Visitng The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale MS

MISSISSIPPI - Located in Clarksdale, Mississippi, the Delta Blues Museum is the oldest music museum in the state. Established in 1979, the museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and promoting blues music.


Visitng The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale MS
Photo: Delta Blues Museum

 

The Delta Blues Museum Is The Oldest Music Museum In The State

Delta Blues Museum features many artifacts, including photographs and videos of Muddy Waters and other famous blues artists. The museum also holds concerts and events. It is also home to the Delta Blues Museum Stage, which is used for local festivals and lectures. The Delta Blues Museum uses donations and gift shop revenue to finance the museum's operations.



The Delta Blues Museum is located in the former Clarksdale Rail Depot, a Mississippi Landmark property. It was initially built in 1918 for the Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad. Later, it was remodeled into a passenger depot for the Illinois Central Railroad.

The building's ground floor space is about 5,000 square feet. It was designated as a Mississippi Landmark in 1996. The Delta Blues Museum was a part of a celebration committee for the depot's designation. The Delta Blues Museum is owned by the City of Clarksdale and is funded by admissions and donations.



Delta Blues Museum exhibits examine the history of blues music, focusing on the people and places that shaped the genre. The museum has several exhibits, including a wax figure of Muddy Waters and a re-creation of the Muddy Waters Cabin. The museum also features memorabilia, videos, and books.

Delta Blues Museum also hosts a year-round music education program. Students perform live music and perform on tours. They are trained to carry on the blues tradition in the future.