October 17, 2024|
Photo – Teense wearing his 10 gallon hat and traditional shirt – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Happy Trails Committee is planning to create a memorial in honor of Saratoga legend Teense Willford.
On September 3rd, Loren “Teense” Willford died at the age of 85 following a year-long battle with cancer. The man known as the “Voice of the Valley” was a fixture at public gatherings in Saratoga and the surrounding area.
At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Carbon County Visitors Council member Ellie Dana explained that Teense would often end his musical performances with a rendition of Happy Trails to You. Because of that, Dana said the Happy Trails Committee was formed to honor the local legend.
Dana said the Happy Trails Committee is made up of members from Bridge Street Bargains, the Platte Valley Legacy Foundation, the Saratoga Inn “coffee crew”, and people who enjoyed watching Teense play music at the Old Baldy Club. The committee decided to fund the construction of a bench and with a triangular plaque to honor Teense’s memory.
Dana explained that she has found a company capable of creating a color metal plaque featuring Teense in this traditional red, white, and blue outfit. The sign will be 18 inches tall by 24 inches wide.
Dana clarified that the project is not guaranteed to come to fruition. However, if everything works out as she hopes, Dana explained that the bench and plaque should be finished by next July. Additionally, if the project continues to receive financial support from the community, Dana said a statue of Teense will be installed at the bench in 2025.
Saratoga Councilman Jerry Fluty asked Dana where the proposed memorial will be located. The visitor’s council member said a location hasn’t been finalized. Wherever the bench ends up, Dana said the property owner must grant the town an easement for long-term maintenance.
Dana explained that the Happy Trails Committee will handle all fundraising activities. Mayor Chuck Davis said the town may be expected to contribute labor toward the construction of the memorial. Mayor Davis added that the town won’t be required to perform costly maintenance.
Mayor Davis said he thinks the Teense Willford memorial bench is a great idea, and he completely supports the project.
