One of top traditional bluegrass groups in the area consisting of many of the best local players. Group was formed by Marvin Howell (banjo), with original lineup of Leroy Coles (guitar), Joe Hales (bass), Russ Hooper (dobro), and Kimball Blair (fiddle). Later members included Frankie Short (guitar), Frank Joyner (guitar), Pat Howell (bass), Ronnie Ninkovich (bass), Carroll Swam (bass), Dan Curtis (mandolin), Del McCoury (banjo, guitar, vocals), Jerry McCoury (bass)…
Group made appearances on WMET-TV, Gaithersburg, MD in late ‘60s. A CD was issued in early ‘00s featuring recordings from those performances. They did radio broadcasts from King Ford, and Johnny’s Used Cars. Venues included the 79 Club, Sunset Park, New River Ranch, festivals, carnivals, etc…
Del had previously toured with Bill Monroe, and led groups including the Dixie Boys, and the Del McCoury Band. Jerry was also a member of Del’s band. Hooper left in 1969 joining Walter Hensley’s Dukes of Bluegrass. He also toured and or recorded with Jimmy Martin, Delmer Delaney, Carroll County Ramblers, Foggy Bottom, Jim Eanes…
Single release by Marvin Howell & the Franklin County Boys:
1968 Ster-Art 2584 Come Back to Me / Steel Guitar Chimes
19**(CD) FCB 2410-1 Live Bluegrass from WMET-TV, 1968
