Gene was the only officer in World War II allowed to wear cowboy boots with his uniform.

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Autry National Center Monte Hale Tribute Case Installation

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Subject:
Autry National Center's Exhibits and Collections staff install the new tribute case honoring Monte Hale

Date:
Monday, April 11, 2009

Photographer:
Jeffrey Richardson, Autry National Center Assistant Curator of Film & Popular Culture

Comments:
Monte Hale June 8, 1919 – March 29, 2009

Monte Hale was the last of the silver screen's singing cowboys. However, he was much more than his onscreen persona. He was also a loving husband, a trusted friend, and a generous humanitarian.

Monte's greatest accomplishment occurred alongside his beloved wife Joanne and their dear friends Jackie and Gene Autry. In 1988, the group founded the Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum, now the Autry National Center's Museum of the American West. Monte served on the museum's board of directors, offered kind words of encouragement to the staff, and was even known to personally greet guests in the lobby.

In honor of his extraordinary accomplishments, the Autry National Center is proud to display many of Monte Hale's most personal and prized possessions generously loaned by Mrs. Joanne Hale. The artifacts in the new cameo case range from things Monte enjoyed collecting to some of his favorite pieces of jewelry and Western wear.

Both onscreen and off, Monte's infectious smile and generous nature touched the hearts of millions of individuals. Monte will be missed dearly, and he will never be forgotten. This Autry National Center is a testament to his legacy.

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