Recognizing entertainer James Melton: a Marion County legacy

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) - One of the most popular voices in the nation was raised in Marion County, but despite his achievements, he was only recently recognized there.

James Melton, a tenor singer from Citra, was honored with a plaque outside the Marion Theatre Wednesday. He is only the fifth star to receive one.

Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano read a proclamation before the plaque was unveiled, leaving a permanent reminder of Melton's legacy in the county.

"Melton was a megastar in his heyday in the 1930′s and 1940′s with remarkable success in recording, stage, film, and tv, bringing pride and recognition to his hometown of Ocala," he said.

A graduate from Ocala High School, Melton rose to stardom by earning two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also dabbled in film, starring in , among other movies.

Journalist Brad Rogers did a piece on Melton, realizing the city didn't celebrate him. It caught the attention of David Stafford and Carswell Ponder, who say they wanted to get something made for him.

"In terms of Marion County, he's probably the most celebrated or most successful ever to come out of Marion County," said Rogers. "He was a very big deal in his day and he kind of has gotten forgotten because it was so long ago."

Asides from the unveiling, guests were invited inside to watch his film, listen to his music, and take home a copy of by Melton's daughter, Margo Melton Nutt.

With only five names outside the theatre, it's an exclusive club to be a part of - honoring Melton's legacy not just in Marion County, but the world.