Smithsonian's touring 'New Harmonies' exhibit tells story of music rooted in America

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- Rich in history, Charleston boasts many antebellum and Victorian homes, including the Moore House, an 1899 home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. However, another piece of history is coming to Charleston through the end of the year, courtesy of the Smithsonian, the Missouri Humanities Council and the Mississippi County Historical Society.

The Smithsonian is bringing its tour of "New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music" to the Clara Drinkwater Newnam Library in Charleston. The exhibit, which runs Saturday through Dec. 30, is part of the "Museum on Main Street" program.

"New Harmonies" highlights musical genres that were born in the U.S., from gospel and blues to country and rock 'n' roll. The exhibit showcases instruments, stories and interactive presentations to give people a better understanding of American musical roots.

"We are very excited to be hosting such an incredible touring exhibition," said Tom Graham of the Mississippi County Historical Society. "We are one of only six towns in the state to have this honor, and we anticipate a diverse crowd of people to come to the Clara Drinkwater Newnam Library to see this. It is made for everyone, without focus on just gospel or just country; it covers the diversity of our American music culture and appeals to a broad spectrum of people."

Graham said organizers are holding a free concert to celebrate the exhibition's arrival Saturday. Folk musicians Cathy Barton and Dave Para from Booneville, Mo., will play at 7:30 p.m. along with performances from local elementary school children.

"The exhibit is geared for people from 12 to 112," Graham said. "There are interactive parts to the exhibit as well, like playing a washboard or other traditional American musical instruments. There are also listening stations. It's more than just an exhibit; it's an experience."

The Smithsonian worked in partnership with the Missouri Humanities Council to bring the exhibit to smaller towns in the state.

"We submitted an application, but didn't expect to be selected," Graham said. "When we were told we would be a part of this, we were elated.

"Charleston has a rich history, and where music is concerned, most folks can tell you about Kate Boone, one of the last living descendants of Daniel Boone and a woman who taught vocal instruction here into her late 90s," Graham said. "She was blind most of her life, and in her later years went deaf but would still teach students. She would hold their throat and use the vibrations to tell if they were on pitch or not."