New Exhibits at the Museum of Florida History
Florida's Got the Blues!
November 21 - March 1, 2008
This exhibit showcases musicians who pioneered the blues genre in the early-to-mid twentieth century in Florida. "The blues tradition is well established as an important part of Florida's musical heritage," said Secretary Browning, "and the exhibit brings research, design, and programming together to help further the understanding of these musical traditions."
Many notable blues artists had roots in Florida. Among them were Tampa Red, known as the "Guitar Wizard," and Blind Blake, the great ragtime and blues guitarist. Tampa Red learned to play guitar when he was growing up in Tampa. Blind Blake spent his formative years in Jacksonville. The exhibit includes vintage 78 LP records of Tampa Red and other artifacts from icons of the Florida blues tradition. The exhibit also features the sunglasses and photographs of the late, great Ray Charles, who grew up in Greenville, Florida. Charles came to Tallahassee to play numerous times, and is included in The Florida Artists Hall of Fame.
In addition to the performers, Florida's Got the Blues! has interactive components including a blues ensemble, special programs, and a blues stage. Among the featured objects in the exhibit are a 1928 guitar owned by Tampa Red and a 1960s stage costume belonging to Bo Diddley. These are on loan from the Experience Music Project, Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame in Seattle, Washington. Rare and vintage photographs are highlighted in the exhibit. The Museum plans to travel the exhibit to other venues around the state beginning in March 2009.
Museum of Florida History
R. A. Gray Building
500 South Bronough Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250
850.245.6400