Tony the Peanut Man (Anthony Wright) wasn’t just known for his tasty boiled peanuts — his vibrant personality was captivating. Tony was a neighborhood legend.
From his signature bow tie + perfectly situated sweetgrass hat to his contagious charisma, Tony brought joy to many in the Lowcountry (a lot of times at Charleston RiverDogs games).
When he passed away in 2016, it was felt throughout the community. Here are some special Tony the Peanut Man memories that readers recently shared with us.
“Tony serenaded us as a newly engaged couple at a Riverdogs game. He changed the words of his standard “Peanut Man Song” to playfully tease us about being young + freshly betrothed. He had the whole section around us cheering us on and clapping their hands. As a soon to be bride, it was such a fun and endearing memory. I never missed the chance to buy peanuts from him after that! He sure knew his way into people’s hearts.” -Alex G.
“When we first came to Charleston 6 years ago we went to a Riverdogs game. We’re from NYC. We bought a bag of peanuts from Tony. I’m not a fan of boiled peanuts and asked for a bag of regular peanuts. Tony announced to our section, “This man wants a bag of Yankee peanuts! :)” — Alan R.
“I developed a friendship with Tony simply through being a Charleston native + attending practically all of the events (like the Riverdogs games) throughout my life. He was the most positive, hard working, and talented person I have ever met. I loved and appreciated that man and miss him dearly.” — Haywood R.
Do you personally know a neighborhood legend living in the Lowcountry? Let us know here. We want to spotlight these special people making Charleston a little brighter.
