Stoney Creek Band History
The Stoney Creek Band, originally began under the name "Baxter Holler Bluegrass Band" which was founded in the early 90's. The founding members were Sid Shupp-Fiddle; Larry Keesecker - Bass; Warren "Hound Dog" Kesecker - Guitar; and Mike Wilson - Banjo.
The group would go on to include such members as Sonny Aughinbaugh - Banjo; Clyde Egolf - Bass and various others. The band went thru various personnel changes with Larry switching to guitar and Hound Dog to the banjo, and Libby Files joining the group on bass in 1997. Hound Dog unfortunately had to take a leave of absence in the spring/summer of 1997 due to a very serious illness. Later, Hound Dog did recover and is doing well, but he opted not to return to perform with the group. Ron Hazlett was asked to help to fill in during Hound Dog's illness as banjo player and later stayed on as a full time member.
From 1997 to 1999, the group continued on with the lineup of Sid, Larry, Libby and Ron. Then in April 1999, Sid departed the band. He then regrouped with Hound Dog, Clyde Egolf, and others taking the name "Baxter Holler" for their band.
Larry, Libby and Ron continued to stay together as a trio and renamed themselves the Stoney Creek Band. In May 2000, Ron had the misfortune of breaking his wrist and was temporarily unable to perform. In July of 2000, Jim Fleegle came aboard to fill in on banjo, and Stan Connelly on mandolin. In a short time, it was unanimously decided that both of them should stay on as permanent members. By this time, Ron was healed enough to play and he switched to playing dobro, lead guitar, and doubling occasionally on banjo and mandolin.
The band then continued with this line up from June 2000 to February 2001. When Fiddler Wayne Masters was recruited, expanding the band to a six member unit.
Around March 2001, Larry Keesecker decided to retire from performing due to time constraints and an ailment which had began making it uncomfortable for him to play on a regular basis.
Best Wishes Larry!!!
We'll miss you!
Stoney Creek Band's current line up is:
Libby Files, Manager--Bass
Alto, Tenor, and Lead Vocals
Ron Hazlett--Guitar
Baritone, Low Tenor and Lead Vocals
Stan Connelly--Mandolin
Lead and Harmony Vocals
Jim Fleegle--Banjo
Alternating Lead and Bass Vocals
Wayne Masters--Fiddle
Vocals