Fans of Patsy Cline will find plenty of exciting artifacts and mementos from Cline’s life on display at the new Patsy Cline Museum which opens April 7 in Nashville. Located on the second level of the building which houses the Johnny Cash Museum at 119 Third Ave South, the museum houses the largest collection of Patsy Cline memorabilia in the world, including personal letters, photos, costumes, clothing, and even household furnishings from her Nashville dream home that have been locked away for more than 50 years.
“In her nine short years as a recording artist from ‘55 to ‘63, she forever changed the voice of country music, the role of female artists and influenced performers across all genres,” says Founder Bill Miller. “To this very day, artists still cover her hits and you’ll hear her recordings used in motion pictures and TV series. She deserved her own museum as she continues to transcend generations of fans. We are honored to work with Patsy’s children to preserve her legacy.”
Guests will travel back to Cline’s humble beginnings in Winchester, Virginia, and see family photos, possessions and even the very booth she waitressed at as a teen at Gaunt’s Drugstore. Never-before-seen costumes that highlight her transition from western cowgirl to torch singing headliner will also be on display, many of which were designed and sewn by her mother, Hilda.
Visitors will also have the unique opportunity to step inside Patsy’s famed Rec Room, where many entertainers dropped in to jam in the dream home Patsy purchased on Nella Drive in Goodlettsville, Tenn. The room contains original furnishings owned and used by Cline and her husband Charlie Dick. A vintage jukebox broadcasts her mega-hit “Crazy,” highlighting its distinction as the most-programmed jukebox song of all time. A bio film also documents Patsy’s career and is hosted by noted actress Beverly D’Angelo, who was nominated for a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Patsy Cline in the 1980 film Coal Miner’s Daughter.
“I am very happy to speak on behalf of my brothers, Randy and Chip, and in honor of the legacy of my mother Patsy Cline,” says Julie Fudge. “Since the passing of our father, this is our first step together in continuing to share Mom’s music, life and story, as we feel Dad would have. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with and experience what Bill will present to old and new fans alike.”
The museum will be open daily from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and admission is $18.95.
About the Author
Hollabaugh, a staff writer at MusicRow magazine, has over 20 years of music business experience and has written for publications including American Profile, CMA Close Up, Nashville Arts And Entertainment, The Boot and Country Weekly. She has a Broadcast Journalism and Speech Communication degree from Texas Christian University, (go Horned Frogs), and welcomes your feedback or story ideas at lhollabaugh@musicrow.com.View Author Profile
