11 Local Legends

Nov 16, 2009 Posted on Nov 16, 2009 | 45 comments

We’re all familiar with the dime-a-dozen movie stars and television celebrities that land themselves on the cover of check-out aisle magazines. And, this level of fame is almost always rewarded with riches of some degree. But what about the locals heroes – or the locally famous rather – that have become adpoted by a community? Below is a list of homeless folks that have made a name for themselves despite their socioeconomic shortcomings.

Mr. Butch

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Harold Madison Jr. was a Boston street personality more widely known as Mr. Butch. Famous for his performances in the Berklee College of Music area, he strummed his Fender Stratocaster in an open tuning and became a college student favorite in the process. Eventually his notoriety brought him into notable rock venues in the 80s and immortalized his place in Boston’s underground punk-rock lore.

The Naked Guy

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Don Schrader of Albuquerque, NM lives on roughly $3,000 per year that he earns while modeling nude at the University of New Mexico. Aside from that, he is best known for his politically based public access television show and his frequent street sightings in nothing more than a loincloth. Making his case most curious is the fact that he chooses to live in such poverty and takes great pride in his frugality.

Tim Edwards

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Not your average homeless man, Tim Edwards of Katy, TX is an enterprising transient. He has managed to secure a paid sponsorship from PimpThisBum.com and stands at freeway exits with a cardboard sign promoting the url for homeless awareness. As a corporate poster child, local commuters know him well as a living billboard.

Wesley Willis

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A 1990s staple in the Chicago streets, Wesley Willis was a prolific musician, performer, artist and schizophrenic. Known for his simple but unique songs, his humor and likable obscenities drew constant crowds and healthy tips. Not many homeless people are noticed nor valued by their cities but when he passed away due to Leukemia, a memorial service was held in his honor.

NY Ninja Guy

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It is rare that a homeless person gets overly creative with their panhandlings but this New York icon gets a smile every time. Simply known as “Ninja Guy,” he spends his days on the street with a sign that reads: “Ninjas killed my family – need money for Kung-Fu lessons.” His simple approach seems effective, however, because passersbys are delighted to contribute to his well-known, lighthearted ways.

James Van Horne

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If you’ve been to a Detroit Tigers home game, you’ve heard James Van Horne repeatedly yelling “Eat ‘Em Up Tigers! Eat ‘Em Up!” He’s just a local panhandler but he’s found his humble niche as a Comerica Park cheerleader and Tiger enthusiast. Fittingly, the chant has made its way into the stadium and homemade shirts have begun to surface with the slogan.

Maverick Man

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Seattle locals know him as the Maverick Man because he lived in his blue Ford Maverick for more than two decades. As a former Boeing draftsman and lead guitarist for a major rock band, Jack Bradley was a cornerstone of the community that chose the simple life. Always a warm-hearted man of mystery and never a common beggar, he became a local favorite and was sorely missed upon his passing in early 2008.

Leslie Cochran

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An appropriate poster child for the “Keep Austin Weird” campaign, Albert Leslie Cochran is a well-known cross-dresser with a solid local reputation. Typically found on 6^th street, he is notorious for his political rants and advocacy against police brutality amongst the homeless population. Though he prefers to be referred to as he and/or him, you’re likely to find him strutting his stuff in women’s thong underwear.

Mr. Rug

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As a major tourist attraction, the Portland Saturday Market rests in the epicenter of the city’s homeless community. Amongst the personalities is the beloved Mr. Rug – a kind man that believes he is a human rug. Resembling a sandwich board, he wears a rug over his shoulders with a hole for his head and takes great offense if you refuse to wipe your feet on him.

Ted Rodrigue

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Originally found living under a bridge in California, Ted Rodrigue was the subject of a social experiment and a Showtime documentary. Reversal of Fortune is a show that gave $100,000 to a homeless person and documented the aftermath. Earning him celebrity status as a result, Rodrigue started as homeless and ended up no different despite his opportunity.

Deeta

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Known simply as Deeta, this homeless man is widely considered the most well known individual in Geelong, Australia. Boasting a Facebook fan page with over 3,000 subscribers, Deeta is a growing street celebrity with the accolades to prove it. Most residents claim he is harmless and likable and therefore have no problem giving him the humble “25 cents” that he asks for.