Blue Moon: The Murder of Theodore Hopson
Early Life
Theodore, (sister) Medalia, & niece Emma |
Married Life
On the Right: Marriage License of Theodore Hopson and Pearl Daniels |
Pearlie May Daniels |
He married Pearl May Daniels on April 20, 1922, in Glen Alum, West Virginia. They had 12 children in 20 years: Robert Pleasant, Harmon Lee (the Huttonsville fugitive), Vada Virginia, Theodore Roosevelt Jr., Gene, Floyd Talmage, George, John Eugene, Shirley Temple, Sylvia, and Jerrell & Geraldine who were twins. He first took care of his growing brood by working as a car dropper in the coal industry. By 1940, Theodore had begun working for the Norfolk & Western railroad. He was listed on the census that year as working the "section railroad." The cost of his home was estimated at $10 at that time.
Later In Life
Theodore Roosevelt Hopson Sr. |
In the late 1950s, Theodore and Pearl's son George married the love of his life. It was upon her mother, Myrtle, whom Theodore's eyes fell. He was smitten by Myrt and by the 1960s, the two were known to live together and operate a restaurant bar called the Blue Moon, which was also referred to as Myrtle's Place. It was a jumping little joint that stayed busy. Myrtle had a personable personality that simply attracted people. All who knew her adored her. But don't be mistaken. Myrtle was a mountain-girl the same as Pearl and mountain-girls don't put up with much. She could be a best friend or a disciplinarian but she believed in loyalty and, for better or worse, she meant what she said. People knew where they stood with Myrt and they respected her for that.
Harmon Jr. (baby), Sylvia, Theodore Sr., Harmon Sr. |
Red Blood and the Blue Moon
On Sunday night, March 31, 1963, Theodore and Myrtle were at the diner at the top of the mountain going about their days as they usually did. At some course over the night, their discussion became heated. According to an article written in the local newspaper, it was an argument taking place that would lead one of them dead.
Four times, Myrtle pulled the trigger, landing all four bullets into his chest. Theodore died there in the drive-in parking lot. He was 58-years-old.
Facing Life
Myrtle was arrested and charged with First Degree Murder. She bonded out and waived her rights to a preliminary hearing. At the court hearing, which occurred three months later, the jury deliberated. After an hour, they returned to the courtroom and read the verdict: Innocent. Myrtle was acquitted for the crime and freed.
In Death
Theodore was laid to rest on the hill, at the Big Branch cemetery in Wharncliffe, West Virginia.
Theodore Hopson's Headstone |
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