the
members and, in particular, the children, who were always ready for a kind word and a piece of bubble gum; and
WHEREAS, he was appropriately named Tennessee Poet Laureate for life by House Joint Resolution 250 of the Ninetieth General Assembly, in 1970; and
WHEREAS, Pek was inducted into the prestigious United Poets Laureate International and the group specially recognized his enormous contribution to poetry by bestowing on him their highest honor, a crown of golden laurels; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that on this sad occasion we pause in our deliberations to honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, Poet of the People; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING,
That we honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn and express our deepest condolences tohis family and friends. Good-bye old friend, we will sorely miss seeing you in the legislative halls but we know that heaven has gained a good storyteller.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That an appropriate copy of this resolution be prepared
for presentation with this final clause omitted from such copy
*************
Richard M Gunn
Age:16
Birth Year: about 1904
Birthplace: Tennessee
Home in 1920:
Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee
Street:
Tumbling Creek Road
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House:Son
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: William C Gunn
Father's Birthplace: Tennessee
Mother's name: Bettie E Gunn
Mother's Birthplace: Tennessee
Able to Speak English: Yes
Occupation: Farm Laborer
Industry: At Home
Attended School:Yes
Able to Read: Yes
Able to Write: Yes
Household Members:
William C Gunn 53
Bettie E Gunn 50
Richard M Gunn 16
Willie Mai Gunn 14
Sarrah A Carvin 56 (36)
Mandy P Carvin 57
Source Citation
Year: 1920; Census Place: Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee; Roll: T625_1746; Page: 8A; Enumeration District: 77; Image: 476
****************
The 1930 Federal Census:
Family noted living at 2119 Elliott Drive, Nashville, Tn. Richard's occupation is noted as an 'Overseer Blacksmith Shop'. Family:
Richard Gunn 26
Frances Gunn 22
Richard Gunn 0
[6/12]
Margaret Thompson 56
**********
Name Richard Mckeel Gunn
Event Type Marriage
Event Date 11 Jun 1928
Event Place Davidson, Tennessee, United States
Gender Male
Spouse's Name Frances Sanders Thompson
Spouse's Gender Female
Page 42515
Citing this Record
"Tennessee, County Marriages, 1790-1950", database with images, FamilySearch
Their son is noted buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Richard M. "Pek" Gunn
1904 ~ 1995
By ADDY HADDOCK
Tennessee folklorist and humorist Richard M. Gunn, more
commonly known as "Pek" Gunn, born in Pinewood in Hickman
County, was appointed Poet Laureate of Tennessee in 1971, and held the position until 1994. Married early to Frances Thompson, he furthered his patronage as a Tennessean. He became a member of ASCAP (American Society Composers, Authors, and Publishers),Tennessee Folklore Society, and a lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Si fraternity. He released two books of poetry that successfully depicted the south. Keep on Laughin was published in 1963, and Tumblin' Creek
Tales in 1975. His poems can be very nostalgic for a native reader, full of fervent enthusiasm towards Tennessee culture. A collaboration of his vivid imagery and precise diction provides a sense of culture. Gunn's usage of traditional southern pronunciations and quirky dialects elicits an inflection of hospitality and depicts the humanity of Southerners, allowing them to shine through his poems. Part of the territory that goes along with being poet laureate for a state is creating poetry that marks, illuminates, and emphasizes the importance of historical happenings. On March 13,1975, "Pek" penned a poem in dedication to the bicentennial. "The Tennessee Salute" is a motivational poem referencing economic
strengths and portraying the state in a subtle yet, exaggerated complimentary light. Gunn tied this speech-like poem of dedication to the patriotic tune and revisits the empowering words of "America the Beautiful" through the mention of "fields of grain" and "purple mountains." The line, "Tennessee, your lakes are playgrounds
where the water skiers sway" embellishes the state's abundant natural resources, bodies of water and agrarian opportunities, and makes them seem like daily adventures for its citizens, rather than a commerce benefit.
"Little Mischief" was written by Gunn when the raccoon was
inducted as the official state animal. His rhythmic phrases have often been called "Gunn shots," reflecting his quick wit. Gunn's poems are thought by many to
have subtle religious tones. They are not brazenly Christian, but the messages he sends are often encouraging and uplifting. In From Humble Beginnings: Songs of a Native Son, Frank Andrews, a man who knew "Pek," dedicated a poem to him for his 80th birthday. Andrews compliments Gunn by saying, "There'll never be another man whose pen will sing such words." Gunn died February 25, 1995, at 91, of congestive heart failure.
"A Resolution To Honor The Memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn,
Tennessee Poet Laureate." by www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/99/Bill/SJR0129.pdf
WHEREAS, it was with a profound sense of loss that the members of this body learned
of the death of one of our most cherished citizens, Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, a man of humble origins who, through hard work and accomplishment, became the longtime, honored and distinguished Poet Laureate of Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, "Pek" had the unique ability to take his listener back to his childhood days, growing up in the close-knit community he later immortalized, Tumblin' Creek, located
approximately 60 miles west of Nashville; and
WHEREAS, it was in that community that Pek and his family of three brothers and four sisters learned life's most important lessons expertly taught by Christian parents, lessons that he deftly incorporated into his stories and poetry for more than half a century; and WHEREAS, born with brilliant red hair, Pek's friends at school said he looked like a woodpecker, and when a childhood sweetheart started calling him "Pek" the name became animportant part of the legend he created; and
WHEREAS, he loved poetry as a child, especially the poems of such writers as Longfellow and Scott, but he developed his own dynamic style, using the language of the common man and woman. He summed up his approach to writing by stating, "I'd rather takesimple words and paint pretty pictures that will gladden the hearts of those who have long since ceased to smile, and die unknown as a writer, than to have the acclaim of the literary world with
everyone trying to figure out what I had in mind when I wrote."; and
WHEREAS, Pek loved to make people laugh and had a tremendous talent for doing so. He discovered this gift at an early age when he would entertain eager listeners for hours with stories of life in Tumblin' Creek; and
WHEREAS, it was not long before he and his wife, Aunt Frances (Thompson) Gunn, were appearing at club meetings across Middle Tennessee, with Pek speaking and his wife
performing a hilarious routine known as "the nervous politician"; and
WHEREAS, at a Nashville fire station where he worked, the fire chief would frequently send Pek out to make after-dinner talks; his reputation as a humorist and speaker increased rapidly; and
WHEREAS, in 1962, he was appointed director of prison services for the state Department of Correction. He developed a model crime prevention program that trained
prisoners to make speeches on how smaller crimes lead to greater ones to high school and college students. This exemplary program was adopted by the United States Department of Justice and was presented to more than 600,000 young people; and
WHEREAS, with confidence and knowledge of his interest and ability, Governor Frank Clement later appointed him as the Executive Secretary of the first Tennessee Alcoholism
Commission, a post he held admirably for almost five years. His highly regarded programs won praise from state, national and international leaders in the field; and
WHEREAS, a close personal friend of Billy Graham and the members of his evangelistic team, he coordinated 18 trainloads of persons going from Tennessee to Graham crusades in the United States and Great Britain; and
WHEREAS, among his numerous accomplishments was the writing of two very popular books: Tumblin' Creek Tales and Keep on Laughing, acclaimed by many of the leading writersand educators of the nation; and
WHEREAS, his books and framable prints of some of his best-loved poems may be found in a special rack at Crackle Barrel Country Stores, along interstate highways, at state
parks and in numerous Tennessee bookstores; and
WHEREAS, Pek gave the name of "Little Mischief" to the Tennessee state animal, the raccoon, in a poem he wrote; and
WHEREAS, he also wrote an excellent marching song, "The Tennessee Salute" that became the official Tennessee Bicentennial March by Senate Joint Resolution 19 of the Eighty-Ninth General Assembly; and
WHEREAS. Pek evinced his unending faith, even in times of trouble, as a valued 60-year member of Nashville First Nazarene Church, where he was a favorite with each of the
members and, in particular, the children, who were always ready for a kind word and a piece of bubble gum; and
WHEREAS, he was appropriately named Tennessee Poet Laureate for life by House Joint Resolution 250 of the Ninetieth General Assembly, in 1970; and
WHEREAS, Pek was inducted into the prestigious United Poets Laureate International and the group specially recognized his enormous contribution to poetry by bestowing on him their highest honor, a crown of golden laurels; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that on this sad occasion we pause in our deliberations to honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn, Poet of the People; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING,
That we honor the memory of Richard M. "Pek" Gunn and express our deepest condolences tohis family and friends. Good-bye old friend, we will sorely miss seeing you in the legislative halls but we know that heaven has gained a good storyteller.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That an appropriate copy of this resolution be prepared
for presentation with this final clause omitted from such copy
*************
Richard M Gunn
Age:16
Birth Year: about 1904
Birthplace: Tennessee
Home in 1920:
Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee
Street:
Tumbling Creek Road
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House:Son
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: William C Gunn
Father's Birthplace: Tennessee
Mother's name: Bettie E Gunn
Mother's Birthplace: Tennessee
Able to Speak English: Yes
Occupation: Farm Laborer
Industry: At Home
Attended School:Yes
Able to Read: Yes
Able to Write: Yes
Household Members:
William C Gunn 53
Bettie E Gunn 50
Richard M Gunn 16
Willie Mai Gunn 14
Sarrah A Carvin 56 (36)
Mandy P Carvin 57
Source Citation
Year: 1920; Census Place: Civil District 3, Humphreys, Tennessee; Roll: T625_1746; Page: 8A; Enumeration District: 77; Image: 476
****************
The 1930 Federal Census:
Family noted living at 2119 Elliott Drive, Nashville, Tn. Richard's occupation is noted as an 'Overseer Blacksmith Shop'. Family:
Richard Gunn 26
Frances Gunn 22
Richard Gunn 0
[6/12]
Margaret Thompson 56
**********
Name Richard Mckeel Gunn
Event Type Marriage
Event Date 11 Jun 1928
Event Place Davidson, Tennessee, United States
Gender Male
Spouse's Name Frances Sanders Thompson
Spouse's Gender Female
Page 42515
Citing this Record
"Tennessee, County Marriages, 1790-1950", database with images, FamilySearch
Their son is noted buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Family Members
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