The Festival of Friends Music Museum
The Festival of Friends celebrates its 41st festival this summer, and with that milestone comes a responsibility to protect, celebrate, and pass on our history. While our event may only take place over three days once a year, we are aware that the Festival tells a much broader story: The history of music in Hamilton.
Generations of musicians in our area have cut their teeth playing on stages at the Festival of Friends. Over those 40 years some artists have retired, others have passed away, while others still return to play our stage 40 years later. Some would even go on to greater fame. Did you know that Daniel Lanois played the very first Festival of Friends in 1976? He was just 24 years old. Tom Wilson first played the Gage Park band-shell in 1981, with his band The Florida Razors. There isn’t a career musician in Hamilton who doesn’t have a story to tell from their time in our spotlight.
Creating A Museum
With that legacy in mind, the Festival began to collect and display its past in what became the Festival of Friends Music Museum. Launched in 2012, the museum has become a huge success. Full of autographs, images, artifacts, and other mementos, the Music Museum has been visited by over 35,000 people within the last 3 years – or more appropriately, 9 days.
Come Take A Look
If you are planning a trip to the Festival of Friends this August, do not miss the museum. We add new items every year, and this Festival is no exception. If you haven’t been to the Festival of Friends recently, we like to think that the museum is reason enough to visit. Of course, the 3 stages of music, unique vendors, and fun children’s activities don’t hurt.
On a final note, we are always looking for donations, whether in the form of photographs, mementos, stories, or even financial. Anything you can do to help us protect Hamilton’s incredible music history will be much appreciated.
Sincerely,
The Festival of Friends Board of Directors
