Dolly Parton gave two shows in Mathews County exactly 50 years ago on this date, appearing at Donk’s Li’l Ole Opry on Friday, Oct. 1, 1976. Parton, the singer/songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, died on Aug. 25 at the age of 80. Since her passing, people all over the world have mourned her and celebrated her life and many accomplishments. But a half century ago, a few lucky local people got the chance to see her perform when she came to town. Betsy Ripley, one of the Opry’s founding members, said Parton’s appearance came as a surprise. “I remember when her agent called and wanted to book her into Donk’s,” Ripley said. “She had recently had polyps removed from her vocal cords and wanted a small venue where she wouldn’t have to belt it out” as she got back into touring. The Opry, of course, said yes to the big country music star, and its 504-seat auditorium, located in Donk’s Theater at Hudgins, which had been a movie house, filled with patrons eager to see the star. (...