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Creating the Mississippi Blues Trail is the Blues Commission's primary project. The Mississippi Blues Trail will be composed of more than 120 historical markers and interpretive sites located throughout the state and will continue to be developed in phases as funding becomes available. Phase 1 of the Trail consists of nine markers that were funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. The second and third phases are being funded by grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, and the Federal Highway Administration. Additional support for each marker has been provided by the Mississippi Development Authority/Tourism Division, Delta State University, and local communities.


A panel of historians and blues scholars has developed an inventory of sites, and each will be indentified with a distinctive cast marker featuring high resolution maps, photographs and text on the obverse side. Some of these sites will eventually employ the latest technology to allow visitors to hear the sounds associated with the location. Since two to three markers are being unveiled each month, the best way to find out current information is by checking back here on the MBT website. The dates for planned unveilings can be found on the "Festivals and Events" link.

WANTED: BLUES FACTS, PHOTOS, RECORDS & REMINISCENCES

The research team for this project is led by Jim O'Neal and Scott Barretta. They are going to great lengths to gather new information and ensure that all facts are corroborated as much as possible. Even after markers are complete, we want the fact-finding process to continue for any future additions and/or corrections. If you have information on Mississippi blues singers, juke joints, recordings, radio shows, or historic sites, including written or taped reminiscences, or copies of photos, posters, and records that you would be willing to share, please contact:

          Jim O'Neal
          Research Director
          Mississippi Blues Trail
          e-mail: bluesoterica@aol.com
          phone: (816) 931-0383