During the 1950s, blues, gospel, and rock and roll converged in a small town in Concordia Parish that became a hot spot of the Mississippi Delta music scene. Ferriday’s claim to fame as the birthplace of a trio of famous cousins amplified its significant contribution to the region’s musical heritage. In this post, LPB’s Karen LeBlanc takes us on a tour of the Delta Music Museum in downtown Ferriday, where Louisiana musicians, past and present, have created hallowed ground for music fans around the world. So, if you’re passionate about music history or planning a trip through Louisiana, the Delta Music Museum is a destination you won’t want to miss.
Table of Contents
The History of Ferriday, Louisiana
Ferriday, a small town with approximately 3,500 residents, may not be on everyone’s radar, but its contribution to American music is monumental. Nestled in Concordia Parish near the Mississippi River, Ferriday has always been a cultural crossroads where various musical styles have converged.
To truly appreciate the roots of these musical genres, you might want to explore Louisiana’s music heritage, which offers insights into how the state’s unique culture has influenced countless artists.
A Birthplace of Legends
In an astonishing twist of fate, Ferriday is the hometown of three cousins who all became major figures in their respective musical genres: Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart. Born in 1935, they learned to play music together in the local Pentecostal church.
As Sherry McMahon, a relative who helped foster the museum, remarked:
“It was like a vortex just met here and those mamas got pregnant with those babies. There will never be anybody else like them in the world.”
The Delta Music Museum: A Cultural Landmark
Preserving Musical Heritage
Housed in the historic Ferriday post office building constructed in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the Delta Music Museum stands as a testament to the town’s dedication to preserving its rich musical roots. The building was saved from demolition by a local benefactor who donated it to the State of Louisiana.
Now operated by the Secretary of State’s office, the museum is a cherished cultural landmark. The museum is also a part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, highlighting its significance in the broader context of Delta blues history. This trail connects key locations integral to the development of blues music, offering enthusiasts a deeper understanding of the genre’s origins.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted warmly by the museum staff. As Linda Gardner, the museum director, enthusiastically says:
“This is a great little jewel that houses a lot of musical history that all happened in this tiny little town. We’re just very fortunate that we get to honor our three famous cousins that are from this town.”
Exhibits and Attractions
The museum features engaging exhibits that include personal memorabilia, stage costumes, awards, and records from the musical greats who hail from Ferriday and the surrounding region.
Visitors can:
- Explore artifacts related to Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart.
- Learn about other musical legends, such as Conway Twitty, who lived in nearby Friars Point, Mississippi.
- Experience a replica of Haney’s Big House, a famous juke joint that was central to Ferriday’s music scene.
Musical Legends from Ferriday
Jerry Lee Lewis: The Wild Man of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Known as “The Killer,” Jerry Lee Lewis revolutionized rock ‘n’ roll with his energetic piano playing and charismatic performances.
- Early Life: Learned to play piano at a young age, influenced by gospel and country music.
- Rise to Fame: Hits like “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” catapulted him to stardom.
- Legacy: Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he remains a seminal figure in the genre.
Mickey Gilley: The Country Music Star
Mickey Gilley, Jerry Lee Lewis’s cousin, made his mark in country music, bridging the gap between country and pop.
- Career Highlights: Known for songs like “Room Full of Roses” and “Stand by Me.”
- Cultural Impact: His nightclub, Gilley’s Club, became famous through the movie Urban Cowboy, starring John Travolta.
- Influence: helped popularize the “countrypolitan” sound in the 1970s and 1980s.
Jimmy Swaggart: The Evangelist Musician
Jimmy Swaggart, the third cousin, took a different path as a world-renowned evangelist and gospel musician.
- Spiritual Journey: Started preaching and singing in local churches.
- Televangelism Pioneer: His ministry reached global audiences through television broadcasts.
- Musical Contributions: He recorded numerous gospel albums, infusing traditional hymns with his passionate style.
The Delta Blues and Rockabilly Connection
Ferriday isn’t just about individual artists; it’s about the rich tapestry of musical genres that have flowed through the town.
The Birthplace of Rockabilly
In the 1950s, gospel and country music converged in the Delta region, giving rise to rockabilly, a precursor to modern rock ‘n’ roll. Jerry Lee Lewis was at the forefront of this movement, blending energetic rhythms with country sounds.
The Delta Blues Influence
The Delta blues is deeply rooted in Ferriday’s musical heritage. Local blues musicians like Y.Z. Ealey have kept the tradition alive.
- Y.Z. Ealey, now in his late 80s, still performs his signature delta blues tunes.
- He reminisces:“We had the opportunity to be the opening act for guys like B.B. King, Lowell Fulson, Big Joe Turner, Etta James… I’m honored to have had that privilege.”
The museum pays homage to these genres and artists, highlighting how Ferriday played a pivotal role in the evolution of American music.
Haney’s Big House: The Heart of Delta Blues
A focal point of Ferriday’s music scene was Haney’s Big House, a renowned juke joint owned by Will Haney.
- Cultural Hub: Hosted legendary artists such as Ray Charles, B.B. King, and Little Richard.
- Chitlin’ Circuit: It was a key stop along this network of venues that provided safe performance spaces for African-American musicians during segregation.
Y.Z. Ealey shares fond memories:
“Mr. Will Haney, we loved him. I grew up about three blocks from his juke joint. I would hear the music from Mr. Will Haney’s, waiting in the window, and that’s where Jerry Lee would sneak in.”
The museum features a replica of Haney’s Big House, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the atmosphere that nurtured so much talent.
Visiting the Delta Music Museum
Practical Information
Planning a visit to the Delta Music Museum is straightforward:
- Location: 218 Louisiana Ave., Ferriday, LA 71334
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM
- Admission: Free, though donations are appreciated to support the museum’s operations.
- Contact: Call ahead at (318) 757-9999 for tour information.
Tips for Visitors
- Guided Tours: Enhance your experience with a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff.
- Live Performances: Check the schedule for live performances or special events.
- Adjacent Attractions: Visit the old Arcade Theatre next door, which hosts cultural events and features murals depicting Ferriday’s musical roots.
The Impact on Tourism and Community
The Delta Music Museum plays a significant role in drawing visitors from around the world to Ferriday.
- Economic Boost: Tourism supports local businesses and stimulates the economy.
- Cultural Preservation: The museum fosters community pride and ensures that Ferriday’s musical heritage is preserved for future generations.
- Global Interest: International visitors come to Ferriday, often super-fans of the celebrated musicians.
Museum director Linda Gardner notes:
“We do hope people will come and see all the exhibits here of all the fabulous people.”
Final Thoughts
The Delta Music Museum in Ferriday, Louisiana, isn’t just a museum, it’s a journey into the soulful heart of American music. It’s where the stories of legendary artists come alive and where you can feel the rhythms that have influenced generations.
As Y.Z. Ealey reflects on Ferriday’s unique contribution to music:
“There’s just something in the Delta that drifted into Ferriday, up the river or down the river—it just raised a whole lot of talent.”
Why not venture off the beaten path and uncover this hidden treasure for yourself? The Delta Music Museum undoubtedly offers something truly special.
FAQs About the Delta Music Museum
What is the Delta Music Museum?
Answer: The Delta Music Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich musical heritage of Ferriday and the Mississippi Delta region.
Are there guided tours available?
Answer: Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for an in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
Is there an admission fee?
Answer: Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to support the museum’s ongoing operations.
What can I expect to see at the museum?
Answer: You can explore exhibits featuring personal memorabilia of Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart, as well as other regional musicians. The museum also includes a replica of Haney’s Big House.
Are there live performances at the museum?
Answer: Yes, the museum occasionally hosts live performances by local musicians, including blues artists like Y.Z. Ealey.
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