Carroll County, Mississippi, is the birthplace and resting place of the musical legend Mississippi John Hurt, a “Country Blues” musician from Avalon, Mississippi, whose work represents a profound contribution to American culture.

Hurt’s rediscovery led to a move to Washington D.C. where his intricate fingerpicking and gentle vocal accompaniment made him a popular performer on the folk circuit. His rediscovery also led to numerous enduring recordings that have forever cemented his place in Blues history.

The Mississippi John Hurt Foundation was founded in 1997 by John Hurt’s granddaughter, Mary Frances Hurt Wright, and is mainly supported by generous donations as well as proceeds from the annual Mississippi John Hurt Music Festival and the operation of the Mississippi John Hurt Museum.

The Foundation’s mission is to help preserve the musical legacy of Mississippi John Hurt. It achieves this goal by maintaining John Hurt’s home, which is now the Mississippi John Hurt Museum, as well as the St. James Church, which was John Hurt’s place of worship and also his school. Additionally, the Foundation helps maintain John Hurt’s grave in the historic St. James Cemetery. The Mississippi John Hurt Foundation also provides musical and educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth, such as an after school program where participants learn about Blues music, learn to play an instrument, and perform at events like the Chicago Blues Festival. And through the Mississippi John Hurt Music Festival, also known as Homecoming, the Foundation celebrates John Hurt’s life and music annually in a meaningful and personal way.

Through the foundation’s website and social media, the visitor can learn more about Mississippi John Hurt’s life, his music, and his legacy.

MISSISSIPPI JOHN HURT FOUNDATION FACEBOOK