Doggone Accents…or What’s in a name…

I have always been fascinated with the Deep South and the War between the States. I have read many novels and history books about this period of time. So it wasn’t any mystery why I have loved the movie “Gone With the Wind” with Clark Gable and Maureen O’Hara Vivien Leigh.

Photo compliments of @Li’d on Flickr

When it came to naming my middle son I wanted a name that had the same initials as my name, R.B.C.. I settled on the name Rhett, the middle name I tried for Butler but was blocked and went with Bradley. Of course you movie buffs know that Clark Gable played the infamous Rhett Butler in “Gone With the Wind. I was so pleased with naming him as they say this is the first present you give to your child is his name. It wasn’t a common name and it would be unique to him.

Young Rhett and my Dad

When he was still very young I met my brother-in-law Don Beene’s mother at an event in Great Falls. She was a charming Southern lady with a delightful Southern accent hailing from South Pittsburgh, Tennessee. As we talked she asked what my little son’s name was. I very proudly said his name and knew in my heart she being from the South would instantly know I’d named him after the Classic Movie character from the South.

She looked at me in horror and blurted out

I kept from laughing or being upset and quietly spelled his name, Rhett not RAT..

I can still remember the relief on her face. RIP Lovely Lady. Sorry about my Yankee Accent.