Born on March 9, 1902, in Frankfort, Indiana, he became a versatile American actor known for his role as Grandpa Zebulon Walton on "The Waltons," which earned him widespread acclaim. Before his television success, he had a vibrant career on stage and in film, with a strong presence in both Broadway and Hollywood. An outspoken political activist, he faced blacklisting during the McCarthy era. He was also passionate about folk music and horticulture. He passed away on April 22, 1978.