Record #:

44231

Author(s):

Gannon, Renee C.

Abstract:

Actress Ava Gardner was born in community of Grabtown, just outside Smithfield in Johnston County. It is noted Gardner never forgot her roots in the area and likewise her hometown never forgot her. A lifelong friend, Dr. Thomas Banks began a significant collection of Gardner memorabilia. The quest to showcase these materials began in the 1970s. a permanent home was found in 1981 and later permanent location in Smithfield in October 2000. The annual Ava Gardner Festival, celebrated the first weekend in October began in 2007.

Source:

Carolina Country (NoCar HD 9688 N8 C38x), Vol. 56 Issue 10, October 2024, p26-27, il, por

Subject(s):

Smithfield--Description and travel; Gardner, Ava, 1922-1990; Ava Gardner Museum (Smithfield); Museums--Smithfield