Awww, Mark McCain. I mean, Johnny Crawford.

I was born at the end of 1957, so I indulged in The Rifleman as often as possible. Would have watched it 24/7 given the option. As most other little girls, I had a huge crush on Mark (didn't know it wasn't his real name) but I also longed to have his life as Lucas McCain's kid, living in that little cabin in the boondocks. I loved the father that Lucas McCain was, how much he and Mark loved each other, and the relationship they had with others nearby.

I watched all the reruns not long ago, and found the show to be even more special as an adult, which is not usually the case upon revisits to childhood nostalgia. Getting reacquainted with the McCains through the eyes of an adult, however, was a bit different. This time, I found myself wanting to be sweet Mark McCain's mother and having a huge crush on Chuck Connors! What a man! I remember being very sad when I heard of his passing and REALLY wish I'd put forth a little more effort to have met him at some point.

So...I was checking Johnny out in early September 2007 and saw that he was going to be at the first annual True Grit Festival in Ridgway, CO within a few days so I drove from Oklahoma City to meet him. I've never requested an autograph before and think it's strange to approach people that are just trying to have a normal day to do so. But...a small amount of conversation, photo ops, and autographs were to be expected at this event and I just had to meet Johnny. Of course, it's really never enough! I wanted to take him to dinner and have actual conversation with him. I really hope to see him and his orchestra perform one day soon. I still think he's wonderful and wish him all the best.

Julie G Workman

  Oklahoma City, OK