Pinsteps. The Delta Blues Museum (DbM) in Clarksdale, Mississippi
Places to visit in Clarksdale. Languages: en

The Delta Blues Museum (DbM) in Clarksdale, Mississippi, has grown from humble beginnings into a world-renowned attraction and a significant component in building the blues tourism industry in the state. Initially, when the museum was established, it attracted only about one visitor a month. The museum was housed in the Myrtle Hall branch library at 1109 N. State Street, with library director Sid Graves (1946-2005) taking the small collection of exhibits home each night for security reasons.

Over time, the museum's visitor count increased as it relocated to the main library at 114 Delta Avenue in 1981, expanded into its adjoining wing in 1996, and moved into the old Y&M V/Illinois Central freight depot in 1999. At that point, the City of Clarksdale took over the administration of the DbM from the library board. The depot's North Edwards Street address was redesignated as No. 1 Blues Alley. In 2012, the museum drew an estimated 25,000 visitors, including paid admissions and attendance at free events. The DbM was a 2013 finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.

The rock band ZZ Top was vital in raising funds for the museum. The band's guitarist, Billy Gibbons, had some "Muddywood" guitars constructed from fallen boards he found at the house where Muddy Waters once lived on the Stovall plantation. One of the guitars was displayed at Hard Rock Cafes worldwide and became a permanent exhibit at the museum. With the cooperation of the Stovall family, the house was later disassembled, restored, taken on the tour by the House of Blues nightclub chain, and eventually moved to the museum. ZZ Top and many other rock and blues bands performed at benefits for the DbM over the years. A Muddy Waters wing was added to the museum in 2012.

Other blues artists featured in DbM displays have included Son House, Mississippi John Hurt, Big Joe Williams, Little Milton, B.B. King, Big Mama Thornton, Charlie Musselwhite, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Ike Turner, and Bo Diddley. The museum has also hosted exhibits from noted photographers, sculptors, and folk artists, as well as panel discussions, presentations, and book signings with authors, scholars, and musicians.

The DbM has committed significantly to perpetuating the blues and documenting its vast historical legacy. Local bluesmen Johnnie Billington, Michael "Dr Mike" James, and Big Jack Johnson were among the instructors in the first Delta Blues Education Program, which began in 1992. Many students in the program have performed in festivals and concerts, both locally and on tour.


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Evgeny Praisman
Romantic Road trip in Vicksburg, Rolling Fork, Clarksdale, Tunica, Germantown of May 23, 2021

The open road stretched before us, beckoning us to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure. We set out from Vicksburg, Mississippi, the historic town known for its charm and Southern hospitality. Our first stop was the Corners Mansion Inn, a grand old mansion where we spent the night in luxury and indulgence.

The following day, we ventured to the Levee Street Marketplace, a vibrant hub of local culture and commerce. We strolled among the stalls, admiring the handcrafted goods and sampling the delicious fare of the Deep South. From there, we continued to the Vicksburg National Military Park, where we explored the hallowed grounds and learned about the history of the Civil War.

Our journey then took us to Rolling Fork, Mississippi, where we visited the Visitors Center & Museum and discovered the rich heritage of the Mississippi Delta. We also stopped at Mont Helena, a beautiful plantation home with a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

As we made our way to Clarksdale, Mississippi, we drove along the Blues Crossroads Highways 61 and 49, taking in the sights and sounds of the region that gave birth to the blues. At the Delta Blues Museum, we were immersed in the area's musical history, learning about the legends who paved the way for modern music.

Our final stop was at the iconic Hollywood Cafe in Hollywood, Mississippi, where we savoured the flavours of classic Southern cuisine and basked in the ambience of a bygone era.

As we left Clarksdale, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the rolling hills of the Mississippi Delta. We hopped back in our car and made our way towards Tunica, eager to take in the natural beauty of the Mississippi River at sunset. The Tunica River Park did not disappoint - the tranquil waters were bathed in a golden light, and we spent a few blissful moments just taking in the scenery. As the sky turned from gold to pink to purple, we realised we were hungry and decided to head towards our final destination for the night, the Hilton Garden Inn Memphis East Germantown. The drive took us through some charming small towns, and we chatted happily about the memories we had made that day. Finally, we arrived at the hotel and were delighted to find a cosy room waiting for us, complete with all the amenities we needed to make our stay comfortable. We couldn't wait to explore Germantown and see what adventures the next day would bring.

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Evgeny Praisman (author)
Здравствуйте! Меня зовут Женя, я путешественник и гид. Здесь я публикую свои путешествия и путеводители по городам и странам. Вы можете воспользоваться ими, как готовыми путеводителями, так и ресурсом для создания собственных маршрутов. Некоторые находятся в свободном доступе, некоторые открываются по промо коду. Чтобы получить промо код напишите мне сообщение на телефон +972 537907561 или на epraisman@gmail.com и я с радостью вам помогу! Иначе, зачем я всё это делаю?
Assia Praisman
I love travelling and capturing everything I see through my photography! Every new place I visit allows me to capture the beauty and uniqueness of the world. And what's even more exciting is that I have a talent for finding the most excellent hotels. I enjoy exploring reviews, photos and selecting places that offer comfort, style, and excellent service. Finding such a hotel elevates my travel experience and makes it more memorable and enjoyable. It's wonderful to combine my passion for travel with my knack for finding the best places to stay!
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