December 03

Born in San Bernardino County, California, in 1889, Knott began his career as a berry farmer, growing boysenberries on his family plot. He and his wife Cordelia opened a roadside stand in the 1920s that became popular for fresh berries and pies. Capitalizing on visitor interest, Knott added themed attractions, creating Ghost Town in 1940, which is considered a precursor to modern theme parks. Under his leadership, Knott's Berry Farm expanded to include rides, entertainment, and a western-themed museum. He was a pioneer in blending agriculture with entertainment, influencing the amusement industry. Knott's commitment to family-friendly experiences helped the park grow into a major tourist destination. He remained active in the business until his death in 1981, leaving a lasting legacy in American entertainment.

Born in Staunton, Virginia, in 1914, Gay began his career in radio broadcasting, producing popular country music programs. In 1952, he founded the Tennessee Barn Dance, one of the first national country music shows. Recognizing the need for industry collaboration, Gay co-founded the Country Music Association in 1958, creating standards for business practices and organizing events such as the CMA Awards. His efforts helped professionalize the genre and expand its audience in the United States and abroad. Known as a visionary promoter, Gay worked with artists, radio stations, and record labels to grow country music's profile. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame posthumously for his achievements. Gay passed away in 1989, leaving a lasting legacy on the country music business.