A dedication ceremony was held on Sunday afternoon, November 24, in Waldron honoring 2019 CMA New Country Artist of the Year and superstar, Ashley McBryde. A roadside sign alongside Highway 71 north was unveiled honoring her and her Scott County roots.
McBryde was born in Waldron, where her father, Dr. William McBryde, Marty Wilkins, practiced medicine, farmed and preached part-time at Church of Christ meetings. Her mother, Marty Wilkins, read to her every night – a chapter from the Bible and a chapter from a Laura Ingalls Wilder book.
“Our hometown girl, Ashley McBryde, won CMA New Country Artist of the Year,” shared Patti Roets. “Many of us have been enjoying her music for the past few years and love that she has been recognized by such an amazing honor.”
McBryde has turned out multi-hits such as “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” “Bible and a .44,” “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega,” “Stone,” and “Never Wanted to be That Girl.” She earned one of country music’s crowning achievements when she was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks and was subsequently inducted by Terri Clark on December 10, 2022.
The Waldron Chamber of Commerce President Lorlla Wallace shared her gratitude for the star to be in attendance. “We never thought in a million years we would be able to have her here…I said wouldn’t it be cool if we got some signs and Ashley showed up? And look at her, she’s here…We are so excited!”
Mayor David Millard read a proclamation declaring November 24, 2024, as “Ashley McBryde Day” in the City of Waldron. An emotional McBryde accepted the Key to the City and witnessed the unveiling of the sign honoring her legacy.
McBryde embraced the time spent among family and friends. She posed for photos with Waldron Schools’ choir students, local law enforcement and city officials. “Thank you all so much,” shared McBryde. “This is amazing that we all are here together on a Sunday afternoon–you did a great job.”
