Ken Sheldon, a resident of Peterborough, New Hampshire, has captivated audiences with his comedic alter ego, Fred Marple, who hails from the fictional town of Frost Heaves. This unique character has been the cornerstone of Sheldon’s creative endeavors, combining humor and storytelling in a way that resonates with locals and visitors alike.
Creating a Comedic Legacy
Sheldon’s journey began years ago when he crafted the town of Frost Heaves, inspired by his father’s humorous anecdote about a confused visitor who wondered about the meaning of the local “Frost Heaves” road signs. These signs alert drivers to bumps caused by winter frost, but for Sheldon, they sparked a creative idea that would evolve into a beloved character.
Originally a writer for technology magazines, Sheldon eventually shifted his focus to humor, transforming amusing New England stories into books and live performances. His stage show features various small-town characters, with Fred Marple at the forefront, donning his signature suspenders and flannel. “I needed a spokesman for the town of Frost Heaves,” Sheldon explained. “I picked Fred because he seemed to have nothing else to do with his time.”
Since his debut on NH Chronicle in 2011, Fred Marple has become a recurring feature, engaging audiences with his tales and songs. Over nearly a decade, Sheldon and his Frost Heaves friends have entertained audiences with full-stage shows, blending music with storytelling. Fred Marple’s presence even extends to YouTube, where he has appeared in comedic clips such as “Yoga For Yankees.”
Continuing the Tradition of Laughter
Although Sheldon now primarily performs solo, he occasionally collaborates with fellow New Hampshire humorist Rebecca Rule. “It’s wonderful to get together and just laugh and sing,” he noted. In addition to performances, Sheldon continues to publish books, with his latest titled “Udder Nonsense – More Tales From Frost Heaves.”
Sheldon has also ventured into non-fiction, exploring the historical murder of William Dean in Jaffrey with his book “Deep Water.” “I spent years reading FBI reports and transcripts to develop my theory about what happened,” he shared. Furthermore, he writes children’s books, including one featuring a main character who discovers clothes with superpowers, a nostalgic nod to his childhood dreams of becoming a superhero.
Music remains an integral part of Sheldon’s work. He has written and performed numerous folk and parody songs, including the whimsical “Crabby Road,” which features playful tunes from his shows.
In the world of Fred Marple, the quest for new material is constant. “My wife will tell you, ‘When you tell me a story, he’s got that look in his eyes, filing it away for use,'” Sheldon remarked, reflecting the ever-present inspiration that surrounds him in New Hampshire.
Through his humor and storytelling, Ken Sheldon continues to bring joy to audiences, proving that in Frost Heaves, inspiration truly grows on trees.
