Birthplace of Country Music Museum

06/11/2026

Started in Bristol, TN-VA, Twin-City Records has held a legendary place among collectors of early country and bluegrass music. In this blog, musician and historian Matt Ringressi and local record aficionado Lonnie Salyer uncover the origins of the label, tracing its roots through radio pioneer Cuzzin Don, record producer Jim Stanton, and a remarkable roster of regional artists.

Featuring new research, rare discoveries, and an expandable discography, Part 1 explores the history behind one of Appalachia’s most fascinating postwar record labels. You can read the blog now at the link in our comments. 🔗

Stay tuned for Part 2 coming next week!

06/10/2026

Listen in tomorrow at noon on WBCM - Radio Bristol for Museum Talk! This week, Julia and Tobias will be joined by Michael Idriss, Manager of African American Interpretive Programs at the Museum of the American Revolution.

Idriss will share details about upcoming America250 exhibits, special events, and some of the fascinating artifacts housed at the museum. Don’t miss this interesting conversation and the chance to learn more about one of the nation’s premier history museums!

06/09/2026

First collected in writing in 1937, “The Galtee Farmer” is attributed to Irish Travellers. It tells the comical story of a farmer and son duped at a country fair where the mare they bring to sell is sold back to them at a higher price. Charles Vess’s final comic panel certainly gives the impression that this isn’t the first disappointment felt by the farmer’s wife!

The artistic style used by Charles Vess in “The Galtee Farmer” feels quite different from that seen in most of the other songs illustrated in “The Book of Ballads.” This version of the ballad was written by Jeff Smith, who wrote and illustrated his award-winning and critically lauded “Bone” comic book series from 1991 to 2004. Come see for yourself if you think the comical nature of “The Galtee Farmer” connects to the earlier “Bone” issues.

06/09/2026

📣🎸Calling all 49 Wi******er fans! Our Museum Store just got even better with a brand-new record display, now fully stocked with must-have albums. Shop “Leavin’ this Holler,” “Fortune Favors the Bold,” and even a few signed copies of their latest release, “Change of Plans” - available while they last!

06/05/2026

We are grateful and honored to be a part of 49 Wi******er’s legacy! 🎸🎼

You can learn more here.

06/05/2026

The wait is over! Charles Vess’ commemorative poster celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion has officially arrived in the Special Exhibits Gallery!✨

A fan-favorite, Vess’ artwork has helped capture the spirit of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion for two decades. This anniversary design marks the fourth festival poster he’s created, and is now on display as part of our special exhibit, “Charles Vess: The Book of Ballads.”

Stop by the museum to experience the evolution of his iconic festival artwork, or add one to your own collection at shop.birthplaceofcountrymusic.org🔗

06/04/2026

Tune in to Museum Talk today at noon on WBCM - Radio Bristol! Tobias and Erika will welcome Ranald Woodaman, Director of Exhibitions and Public Programs at the Smithsonian Latino Center.

Woodaman will share insights into the Center’s newest exhibition at the National Museum of American History, highlight past and traveling exhibits, and discuss the exciting progress of the soon-to-open National Museum of the American Latino.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation exploring Latino history, culture, and the future of Smithsonian exhibitions!

06/03/2026

A huge thank you to Bus Shelton and Chase Chafin of 49 Wi******er for visiting the museum last week to check out their guitar now on display within the museum’s permanent exhibits! We’re thrilled to showcase such a special piece of the band’s legacy and honored to help share their story with fans and visitors alike!

In 2013, Isaac Gibson, Chase Chafin, and Bus Shelton - high school students from Castlewood, Virginia - formed 49 Wi******er, and soon started playing gigs within the region.

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion booked 49 Wi******er for the first time in 2017, and they played during the day at one of the smaller stages. As they grew in popularity, they graduated to bigger stages at the festival, culminating their headline turn on the State Street Stage in 2024. A lasting staple at both the festival and regional music scene, 49 Wi******er now tours nationally and internationally.

The guitar featured in this exhibit was the first electric guitar purchased by Chafin and used by Shelton during 49 Wi******er’s formative years. It was donated to the Birthplace of Country Music after their 2024 headlining performance at Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion.

06/02/2026

🚦🏁 Start your story engines! Our next Museum Storytime is speeding your way with exciting racing-themed books and fun activities for little learners. Join us Friday, June 5, at 10:30 a.m. - we can’t wait to see you there!

Featured books:
📖Hot Rod Hamster by Cynthia Lord
📖Buster’s Trip to Victory Lane by Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Our monthly Museum Storytime is fun for toddlers, tots, and their grown-ups! We’ll gather for books related to music and Appalachia, a tune or two by WBCM Radio Host Ella Patrick, and a related activity. This program is free and all are welcome.