W. C. Handy Home, Museum & Library

W.C. Handy Home and Museum

Susann Elsass

This restored log cabin was the boyhood home of the famous composer known as the "Father of the Blues." The museum houses a lifetime of memorabilia including his trumpet and the piano on which many of his songs were written, such as "St. Louis Blues" and "Memphis Blues." The museum provides scheduled care for the artifacts associated with the Handy family and William Christopher Handy; and it provides exhibits, educational programs, and research activities about Mr. Handy's life.  The museum plays an important part in the annual W.C. Handy Music Festival.  It also hosts a birthday celebration for W.C. Handy during November.