Gatlin Brothers perform at Gala

By Donnie A. Lucas

Ticket holders for the Friends of Fort Griffin Gala held Saturday were treated to a prime rib dinner and the music of Larry, Steve, & Rudy: The Gatlins while helping raise funding for projects at the historic fort.

The gathering was held at Collins Creek Ranch, which is located at the base of the Fort Griffin Historic Site, and includes the “flat” where the town of Fort Griffin was established almost 150 years ago.

About 300 patrons were able to enjoy the intimate setting for the performance by the Gatlins, who reportedly enjoyed their visit to the fort on Saturday during the annual Living History Days reenactment.

“They (the Gatlins) had a blast,” event coordinator Susan Waller said. “They already want to come back. They went up the hill to the reenactment at the fort by wagon and made the rounds of the living history exhibitions.”

The famous brothers were invited by Clifford and Lynne Teinert as their guests for the weekend. They also made a pre-game appearance at Odessa High School on Friday night where all three attended high school.

“The guys said they enjoyed doing the show for a smaller group than usual,” Waller said. “They all stayed on the ranch and really got to see much of the history that is being preserved.”

Proceeds from the gala will benefit programs at the fort. Over the past 15 years, most of the money raised was used for restoration, but now will be funneled to fund programs at the fort that benefit the public.

“It was a perfect night and such a special treat for Albany,” she concluded.