John Jetson and The Highwaymen

John Jetson and The Highwaymen

John Jetson first met the Highwaymen over 50 years ago. They came into the Jetson Appliance

store on US 1 Ft. Pierce to trade paintings for appliances, TV’s, microwaves and repairs. These

“traded” paintings formed the start of the 200 plus Highwaymen art pieces in the collection.

Most importantly it became the foundation of friendships and respect that endured through

their respective lifetimes.

Many of the artists knew that John and his brother Scott liked art. When things were “tight” they

would call on them. In 2010 John Jetson noticed a major increase in people stopping by the store

to see the artwork. He learned that there weren’t any Highwaymen Shows happening in the area.

Within two weeks Jetsons put together a show and the people came.

There is a picture of all the surviving Highwaymen with John Jetson in the main showroom.

Everyone is laughing smiling and happy – it was a success. We cooked hotdogs and gave

them away, the Lions Club sold sodas for a $1.00 donation to their Vision mission. It was a

Community Event that grew and thrived. One year it rained so hard that US 1 was shut down -

yet people made it to the show.

Many of the vintage upson Highwaymen paintings are on display in the Jetson offices and tours

are given. Look for some very unusual examples. And guides will tell you the stories. Sometimes

Willie Reagan likes to sit by his most unusual painting and talk. As the years have gone by many

of the Highwaymen are no longer with us – we miss them but feel that their art gives voice to an

amazing spirit and movement that was guided by artist Bean Backus and successfully formulated

by Alfred Hair.

At this year’s show there will be many vintage Highwaymen paintings for sale by dealers & artists

who are bringing them from their own collections. 1/31/26 Jetson Highwaymen Show 4145 S US

Hwy 1 Ft. Pierce