Almonte Country Haven resident Hazel Lancaster and entertainer Washboard Hank get into the spirit of entertaining.

Washboard Hank wows them at Almonte Country Haven
RN tracks entertainer’s tour, asks him
to perform for residents
Wednesday February 4, 2004 Natalie Miller
From slapping the hubcap on his head to playing his licence plate, Washboard Hank delivered his unique style of entertainment at Almonte Country Haven Saturday.

Staff members came in on their day off and brought their children to see the zany musician who sings, plays guitar and injects musical comedy and rhythm into his routine. Washboard Hank is known for giving hubcaps, licence plates and washboards musical fame.

“He’s pretty funky,” says Rick Gourlie, administrator of the Almonte long-term care home, in a phone interview with the OMNIway.

“The residents loved him,” says Rick. “They really, really did.”

“Everyone was impressed with Hank and his special form of musicality,” says Rick in an email to OMNIway. “Washboard played everything from a car licence plate to guitar and banjo and sang all types of songs from originals to old-time favorites. It seemed as if there was nothing that could stop Washboard Hank from having a grand ole time at the Haven.”

Washboard Hank performed for residents, staff and 40 guests. Registered Nurse Madeline Tuttle is a fan of Washboard Hank’s and keeps close tabs on where he is touring, says Rick. When she noticed the entertainer had a gig north of Ottawa Friday, she called him to see if he would perform at Almonte. Washboard Hank agreed.

The entertainer says he has performed for seniors for the past 15 years or so. Washboard Hank enjoys music from the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, which usually goes over well at retirement and long-term care homes.

“If they get this look in their eye that they remember something from their past, I know I’m doing it right,” says Washboard Hank.

“They often do.”

He says the Almonte crowd was “a good bunch. They whistled and sang along,” he says. And Washboard Hank sold a CD or two to boot. It was “great,” he says. “I always have a good time.”

Entertainer Washboard Hank poses with Almonte Country Haven Registerd Nurse Madeline Tuttle, Director of Care Pam Murphy, Administrator Rick Gourlie and Hazel Lancaster, resident,during a recent performance at the long-term care home.