American Banjo Museum Opens in Bricktown

Oklahoma City welcomed a new tenant to Bricktown yesterday, as American Banjo Museum relocated its operation from Guthrie. The museum, located at 9 E. Sheridan, fills a 21,000 square foot facility that was previously empty.

“With additions like the American Banjo Museum and the recent opening of the Academy of Contemporary Music, we’re showing that Bricktown is about more than just restaurants and nightclubs. I believe even more is possible, and I’d like to see us add even more attractions like the Toy and Action Figure Museum (which is currently in Pauls Valley).” - Jim Cowan, director of the Bricktown Association

Founded by Midwest City attorney Brady Hunt and Indiana industrialist Jack Canine in 1998, the museum houses more than 300 instruments, the largest collection on public display in the world. The collection includes replicas of banjos developed by slaves in the Old South, Minstrel Age instruments from the 19th century, post WWII instruments used in bluegrass, folk and world music and a collection of ornately decorated banjos made in America during the Jazz Age.

“The music and instruments on display at the American Banjo Museum are unique treasures, and Oklahoma is honored to add a collection of this caliber to our state. Fans of all music will be drawn to the museum. It is a major win for Bricktown and Oklahoma.” - Lt. Gov. Jari Askins

Top names in banjo were present for the grand opening including Earl Scruggs, John McEuen of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Buddy Wachter, members of the Byron Berline Band and the Young Family Bluegrass Band, Georgette Twain, Debbie Schreyer and Doug Back. Roy Clark was expected at the ceremony, but could not attend due to illness.

“When you hear a banjo, you can’t help but smile. Museum guests will be transported to a whole new world of sound and history as they walk through the doors of the magnificently renovated Bricktown warehouse. The banjo truly is America’s instrument.” - Johnny Baier, American Banjo Museum executive director

The American Banjo Museum will be open free to the public Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Sept. 11, 12 & 13) from 11am to 6pm.