Wade married singer/guitarist JULIA BROWN in 1937. Known as "HILLBILLY LILLY" Julia performed from 1935-37 over WSJS RADIO, WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. A pioneer female vocalist, Julia went on the road with Wade.
In 1953, the Mainers moved to Flint, Michigan where Wade was employed by General Motors until his retirement in 1972. They continued playing music at Bluegrass and Folk Festivals across Michigan.
Wade has received many honors and awards including the NATION-HERITAGE FELLOWSHIP from the NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS, 1987; MICHIGAN HERITAGE AWARD; 1996. MICHIGAN COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION and SERVICES' LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT, 1996. 1998 SURRY ARTS COUNCIL LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT, North Carolina; and the Mainers were inducted into the MICHIGAN COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME in 1998.
The Mainers have received Proclamations from Flint Mayor, Mayor Collier December 10, 1987: "Wade Mainer Day"; and Flint Mayor Woodrow Stanley April 21, 1997 as "Wade and Julia Mainer Day"; April 21, 1997 "Wade Mainer Day" from Burton Mayor Charles Smiley. On April 21, 1999, Wade received a proclamation from Mayor Smiley declaring "Wade Mainer Day" in the city of Burton.
The Mainers performed in WEST VIRGINIA and NORTH CAROLINA (1998) and continue to generously pass their musical heritage along to future generations!
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MICHIGAN COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME!
