In less than two weeks, I relinquish my title as 2008-09 National Hobo Queen. This has been quite a busy year and one that I have thoroughly enjoyed. My deepest gratitude goes to both the town of Britt, Iowa and the Hobo Family for electing me as their ambassador and queen. Many speaking opportunities opened up for me, as well as the opportunity to support our soldiers, veterans, and educate the general public about hobo and tramp art, and the hobo culture of then and now. I shall miss the reaction of others when I tell them that I am the hobo queen. Now that could be another book! However, I will endeavor to ever be a good ambassador for both Britt and the hobos of America–after all “once a queen always a queen.”

With CBS cameras on hand, Stretch and I were dubbed the 2008 National Hobo King and Queen.

Photo courtesy of Mary Loden for The Globe Gazette

Pearly words from King Stretch!

Photo compliments of NY Maggie and Connecticut Shorty