The Delta Blues has its roots in Bolivar County, along fabled Highway 61 and in unique towns like Merigold, Rosedale, Mound Bayou and Cleveland — where W.C. Handy, after listening to a local string band play, declared, “tonight an American composer was born.”

     Along the roads of Bolivar County the Blues is realized within the flat dusty landscape and the weathered hearts of countless generations. Though there is a distinct living Blues within the Delta, there is also a need to chronicle and preserve the legend of the Blues.

     The Delta Center for Culture and Learning is instrumental in chronicling the Delta. The Center, located on the Delta State campus, strives to promote a broader understanding of the history and culture of the Mississippi Delta by offering seminars and conferences.

     The early 1900s saw an influx of migrant workers in the Delta. Aspiring musicians gravitated to the Cleveland area because Charley Patton called it home. More specifically, Charlie Patton called Will Dockery’s Plantation home.

     The Dockery Plantation was established in 1895 and provided a key asset to the Blues movement — the Peavine railroad, which connected the Plantation to Rosedale and Cleveland. The railroad meant a broader audience could experience the Blues and musicians could more easily combine their talents.

     Dockery Plantation, though no longer in operation, is a fabulous place to feel the spirit of the Blues. A drive through Bolivar County is another. Residents of these small communities all have a story to tell and a special turn of phrase that turns mystique into folklore.

     For the adventurous, travel to Rosedale and visit Bug’s Place or Merigold’s famed Po’ Monkeys. Both are juke joints that serve up downhome Blues.