The Arlington Historical Society will honor Arlington native Morgan Woodward, an award-winning actor whose résumé includes films such as Cool Hand Luke and television shows such as Gunsmoke and Dallas, during a fundraising event in November.
Every year the Arlington Historical Society honors individuals or organizations who have played key roles in enriching the history of The American Dream City. This year, the society will recognize Woodward during a program that includes a collection of film clips, memorabilia and artifacts that pay tribute to the actor. The program, which also includes guest speakers, is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. November 18, 2017, at the University of Texas at Arlington's Rosebud Theatre, 300 W. 1st Street.
Guests will be served hearty chuck-wagon appetizers and be entertained by the Uptown Drifters.
Woodward, who graduated from Arlington High School in 1944, may best be known for his recurring role as Marvin "Punk" Anderson in the television show Dallas or his role as deputy "Shotgun" Gibbs in the television series The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp.
Proceeds from the fundraiser, which are $75 per ticket, will be used to complete renovations at the Fielder House Museum, which aims to preserve Arlington's historical treasures. Planned renovations include new flooring, more exhibit space and enhanced lighting, Arlington Historical Society President Steve Barnes said.
"We hope to match Mr. Woodward's generous support of the Fielder Museum and his beloved Arlington," Barnes said.
Born on September 16, 1925, Woodward grew up on First Street in Arlington in a home that also housed his father's medical practice. He studied music and drama at the North Texas Agricultural College, which later became UT Arlington, and began his professional acting career at the Margo Jones Repertory Theatre in Dallas.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, Woodward landed his first movie role in Disney's first full-length live-action film, The Great Locomotive Chase. During his career, he acted in more than 250 television shows and films. His many awards include the "Golden Boot Award" from the Hollywood Motion Picture and Television Fund, and induction into the Hall of Great Western Performers at the National Cowboy - Western Heritage Museum.
The Texas Arts Council also presented Morgan with its Lifetime Achievement in the Arts Award in his hometown of Arlington in 1994. The City also named a North Arlington street "Morgan Woodward Way" in his honor.
For more information or to purchase tickets for the fundraiser, call the Arlington Historical Society at 817-460-4001. Click here to learn more about the Fielder House Museum.
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