06/20/2026
Father's Day 2026
Father’s Day is a holiday in honor of fathers. It is celebrated in many countries around the world but originated in the United States. (1) McKinstry Family Museum Incorporated celebrates Father's Day every year. This year Willie D. McKinstry is being celebrated as the father of McKinstry Family House from 1956 to 1978 (his death). Mr. McKinstry became very successful in his professional life and as a father. Along with his wife, Willie Gertrude Dowdell McKinstry, he helped raise 7 children and 11 grandchildren before his death (1978). Professionally he was successful in many ways. He started working at a very early age, around 16 years old. His father became sick, so he had to quit school to work and take care of himself, his father, mother and two sisters. It was the time of "The Great Depression" in Alabama. (between 1930-1933). His first job was in the CCC Camp. While at the CCC camp he met other Black men like himself who could sing. Together they formed Mr. McKinstry's first singing group. From there he formed another singing group who performed on WJLD radio station (see photo). From singing on WJLD he moved into playing records as a DJ. (see photo) He then expanded himself professionally, being well-known in the greater Birmingham, Alabama community as a DJ and professional announcer. He was the "first local" Black man (African American Man) to perform on Birmingham Television (channel 13). He did commercials during the Saturday night wrestling fights on channel 13. A very popular "song" by Willie McKinstry is still being played today (06/2026) on "YouTube." It's called "My GOD Is Real.".
At the time of his death (see photo) Willie McKinstry, the first Black Man (African American), had been promoted to "Assistant General Manager, Johnston Broadcasting Company, WJLD. He had also received an honorary doctorate degree. Not bad for a 16-year-old boy coming out of poverty. Also, so that his two boys (Marvin and Melvin) could have work after school, Willie McKinstry opened a "Service Station." In Riley, Alabama. He maintained ownership until his death. His family are very proud of his accomplishments in life, and as a father, starting from a very humble beginning to who he was at death. He was a great father and family provider. Happy Father's Day from McKinstry Family Museum Incorporated to all those deserving fathers.
References:
1. Attached photos Herein. (the house) (Mckinstry singers)
2. Father’s Day | 2026, Definition, History, Traditions, Celebration, & Facts | Britannica
3. The Civilian Conservation Corps in Alabama, 1933–1942
4. Riley, Alabama - Riley is a neighborhood in Birmingham, Alabama with a population of 529. Riley is in Jefferson County. Living in Riley offers residents a sparse urban feel and most residents own their homes. Many retirees live in Riley and residents tend to be liberal.
5. Riley - Birmingham, AL - Niche
