W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library

About the Museum:

The W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum & Library exhibits the most complete collection of famous Blues writer and musician W.C. Handy’s personal papers and artifacts in the world, including his trumpet and handwritten music and much more
 
W.C. Handy was born in a small log cabin in Florence on November 16, 1873.  Handy became famous for his blues compositions such as "Memphis Blues" & "St. Louis Blues".  He was also a musician, band conductor, and author.The museum houses a collection of memorabilia, musical instruments, personal papers and original sheet music.  Handy's famous trumpet and his personal piano are just a few of the items on display.W.C. Handy died in New York in 1958.  His hometown of Florence honors the legacy of the "Father of the Blues" with a birthday party at the museum each November 16th and with the week-long W.C. Handy Music Festival during the summer.