Rollins made his mark in American music history by penning some of the most beloved songs of childhood, including “Frosty the Snowman,” “Smokey the Bear,” and “Peter Cottontail.” His work continues to echo through holiday traditions, popular culture, and cherished family memories.
The display features original vinyl records and sheet music donated to the Library’s Special Collections by local collector and musician Francis “Champ” Zumbrun, who is regionally renown for his wealth of Rollins knowledge. This display of biographical information and musical highlights from Rollins’ career offers visitors a chance to learn more about the local talent behind songs that have become part of the American soundtrack.
While Rollins himself was born in Scottdale, southwestern Pennsylvania, he moved with his family to Keyser when he was four and considered our little town to be his home. He frequently came back to visit family and is buried in Queens Meadow Point Cemetary, just east of town. In recent years, Rollins has been the subject of increased attention and fanfare in Keyser, with the erection of a sign along U.S. 220, recent completion of a mural on Armstrong Street, and an annual celebration at Potomac State College, "Frosty Fest", that will celebrate its fifth year this Winter.
"I am grateful to Mr. Zumbrun for entrusting our library with this collection, not just for exhibition, but for adding into our permanent collection," noted library director Nicholas Gardner. Mr. Gardner praised the display which was researched and created by rural entrepreneurship librarian, Emily Zumbrun, who is also the daughter-in-law of Mr. Zumbrun: "She did excellent work on this display, compiling materials shared by Mr. Zumbrun as well as her own research using the library's holdings, and turning it all into an attractive and informative exhibit that should delight fans of Rollins."
This display will be available to visit until the end of the Spring semester. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and explore the collection that celebrates one of Keyser's most enduring cultural figures. The display is free and open to the public during regular library hours (Monday - Wednesday, 8 am to 8 pm; Thursday - Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm).
For more information, please contact the Mary F. Shipper Library at (304) 788-6901 or psc-library@mail.wvu.edu.