Front Porch Pickin’ with the Danny Richmond Family

It was an annual event that started in the early 80’s by Leon and Lanny Richmond–the Labor Day Fish Fry.

The tradition sadly faded shortly before Leon passed away. Then in 2011, the Richmond family decided it was time to bring it back. Leon’s wife, Brunetta, and son Danny paired up to reinstate the annual fish fry.

The event takes place the weekend before Labor Day, at the home of the family’s matriarch, located on Richmond Road, approximately eight miles east on Highway 80, just east of Waldron.

“We now have it set up as a fish fry and potluck.  We ask people to bring a dish only if they can, or want to,” said Danny’s wife, Dawn. “We provide all the meat,  including fish, chicken tenders, pork tenderloin or brisket. People usually bring whatever side dish or dessert they want to pass or share with everyone.  We provide plates and silverware. We have tables and chairs set up across the lawn, and some bring their own.”

The tradition stems from Lanny’s love of music and Leon’s love of fishing. Two passions combined to form a community tradition. Consequently, the fish fry has been officially dubbed the “Leon and Lanny Labor Day Memorial Fish Fry.”

“We now hold the Leon and Lanny Labor Day Memorial Fish Fry the Sunday prior to Labor Day,” added Dawn Richmond. “This year it will be on Sunday,  September 1. We try to start around 1 p.m. and it runs until the last person leaves.  This allows people to attend church services and come out for lunch before heading back for the evening service.”

Folks of all ages is sure to enjoy the mix of country, blues, bluegrass and gospel music. Dawn Richmond added that everyone is welcome to come enjoy this front porch pickin’ style music and delicious food.

Leon’s son, Danny, has continued to foster his uncle Lanny’s passion. He too, loves to play music. In fact, his parents purchased Danny his first guitar for him when he turned 15. Five years later, he became increasingly dedicated to his music.

Danny, now 51, admits that his parents influenced him musically growing up. Other influences include his uncles: Lanny Richmond, Don House and John Helton; and a cousin, Mike House.

He continues to play and sing whenever he gets the opportunity. Danny Richmond has also recorded several CD’s, and his family ties remain a part of his sound. He writes most of his music, and draws off his life experience and time in the mountains.

“Danny played in his Uncle Lanny Richmond’s band for years before leaving and starting a gospel band,” Dawn shared. “He has had a band since the early 1990’s. He also recorded two full length CD’s. His first was a gospel CD,  ‘Blessed’, and his most recent, which was released May 11, titled ‘Outlaw Like Me.’  It is traditional and red dirt country, and his mother sings lead on one track.”

The Leon and Lanny Labor Day Memorial Fish Fry is rooted in family, music and food. The memory of both Leon and Lanny lives on through the lyrics and voices, the laughter and visitation. Young and old, generation to generation their memory will live on with this yearly gathering.