5. Bob Smith’s Dad’s Near Death Experience Changes Smith’s Course
When, after working in the coal mines of Illinois for years, Smith’s father survived a collapse along with two other miners, the family took a pause. He quit the mining industry, moving the family to Buffalo New York, and becoming a carpenter. Bob’s parents encouraged the young Buffalo Bob to pursue his dreams. Young Bob learned to play piano, which eventually led to working on a radio show as a singer. That was the start of his career in entertainment, culminating in “The Howdy Doody Show.”