Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Bristol, Tennessee and Virginia claim to be the birthplace of country music. Some of the most influential musicians in the industry have artifacts from the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

The museum tells the story of Bristol. In 1927, a record producer set up shop in Bristol. Peer worked with nineteen bands and individual singers to record their songs.

There were many musicians, including solo artists and local families. The Carter Family, the Johnson Brothers, and other popular singers were all associated with the Victor Talking Machine Company. The country music songs were popular in American households and radio stations. Many Americans outside of the region were not familiar with the sound of bluegrass or mountain music. The summer recording period is considered to be a catalyst for sparking the country music industry. This genre of song was introduced to the nation by Peer's recordings. Through the generations, this legacy remained. The city of Bristol was designated the birthplace of country music by Congress in 1998. In rotating exhibits, curators raise awareness about influential singers like Pat.

Visitors can listen to samples from the recordings when they learn about the history of country music in the mountains of Tennessee and Virginia. They can see original costumes and other items.