Tomorrow night is the 2012 Miss America Pageant, a tradition since 1921, and one Havertys definitely took to back in the 1950’s. It wasn’t uncommon to have Miss America greet guests at store openings, such as our downtown Atlanta opening in 1958, to show our commitment to current trends and latest styles, something we still make efforts towards today.

Rawson Haverty Sr., President of Havertys, & Miss America 1959, Mary Ann Mobley, at downtown Atlanta's store opening in 1958

Mary Ann Mobley, from Mississippi (you just want to say it with a sweet southern accent, don’t you?), was crowned the 1959 Miss America in the Fall of ‘58. She wasn’t the only pageant queen to grace Havertys openings and events with her presence, but she’s definitely one of the most memorable. She also became one of the most successful afterwards. Ms Mobley has acted on TV, in movies, performed on Broadway and has even filmed numerous documentaries. Her first talent, however, was singing her heart out on the stage of the Convention Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

What’s your favorite part of the competition and who are you hoping will be crowned Miss America 2012?