Background
Hawkins, Benjamin Sanford was born on August 3, 1909 in Painesville, Ohio, United States. Son of Marcus Earl and Annetta Edith (Hanor) Hawkins.
Hawkins, Benjamin Sanford was born on August 3, 1909 in Painesville, Ohio, United States. Son of Marcus Earl and Annetta Edith (Hanor) Hawkins.
Independent banjoist, guitarist, bassist, various speakeasys, radio stations, nightclubs, 1924-1938; bassist, banjoist, Bobbie Sherwood Orchestra, 1940's; bassist, vocalist, Shades of Blue, 1950-1955; banjo and bass overdubbing, various surf music records, Los Angeles, 1955-1959; independent banjoist, entertainer, various MC bases, AFBs., 1960s; leader, Ben Hawkins and His Music, 1960s-70s; banjo duet with Al Chernet, throughout Southeast Florida, since 1979.
Served as cadet United States Army Air Force, 1942-1943. Member American Federation Musicians, Screen Actors Guild.
Married Sarah Mary Stewart, September 10, 1930 (divorced January 1934). Married Mildred Elizabeth Smith, October 21, 1935. 1 child, Benjamin Sanford Junior.