Ga. Historical Marker to Honor Oliver Hardy

The sleepy town of Harlem will unveil this week a historical marker honoring native son Oliver Norvell Hardy, one of America’s most beloved comedians.

The unveiling of the marker, to be erected near Hardy’s birthplace 25 miles west of Augusta, is set for Thursday. Many of the town’s 2,500 population are expected to attend.

The rotund Hardy teamed up with a young Englishman, Stan Laurel, soon after arriving in Hollywood in 1918 to form the Laurel and Hardy comedy team. Hardy was born Jan. 18, 1892 and died in Hollywood in 1957.

On the guest list for the event are Margaret Sage of Atlanta, Hardy’s niece, and Bill Cubin of England. Cubin is the former mayor of Ulverston, the English birthplace of Laurel who died in 1965 at age 75. Cubin also is the owner-curator of the Laurel and Hardy Museum in Ulverston.

Officials of the two towns are working together to establish a sister city relationship between the two birthplaces.

Hardy, known as “Babe” to his friends, worked for several years as a supporting actor until he was accidentally teamed with Laurel. He and Laurel remained partners and friends until Hardy’s death.

“This event will mark the first time in the history of Georgia that an entertainer has been honored with a state historical marker,” said Dave Tribble, a spokesman for sponsors of the event.

“Oliver Hardy is, unquestionably, the logical choice for such recognition, since he has been a goodwill ambassador to all the world for more than 75 years through his comedic performances in motion pictures.”