Tuesday, March 9, 2010

“Monday Night Football At Christopher’s Was A Big Success”

March 8th, 2010, “Night For The Museum” with Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame member Dr. Charlie Hennigan was a big success with guest from as far away at Grand Bay, Alabama and Grand Berry, Texas. “Many of our guests come from all over the country for these events. Many of the speakers draw in old class mates and it is always a reunion of sorts at nearly every event.” stated Schelley Brown. Hennigan was introduced by longtime friend Mr. Richard Carey. Carey began the evening remembering some key highlights of early days at Minden High School as well as living in Houston while Hennigan was with the Oilers.
Many remember Charlie Hennigan as possibly the best athlete to come out of Minden. Hennigan a 1953 Minden High School graduate went on to become a record breaking football player for Northwestern State University and the Houston Oilers. Hennigan was also known as part of “The Dirty Six”, a group of young, rambunctious boys that ruled the neighborhood known as “Oak Ridge Addition” off the Shreveport Road. Another member of that group of boys was Mr. Red Cupples. Cupples made a special presentation to the museum of an autographed Houston Oilers football that was given to him as a gift by Hennigan many years ago.
Hennigan told of his early life her in Minden and of his late parents. The evening was a treat and an inspiration to all those that attended. Hennigan is humorous and motivational all at the same time. His word of wisdom and his wit were highlights of the evening. It was easy to see why Charlie Hennigan was a successful professional athlete and why many of his records still remain unbroken.
Charlie Hennigan played with the Houston Oilers. He scored the first touchdown in Oilers history. In 1961 he started all 14 games and established himself as a superstar in the American Football League by gaining 1,746 yards receiving, a record that stood for 34 years. He was the first professional football player to catch more than a hundred passes in a single season (101 in 1964) and to twice gain over 1,500 yards in pass receiving (1961 and 1964).

He holds the all-time records for most games (3) in a season with over 200 yards receiving, and most games (11) in a season with over 100 yards receiving. Hennigan had the All-time AFL single game record of 272 yards receiving, against the Boston Patriots on October 16, 1961. He was an American Football League All-Star five straight years, 1961 through 1965, and is a member of the All-Time All-AFL second team, and a member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame He went on to a successful career with a Doctorate in Education, and as a motivational speaker and teacher.
“April 19th, 2010 is Confederate History month with Webster Parish Historian Mr. John Agan as guest speaker. Learn about Minden’s history during the “War Between The States”. This is sure to be a history filled night and a must hear for any history buff from our area.” commented Ms. Brown.
Events are held at Christopher’s, 615 Main St. in downtown Minden, La. Doors open at 5:30 with refreshments served at 6:00 p.m. Admission to each event is $5.00 per person. First-come, first-served seating. Guests are welcome to bring their favorite appetizer or dessert. For more information contact Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.